SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Government agencies would be barred from disrupting cellphone service ahead of expected protests if a bill approved by the California Legislature becomes law.
The Assembly unanimously approved SB 1160 Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Los Angeles on Thursday.
It would prevent any agency from disrupting cellphone service without first establishing probable cause and obtaining a court order.
Padilla says such a law is needed to protect public safety and basic freedoms.
Officials with the Bay Area Rapid Transit system ignited a global debate over free speech last year when the agency cut cellphone and wireless data service in San Francisco subway stations to disrupt a planned protest.
Assemblymembers condemned that decision on Thursday.
The bill now goes back to the Senate for final approval.
The Associated Press