August 2023 Newsletter

Bring Your Bible to School Day Oct. 5th

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
– The Constitution of the United States First Amendment, Ratified December 15, 1791

Bring Your Bible to School Day, created by Dr. James Dobson‟s Focus on the Family ministry, began in 2014 and has continued as an annual event. The first Thursday in October is always designated as a “student-led celebration that empowers Christian students to live out their faith. “All it takes is two simple steps – bringing your Bible to school and sharing what God‟s Word means to you.” Last year‟s Day was “an awesome success! Thanks to everyone who participated last year and [we] are looking forward to even more this year.”

Students may register online at focusonthefamily.com/Bring-Your-Bible/ and purchase Bring Your Bible to School Day badges, stickers, patches and T-shirts that are available in colors and imprinted on the front with “Bring Your Bible to School,” and “God is With You” on the back.

AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2023
S.1669 “AM radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2023” by Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.) was introduced into the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee May 17, 2023 and passed the committee July 27th. Final passage is needed because some manufacturers are leaving AM radios out of vehicles, whether or not they use electricity, gasoline or diesel fuel. It applies to motor vehicles made or imported in the U.S. or shipped in interstate commerce.

AM Radio: How important is it?
AM radio provides news and talk, sports coverage, up-to-date current event data and opinion pieces; broadcasts emergencies, weather and Amber alerts, with long-distance signals that penetrate buildings, and warn multitudes of people quickly. Some stations specialize in religious programs of spiritual messages and prayer; others air classic hits and unique music genres, such as “golden-oldie” favorites of nostalgic listeners. All may include seasonal live play-by-play sports, while communicating with experts and commentators on the field.

Requirements of S.1669: The DOT and FEMA must jointly issue a rule to install as standard equipment in new motor vehicles devices that access AM broadcasting. Prior to the effective date of the rule, manufacturers must, through clear and conspicuous labeling, inform purchasers that the vehicle has no device to access AM broadcasting. DOT may assess civil penalties against any manufacturer that fails to comply with the mandate. DOJ may sue violators.

Also, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) must study and report (a) what a different system would cost and (b) the cost and the time needed to develop and implement replacements.

Since S.1669, currently, awaits a full Senate vote, all U.S. senators need to be contacted. U.S. Senators Raphael Warnock and Jon Osoff should hear from Georgians.

ACTION – Support. Text “AM” to 52886 or call the Capitol switchboard at 1 877 762-8762 to be connected with senators or representatives. Please ask them to keep AM radio in all motor vehicles.

Read more of the August 2023 newsletter here.