US Federal House Bill HJR33

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

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".

Summary

H.J. Res. 33 is a congressional disapproval resolution under the Congressional Review Act. It would nullify a Federal Communications Commission rule titled “Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program,” which was published at 89 Fed. Reg. 67303 on August 20, 2024. If enacted, the resolution would make that FCC rule have no force or effect. The underlying FCC rule appears aimed at using the E-Rate program to help close the “homework gap,” generally understood as the lack of reliable internet access that can prevent students from completing schoolwork at home. The resolution does not create a new program or amend substantive communications law directly; instead, it would block the FCC from implementing that specific rule and preserve the status quo under existing E-Rate authorities and regulations.

Impact

The bill’s legal effect would be to overturn the FCC’s homework-gap rule and prevent it from taking effect, limiting the agency’s ability to expand or adjust E-Rate support through that rulemaking. Because it is a joint resolution of disapproval, it operates through the Congressional Review Act framework rather than by amending the Communications Act or other statutes directly. Its practical impact would fall on the FCC, schools, libraries, and potentially students and households that might have benefited from the rule’s internet-access provisions.

Sentiment

Based on the available record, the bill appears to reflect opposition to the FCC’s rule rather than a broader bipartisan policy compromise. No committee debate or vote history is provided, so there is no recorded floor or committee sentiment to measure. The filing and referral suggest the measure is in an early stage and has not yet generated documented legislative consensus in the materials provided.

Contention

The central point of contention is the FCC’s authority and policy choice to address the homework gap through the E-Rate program. Supporters of the disapproval resolution likely view the rule as an overreach, an improper expansion of E-Rate, or a policy that should be left to Congress rather than the agency. Opponents would likely argue that the rule is a targeted effort to improve student internet access and educational equity, especially for low-income and rural families. No named witnesses or recorded votes are available in the provided context.