California is trying to bring back net neutrality, but the debate is complicated

California state lawmakers are angling for another fight with the Trump administration, this time to revive federal net neutrality rules that they say are crucial to a fair, open and free internet. 

CA Senate President Pro Tem Kevin De León (D-Los Angeles) has introduced legislation that would task a state agency with establishing new regulations, making it unlawful for broadband companies to block or limit access to internet services in California. Through his own bill, state Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) is working with a coalition of lawmakers and tech advocates to craft new net neutrality rules of their own. Despite the dueling approaches, the two prominent Democrats have pledged to work together. Their proposals face heavy opposition from the telecom industry. And supporters say neither effort will be enough if the state does not also resuscitate federal rules to protect the privacy of internet customers. “We cannot allow the profits and political interests of internet service providers to outweigh the public interest in a free and open internet,” State Sen De León said. “If the Trump administration won’t protect consumers, the state of California will."