New Cars Must Have AM Radios, Says New Federal Rule: 10-Year Mandate Kicks Off in 2-3 Years

The "AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025" is forcing automakers to keep AM radios in all new cars. Starting in two to three years (or four, for smaller manufacturers), every new passenger vehicle manufactured or imported for sale in the U.S. must have a device capable of receiving and playing AM broadcast stations, and it has to be 'standard equipment'—meaning no extra charge. (SEC. 3). The Department of Transportation (DOT), FEMA, and the FCC are tasked to finalize this rule within one year. (SEC. 3).

Keeping the Dial: Inside the AM Radio Mandate

The core of this bill is simple: Make sure drivers can easily access AM radio, especially for emergency alerts. The law defines "AM broadcast band" and "AM broadcast station" to specify the exact frequencies and types of stations covered (SEC. 2). The rule applies to all "passenger motor vehicles," as defined in existing U.S. Code, and "manufacturer" is also clearly defined, leaving little wiggle room (SEC. 2). This is all about ensuring that when the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) sends out an alert, people in their cars can hear it, even if cell towers are down or other tech fails. The bill even references the relevant section of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 that defines IPAWS (SEC. 2). Until the rule takes full effect, any new car sold without an AM radio must have a clear label stating that fact. (SEC. 3)

Real-World Rollout: Who's Impacted?

For most people, this means that the next new car they buy will have AM radio, just like they're used to. For example, imagine a small business owner who relies on their truck for deliveries and often drives through rural areas with spotty cell service. This bill ensures they'll still get vital weather updates and emergency information. However, it also means car manufacturers must include this technology, even if they're pushing for newer, digital-only systems. This could potentially raise the base price of vehicles, though the bill tries to prevent extra charges specifically for AM radio access before the rule is fully implemented. The law also specifically preempts any state laws regarding AM radio in vehicles, creating a single national standard (SEC. 3). The bill's definition of 'standard equipment' is crucial here – it means AM radio can't be an optional, extra-cost feature (SEC. 2).

Beyond the Static: Challenges and the Big Picture

While the goal is clear—public safety via reliable emergency communication—there are potential bumps in the road. The bill mandates a specific technology (AM radio) at a time when many are looking to digital alternatives. It also creates a potential cost increase for car buyers. The bill includes a study by the Comptroller General to assess whether other technologies could eventually replace AM radio for emergency alerts, requiring them to consult with a wide range of stakeholders, from government agencies to vehicle manufacturers (SEC. 3). They even have to look at whether these alternatives can reach 90% of the population, even at night (SEC. 3). The rule also has a built-in sunset clause, meaning it expires 10 years after the Act is enacted, forcing a reevaluation down the line (SEC. 3). The Secretary of Transportation will also review the rule's effectiveness every five years. (SEC.3). Penalties for non-compliance are laid out, referencing existing federal law (49 U.S.C. 30165(a)(1)), and the Attorney General can take civil action to enforce the rule (SEC. 3).