Findlay Times

Congressman Bob Latta, Chair of the Energy & Commerce Committee's Communications & Technology Subcommittee, visited an AM radio station in Maryland to review measures that ensure operational continuity during natural or man-made disasters. This visit highlighted the importance of maintaining functionality in one of over 70 hardened radio stations across the United States.

"We know the important role AM radio stations play in providing emergency alerts, local news, and weather reports for millions of Americans," stated Latta. He emphasized the necessity of enhancing these stations' resilience, especially given recent threats from extreme weather events like hurricanes Helene and Milton. The recent hurricanes resulted in hundreds of cell towers being knocked out, making it vital for AM radios to remain functional for disseminating crucial information.

Latta noted his encouragement at seeing AM radio stations adopting modern technology to bolster their systems. "As Chair of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, it was important to receive an in-depth look today at an AM radio station that is putting this technology to good use," he added.

He also stressed Congress's responsibility in reinforcing communications systems. As a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Latta committed to collaborating with colleagues on legislation aimed at fortifying critical infrastructure such as AM radio stations, the electric grid, and telecommunications networks.