Bill Summary
The legislation is a joint resolution passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives that expresses congressional disapproval of a specific rule issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This rule relates to the E-Rate Program, which aims to address the "homework gap" by improving internet access for students, particularly those in underserved areas. The resolution invokes chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code, which provides Congress with the authority to reject federal regulations. By passing this resolution, Congress effectively nullifies the FCC's rule, meaning it will not be implemented or enforced.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the legislation disapproving the Federal Communications Commission's rule on addressing the homework gap through the E-Rate Program could affect people:
1. **Reduced Access to Internet for Students**: The E-Rate Program aims to provide funding to schools and libraries to improve their internet connectivity, particularly for low-income students. By disapproving the rule, Congress may limit or eliminate funding mechanisms that help bridge the digital divide. This could result in many students lacking access to reliable internet at home, making it difficult to complete homework assignments and participate in online learning, especially in an increasingly digital education environment.
2. **Impact on Educational Equity**: The legislation could exacerbate existing inequalities in education. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds who rely on school-provided internet access may find themselves at a disadvantage compared to their peers with reliable home internet. This could hinder their academic performance and limit opportunities for future success, widening the educational gap between affluent and low-income students.
3. **Economic Consequences for Communities**: Disapproval of the rule may have broader economic implications for communities, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Without enhanced internet access facilitated by the E-Rate Program, individuals may struggle to access online job applications, remote work opportunities, or telehealth services. This lack of connectivity can hinder economic growth and limit opportunities for workforce development in those communities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and limiting socioeconomic mobility.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.J. Res. 33 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. J. RES. 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''.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
February 4, 2025
Mr. Fulcher submitted the following joint resolution; which was
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce
_______________________________________________________________________
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''.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United
States of America in Congress assembled, That Congress disapproves the
rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission relating to
``Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program'' (89 Fed.
Reg. 67303 (August 20, 2024)), and such rule shall have no force or
effect.
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