Statement on Latest Verdict in Attorney General Torrez’s New Mexico case against Meta from James P. Steyer, Founder and CEO, Common Sense Media

August 7, 2026 - Jim Steyer, founder and CEO of the leading national nonprofit kids' online safety organization Common Sense Media, issued the following comment after a New Mexico court found Meta platform's to be a public nuisance that contribute to the youth mental health crisis:

"This is a huge moment for kids and families, and yet another sign that the tide is turning on Big Tech. A clear message was sent by the judge, who found Meta's conduct created a ‘public nuisance' akin to air pollution: guardrails and restrictions can and should be put in place to protect minors online, and social media companies can and must be held accountable when their products put kids at risk.

That's exactly why we're calling on California lawmakers to pass AB 2, which would increase penalties when social media companies are found negligent for offering features that harm kids. For too long, Big Tech has treated penalties as simply the cost of doing business. This ruling clearly states Meta cannot poison a generation and write it off as overhead. Real accountability requires real consequences, and strong, enforceable protections that put kids' safety ahead of engagement and profits.

The momentum is building across the country. Now California has an opportunity to lead once again and make clear that protecting kids comes before protecting Big Tech's profits."

About Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the research-backed information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the age of apps, algorithms, and AI. We rate, educate, and advocate to protect and prepare kids online. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users globally, over 1.4 million educators, and more than 100,000 schools worldwide every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.