Now Reading: US appeals court allows youth addiction suits against Meta, TikTok
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US appeals court allows youth addiction suits against Meta, TikTok
US appeals court allows youth addiction suits against Meta, TikTok
US appeals court allows thousands of lawsuits against Meta and TikTok to proceed. The 9th Circuit rejected the companies' early appeal, saying Section 230 provides a defence, not immunity from lawsuits. The…
The Story in Brief
US appeals court allows thousands of lawsuits against Meta and TikTok to proceed. The 9th Circuit rejected the companies' early appeal, saying Section 230 provides a defence, not immunity from lawsuits. The court also denied Meta's bid to delay a trial by 29 state attorneys general, set for Wednesday. A New Mexico judge recently ordered Meta to pay $567 million into a teen mental health fund.
The lawsuits allege social media companies intentionally addicted young users, contributing to a mental health crisis. Attorneys for school districts and individuals said the ruling will reveal what Meta knew. Meta and TikTok had argued Section 230 shielded them. Over 3,300 cases are in state court.
The Indian Opinion
The narrative that Section 230 gives social media companies blanket immunity from lawsuits is exaggerated. The court clarified it is a defence to liability, not immunity from being sued. Companies like Meta and TikTok have long used this law to avoid scrutiny over product design. The upcoming trial starting Wednesday, along with the New Mexico penalty of $567 million, will test whether platforms can be held accountable for addictive features. The evidence presented will be key to determining responsibility for youth mental health.
Source: thehindu.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
