Baltimore County Joins Growing List Of Maryland School Systems Suing Social Media

By WMAR2NEWS
Posted on 02/11/24 | News Source: WMAR2NEWS

Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) is the latest district in Maryland to join a nationwide class action lawsuit against social media companies.

The growing list already includes Anne Arundel, Charles, Harford, Howard, Frederick, Montgomery, Prince George's, St. Mary's and Wicomico County Public Schools.

They claim social media is a "primary contributor to escalating mental health issues among students."

Specifically the lawsuit names Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and TikTok.

Schools argue those platforms "intentionally designed their platforms to target children without providing adequate warnings to users and parents about the potential dangers of social media leading to increased rates of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts."

As result the schools say they've been "compelled to redirect funds meant for essential educational resources to address the detrimental effects of social media."

BCPS accuses the companies of gaining substantial profits from the practice.

"These tech companies prioritize financial gains over the safety and well-being of children, despite being aware of the harmful consequences of their actions."