California Social Media Law Takes Effect Despite Tech Giants' Appeal

A federal judge in San Jose, California has denied a request by Meta Platforms, Google, and TikTok to block enforcement of the state's social media regulation law while they appeal its constitutionality. The companies had sought a preliminary injunction to halt implementation of the Protecting Our Kids from Social Media Addiction Act (SB 976) until their appeals were heard.

US District Judge Edward Davila ruled that the companies failed to demonstrate irreparable harm from complying with the personalized feed provisions of SB 976 while their appeal is being considered by the Ninth Circuit. This means that the regulation will take effect as planned, imposing new requirements on social media platforms to prioritize user safety and well-being.

The decision marks a significant setback for the tech giants, who had argued that the law was unconstitutional and would impose undue burdens on them. The companies have until September 2026 to file their appeal with the Ninth Circuit.