META FACES BIGGER THREAT IN CHILD SAFETY TRIAL

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez secured the historic sum earlier this year, but the next phase of litigation may have broader implications for Meta and the social media industry. Starting Monday, attorneys for both Meta and New Mexico will appear in Santa Fe court to argue over structural changes the AG is seeking. Rather than focusing solely on financial damages, the public nuisance trial will examine what operational modifications Meta must implement to address child safety concerns. Public nuisance cases typically result in court-ordered remedies that reshape how companies operate. If Torrez prevails, Meta could face mandated changes to its algorithms, content moderation systems, or platform features—requirements that would be far more disruptive than a monetary settlement. The case centers on allegations that Meta's platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, facilitate child exploitation and harm. Torrez's office has argued the company knowingly allowed features that endangered minors, including recommendation algorithms that amplified harmful content. The three-week trial will determine what specific changes Meta must make going forward. Potential outcomes could include restrictions on how Meta targets younger users, mandatory safety features, or algorithmic adjustments. This case carries significance beyond Meta. A landmark ruling could establish precedent for how regulators pursue social media companies on child safety grounds, potentially influencing similar cases nationwide. Other state attorneys general have been increasingly aggressive in targeting platform practices affecting minors. Meta has defended its child safety record, noting billions invested in protections and partnerships with organizations focused on youth welfare. The company is expected to contest Torrez's proposed remedies during the trial. The outcome may reshape how major platforms balance engagement-driven business models with child protection requirements. Whether courts will order structural changes to social media operations remains a critical test of regulatory power over Big Tech.