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 9, 2025Held at the desk.House floor actions
  2. May 9, 2025Received in the House.House floor actions
  3. May 8, 2025Message on Senate action sent to the House.Senate
  4. May 8, 2025Passed Senate without amendment by Yea-Nay Vote. 50 - 38. Record Vote Number: 238. (text: CR S2813) Roll call recordSenate
  5. 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
  6. May 8, 2025Considered by Senate. (consideration: CR S2807, S2813)Senate
  7. May 6, 2025Measure laid before Senate by motion. (consideration: CR S2770-2772)Senate
  8. May 6, 2025Motion to proceed to consideration of measure agreed to in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 53 - 47. Record Vote Number: 235. Roll call recordSenate
  9. Mar 5, 2025Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 24.Senate
  10. Mar 5, 2025Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation discharged, by petition, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 802(c).Senate
  11. Mar 5, 2025Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation discharged, by petition, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 802(c).Library of Congress
  12. Jan 27, 2025Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.Senate
  13. Jan 27, 2025Introduced in SenateLibrary of Congress

Show key steps only

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