Tech giants sue California over law targeting child safety
Tech giants challenge California law restricting youth social media features, citing free speech and federal preemption.
Social media apps are seen on a smartphone screen (dlxmedia.hu/Unsplash via Courthouse News)
Meta, Google and TikTok filed separate lawsuits in federal court on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, seeking to block the enforcement of California Assembly Bill 1709. The legislation, which is scheduled to take effect on Jan. 1, 2027, aims to restrict certain social media features for users under 16.
The law prohibits platforms from providing features deemed psychologically exploitative, including algorithmic content recommendations, infinite scrolling and autoplay. It also mandates the deletion of accounts belonging to minors that utilize these features and establishes an e-Safety Advisory Commission.
In their filings, the companies argue that the state law violates their First Amendment rights. Meta stated in its complaint that the legislation attempts to appoint the state as the editor, curator and controller of online speech. The companies also contend that the law is preempted by Section 230 of the federal Communications Decency Act.
Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal, who authored the bill, has described features like autoplay as harmful to the developing brain. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the measure into law on Sept. 10, 2026, stating that the state would not stand by while unregulated technology puts children at risk.
The office of California Attorney General Rob Bonta, the defendant in the lawsuits, said it is committed to defending the state's laws regarding online child safety. The attorney general's office is currently reviewing the legal filings as the Jan. 1, 2027, implementation date approaches.