WHAT THE LAW DOINCongress, in plain words

S.J.Res. 7 · 119th Congress

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".

Passed SenateScience, Technology, Communications
IntroducedJan 27, 2025
Passed SenateMay 8, 2025
Passed HouseNot yet
To PresidentNot yet
Became lawNot yet

Where it stands

Passed Senate. Latest step, May 9, 2025: Held at the desk. The Senate passed it 50–38.

What it does

Sourced

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.

Official summary by the Congressional Research Service (Introduced in Senate, Jan 27, 2025).

Our plain-language breakdown, with what it means for you and the case for and against, is written once a bill starts to move.

What has happened

Sourced
  1. May 8, 2025Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate without amendment by Yea-Nay Vote. 50 - 38. Record Vote Number: 238. Roll call recordLibrary of Congress
  2. Jan 27, 2025Introduced in SenateLibrary of Congress

Show all 13 recorded actions

Recorded votes

Sourced
  1. May 8, 2025 · SenateJoint Resolution Passed 50–38
    On the Joint Resolution · needed a majority
    R 50 yes, 0 noI 0 yes, 2 noD 0 yes, 36 noEach member · Record
1 other recorded vote (procedure and amendments)
  1. May 6, 2025 · SenateMotion to Proceed Agreed to 53–47
    On the Motion to Proceed · needed a majority
    R 53 yes, 0 noI 0 yes, 2 noD 0 yes, 45 noEach member · Record

Cosponsors

  • Jim Banks R-IN
  • Marsha Blackburn R-TN
  • Ted Budd R-NC
  • Shelley Moore Capito R-WV
  • John R. Curtis R-UT
  • Joni Ernst R-IA
  • Deb Fischer R-NE
  • James C. Justice R-WV
  • James Lankford R-OK
  • Cynthia M. Lummis R-WY
  • Jerry Moran R-KS
  • Eric Schmitt R-MO
Show 4 more cosponsors
  • Tim Sheehy R-MT
  • John Thune R-SD
  • Roger F. Wicker R-MS
  • Todd Young R-IN