A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission relating to "Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program".

3/6/2025, 11:56 AM

Summary of Bill SJRES 7

Bill 119 SJRes 7 is a joint resolution that aims to disapprove of a rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding the "Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program." The E-Rate Program is a federal initiative that provides discounts to schools and libraries for internet access and telecommunications services.

The rule in question seeks to address the issue of the "homework gap," which refers to the disparity in access to high-speed internet among students, particularly those from low-income households. The FCC's rule aims to expand the E-Rate Program to provide funding for internet access for students to use at home for educational purposes.

However, some members of Congress believe that the FCC's rule oversteps its authority and could have unintended consequences. They argue that the rule could lead to increased costs for taxpayers and potentially infringe on the rights of states and local governments to make decisions about education policy. As a result, Bill 119 SJRes 7 seeks to disapprove of the FCC's rule under chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code. If passed, this resolution would prevent the FCC from implementing the rule and would require the agency to go back to the drawing board to come up with a new plan to address the homework gap. Overall, Bill 119 SJRes 7 is a contentious piece of legislation that highlights the ongoing debate over the role of the federal government in addressing issues related to education and internet access.

Congressional Summary of SJRES 7

This joint resolution nullifies the final rule issued by the Federal Communications Commission titled Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program and published on August 20, 2024. The rule permits schools and libraries participating in the Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support program (E-Rate) to purchase discounted Wi-Fi hotspots and associated mobile connectivity service for off-premises use by students, school staff, and library patrons. Under the rule, E-Rate participants must implement acceptable use policies that require hotspots to be used primarily for educational purposes.

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Current Status of Bill SJRES 7

Bill SJRES 7 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 27, 2025. Bill SJRES 7 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on January 27, 2025. Bill SJRES 7's most recent activity was Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 24. as of March 5, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill SJRES 7

Total Number of Sponsors

Democrat Sponsors

Republican Sponsors

Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

Democrat Cosponsors

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Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill SJRES 7

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Alternate Title(s) of Bill SJRES 7

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission relating to "Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program".A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission relating to "Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program".

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