An organization representing over 2,000 news publishers sent letters to federal agencies urging an investigation into Google’s removal of links to California-based news outlets. This move by Google came in response to a proposed law that would require tech companies to pay for news content. The News/Media Alliance requested an investigation into whether Google violated any laws by limiting access to news websites for some Californians.
Google announced last Friday that it was removing links to California news websites for certain users as a test to gauge the impact of legislation requiring payment to news outlets. The News/Media Alliance’s letter called for an investigation into potential violations of the Lanham Act, Sherman Antitrust Act, and other laws, including California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act and Unfair Competition Law. The letter highlighted the lack of transparency in Google’s decision and the potential legal implications.
News/Media Alliance president Danielle Coffey stated that Google holds too much power and that government agencies should act to address potential violations of antitrust and other laws. Google declined to comment on the situation, while California State Senate President Pro-Tempore Mike McGuire called the move bullying and an abuse of power. He emphasized the importance of news for public safety and called on Google executives to address the issue.
Charles F. Champion, president of the California News Publishers Association, criticized Google for suppressing California news by controlling access to news websites. He argued that policymakers need to take action to prevent one company from manipulating online content for political and business purposes. Champion emphasized that Google must comply with the law and not act as if it is above legal obligations.
The News/Media Alliance’s letters to federal agencies urged an investigation into Google’s actions with regards to California news outlets. Google’s decision to remove links to news websites as a response to the proposed law has raised concerns about potential legal violations, including antitrust laws and consumer protection regulations. The lack of transparency in Google’s decision-making process and the potential impact on public access to news content have prompted calls for government intervention.
Google’s move to remove links to California news websites has sparked backlash from news publishers and lawmakers. The California Journalism Preservation Act’s co-author, Mike McGuire, criticized Google for setting a dangerous precedent and endangering public safety. Charles F. Champion of the California News Publishers Association called for immediate action to prevent Google from exerting undue influence over online content. The News/Media Alliance’s letters underscore the need for accountability and transparency in Google’s actions regarding news access in California.
