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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".

119th Congress Introduced by Russ Fulcher and 1 co-sponsor

HJRES 33 disapproves an FCC rule aimed at improving internet access for students, blocking efforts to close the digital divide and impacting underserved communities.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJRES 33

Summary of HJRES 33

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HJRES 33
  • Title: 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."
  • Status: Introduced in House
  • Introduced Date: February 4, 2025
  • Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJRES 33 aims to express congressional disapproval of a specific rule established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that pertains to the E-Rate Program, which is designed to enhance internet access for students, particularly those who lack sufficient connectivity for educational purposes. The resolution seeks to nullify the FCC's rule that addresses the "homework gap," which refers to the disparity in access to digital resources for students who do not have reliable internet access at home.

Key Provisions

  • The resolution states that Congress disapproves the FCC rule published in the Federal Register (89 Fed. Reg. 67303) on August 20, 2024.
  • If passed, the rule will have no force or effect, effectively blocking its implementation.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The primary stakeholders impacted by this resolution include:
    • Students: Particularly those in underserved communities who rely on the E-Rate Program for internet access to complete homework and engage in online learning.
    • Educational Institutions: Schools and libraries that benefit from the E-Rate funding to provide necessary internet services.
    • Federal Communications Commission (FCC): The agency's authority to implement the rule will be curtailed if the resolution passes.

Legislative Actions

  • February 4, 2025:
    • The bill was introduced in the House and subsequently referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • SJRES 7: This is a companion resolution that addresses similar concerns regarding the FCC's rule on the E-Rate Program.

Conclusion

HJRES 33 represents a significant legislative effort to challenge and potentially overturn an FCC rule aimed at bridging the digital divide for students. By disapproving this rule, Congress seeks to influence how internet access initiatives are implemented, particularly in relation to educational equity. The outcome of this resolution could have lasting implications for students' access to digital learning resources.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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