The Robbinsville Board of Education has voted to participate in a lawsuit against major social media companies, including Meta, Snap, TikTok and Alphabet, citing concerns over the negative impact these platforms have on student mental health.
The district joins other school districts nationwide in pushing for accountability and reform from tech companies. The lawsuit accuses social media platforms of contributing to rising levels of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation among children and teenagers.
The legal action seeks monetary and non-monetary damages, arguing that these platforms are intentionally designed to be addictive and harmful to young users.
Frantz Law Group is representing the district in the class-action lawsuit. The firm has already commenced litigation on behalf of more than 800 school districts against Facebook, TikTok, Snap, YouTube as well as other social media companies.
School officials highlighted the growing problems related to social media use by students as the reason for the suit. These include disciplinary actions, the need for counseling services and medical interventions.
Officials also expressed concern over the detrimental effects of social media, linking it to disrupted sleep patterns, reduced academic performance and impaired social development.
In October New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin filed a suit against Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, alleging that the company deliberately created addictive features for children and teens while falsely assuring the public about the safety of its platforms.
Another recent lawsuit by the State targets TikTok, accusing the platform of using deceptive business practices to keep young users hooked.
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