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 passed by the Senate and House of Representatives to disapprove a rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding addressing the "homework gap" through the E-Rate program. The resolution specifically targets the rule published in the Federal Register on August 20, 2024.
The resolution invokes Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code, which provides a mechanism for Congress to review and disapprove agency rules. If enacted, the resolution would nullify the FCC's rule, preventing it from taking effect.
The intended effect is to prevent the FCC from implementing its proposed changes to the E-Rate program aimed at addressing the homework gap.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect of this resolution, if enacted, would be to prevent the FCC from implementing the rule related to addressing the homework gap through the E-Rate program. This means that the specific changes or initiatives proposed by the FCC in that rule would not be put into effect.
This could lead to a reassessment of strategies to bridge the homework gap, potentially requiring the FCC to develop a revised rule or Congress to pursue alternative legislative solutions. The availability of resources for students who lack internet access at home could be delayed or altered.
Potential Benefits
- Prevents potential overreach or unintended consequences of the FCC rule.
- Allows Congress to maintain control over the direction of the E-Rate program.
- Provides an opportunity for further debate and refinement of policies addressing the homework gap.
- Could lead to a more effective or targeted approach to providing internet access to students.
- Ensures that the FCC's actions align with congressional intent and priorities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Delays or prevents the implementation of measures designed to address the homework gap.
- Could disproportionately affect students from low-income families who lack internet access at home.
- Creates uncertainty for schools and libraries relying on the E-Rate program to support student connectivity.
- May require the FCC to expend additional resources to develop a revised rule.
- Could be interpreted as a setback for efforts to promote digital equity and educational opportunity.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution aligns with Article I, Section 1 of the US Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is enacted, is a mechanism by which Congress can oversee and check the power of executive agencies, ensuring that agency actions are consistent with legislative intent.
By disapproving the FCC rule, Congress is exercising its legislative authority to shape policy and prevent the implementation of regulations it deems inappropriate or inconsistent with its priorities. This action reflects the system of checks and balances established by the Constitution.
However, the specific policy implications of disapproving the rule are subject to debate and may raise questions about the appropriate balance between congressional oversight and agency expertise.
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).