Gus M. Bilirakis

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Madam Speaker, AM broadcast radio is a critical public safety resource and our emergency alert system is based around those signals. AM radio is also used for communications between public safety officials and for information sharing to the public during national and local emergencies. During a natural disaster, many people find their electricity out, cell service out, and have a limited ability to get information, unfortunately. In many instances, people end up listening to the radio in their car for their only source of information. People in States like Florida know all too well that evacuation routes during emergencies require constant information sharing, and AM radio is the go-to. Just imagine if in that critical moment you find that your vehicle is not receiving those AM alert transmissions. If a vehicle does not have AM broadcasting abilities, it takes away the last resort of communication and leaves people vulnerable during moments when seconds matter. This is what makes the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act so very important. By ensuring automakers include AM broadcast radio in their cars, we can protect Americans and ensure this critical service remains available. It is that simple, Madam Speaker. I thank Ranking Member Pallone for working with me on this particular bill and, of course, the chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Mr. Guthrie, my good friend. We need to pass this critical piece of legislation as soon as possible. Madam Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote.