Senate resolution would undo FCC rule on school Wi-Fi hotspots
Passed one chamberS.J.Res. 7Latest action
Sponsor: Ted Cruz · Senator · TX
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: 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".
119th Congress
Topics: AI & technology
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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This resolution would cancel an FCC rule letting schools and libraries use E-Rate funds for student Wi-Fi hotspots.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This resolution would cancel an FCC rule from August 2024 that expanded the E-Rate program to let schools and libraries fund Wi-Fi hotspots for students without home internet, including on school buses and through take-home lending programs. Using the , Congress can reject the rule so it's treated as if it never took effect, and the FCC would be barred from issuing a similar rule without new congressional authorization.
Who does it affect?
Schools, libraries, and students without reliable home internet—particularly in rural or lower-income areas—would be affected. The bill has passed the Senate and needs House passage and presidential signature (or a ) to take effect.
Why does it matter?
If enacted, hotspot-lending programs funded through E-Rate would lose authorization under this rule, though traditional E-Rate uses like classroom and library internet would continue.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJan 27, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate vote
- HouseYou are here · May 9, 2025
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the Senate, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Held at the desk.
Recorded votes
Roll-call votes recorded since January 3, 2025.
Senate · · Roll call 238
As recorded
- Question
- On the S.J.Res. 7
- Result:
- Joint Resolution Passed
- 50
- Nay
- 38
- 0
- 12
Republicans 50 yes, 3 not voting · Democrats 36 no, 9 not voting · Independents 2 no
Official recordHow members voted
The official record lists how each member voted.Official record
Senate · · Roll call 235
As recorded
- Question
- On the S.J.Res. 7
- Result:
- Motion to Proceed Agreed to
- 53
- Nay
- 47
- 0
- 0
Republicans 53 yes · Democrats 45 no · Independents 2 no
Official recordHow members voted
The official record lists how each member voted.Official record