The State of New Mexico has formally rested its case in the second phase of its high-profile lawsuit against Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram.
In this stage of the trial, state attorneys are arguing that Meta’s platforms amount to a public nuisance, alleging the company’s design and safety practices have failed to adequately protect children from online sex predators. The current phase focuses on whether the company’s conduct creates broader harm to the public and whether court-ordered changes should be required.
The case follows a major ruling in the first phase of the trial last month, when a jury determined Meta violated New Mexico’s Unfair Practices Act. That decision resulted in a $375 million penalty against the company.
Now, the state is asking the court to require significant reforms to Meta’s operations. Those proposed changes include strengthening age-verification systems, limiting how algorithms recommend content to minors, and implementing additional safeguards aimed at reducing risks such as sextortion and online exploitation.
Meta’s legal team has pushed back on those requests, arguing that the proposed changes could significantly impact how its platforms function. Attorneys for the company have also indicated that certain requirements could lead Meta to reconsider offering its services in New Mexico.
The defense is now presenting its case, with proceedings expected to continue through May 22. The outcome of this phase could determine whether any operational changes are mandated and how the platforms operate moving forward in the state.
