Meta seeks legal shield in US bill on online child safety lawsuits

Meta is pushing U.S. Congress to add language to pending online child safety legislation that would limit lawsuits accusing social media companies of harming minors, according to U.S. press reports. The provision under discussion would narrow the scope of thousands of cases already filed against Meta and other platforms alleging harm to underage users. Meta has argued the measure would not grant "absolute immunity" and is intended to align federal legal standards across the country. Legal advocacy groups have warned that, if enacted, the language could lead to the dismissal of cases currently before U.S. courts. Critics have also said the proposal would weaken accountability over child safety and online privacy protections. Meta has rejected the criticism, pointing to existing safeguards on its platforms designed to protect young users. No further details on the bill's text or timing were immediately available.