META SEEKS TO OVERTURN ADDICTION TRIAL VERDICT

The filing challenges the jury's finding that Meta bears responsibility in the social media addiction case. Meta contends that Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act—which protects online platforms from liability for user-generated content—should have barred the lawsuit entirely. The company requested the judge either throw out the verdict or order a new trial. Section 230 has historically provided broad protections for tech platforms, though courts have increasingly carved out exceptions in recent years. The case centers on allegations that Meta's platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, contributed to psychological harm through design features that encourage addiction. The jury's verdict represents a notable challenge to Big Tech's legal shields. Meta's post-trial motion is a standard procedural step in high-stakes cases. The judge's ruling will likely influence similar litigation pending against social media companies nationwide.