Google, Meta, and TikTok filed separate lawsuits on Wednesday challenging California's Assembly Bill 1709, a law designed to restrict addictive features for users under the age of 16. The legislation, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 10, targets features such as endless scrolling, autoplay videos, and personalized feeds, which the law defines as "psychologically exploitative features." The measure is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.
The tech companies argue the law interferes with free speech and undermines parental authority. Meta stated that the state cannot override its editorial decisions regarding the organization and display of posts. Google argued that the restrictions could damage systems intended to help children find appropriate content, while TikTok claimed the law interferes with free expression and parental choice. Google further asserted that parents, rather than the state, should decide what is appropriate for their families.
"Overly broad laws like this actually break the systems we've built to help kids find high-quality, age-appropriate videos," Google spokesman José Castañeda said.
In addition to the social media platforms, the Electronic Frontier Foundation warned that mandatory age verification requirements could force users to provide more personal information. The organization also argued that removing recommendation tools might exclude young people from online communities.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta's office told The Guardian it is reviewing the lawsuits and intends to defend the state's child-protection laws. The legal challenge follows a separate August agreement in which Meta agreed to pay up to $18 billion to settle various states' child-safety claims, which included implementing default time limits and mandatory scrolling breaks for teenagers.
