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January 11, 2023

Co-Director Speaks on Seattle Schools’ Lawsuit Against Social Media Companies

KUOW & NPR

In three news articles, TPL Co-Director Ryan Calo comments on the current lawsuit against social media companies. The Seattle and Kent school districts have both expressed concern about the effects of social media on their students and children. According to these districts, their students have experienced mental health issues associated with what they saw when using Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or other social media platforms. Despite these harms, Calo acknowledges that bringing a lawsuit against these platforms may be a difficult feat. Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act provides immunity to these companies from being responsible for what is being posted on their sites. Although it may be difficult for the school district to assign direct responsibility unto these platforms, they are bringing attention to the current issues of social media.