Ada Reporter

U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher has put forward a resolution using the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to challenge a recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rule under the Biden administration. The rule in question expands the E-Rate program beyond its original statutory limits, and Fulcher aims to prevent similar regulatory actions in the future.

The resolution introduced by Congressman Fulcher is supported in the Senate by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz.

“E-Rate was designed to ensure schools and libraries have the connectivity they need to educate and serve their communities, not to create a backdoor entitlement program that stretches beyond the law’s clear boundaries,” said Congressman Fulcher. “The FCC cannot be allowed to unilaterally interpret the law in a way that fits their political agenda. The expansion of this program under the Biden administration was a blatant example of overreach that is not only unlawful but also disregards congressional intent.”

Last year, in what was described as a partisan decision, the FCC approved new rules allowing E-Rate funds to subsidize Wi-Fi hotspot distribution beyond school and library grounds. This move extended coverage into private residences and other off-campus locations.

Fulcher's resolution, H.J.Res.33, seeks to reverse this FCC decision made under the Biden administration. According to Fulcher, this action directly contradicts the Communications Act which states that the Universal Service Fund’s E-Rate program is intended for enhancing access to advanced telecommunications and information services for school classrooms and libraries.