A federal judge has ruled against a challenge from tech lobbying group NetChoice, allowing California's SB 976 to take effect, which restricts the use of "addictive feeds" for minors. The ruling marks a significant step in regulating how tech platforms interact with young users.
Effective immediately, companies operating in California are prohibited from using algorithms that recommend content based on a minor’s behavior, rather than their direct preferences, unless they obtain explicit parental consent. This change directly targets the engagement-driven algorithms commonly used in social media platforms.
Furthermore, starting in January 2027, companies must implement age verification measures, such as age estimation models, to identify minor users and adjust their content delivery accordingly. This requirement aims to ensure compliance with the law’s restrictions.
NetChoice, representing major tech companies including Meta, Google, and X, filed suit in November, claiming the law violated the First Amendment. While the judge denied the motion to block the core aspects of SB 976, they did grant an injunction on other minor provisions, specifically a restriction on nighttime notifications for minors. The legal challenges mark ongoing tension in how states seek to protect minors online. This development follows similar legislation passed in New York this past June, indicating a growing trend towards regulating technology's impact on young users.
