Alabama Set to Take TikTok to Trial in First-of-Its-Kind Case

Alabama could become the first state to take TikTok to trial, claiming the platform misled parents about features designed to protect children and teens. As the trial approaches, the public may get a unique look at how TikTok manages online safety.

This lawsuit is part of a larger national push to hold social media companies responsible for practices that some say can harm young people.

Alabama Drops Some Claims to Keep Trial on Track

The state has narrowed its lawsuit to claims under the Alabama Deceptive Trade Practices Act, alleging that TikTok misled parents and families about safety features like “Kids Mode” and “Restricted Mode.”

TikTok promoted these features as a way to help shield children and teens from mature content, but Alabama claims the tools did not work as promised. The state believes many families trusted these protections when deciding if the app was safe for their children.

TikTok Seeks to Delay the Trial

TikTok continues to challenge the case in court. The company argues that Alabama lacks authority over certain claims, pointing to protections under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.

The company says those legal questions should be resolved before the case moves forward, while the state is pushing to keep the September 28 trial date in place.

How Alabama’s Lawsuit Could Have National Impact

This lawsuit comes at a time when more parents, lawmakers, and health experts are questioning how social media affects kids and teens. Many people are growing more concerned about addictive features, mental health risks, online safety, and whether parental controls are effective.

The case could show what TikTok really knew about these problems. The result might also influence future efforts to protect young users and hold social media companies accountable when their products put kids at risk.

We will continue pushing for greater transparency, safer online experiences, and better protections for children and teens.

The State is represented by Rhon Jones, Matt Griffith, Jeff Price, Elliot Bienenfeld, Elizabeth Walden, Rylee Buzbee, and Sarah Grace Strength of Beasley Allen; Attorney General Steve Marshall, Katherine Robertson, Brad Chynoweth, Michael Dean, and Lindsay Barton of the Alabama Office of the Attorney General; Josh Hayes, Matt Glover, and Blake Williams of Prince Glover Hayes.