The issue is that the federal government requires broadcast stations (and local authorities) to use a certified EAS box. Currently, there's only one available option, and software solutions are not permitted. A lot is riding on these boxes.
Without them, stations will be required to go off the air if the equipment becomes inoperable. They're not allowed to operate without a certified EAS box. Also, no new stations can be established.
The 'AM in all vehicles' argument may become moot, since emergency alerting is the primary rationale.
