Meta, Google, and TikTok have filed federal lawsuits against California, challenging a new state law that prohibits social media platforms from offering features deemed "addictive" to users under 16. The law, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom on September 10 and set to take effect January 1, 2027, is being contested by the tech companies on grounds that it infringes on free speech and oversteps the state's regulatory authority.
Each company filed separate lawsuits on Wednesday, arguing that Assembly Bill 1709 unlawfully tasks the state with acting as an editor and curator of online content, a role they contend is protected by the First Amendment. They also assert that the law is preempted by federal Section 230 protections and undermines parental control over children's online experiences, while disregarding existing platform-based safety measures.
Meta, owner of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, stated in its complaint that the law dictates how content is displayed and shared, violating the fundamental principle of editorial judgment. The company argued that a ban on features like autoplay would force it to either remove content suitable for teens or disconnect them from their communities. Meta also plans to implement default limits for California teens, including a two-hour daily cap, overnight restrictions, and muted notifications during school hours, which parents can override.
Google and its subsidiary YouTube contend that personalized feeds are essential for helping young users navigate the vast amount of content available. Their lawsuit argues that without personalization, millions of users under 16 will struggle to find appropriate content among billions of videos geared toward adults. They also noted that autoplay is already disabled by default for users under 18 and questioned the state's ability to provide evidence that personalization harms minors.
TikTok, with over 200 million U.S. users, filed its suit in Los Angeles, describing the law as an unconstitutional restriction on expression. The company stated that the law forces a choice between disabling curated feeds for minors or removing their accounts, criticizing it for disregarding existing safety features and parental rights. TikTok also claims the law is unconstitutionally vague and extends beyond state borders.
Under AB 1709, platforms are required to verify users' ages and remove accounts of those under 16 unless "addictive" features are stripped. Violations could result in penalties of up to $50,000 per affected minor for knowing violations and $25,000 for negligent ones. This law goes further than a previous 2024 state law, SB 976, which prohibited personalized feeds for users under 18 without parental consent, a law which Meta and others are already challenging.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta's office stated it is reviewing the filings and is committed to defending the state's laws aimed at protecting children online. Newsom previously described the legislation as part of the nation's strongest package of online safety laws for children, emphasizing the state's commitment to addressing risks posed by unregulated technology.