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Bill

Bill

S 3494

Requires that new motor vehicles be equipped with amplitude modulation radio.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Beach

New Jersey bill requires all new cars sold in the state to include AM radio receivers for emergency alert access.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Commerce Committee
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Bill Summary · S 3494

Legislative bill overview

S 3494 mandates that all newly manufactured motor vehicles sold in New Jersey must be equipped with amplitude modulation (AM) radio receivers. The bill was introduced in February 2026 and is currently pending review in the Senate Commerce Committee.

Why is this important

AM radio remains a critical emergency communication channel, particularly for National Weather Service alerts, AMBER alerts, and civil emergency broadcasts that reach consumers without requiring internet connectivity or subscriptions. The requirement addresses concerns that vehicle manufacturers have been phasing out AM radio in newer models, potentially limiting public access to vital emergency information during crises or in areas with poor cellular coverage.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturer costs and compliance: Auto manufacturers may argue that mandating specific hardware increases production costs and limits design flexibility, particularly as vehicles become increasingly digital
  • Declining AM radio usage: Younger drivers predominantly use streaming services and satellite radio; mandatory AM equipment may be viewed as protecting a legacy technology with diminishing listenership
  • Federal vs. state authority: Questions may arise about whether individual states can impose equipment mandates on vehicles, or if this conflicts with federal automotive safety and manufacturing standards

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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