Senator Ted Cruz is stirring up controversy by pushing to block a federal plan that would provide Wi-Fi hotspots to schoolchildren. The initiative, approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) last year, aims to help students without reliable internet access complete their homework. But Cruz claims it could lead to unsupervised internet use and limit kids’ exposure to conservative viewpoints.

Cruz, who chairs the Senate Commerce Committee, introduced a resolution to overturn the FCC’s decision. He argues that the plan violates federal law, endangers children’s online safety, and undermines parents’ ability to monitor what their kids are exposed to. “The government shouldn’t subsidize unsupervised access to inappropriate content,” Cruz said in a statement.

The FCC’s hotspot rule expands the E-Rate program, which funds broadband for schools and libraries. Under the new measure, schools and libraries could lend Wi-Fi devices to students and patrons in need. Former FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel championed the plan, emphasizing its importance for closing the “homework gap” that leaves millions of students without internet access at home.

Cruz, however, insists the program oversteps the FCC’s authority and could strain the Universal Service Fund (USF), a federal program that supports broadband access. He also raised concerns that the lack of strict supervision could expose kids to harmful content or lead to censorship of conservative ideas.

Supporters of the hotspot plan counter that schools and libraries already have safeguards in place to protect students online. The FCC’s order requires institutions to follow the Children’s Internet Protection Act, which mandates certain technical protections and acceptable use policies.

This isn’t the first time Wi-Fi hotspots have been distributed to students. During the pandemic, a similar program helped millions of kids stay connected for remote learning. That program, funded by Congress, expired last year, prompting the FCC to adapt E-Rate to fill the gap.

The debate over the hotspot plan highlights broader tensions about internet access and education. While Cruz and his allies argue for stricter oversight, advocates say the program is essential for ensuring all students have the tools they need to succeed in a digital world.

The outcome of Cruz’s resolution remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the fight over Wi-Fi hotspots for students is far from over.