The House Communications Subcommittee holds a hearing on the future of AM radio today. Lawmakers will consider a bill co-sponsored by Texas Senator Ted Cruz requiring automakers to continue installing AM radios in all vehicles.
Former Congressional staffer and radio programmer Andy Bloom isn't surprised Congress is taking this up, and tells KTRH AM Radio has been a key part of responding to emergencies.
"AM Radio has been a vital part of the emergency response, and first responders," Bloom said. "It's a way of getting the message out in times of crisis."
Which is exactly what happened here in Houston during Harvey in 2017. But since then, streaming has become more common
"Recent studies have shown that a larger portion of listeners are streaming to get their information. What happens during a crisis is something we haven't found out yet," Bloom explained.
He's not surprised that Congress is considering Cruz' bill. But will it pass?
"Members of Congress use radio as a means of getting their message out to constituents. Whether they act or not is another question. I think it's unlikely that Congress will mandate that auto manufacturers will have to put AM radios in cars," Bloom said.
The hearing starts at 9 o'clock this morning.