13 states plus Washington D.C. join Utah in lawsuit against TikTok

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah’s getting some backup in its lawsuit against TikTok. 

Attorney generals from 13 other states and Washington D.C. are joining a Utah lawsuit alleging that TikTok violated consumer protection laws. The lawsuit alleges that TikTok promotes compulsive use and exposes young people to mental and physical risk. 

Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes says today marks a win for children and families. 

“Today is a win for children and families in America,” he said in a press release. He said that TikTok’s aggressive actions “endanger and exploit minors for financial gain.”

The Utah Division of Consumer Protections is a pioneering force behind this lawsuit. It was launched a year ago this week. 

In December 2023, the Utah Attorney General’s Office successfully compelled TikTok to comply with the Division’s subpoenas. 

Reyes said in a press release that these subpoenas led to “evidence that the social media giant built a revenue stream from the exploitation of minors on its platform.” 

“We are unwavering in our mission to protect our youth from the harmful influence of online platforms that exploit their vulnerability,” said Utah Department of Commerce Executive Director Margaret Busse in a press release.

The Division will participate in a hearing on Thursday, Oct. 10. That will determine whether or not the public can see redactions in its complaint over TikTok LIVE.

KSL NewsRadio’s Emma Keddington contributed to this report.