Fulcher Leads Resolution to End FCC Regulatory Overreach

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov CONTACT : Marisa Melton, Marisa.Melton@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher introduced a resolution under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to overturn the Biden administration’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rule expanding the E-Rate program beyond its statutory limits and to prevent similar regulatory overreach in the future. The Senate companion for this resolution was introduced 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.” Background In a partisan decision last year, the FCC approved new rules to allow E-Rate funds to subsidize Wi-Fi hotspot distribution beyond school and library grounds, extending coverage into private residences and other off-campus locations. Congressman Fulcher’s resolution, H.J.Res.33, seeks to reverse this FCC decision made under the Biden administration, a move that directly contradicts the Communications Act which explicitly states that the Universal Service Fund’s E-Rate program is intended to “enhance . . . access to advanced telecommunications and information services for . . . school classrooms . . . and libraries.” ###