Summary
New York City has sued major social media companies, claiming they are responsible for making children addicted to online platforms, which worsens mental health issues. The lawsuit seeks compensation from companies like Facebook and Google, accusing them of being careless and creating a public problem. This legal action is part of a larger effort involving over 2,000 similar lawsuits across the United States.
Key Facts
- New York City filed a lawsuit against several social media companies, including Facebook, Google, Snapchat, and TikTok.
- The lawsuit claims these platforms cause mental health problems in children by making them addicted to social media.
- The complaint accuses the companies of gross negligence and causing a public nuisance.
- Other lawsuits on this issue are also happening in federal court in Oakland, California.
- New York City has about 1.8 million residents under the age of 18, making it a significant plaintiff.
- The lawsuit mentions that over 77% of the city's high school students spend three or more hours daily on screens.
- The city withdrew an earlier lawsuit in California to join this larger federal case.
- New York City’s health commissioner labeled social media a public health hazard in January 2024.
