Meta Reaches $17 Billion Settlement with States Over Child Safety

Why it matters locally: While the specific details of Vermont's involvement in the settlement are not yet clear, the agreement could influence how social media platforms operate for young users across the state, potentially leading to enhanced safety features and privacy protections.

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OAKLAND, Calif. — Social media company Meta has reached a nearly $17 billion settlement with a group of states. The agreement addresses Meta's child safety practices across its platforms. This development in 2026 coincides with increased scrutiny from regulators and lawmakers globally regarding the practices of major technology companies. On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, Olivia Konar displayed a banner outside the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Oakland, California. The banner listed the names of young individuals, including her sister Coco Konar, who died in 2022 at age 17.