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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".

2/7/2025, 3:34 PM

Summary of Bill HJRES 33

Bill 119 hjres 33 is a piece of legislation 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 interferes with the jurisdiction of states and local school districts. They argue that decisions regarding education policy should be left to the states and localities, rather than being dictated by federal agencies. As a result, Bill 119 hjres 33 seeks to disapprove of the FCC's rule under chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code. If passed, this legislation would nullify the FCC's rule and prevent it from being implemented. Overall, Bill 119 hjres 33 is a contentious piece of legislation that highlights the ongoing debate over the role of the federal government in education policy and the efforts to address the digital divide among students.

Congressional Summary of HJRES 33

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.  

Current Status of Bill HJRES 33

Bill HJRES 33 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 4, 2025. Bill HJRES 33 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 4, 2025.  Bill HJRES 33's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. as of February 4, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HJRES 33

Total Number of Sponsors
3
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
3
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HJRES 33

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HJRES 33

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".
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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