A group of thirty US states has filed a lawsuit against Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, alleging that the company has knowingly created features that harm the mental health of children and teenagers. The legal action centers on claims that Meta’s platforms are designed to be addictive, leading to negative outcomes for young users, including anxiety, depression, and body image issues. The states are seeking to hold the company accountable for what they describe as a business model that prioritizes engagement over the well-being of minors.

Meta has responded to the litigation by stating that it is committed to providing safe experiences for young people. The company argues that it has already introduced numerous tools and features designed to support parents and teenagers, such as time limits and content restrictions. Meta maintains that the allegations mischaracterize its efforts to balance user experience with safety protocols.

The trial represents a significant moment for the tech industry, as a ruling against Meta could set a legal precedent that forces the company to fundamentally alter its platform architecture. While the states argue that these changes are necessary to protect public health, Meta contends that such mandates could undermine the functionality of its services. The legal battle is expected to focus on whether the company’s design choices constitute a violation of consumer protection laws.