New York City is suing Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube, blaming them for a youth mental health crisis. The city alleges these platforms use addictive algorithms and “gross negligence” to hook kids on social media. Over a third of teens report excessive social media use and struggle to reduce it, according to the complaint. The city's health commissioner declared social media a public health hazard, straining city resources. The lawsuit cites a behavioral health crisis, estimating substantial costs associated with mental health issues. The lawsuit claims algorithms contribute to problems like sleep loss and risky behaviors, like subway surfing. The city argues the platforms' actions are linked to dangerous activities inspired by social media trends. Meta and Google, the parent companies of Facebook/Instagram and YouTube, have responded to the lawsuit. The lawsuits focus on product design and addictive features rather than content to bypass legal protections for tech companies. New York City aims to hold the companies accountable for the harm inflicted on youth. The city seeks financial relief to address the mental health issues caused by these platforms.