Kentucky AG Takes on Social Media Addiction Harming Minors

Attorney General Russell Coleman leads 29-state coalition suing tech giants for exploiting children online

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:03pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a tangled web of neon-lit circuit boards, wires, and digital interfaces, conceptually representing the complex and addictive nature of social media and gaming platforms that exploit children.As tech companies face mounting legal pressure, the battle to protect children from online addiction and exploitation continues on multiple fronts.Frankfort Today

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman is leading a 29-state coalition suing major tech companies like Meta, Google, TikTok, and Roblox for creating addictive social media and gaming platforms that exploit and harm children. Coleman says protecting kids from online addiction is the 'new fight of our time,' comparing it to the state's battle against the opioid crisis.

Why it matters

Social media and gaming addiction among minors has escalated sharply in recent years, with experts warning that endless scrolling, dopamine-driven notifications, and addictive game mechanics are intentionally designed to keep kids online far longer than they or their parents realize. This can lead to depression, mental health issues, and vulnerability to online predators.

The details

The lawsuits follow recent legal victories, including a $375 million jury verdict against Meta (Facebook/Instagram's parent company) in New Mexico for allowing child predators to operate freely, and a California jury finding that Meta and YouTube designed their apps to be addictive and harmful to young users. Kentucky is now part of a 29-state coalition suing these tech giants, arguing their platforms exploit children for profit.

  • In April 2026, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman published a new op-ed on the issue across the Commonwealth.
  • A New Mexico jury ordered Meta to pay $375 million in a recent verdict.
  • A California jury found Meta and YouTube designed their apps to be addictive and harmful to young users.

The players

Russell Coleman

The Attorney General of Kentucky who is leading a 29-state coalition suing major tech companies over their exploitation of children online.

Michael Lemon

The founder of Cyber Safe Families, an organization that educates parents on the dangers of social media and gaming addiction for minors.

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What they’re saying

“We've seen the addiction and exploitation of our children rise at a meteoric rate. Kids are getting technology at earlier and earlier ages, often before they're ready.”

— Michael Lemon, Founder, Cyber Safe Families

“Meta, YouTube, and TikTok have faced Congress multiple times, but they don't change because it all comes down to money. The longer someone stays online, the more money they make.”

— Michael Lemon, Founder, Cyber Safe Families

“Parents should educate children about the dangers of predators and online addiction before they even get a device. Education and clear rules are the most important steps.”

— Michael Lemon, Founder, Cyber Safe Families

What’s next

The 29-state coalition led by Attorney General Russell Coleman will continue pursuing legal action against major tech companies over their exploitation of minors on social media and gaming platforms.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing crisis of social media and gaming addiction among children, with tech companies prioritizing profits over the wellbeing of young users. While lawsuits are part of the solution, proactive parental education and guidance remain the most critical defense against these online risks.