A judge in New Mexico has issued a final order requiring Meta to pay more than $567 million in response to state allegations that the company’s social media platforms have harmed children. The ruling concludes a legal battle centered on the claim that Meta’s business practices created a 'public nuisance' by failing to adequately protect younger users from online threats.

This latest financial penalty builds upon a significant legal setback for the company earlier this year. In March, a jury found Meta liable for endangering children by exposing them to predators and other safety risks, resulting in an initial award of $375 million. The recent judge's order effectively solidifies and expands the state's victory in its efforts to hold the tech giant accountable for platform safety.

Meta has formally expressed its opposition to the court's decision. In a statement released following the ruling, the company confirmed its intention to appeal the judgment, maintaining that it works to ensure safety on its platforms. While the company has consistently denied the allegations of wrongdoing throughout the proceedings, the court has moved forward with the enforcement of these damages. The case remains a significant example of state-level legal action aimed at regulating the impact of large social media corporations on child safety.