The Assembly is considering legislation that would reinstate federal restrictions on how Internet providers use customer data.
Recently, the restrictions were lifted at the federal level, but Assemblymember Ed Chau, D-Monterey Park, wants to see them restored in California.
Several consumer groups such as Consumer Action, Consumer Watchdog and Consumer Federation of California have voiced support of the bill. Some national groups such as the Center for Digital Democracy, the Center for Democracy and Technology, and the Consumer Federation of America have also stood in support of the bill.
Local groups, including some mayors, have had reactions to the legislation.
Oakland Privacy and Access Humboldt have both listed themselves as supporters. San Francisco’s Mayor Edwin M. Lee has supported the pending legislation on paper and on social media. Lee tweeted about the bill’s introduction this week:
Lee went on record for the bill as well.
“Privacy is not a luxury in California. If the federal government will not stand up for our citizens, then states and local leaders will ensure we protect and enforce Internet privacy protections at home. Our residents rely on Internet access for communication, education and community-building, and it should be an individual’s choice to share that data with companies. San Francisco stands with Assemblyman Chau and the California Broadband Internet Privacy Act to make sure the Internet is safe, fair and open to all.”
In response to a Techwire request for comment, Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg was unprepared to make a statement, and San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo has not taken a position on the issue.
