A California Plan to Make Big Tech Pay People for Data Raises Eyebrows

Details about Gov. Newsom’s proposal remain sparse

California Governor Gavin Newsom is working on a proposal that would require tech companies to pay Californians for their data, a proposal that, while sparse on details, already has marketers sweating.

Newsom, who was sworn in as governor in January, made the announcement during his State of the State address on Tuesday.

“California’s consumers should also be able to share in the wealth that is created from their data,” Newsom said during the speech. “And so I’ve asked my team to develop a proposal for a new Data Dividend for Californians, because we recognize that your data has value and it belongs to you.”

The proposal has not been released, and details such as how much tech companies might be required to pay, or how much Californians might stand to benefit financially from the proposal, have yet to be hammered out.

Adweek’s

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in