Lauren Miller

April 26, 2024 - 01:20 am

Google announced on Friday that it would start removing links to California news websites from search results for certain Californians. This move comes in response to a proposed bill that would require online advertising companies to pay a fee for directing state residents to news sources.

Opposition to the Bill: In a blog post by Jaffer Zaidi, Google's vice president of global news partnership, the company criticized the proposed California Journalism Preservation Act, calling it the wrong approach to supporting journalism. Google argued that the bill would introduce business uncertainty that no company could accept.

Legislative Background: The bill, introduced last year, is still under consideration in the state legislature. If passed, it would mandate online ad companies to pay fees for linking users to news sources.

Industry Trends: Google's decision reflects broader shifts in how major internet platforms handle news content. Meta, Facebook's parent company, has also made changes, including discontinuing its news tab in some European countries.

Impact on Publishers: These changes have significant implications for online publishers, particularly those reliant on platforms like Google and Facebook for traffic and advertising revenue. The proposed bill could further disrupt this ecosystem.

Google's Response: Google stated that if the bill becomes law, it could lead to significant changes in the services the company offers to Californians and the traffic it generates for California publishers. As a result, Google is pausing further investments in the California news ecosystem, including new partnerships and expansions of its news initiative.

Support and Criticism: Supporters of the bill argue that it will help news publishers receive a fair share of advertising profits from tech giants like Google and Meta. However, critics within the journalism industry fear that it could favor larger newsrooms over smaller ones.

Global Precedents: Google has opposed similar media payment measures in other countries but has ultimately complied with the regulations.

Overall, Google's decision to remove links to California news websites reflects its stance against the proposed legislation and its potential impact on the digital news landscape.