A federal trial began Tuesday over four states’ claims that Meta harmed young users through Facebook and Instagram. The trial will determine whether Meta is legally responsible. No platform changes or payments are currently required.
Key Facts
- California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey are presenting claims in this first trial.
- The broader consolidated case involves attorneys general from 29 states.
- Meta disputes the allegations and is presenting a defense.
- No verdict or final liability decision has been entered.
What the states allege
The states allege Meta designed Facebook and Instagram features that encouraged prolonged or compulsive use by young people. They also accuse Meta of misleading the public about platform safety.
Separate claims concern the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, known as COPPA. The federal law regulates how covered online services collect personal information from children under 13.
The states seek monetary relief and court-ordered changes to Meta’s operations. If the states prevail, a later decision on remedies could impose financial penalties or restrictions on Meta’s operations. Those requests remain proposals for relief, not measures already imposed.
How Meta is defending the case
Meta denies liability and disputes the states’ descriptions of its products and safety record.
Bloomberg Law reported that Meta’s lawyer told jurors the company takes youth protection seriously and has introduced safety tools. The Associated Press reported that Meta said its evidence would demonstrate its commitment to young users.
What the court has decided
In June, the court rejected Meta’s request to end all the attorneys general’s claims before trial. That ruling allowed disputed factual questions to proceed, but it did not establish that Meta violated the law.
The court granted the states partial summary judgment that Meta had not provided parental notice, obtained parental consent or provided ways for parents to review data. Partial summary judgment means the court decided that limited issue without a trial.
The court left unresolved whether COPPA applies because the parties still dispute whether Meta had actual knowledge that it was collecting information from children under 13. The June ruling did not establish Meta’s final liability.
The court called an advisory jury to assess community standards for the states’ allegations about deceptive practices and communications. Its findings will advise the judge rather than independently resolve the entire case.
How the state trials fit together
The consolidated action includes 29 state attorneys general, but this first trial covers California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey. The other 25 states are scheduled for later trials.
Associated Press and Bloomberg Law reported that opening statements occurred Tuesday in federal court in Oakland.
What happens next
The states will continue presenting evidence, and Meta will have an opportunity to present its defense. The court must still decide liability and any relief after the trial process is complete.
