During my time in Congress, which includes my experience as the Orlando Police Chief, I’ve learned that even the most promising ideas often require time to become law. Some legislation can move swiftly, while others may take years of negotiation. That’s just how democratic governance works. What’s important is to keep pushing for progress and to seize opportunities to pass laws aimed at keeping people safe.
Right now, we have an opportunity. There’s an ongoing discussion about reforming music royalties and protecting America’s public warning systems.
As a long-time proponent of the Music Modernization Act, I’ve always supported fair treatment for American musicians, especially in today’s digital landscape. Artists deserve to be compensated appropriately for their work. While the Modernization of Music Act was a significant advancement, it’s clear that there’s still much to be done in Congress.
Currently, the votes to expand the Music Modernization Act are lacking. However, a bill focused on safeguarding America’s public warning infrastructure— the All Vehicle Law AM Radio— is receiving substantial bipartisan support, with many co-sponsors from the Senate.
Unfortunately, some stakeholders in the music industry, understandably frustrated by the slow progress of royalty reform, are insisting that Congress delay the All Vehicle Act’s passage until the Royal Reform Act is also passed. Having been a police chief who managed public safety during major emergencies, I see this as a mistake.
While both matters warrant attention from Congress, the All Vehicle Act for AM Radio has the bipartisan backing necessary for immediate passage.
I’ve seen firsthand how crucial AM radio becomes when other communication systems fail during emergencies. Passing this bill is essential for public safety.
As former Deputy Homeland Security Secretary Pete Gayner noted, when various agencies, including DHS, Congress, FEMA, and the FCC, collaborated on an emergency management system, they identified AM radio as vital because officials could rely on it even when other channels might falter.
It performed exceptionally well. According to the Chiefs Association, which represents 70 major police departments in the U.S., during disasters, the [National Public Warning System and Emergency Alert System] often becomes the primary way for first responders and citizens to get and share emergency information, relying on proven communication methods.
Indeed, when cell towers fail, and the internet goes down—as often happens during hurricanes—AM radio keeps broadcasting.
We experienced this during a recent storm that hit the southeastern part of my home state, Florida. At those critical times, AM radio became a lifeline. Local officials used it to communicate evacuation routes, shelter information, and emergency updates. During Hurricane Helene, CNN referred to it as a “lifeline.” National law enforcement, fire services, and emergency management professionals support this legislation.
Public safety experts recognize that losing AM radio can complicate their operations and endanger lives. FEMA even warned that if car manufacturers keep removing AM radio, “millions” of Americans could miss out on “critical live-saving” information during crises.
I get the desire for wider royalty reforms and hope that Congress can find common ground soon. However, the All Vehicle Law AM Radio is about public safety and should not be held back by other issues that are ready for legislative action. This approach benefits no one, including the artists whom music lobbyists aim to support.
I take pride in my time in Congress. This situation isn’t a matter of choosing one option over another; it’s a test of whether Congress can multitask effectively. It’s time for Congress to focus on its primary responsibilities to ensure the safety of Americans.
I’m hopeful about this.
