Google has reached a deal with California lawmakers to fund local news in the state, ending a dispute over the California Journalism Preservation Act. Under the agreement, Google will commit tens of millions of dollars to support local news and an AI accelerator program. The company had protested a proposed law requiring it to pay media outlets for linking to their websites. Now, Google will direct funds to a nonprofit charity at UC Berkeley’s journalism school and existing journalism programs. Additionally, Google will contribute to a National AI Innovation Accelerator, which will fund AI experiments for local businesses and newsrooms. Alphabet’s President of Global Affairs credited California Governor Gavin Newsom and other officials for their leadership in developing a collaborative framework for AI innovation and supporting local and national businesses.
