An organization representing over 2,000 news publishers has called for an investigation into Google after the tech giant started removing links to California-based news outlets. The move by Google, in response to a proposed law that would require tech companies to pay for news content, has sparked backlash from the News/Media Alliance.
The News/Media Alliance has sent letters to the Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission, and the California Attorney General, requesting an investigation into whether Google violated any laws by limiting access to news websites for some Californians. Google announced the “test” to gauge the impact of the legislation on their product experience, but the News/Media Alliance argues that the lack of transparency raises concerns about potential violations of various laws.
In a statement, News/Media Alliance president Danielle Coffey expressed concerns about Google’s power and called on government agencies to take action. California State Senate President Pro-Tempore Mike McGuire also criticized Google’s actions, calling it an act of “bullying” and an “abuse of power.”
Charles F. Champion, the president and CEO of the California News Publishers Association, added that Google’s move was suppressing California news and emphasized the need for policymakers to intervene. The situation has raised questions about Google’s control over information and the potential impact on public safety for Californians who rely on news for critical information. Google declined to comment on the matter.