Meta, 29 states head to court in biggest test yet of youth social media litigation

Meta is set to face off against a group of state attorneys general in a major trial in a California federal court. The lawsuit, which is expected to last seven weeks, focuses on allegations that Meta intentionally designed Facebook and Instagram to be addictive for young users. The trial, beginning on Wednesday, will address claims from 29 states that the company illegally collected and used children's data, violating federal law.

Jury selection is set for Wednesday, with opening statements scheduled to begin on August 18. Trial witnesses are expected to include Meta founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram head Adam Mosseri. The potential damages could be as high as $1.4 trillion, nearly the company's market value of $1.5 trillion. The attorneys general of Colorado, Kentucky, California, and New Jersey are also seeking an order compelling Meta to implement age restrictions and eliminate features like infinite scroll and notifications.

The lawsuit stems from a 2023 investigation into the impact of Instagram and Facebook on young users, following disclosures by Meta whistleblower Frances Haugen. The states argue that Meta's platforms are harming children and teens, and that the company should prioritize young users' well-being over profits. The trial is seen as a significant test of youth social media litigation, amid a broader global reckoning over the effects of social media on young users.