Google, Meta and TikTok want to block California's minors protection law

Google, Meta, and TikTok have filed separate lawsuits to block a California law aimed at protecting minors from social media risks, claiming it violates First Amendment rights. The law, effective January 1, 2027, prohibits tech companies from providing addictive content and autoplay videos to users under 16. Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September, the law is challenged in federal courts in California. The companies also argue it infringes Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which shields them from liability for third-party content. This legal action comes amid increased scrutiny over the impact of social media on children, with numerous lawsuits already filed against these platforms. In August, Meta agreed to pay $18 billion and implement stronger child protection measures on Facebook and Instagram as part of a settlement regarding teen addiction complaints.