Meta faces New Mexico bench trial that could force sweeping changes to Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp

A bench trial began in Santa Fe, New Mexico on May 2, 2026, that could result in a judge ordering court-mandated design changes to Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. This follows a March 2026 jury verdict finding Meta liable under the Unfair Practices Act and ordering $375 million in civil penalties — the first state trial win against a major tech company for endangering children. The second phase argues Meta's platforms constitute a 'public nuisance' under state law. New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez seeks billions more in damages plus remedies including effective age verification, safer recommendation algorithms, restrictions on end-to-end encryption for minors, prominent warning labels, predator bans, and a court-appointed child safety monitor. Meta has warned it may withdraw from the state entirely. Over 40 states are pursuing similar lawsuits, making this a bellwether case.