A California bill that would allow the state to fine large social media companies millions of dollars if they amplify violent or extremist content has ignited a free speech fight, pitting Big Tech against those who argue more accountability is needed. 

The state legislature, in which Democrats hold a supermajority, passed California Senate Bill 771 Thursday night and is headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s (D-CA) desk. He has until Oct. 13 to sign it. If he does, it could create a messy, drawn-out legal battle with multibillion-dollar tech companies over what people can post on their platforms.

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