Meta reaches $17 billion settlement with states in landmark trial over teen social media addiction

Meta has reached a $17 billion settlement with 47 states and state attorneys general, resolving a landmark trial over teen social media addiction. The agreement is a result of years of legal proceedings aimed at holding the tech giant accountable for the design features on its platforms that contribute to children's mental health issues.

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones emphasized that the settlement will end Meta's harmful practices and provide meaningful relief to protect children from online harm. The settlement will be paid out over a period of 10 years, with each state receiving a certain amount, with Virginia expecting to receive at least $1.5 billion. California Attorney General Rob Bonta indicated that the state would receive at least $1.5 billion if the settlement is approved by the court.

New Jersey and Massachusetts also expect to receive substantial sums, at least $525 million and $366 million, respectively. Meta has committed to implementing stronger child-safety measures on its platforms, with features such as time limits, curbs on push notifications during school hours, and robust age-assurance measures. The settlement is a fraction of Meta's 2025 revenue of $201 billion, but it still represents a significant financial burden for the company.