CINCINNATI — As the 118th Congress enters its final months, the National Religious Broadcasters group is joining those in the industry urgently rallying for a Congressional mandate that keeps access to AM radio broadcasts in all new vehicles.
In a communiqué sent to Members of Congress on Tuesday (9/11), the NRB trumpeted its support of the AM Radio in Every Vehicle Act by stating, “AM radio is a messenger of stability and a calm in the storm, whether it’s hurricane season or the everyday tempests of life.”
The bi-partisan bill, which enjoys a supermajority of support in both the House and the Senate, has stalled. It aims to have the National Transportation Safety Board administer the inclusion by law of an AM radio in all new vehicles manufactured and sold domestically.
It is ultimately up to Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York to move forward with a Senate vote on the bill; nothing has transpired for weeks.
With more than 120 NRB members representing AM stations, the organization says, “The voices of Christian broadcasters are crucial in the fight for AM radio.”
NRB President Troy A. Miller wrote an op-ed for Newsmax earlier this year, also emphasizing the vital role of AM radio during emergencies and potential disasters. And during a speech at the 2024 NRB International Christian Media Convention in Nashville, former President Donald Trump pledged to protect content that aligns with religious values, specifically promising to safeguard AM radio in vehicles at the request of the NRB.
The NRB is encouraging its members to participate in the NAB’s Depend on AM campaign to contact legislators or to email the NRB policy team for help in drafting a letter that details the significance of AM radio.
The NAB has released new PSAs asking radio listeners to contact their members of Congress by texting AM to 52886, urging them to support legislation that ensures AM radio remains in cars. Get them for your station here.
