A significant trial in New Mexico is set to commence on May 4, 2026, focusing on the alleged mental health risks posed by Meta's platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, to young users.
The state’s Attorney General, Raúl Torrez, claims that Meta has designed its platforms to be addictive and has failed to adequately protect children from potential exploitation.
This trial follows a March jury ruling that found Meta in violation of New Mexico's consumer protection law, resulting in a $375 million damages award.
The current proceedings will determine if Meta's platforms constitute a 'public nuisance' under state law, which could lead to mandated changes aimed at safeguarding youth.
Torrez's office plans to pursue additional damages and enforce significant modifications to Meta's platforms, including age verification and algorithm redesign to prioritize safer content for minors.
Meta has countered that it has implemented numerous safety measures for young users and claims the requested changes would be impractical.
This case is part of a broader trend, with numerous lawsuits against Meta and other social media companies over their impact on youth mental health.
We hope this case will set a new standard for social media conduct, not just in New Mexico but nationally and globally.
Raúl Torrez, New Mexico Attorney General
Meta has warned that ongoing legal challenges may significantly affect its business and financial performance.