Us Congress Senate Bill SJR64

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission relating to "The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Prevention and Elimination of Digital Discrimination".

Impact

If adopted, this joint resolution would nullify the FCC's rule intended to tackle digital discrimination. The underlying concern for supporters of SJR64 is that the rule places undue burdens on telecommunications providers while potentially hindering efforts to improve access to broadband services for underserved communities. Advocates of disapproval argue that existing market solutions are preferable to federal regulations that could inadvertently limit service providers' flexibility in addressing these issues.

Summary

SJR64 is a joint resolution that aims to provide congressional disapproval of a rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The rule is associated with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and focuses on the prevention and elimination of digital discrimination. This resolution highlights Congress's power to reject regulatory actions made by federal agencies, particularly those aimed at addressing inequalities in access to technology and telecommunications services.

Contention

The resolution has prompted discussions about the role of federal oversight in telecommunications and whether such actions are necessary to ensure equitable access to digital resources. Proponents of the FCC's rule contend that without federal intervention, disparities in technology access, particularly in rural or low-income areas, will persist. Conversely, critics of the rule, as reflected in SJR64, argue that the FCC's interference could be seen as overregulation, which complicates the operational landscape for service providers and could deter investment in infrastructure improvements.