SE Kansas News

Washington, D.C. – Reps. Jake LaTurner (R-KS) and Mark Alford (R-MO) introduced a resolution to express the House of Representatives' support for the continued inclusion of AM radios in cars and recognize the safety and value that AM radio brings to millions of listeners across the country.

This bipartisan resolution comes as car manufacturers are considering removing AM radio in new cars and electric vehicles.

"Millions of Americans across the country rely on AM radio for crucial information or as an alternative to mainstream media outlets," said Rep. LaTurner. "Not only is AM radio vital to the freedom of expression and ideas, but it also provides weather updates, crop reports, and emergency alerts to rural communities across America that can't access cellular or broadband networks. I'm proud to introduce legislation to help protect this vital communications tool and send a strong message that AM radio is far from obsolete."

“AM radio is the lifeblood of information for our farmers and ranchers. Without this tool, they run the risk of missing crucial updates on things such as weather patterns, market shifts, local news, and emergency information. This isn't a dying medium; it's a vibrant network that connects diverse communities across our nation," said Rep. Alford."As members of Congress, it is our duty to protect this resource at all costs. This resolution is a vital first step in doing just that.”

Daily Caller: EXCLUSIVE: House Republicans Introduce Legislation To Protect AM Radio

Original Cosponsors: Reps. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Trent Kelly (R-MS), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Lori Chavez-Deremer (R-OR), Nick Langworthy (R-NY), Mary Miller (R-IL), Buddy Carter (R-GA), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Don Bacon (R-NE), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Ben Cline (R-VA), GT Thompson (R-PA), Warren Davidson (R-OH), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), and David Valadao (R-CA)

Reps. LaTurner and Alford are proud to have support from AM radio hosts and stakeholders across Kansas and Missouri:

“The Kansas Association of Broadcasters extends our deepest gratitude to Congressman LaTurner for his outstanding efforts in introducing this resolution to support the inclusion of AM radio in vehicles, while acknowledging its crucial role in ensuring public safety. His commitment to recognizing the indispensable nature of AM radio during emergencies and critical situations is commendable and greatly appreciated. We thank the Congressman for his unwavering dedication to the well-being and safety of Kansas communities and broadcasters,” said Allison Mazzei, President of the Kansas Association of Broadcasters

“For the millions of Americans, and hundreds of thousands of Kansas City area residents, who rely on AM Radio for their local and national news, severe weather updates and community engagement, I’m grateful for Congressmen Alford and LaTurner, along with many others, for this Resolution. KCMO Talk Radio, and thousands of other AM Radio stations, serve our community in ways other media outlets don’t, and remains an integral part of the daily regional conversation,” said Pete Mundo, Morning Host/Program Director, KCMO Talk Radio

“As one of the more than 80 million Americans who depend on AM radio every day, in many ways, I want to thank and commend Congressmen Alford and LaTurner for dedicating their efforts to the preservation of this extremely important communication source. Whether it’s relying on AM radio stations to bring us the important daily news or necessary local information or relying on these stations for vital emergency alerts or severe weather updates, AM radio is the communication and information backbone of countless communities across our nation. It is an extremely important public service that our government should preserve and protect, and I am grateful to Congressman Alford and LaTurner for making this one of their key legislative priorities,” said Tim Jones Fmr. Speaker, Missouri House of Representatives and Morning Drive Show Host, AM 560, KWTO

"As the host of Wake Up Mid-Missouri on AM 950 KWOS, I want to take a moment to emphasize the importance of AM radio in our community. AM radio has been a staple of our lives for decades, providing a unique and valuable service that is still relevant in the digital age. First and foremost, May 22, 2019, when a devastating tornado rocked Jefferson City. 33 people were injured and residents made more than $170 million in insurance claims.  KWOS served as a lifeline. AM radio served as a lifeline to the good folks of Mid-Missouri. AM radio also plays a crucial role in fostering community connections. It serves as a platform for local voices, allowing us to share stories, opinions, and perspectives that reflect our diverse community. AM radio is a source of entertainment and education. In an era dominated by digital media and on-demand content, AM radio stands out as a reliable, accessible, and FREE source of information and entertainment. So, let us not overlook the value of AM radio in our city, our state, and our country! As the host of Wake Up Mid-Missouri on KWOS, I am honored to be a part of this tradition and committed to delivering quality programming that serves and enriches our community. Thank you for your continued support of AM radio," said Braden Rathert, host of Wake-Up Mid Missouri, 93.9 – The Eagle

Original source can be found here.