There's still life in the little bill that could. Despite all the tumult in American politics, it appears there's one thing that both sides can agree on - AM radio is worth saving. The bill that's designed to mandate that AM be available in all cars - electric and gas - is one step closer in the endless legal parade to get it passed in the U.S. 

"HR 979 would require automakers to include AM radio as standard equipment in all new vehicles, including electric models, framing AM as a safety feature rather than an optional add-on."

Lawmakers made a concession to the auto industry - if the bill passes, the rules would only be in effect for eight years instead of a decade. Although there's nothing to say it couldn't be extended when the day arrives. 

U.S. House Panel Advances AM Radio Act

Meanwhile, this exceptionally long but kind of interesting story from Popular Mechanics at the link below tries to illustrate why AM is still the go-to band when it comes to an emergency. It takes a while, but the story of how one radio veteran spent two non-stop weeks virtually alone on the air and became the only voice of rescue and repair in the midst of a hurricane, is quite the read. 

AM Radio Is a Lifeline in Rural America. So Why Do Carmakers Want It Gone?

So what would Canada do if this becomes law down south? That's another debate for another time. And maybe a call-in topic for AM talk shows.