California vs. Google

Google Blog:A (being charitable) confused California Senator has proposed a bill to outlaw Gmail because of the ads it includes in email. "We think it's an absolute invasion of privacy. It's like having a massive billboard in the middle of your home," she says.

Even if she was correct, which I don't think she is, why is a law necessary? If Gmail is so clearly annoying, won't people who don't like the ads simply not use it? What purpose would such a law serve except to take Gmail away from those who thought the ads were an acceptable cost for the service?

Derek Powazek has responded with a letter from his Gmail account asking for an apology.