New Mexico trial nears end over children's safety risks on Meta
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Closing arguments are set in a landmark New Mexico trial where Meta faces accusations of misleading users about the safety of its platforms for children, following six weeks of extensive testimony.
- Prosecutors allege Meta prioritized profits over child safety, violating state consumer protection laws by using algorithms and features that expose children to harm, while Meta denies these claims and highlights its safety measures.
- The trial's second phase will determine if Meta created a public nuisance and should fund programs addressing harms to children, with potential fines reaching billions if violations are found.
- Meta faces charges under New Mexico’s Unfair Practices Act for "unconscionable" trade practices, with prosecutors focusing on the company's role in promoting addictive and harmful content rather than the content itself.
- Meta contends it complies with legal protections like Section 230 and the First Amendment, accusing prosecutors of selective evidence use and flawed investigations.
