Providing for the consideration of H.R. 6929, this resolution sets the stage for a discussion in the U.S. House of Representatives about funding the Affordable Connectivity Program administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This program aims to address issues related to digital accessibility by helping more citizens connect to the internet affordably.

General Summary of the Bill

The resolution, H. RES. 1119, outlines the procedural rules for debating H.R. 6929 in the House. It waives any objections to discussing the bill and dictates that the bill be considered as if it has already been read. Debate is limited to one hour, shared equally between the chair and ranking minority member of the Appropriations Committee, with an allowance for one motion to recommit the bill.

Significant Issues

One notable omission in the bill is the absence of any mention of specific funding amounts for the Affordable Connectivity Program. This lack of detail raises questions about financial accountability and transparency, as it is unclear how much money will be allocated or how it will be sourced. Moreover, the bill does not address oversight or accountability measures to ensure appropriate use of the funds, which could lead to inefficiencies or misuse.

The resolution frequently uses technical legislative terms, such as "points of order" and "motion to recommit," without providing definitions or context. This can be confusing for those unfamiliar with legislative jargon, potentially resulting in a lack of public understanding of the bill's procedural implications. Additionally, the reference to "Clause 1(c) of Rule XIX" lacks context, making it hard for the general public to grasp the significance of the exemption mentioned in the text.

Impact on the General Public

If passed, this bill could help make internet access more affordable, specifically targeting individuals and families struggling with connectivity costs. Enhancing internet access can have broad societal benefits, such as improving educational opportunities and increasing access to telehealth and remote work.

However, the lack of transparency regarding the amount of funding and its oversight may lead to concerns about government spending efficiency. The public might worry about how the funds are allocated and whether they genuinely address the need for affordable connectivity.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Low-Income Individuals and Families: These groups stand to benefit the most, as the Affordable Connectivity Program aims to make internet services more accessible and affordable. Better connectivity can enhance educational and economic opportunities, contributing to inequality reduction.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs): ISPs could potentially see an increase in customer base due to subsidized internet costs, which might offset competitive pricing pressures. However, they might also face increased scrutiny or regulations related to participating in such government-funded programs.

Policymakers and Government Oversight Bodies: Without clear accountability measures outlined in the bill, policymakers might encounter challenges ensuring the proper use of funds. This could affect public trust in their ability to manage and implement such programs effectively.

Overall, H. RES. 1119 represents an important step in addressing digital inequities, yet it also highlights the need for precise funding details and strong oversight to ensure the program achieves its intended goals efficiently.