The U.S. Senate voted 50-38 to repeal a 2024 FCC rule that allowed schools and libraries to use E-Rate funds to provide take-home Wi-Fi hotspots for students. The measure, passed under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), now heads to the House for consideration. [K-12 Dive]
Why it Matters
The rule aimed to address the “homework gap” by helping students without home internet complete assignments and participate in online learning. Advocates say the decision expanded educational access, especially for low-income and rural communities. Critics raised questions about the FCC’s authority and the scope of the E-Rate program. [The Verge]
The E-Rate program, created in 1996, provides discounted telecommunications and internet services to schools and libraries. In July 2024, the FCC, under then-Chair Jessica Rosenworcel, voted to expand the program to include mobile hotspots that could be used off-campus. The rule was part of a broader “Learn Without Limits” initiative, including proposals for Wi-Fi on school buses and cybersecurity support. [Bloomberg Government, subscription model]
By the Numbers
- Schools and districts requested $27.5 million for hotspots during FY2025, the first year the devices were eligible.
- Nearly 20,000 schools and libraries applied for hundreds of thousands of devices nationwide.
- A survey from the Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) found that 14% of districts fear their broadband initiatives will lose sustainable funding without continued federal support.
What’s Next
If the House passes the resolution, it will go to the president’s desk for final approval. Under the CRA, repealing the rule would prevent the FCC from enacting a similar policy in the future.
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