Technology

Meta begins federal trial over impact of its platforms on children

PBS · August 18, 2026Original source ↗

Meta begins federal trial over impact of its platforms on children

What happened

A federal trial against Meta has commenced, with four states presenting their argument that the company's social media platforms have negative effects on children. In other news, crews are working to clear roads and restore power in Hawaii following Hurricane Lala. President Trump stated that there are currently no ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran.

Why it matters

This trial may have implications for how social media companies regulate their platforms and the potential impact on children's safety.

How this story affects people

How does this story affect you if you are a parent of a child who uses social media?

This trial could lead to new regulations on how social media platforms operate, potentially making them safer for children. If the court finds in favor of the states, it may result in changes that limit children's access to harmful content.

Want this written about you?

The breakdown above is the shared version, for kinds of people. In the app, Ripple uses your job, your city, and your family, then writes that part about you.

Get your Ripple