The U.S. House approved a bill requiring all new cars to include AM radio receivers, starting with the next model year, as the measure heads to the Senate.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation on Wednesday that would require AM radio receivers in every new passenger vehicle sold in the United States.

Legislative action

The measure cleared the House with a majority vote earlier this week. Under the bill, manufacturers must install AM radio hardware in all new cars beginning with the next model year. The legislation now proceeds to the Senate for further deliberation.

Why the mandate matters

AM radio has been a standard feature in vehicles for decades, providing listeners with local news, weather updates and emergency alerts. Recent model releases from several automakers have omitted the band, citing space constraints and the rise of digital streaming services. Lawmakers argue that retaining AM capability preserves a critical public‑safety channel, especially in rural areas where broadband coverage remains limited.

Industry response

Automakers have not issued a unified statement on the bill. Some industry analysts note that integrating AM receivers may add modest cost and engineering effort, but the impact on vehicle pricing is expected to be minimal. Consumer‑advocacy groups have praised the move, saying it safeguards access to free, over‑the‑air information.

Next steps

Senators will review the proposal in the coming weeks. If the Senate passes the bill and the President signs it, the requirement could take effect as early as the 2028 model year, depending on the implementation timeline set by the Federal Trade Commission.

The measure reflects a broader debate over the balance between emerging digital infotainment platforms and traditional broadcast services that remain essential for public communication.