Meta, YouTube Hit with Millions in Damages for Addictive Platforms

0:00A California jury just ruled that meta and YouTube have to pay millions and damages. They found the company's built their platforms to hook young users with addictive features, ignoring the harm to kids' well-being. Meanwhile, in Alabama, a new law banning cell phones and classrooms took effect last May. It has cut down distractions during school hours, but social media remains a constant poll once kids leave campus. Parents and teens in the area say they feel the poll first-hand. A local teacher with 32 years of experience has seen students glue to their screens, wasting hours scrolling through short, entertaining. Clips, windboard. Moms are stepping in with firm rules, especially for preteens and young teens around 14 years old, to shield them from risks. Older kids in college, though, use the apps to stay close with far away friends. This big verdict could pave the way for thousands of similar cases nationwide, including right here in Alabama, as families push back against, unchecked online addiction. You've been listening to Birmingham News today, AI-powered local news.