Social media companies Meta, TikTok, and others are facing federal and state trials that seek to hold them responsible for harming children’s mental health. The lawsuits come from school districts, local governments, states, and thousands of families. Two trials are underway in Los Angeles and New Mexico, with more expected.
Experts say the cases against social media companies resemble those against tobacco and opioid markets, with plaintiffs seeking similar outcomes as cigarette makers and drug companies were required to pay for their harm. The outcome could challenge tech companies’ First Amendment shield and Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act.
The Los Angeles case centers on addiction, focusing on a 20-year-old plaintiff who claims Instagram contributed to her mental health struggles. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified that his company restricts users under 13 and detects underage users trying to bypass restrictions.
In New Mexico, Attorney General Raúl Torrez is seeking changes to algorithms serving up harmful material and more effective age verification. The trial highlights the challenges of balancing online safety with free speech.
The cases could take years to resolve, and tech regulation in the US is moving slowly. Parents, educators, and lawmakers are increasing pressure on social media companies to prioritize child safety.
Source: https://www.smdp.com/social-media-companies-face-legal-reckoning-over-mental-health-harms-to-children