NAB - National Association of Broadcasters
04/30/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/30/2024 12:33
Broadcaster Melody Spann-Cooper Advocates for Preserving AM Radio in Cars at Congressional Hearing
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2024
April 30, 2024
Broadcaster Melody Spann-Cooper Advocates for Preserving AM Radio in Cars at Congressional Hearing
Key House Committee Highlights the Importance of AM to Americans Everywhere
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Melody Spann-Cooper, chairwoman and CEO of Midway Broadcasting Corporation, testified on behalf of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) at a hearing held by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Innovation, Data and Commerce titled, "Preserving Americans' Access to AM Radio." Click here for a copy of her testimony.
NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt lauded Spann-Cooper's role at the hearing, and thanked members of Congress for continuing to shine a light on this important issue.
"NAB appreciates the leadership of Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Subcommittee Chairman Gus Bilirakis and Ranking Member Jan Schakowsky in organizing this important hearing spotlighting the enduring value of AM radio," said LeGeyt. "As Melody made abundantly clear today, AM radio is vital to communities across the country not only for the cultural, news and sports programming that 82 million American rely on, but also because it is a critical lifeline during public safety emergencies."
He added, "America's broadcasters are grateful to the subcommittee members and other lawmakers who have voiced staunch support for preserving AM radio in cars. It's a lifeline in emergencies and the backbone of the Emergency Alert System. We look forward to continuing our work with all committee members to ensure this vital communications medium remains accessible to listeners across the country."
Support for AM radio access continues to build in both chambers of Congress, uniting policymakers at a time of intense partisanship in Washington. Today, Sens. Ed Markey (MA) and Ted Cruz (TX) announced that more than 60 senators are supporting the AM for Every Vehicle Act. There are 247 cosponsors of the bill in the House of Representatives.
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at nab.org.###