California measure SB-962 (http://bit.ly/1fEdpZv), which would require smartphones...

California measure SB-962 (http://bit.ly/1fEdpZv), which would require smartphones sold in the state to come pre-equipped with a kill switch in case they are stolen or lost, continued to move through the Assembly after being approved by the Utilities and Commerce committee Monday. The measure has also passed the Senate and the Assembly’s Business and Professions committee, and will next head to the Assembly floor, said a news release by the bill’s Senate sponsor, Democratic Sen. Mark Leno (http://bit.ly/TrRniA). The wireless industry has opposed the measure, saying it has voluntarily agreed to install technology that allows the disabling of the smartphones if they're lost or stolen -- measures Leno considers inadequate because consumers would have to actively turn on or download the feature. The bill’s approval was “unnecessary because of the numerous actions the wireless industry has taken to provide consumers with the tools and information needed to help deter smartphone theft,” said Jamie Hastings, CTIA vice president-external and state affairs, in a statement. “State-by-state technology mandates stifle innovation to the ultimate detriment to the consumer."The FCC is also looking at ways to address a rapid increase in smartphone thefts (CD June 20 p1).