MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — South Dakota has received the first $9 million of its $52 million settlement with Meta Platforms Inc., Attorney General Marty Jackley announced.
The state’s payments will be distributed over the next 10 years. South Dakota’s total could increase to $73,480,057 if certain conditions are met.
The money will remain in the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Fund until the Legislature determines how to allocate it. Jackley urged lawmakers to direct the funds toward improving education.
“This settlement established a national standard to protect our youth on social media and to empower parents,” Jackley said.
Attorneys general from 42 states sued Meta, alleging the company designed its platforms with addictive features that knowingly exposed young users to serious mental health harms.
The settlement also requires Meta to implement safety features on Instagram and Facebook intended to improve online security for children.