Another voice in support of maintaining AM radio receivers in vehicles comes from the head of the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB). President/CEO Troy Miller penned an opinion piece for Newsmax in support of the critical role AM radio plays during times of emergency, especially during extreme weather seasons.
“While the East Coast battens down the hatches to prepare for the impending storms, America’s local broadcasters are doing the same,” Miller writes. “AM radio is a time-tested tool with proven resilience and effectiveness in times of emergency.”
Miller provides details on how AM radio stations across the country serve as Primary Entry Points (PEP) to provide federal emergency information and alerts to the public.
“These stations, which reach 90% of the U.S. population, are equipped to continue broadcasting detailed, actionable information even in devastating emergency conditions,” the piece continued.
He explained that AM radio is accessible even in times when power lines and cell towers are made inoperable by severe weather. Additionally, with many religious stations broadcasting on AM radio, Miller also detailed the need the service provides to its regular listeners.
“Local radio also plays an important role in supporting community wellbeing during times of disruption and uncertainty,” he writes. “Faith-driven radio stations provide hope for the heart on and off the air through encouraging music, messages, and outreach.”
The opinion piece urges support for the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which was recently approved by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Innovation, Data and Commerce.
“We at the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) are urging Congress to act swiftly to ensure that AM radio remains in the auto dashboard as a lifesaving emergency resource and a messenger of stability and calm in the storm.”
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