An organization representing over 2,000 news publishers has called for an investigation into Google after the tech giant began removing links to California-based news outlets. The move came in response to a proposed law that would require tech companies to pay for news content.
The News/Media Alliance, which represents US newspapers and online publications, 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 it was removing links to California news websites for some users as a response to the bill that would require payment to news outlets. The company stated that the move was a “test” to assess the impact of the legislation on their product experience.
In a statement, News/Media Alliance president Danielle Coffey expressed concern over Google’s power and called for government agencies to take action. Google, on the other hand, defended its actions, stating that the proposed bill would hurt small, local publishers to benefit large out-of-state hedge funds.
California State Senate President Pro-Tempore Mike McGuire criticized Google’s move as an act of “bullying” and an “abuse of power,” while Charles F. Champion of the California News Publishers Association accused Google of suppressing California news. The debate over the California Journalism Preservation Act continues as stakeholders on both sides express their concerns and demands for action.