SHLB Disappointed by Senate Hotspot Procedural Vote

Washington, D.C. (May 6, 2025) – The Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition expressed disappointment today following the Senate’s vote on a motion to proceed to  S.J. Res. 7, a Congressional Review Act resolution that overturns the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) decision to allow E-rate funds to support Wi-Fi hotspot lending by schools and libraries.

This resolution threatens a critical tool used by community anchor institutions to close the digital divide, particularly for students, job seekers, and individuals accessing telehealth and other essential services.

“After hearing so many powerful stories from educators and librarians about how hotspots provide a lifeline to their communities, this vote is a disappointing step backward,” said Joseph Wender, Executive Director of SHLB. “Stripping schools and libraries of the ability to use E-rate funding for hotspot lending will widen the digital divide and hurt the very people these programs are meant to serve. SHLB remains committed to fighting for policies that keep communities connected and calls on Senators to vote ‘no’ when the resolution comes up for a final vote later this week.”

In March, SHLB and 31 other organizations sent a joint letter to Senate leadership urging them to protect the FCC’s decision. Despite this widespread support, the motion to proceed prevailed.

FCC data shows strong demand from schools and libraries for hotspot funding through E-rate this year—a clear indication of the urgent demand for flexible, community-centered broadband solutions.

Read the joint letter here.
Read SHLB’s previous statement applauding the FCC’s decision on hotspots.