New Mexico seeks overhaul of Meta algorithms in child safety trial

Santa Fe: New Mexico state prosecutors are seeking sweeping changes to Meta’s social media apps and algorithms to protect children as the second phase of a landmark trial begins.

Opening statements are set for Monday in the three-week bench trial, which will decide whether platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp constitute a public nuisance under state law.

Prosecutors allege Meta’s platforms have created a public safety hazard for children. They are pushing for fundamental changes to how the apps operate and how their algorithms recommend content.

The case marks a major test of whether states can use public nuisance laws to force redesigns of social media platforms. Meta has denied the allegations.

A ruling in the case could set precedent for how tech companies are held accountable for child safety online.