Frederick, Maryland – This week the AM Radio For Every Vehicle Act is poised for a congressional vote, a bipartisan effort that would mandate an AM antenna in every new car sold in the United States. The legislation, already backed by more than 300 House co‑sponsors and 60 Senate members, is framed as a commonsense backup for emergency communications and a lifeline for local AM stations.
Why AM radio matters
Proponents argue that AM radio remains one of the most reliable ways to disseminate urgent alerts—those distinctive whistles that signal tornado warnings, severe weather, or national emergencies. In an age of cyber‑attacks and digital outages, the old‑school technology offers a resilient alternative when modern networks falter.
Local impact in Frederick
WFMD, a 90‑year‑old AM station in Frederick, exemplifies the community value of the medium. Its daily schedule blends a light‑hearted morning show, nationally syndicated news, and an afternoon call‑in program, “Mid‑Maryland Live,” hosted by Tim May, a conservative voice with a Maryland twang, and Frank Mitchell, a liberal transplant from New York City. The three‑hour dialogue provides a balanced, civil discussion of local, state, and federal issues—something many listeners say they no longer hear on larger media platforms.
Beyond talk, AM stations serve as a hub for high‑school sports broadcasts, giving young athletes a chance to hear their names on the airwaves and reinforcing community pride. They also keep listeners informed about regional concerns, such as the growing presence of data centers, through nuanced, locally‑sourced conversations.
Economic and cultural benefits
Supporters contrast the bill with the publicly funded model of National Public Radio, which they claim often leans far left due to the absence of market pressures. AM radio, by selling advertising to local businesses, retains a financial incentive to appeal across the aisle and to serve the interests of its listeners.
Industry estimates suggest that 80‑90% of Americans tune in to AM or FM radio weekly, and more than 80% of car owners turn the dial on when they start their engines. Far from being a dying medium, radio remains a daily habit for many families, echoing the practices of previous generations.
Congressional support
The bill’s bipartisan backing signals a rare moment of consensus in Washington. Lawmakers see the measure as a practical step to safeguard public safety and preserve a platform that amplifies local voices—an essential component of a healthy civil discourse.
Should the legislation pass, every new vehicle would carry an AM antenna, ensuring that stations like WFMD can continue to reach listeners across the nation, from rural towns to bustling suburbs.
Looking ahead
As the vote approaches, advocates urge citizens to contact their representatives and express support for the act. For communities that rely on AM radio for news, weather, traffic, and community connection, the outcome could determine whether this historic medium thrives for another generation.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
