Meta, TikTok, Google sue California over kids protection law
Original title: Social media giants sue California to overturn law shielding kids 15 and under from compulsive use
Tech giants are challenging a new California law shielding children 15 and under from addictive platform features by arguing it violates free speech and Section 230.
Meta, TikTok and Google filed coordinated lawsuits in California federal courts, claiming Assembly Bill 1709 improperly restricts platform features and interferes with parental rights. The law, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, takes effect January 1 and blocks "psychologically exploitative" features for users 15 and under. Companies argue the law infringes on free speech and undermines Section 230 protections against liability for user content. California Attorney General Rob Bonta stated he will defend the law to protect children online. Google spokesperson said parents should make decisions for their families.
Unconfirmed: Court outcomes and exact legal challenges unconfirmed; claims based on company statements and law text
- Lawsuits filed in San Jose, San Francisco and Los Angeles
- AB 1709 blocks psychologically exploitative features for users 15 and under
- Law takes effect January 1 2027
- Companies cite violation of free speech and Section 230
- AG Bonta committed to defending law for child protection
- Organizations
- California Attorney General
- Countries
- United States
From the original article
1 min read at therecord.mediaGoogle, Meta and TikTok each filed suit in federal court against an incoming California law that blocks platforms from deploying features considered “psychologically exploitative.”
therecord.media
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