Grand Ole Opry’s Plea for AM Radio Preservation
The Grand Ole Opry is urging country music enthusiasts to act in safeguarding the future of AM radio and WSM by backing the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act.
A Call to Congress
This legendary Nashville venue is encouraging its listeners to reach out to their congressional representatives to advocate for bipartisan legislation that mandates all new passenger vehicles in the U.S. to come equipped with AM radio as a standard feature.
The Legacy of WSM
For over a century, 650 AM WSM and the Grand Ole Opry have been intertwined, playing a significant role in introducing country, bluegrass, and Americana music to audiences worldwide. They also deliver crucial updates and memorable moments from Music City. With some car manufacturers phasing out AM radio from newer models, the Opry emphasizes the urgency of keeping this technology available in every American vehicle.
The Importance of AM Radio
“AM radio remains an essential source of news, weather updates, emergency alerts, and local programming for millions of Americans. As car manufacturers shift towards innovative vehicle technologies, Congress is considering the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act to guarantee that AM radio stays accessible in all cars,” the Opry stated.
Wide Reach and Critical Role
According to the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), AM radio reaches tens of millions of listeners weekly. It serves as a reliable source for local and national news, sports, weather, entertainment, and religious content. Particularly in rural and agricultural areas, AM radio provides vital updates on weather, crop reports, and more.
Public Safety and Emergency Alerts
AM radio is also crucial for public safety, recognized as the backbone of the nation’s Emergency Alert System. It can continue to relay important information during severe weather and emergencies, especially when other communication methods fail due to power outages.
Legislative Action
Despite AM radio’s significance globally, some automakers are opting to exclude it from electric vehicles, while others may remove it from new gasoline models in the future. The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act was introduced on January 29, 2025, by Senators Ted Cruz (TX) and Ed Markey (MA), with support from 41 additional cosponsors. The Senate Commerce Committee moved the bill forward on February 5, 2025, with more than 60 Senators endorsing it.
Provisions of the Proposed Act
If enacted, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act would require the U.S. Department of Transportation to create rules making AM radio a standard feature in all new passenger vehicles manufactured, imported, or sold in the country. Additionally, it would ensure that drivers can easily access AM radio in their cars.
Transparency and Consumer Rights
Until this regulation is implemented, automakers that choose not to include AM radio must inform consumers prior to purchase and cannot charge extra fees for accessing AM radio, as stated by NAB.
Community Support
To date, over 125 organizations—including the National Emergency Management Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, AARP, Native Public Media, SAG-AFTRA, and the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters—have publicly supported the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act.
How to Support
The Grand Ole Opry is encouraging those who value the future of AM radio and WSM to take action by texting “AM” to 39179. This will send a message to Congress demonstrating the growing support for the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act.
Source: countrynow.com