As the automotive industry shifts towards electric vehicles, a familiar companion of many drivers—AM radio—faces an uncertain future. Several major car manufacturers have decided to exclude AM radio from their latest models, citing electromagnetic interference as a primary concern. This decision has sparked a significant backlash from various sectors, particularly among broadcasters, religious leaders, and civil society organizations, all of whom emphasize the critical role AM radio plays in providing access to vital information.
In response to this growing concern, Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) have introduced the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to ensure that all new vehicles come equipped with the ability to receive AM radio broadcasts. The move has garnered support from numerous organizations, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the National Association of Religious Broadcasters (NRB), both of which recognize the importance of maintaining this communication channel.
NRB Chairman Troy A. Miller has been vocal about the implications of removing AM radio from cars, arguing that it’s not merely a matter of technological advancement but a question of information access. In an op-ed published on Newsmax, Miller stated, "The attempt to remove AM radio from new vehicles isn’t about retiring outdated technology; it’s about determining who controls the flow of information inside our cars." This sentiment resonates deeply, especially among communities that rely on AM radio for news, entertainment, and spiritual content.
The Hispanic community, in particular, has raised alarms about the potential loss of AM radio. Fayra Castro, president of the Glocal Communicators Association, emphasized that AM radio serves as a vital platform for cultural expression and community connection. "AM radio has been an essential pillar for our community, a space where our voices, culture, and faith have an accessible and barrier-free home," Castro stated. She highlighted that the elimination of AM radio from vehicles could severely limit access to critical information and jeopardize media diversity.
Moreover, AM radio plays an indispensable role during emergencies. Bill Sweeney, AARP’s senior vice president of government affairs, pointed out that older adults are particularly vulnerable during crises and rely on AM radio for timely updates. In his communication to lawmakers, he noted, "AM radio is a critical element of the emergency response system. They need every communication channel possible to ensure their safety." The potential disappearance of AM radio could leave many without access to real-time alerts during natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods.
Despite the rise of digital media, AM radio remains a significant player in the American media landscape. According to recent Nielsen data, 91% of U.S. adults listen to the radio monthly, with one in three tuning into AM stations. Notably, 74% of AM listeners do so while driving, and 97% of the Hispanic community listens to the radio every month, often turning to AM stations for news in Spanish and cultural programming. Furthermore, Christian broadcasters rely heavily on AM radio to disseminate messages of faith, music, and spiritual encouragement.
The ongoing debate surrounding the elimination of AM radio in cars raises important questions about equitable access to information and the diversity of voices in the media. As this discussion unfolds, it is crucial for advocates to emphasize the value of AM radio not just as a relic of the past, but as a vital resource for communities across the nation.
For more insights on the importance of AM radio and its potential future, you can read more from the National Association of Broadcasters and the National Association of Religious Broadcasters.