(Reuters) -A federal judge ruled that Meta, Facebook’s parent company, must face lawsuits by U.S. states accusing it of contributing to teen mental health issues. The states claim that Meta’s platforms, Facebook and Instagram, are designed to be addictive, leading to mental health problems among teens. This decision marks a significant step in holding Meta accountable for its platform’s impact on youth. Meta must face US state lawsuits over the growing issue of Meta teen addiction. #MetaTeenAddiction
U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, based in Oakland, California, rejected Meta’s attempt to dismiss the claims. The lawsuits, filed last year, involve over 30 states, including California, New York, and Florida. The states argue that Meta’s platforms have fueled teen social media addiction and contributed to the rising mental health crisis.
Judge Rogers limited some of the states’ claims but ruled that Section 230 does not fully shield Meta. The states presented enough evidence about Meta’s misleading statements. As a result, much of the case will move forward, allowing the states to pursue their accusations against Meta.
In addition to Meta, other companies like TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat also faced related personal injury lawsuits by individual plaintiffs. However, these companies are not defendants in the states’ lawsuits. Judge Rogers similarly rejected motions to dismiss these personal injury claims, holding the companies accountable for their platforms’ potential harm. #MetaTeenAddiction
Over 30 States Move Forward with Meta Teen Addiction Lawsuit
Moreover, the lawsuit involving Meta teen addiction was filed by over 30 states, including California and New York. They argue that Meta’s platforms misled users and fueled addiction. Although Meta sought to dismiss the case, the federal court ruled that most claims would proceed. States now have the opportunity to gather more evidence and seek justice. A trial could lead to significant changes in how these platforms operate.
