S.jres7 - 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)
Summary
This document is a joint resolution (S.J.Res. 7) introduced in the Senate on January 27, 2025, aiming to disapprove a rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding the "Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program". The resolution seeks to nullify the FCC rule, which is published in the Federal Register (89 Fed. Reg. 67303 (August 20, 2024)).
The resolution was introduced by Mr. Cruz, along with several co-sponsors, and was referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. The core purpose is to exert congressional oversight over the FCC's actions, specifically concerning the E-Rate program's efforts to bridge the homework gap.
If passed, the resolution would prevent the FCC rule from taking effect, effectively halting the specific measures outlined in the rule to address the homework gap through the E-Rate program.
Expected Effects
If this resolution passes, the FCC rule "Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program" will not be implemented.
This means that the specific measures outlined in the rule to provide internet access to students for homework purposes will be blocked. The E-Rate program's current activities will continue without the changes proposed in the disapproved rule.
Potential Benefits
- Could prevent potential overreach or misallocation of funds by the FCC.
- May allow for a reassessment and potentially more effective strategies to address the homework gap.
- Could reduce regulatory burdens perceived as unnecessary or ineffective.
- Might align with a broader congressional agenda to limit the scope of federal agencies.
- Could lead to alternative solutions driven by state or local initiatives.
Potential Disadvantages
- May hinder efforts to provide internet access to students from low-income families, exacerbating the homework gap.
- Could disproportionately affect disadvantaged students who rely on the E-Rate program for connectivity.
- May create uncertainty and delay in addressing the digital divide in education.
- Could be perceived as a setback for educational equity and opportunity.
- Might undermine the FCC's authority and expertise in telecommunications policy.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of congressional oversight under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, which allows Congress to review and disapprove agency rules. This aligns with Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress.
Furthermore, the resolution reflects the system of checks and balances, where Congress can check the power of executive agencies like the FCC. The constitutionality hinges on whether the original FCC rule exceeded its statutory authority, a matter for legal interpretation.
There is no apparent violation of individual rights or freedoms as the resolution pertains to the allocation of resources and regulatory oversight.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).