New Jersey gets $525 million from Meta settlement; Rutgers will study social media's impact.
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New Jersey has announced the establishment of a Social Media Research Center at Rutgers University, aimed at studying the impacts of social media on youth. The center will receive a $500,000 grant to investigate critical issues such as addiction, mental health risks, and the effects of social media on children and teens.
Governor Mikie Sherrill emphasized the importance of this research in addressing the mental health crisis among youth, linking social media use to various health issues. "Understanding the relationship between social media and mental health is crucial for our young people," Sherrill stated.
In addition to the research center, New Jersey is set to receive at least $525 million from a landmark $17.1 billion settlement with Meta. These funds will be allocated to support youth mental health programs and online safety initiatives. The state has also passed new legislation aimed at enhancing protections for minors using social media platforms.
**Sources:** NJBIZ, Patch Media Corporation, Route Fifty.