Google, Meta, and TikTok sue California over law banning addictive social media features for children

Google, Meta, and TikTok have collectively initiated legal action against California's new law aimed at curbing addictive social media features for children under-16. The companies contend that the legislation infringes upon their free speech rights and parents' authority. The legal dispute centers around Assembly Bill 1709, which Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law on September 10, slated to become effective on January 1, 2027.

Key provisions of the bill target three "psychologically exploitative" features: personalized feeds, endless scrolling, and autoplay videos. Platforms are required to verify user ages before granting access. The primary objective of the law is to prevent companies from using these features to compel children to stay engaged with their devices beyond their intended usage time.

The companies challenge the law on various grounds, invoking the First Amendment and Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which generally shields platforms from liability for user-generated content. Meta claims that California cannot override its editorial decisions on content organization and presentation. Google argues that the restrictions could jeopardize systems designed to assist children in accessing appropriate videos.

TikTok asserts that the law interferes with free expression and parental choice, emphasizing its existing parental controls.

Google's spokesman, José Castañeda, notes that overly restrictive laws could undermine the systems built to help children discover high-quality, age-appropriate content. Conversely, the Electronic Frontier Foundation warns that mandatory age checks may result in the collection of excessive personal information and potentially limit young people's access to online communities. The controversy is not limited to these tech giants; the Electronic Frontier Foundation and other stakeholders are opposing the law.

The dispute echoes a recent settlement between Meta and several states regarding child-safety concerns on Facebook and Instagram, which resulted in a $18 billion agreement. The settlement includes provisions such as default time limits and mandatory scrolling breaks. Globally, various jurisdictions are introducing restrictions or bans on social media use for young individuals, with Australia being the first country to implement such a law.

In response, Reddit challenged the under-16 ban at the High Court, arguing that it restricts political communication and is not a social media site.