The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has initiated a public consultation on Google‘s (Nasdaq: GOOG) application for exemption under the Online News Act.
This legislation, which came into effect in December 2023, aims to ensure fair compensation for Canadian news organizations when their content is shared on large online platforms.
Google has submitted an agreement with an organization that would manage fund distribution to Canadian news businesses, seeking exemption from individual bargaining requirements. The public can provide comments on this request until July 29, 2024, through various means including an online form, mail, or fax.
The Online News Act mandates the CRTC to oversee a framework for negotiations between news organizations and major online platforms. It also allows platforms to seek exemption if they reach an agreement with a representative body of Canadian news organizations.
Google has negotiated a deal with the Canadian Journalism Collective to distribute $100 million annually to news organizations in Canada. News organizations that responded to Google’s open call earlier this year are eligible to join this collective.
The CRTC, an independent regulatory body, is working to swiftly implement the Act. This consultation is part of a series of public engagements, with another on the code of conduct for bargaining expected soon.
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