Kudos to the 23 state Senators who stopped California’s misguided attempt to “save the Internet”.

Their votes to scuttle S. 242 is a welcome reversal of self-destructive behavior from a state that’s become its own worst enemy, in spite of having the world’s only real golden goose — the innovative and empowering companies of Silicon Valley.

Internet users today enjoy a wealth of free online services that constantly innovate and adapt to user demand.  Users of large social networks already control their own information, but the advocates of S. 242 think the state needs to oversee Californians’ individual decisions.

That strategy may be good for driving news stories but its no good for delivering new online services that consumers eagerly embrace. The last thing California needs right now is to smother its golden goose with the deadly embrace of oppressive legislation.

About the Author

Steve DelBianco

Steve is a well-known expert on Internet governance, online consumer protection, and Internet taxation. He’s provided expert testimony in eight Congressional hearings and in dozens of state legislative hearings. Steve is frequently quoted on technology issues in the media, including a segment on 60 Minutes to expose barriers to innovation in residential real estate. sdelbianco@netchoice.org

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   iAWFUL: the 10 Most Awful Laws for the Internet | NetChoice - Breaking down the Barriers to e-Commerce said:
   September 15, 2011 at 4:54 pm

   [...] by California to restrict social networks in ways similar to Puerto Rico failed in two Senate votes.    Another high-profile item on the March iAWFUL – Congresswoman Speier’s Do-Not-Track [...]