David Marcus: Congress set to protect AM radio and American discourse
WFMD in Frederick, Maryland, marks 90 years on AM radio as Congress prepares to vote on a bill requiring AM antennas in every new car sold.
TL;DR
- The AM Radio For Every Vehicle Act will require AM antennas in all new cars sold in America.
- The bill is presented as a measure for emergency communication, especially during cyberattacks or outages.
- AM radio is described as one of the last remaining platforms for civil discourse in the digital age.
- Local AM radio stations provide a balance of local news, syndicated shows, and political call-in programs.
- These stations offer nuanced conversations on local issues and cover high school sports, fostering community connection.
- Unlike publicly funded radio, local AM stations rely on advertising, incentivizing broad appeal.
- A large percentage of Americans still listen to AM/FM radio weekly, with most car owners using it while driving.