Forty-seven states just settled the largest tech lawsuit in United States history with Meta for $17 billion, in addition to stricter controls on its platforms. From this settlement, Wisconsin is guaranteed $219 over the next 10 years. Read more about the lawsuit against Meta platforms.
As part of the settlement in Wisconsin, the Attorney General’s office has agreed that fifty percent of the settlement payout will go toward programs that directly support youth exposed to harm caused by social media use. After school programs are explicitly mentioned, which is significant for Wisconsin, a state that has zero guaranteed funding from the state for out-of-school time programming.
In a press release, Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul said, “This is a monumental step in changing the role of social media in kids’ lives for the better.”
The settlement would have a particularly significant impact on after school programs in Wisconsin, compared to neighboring states. Beginning in 2024, Iowa’s Department of Education granted $3.5 million to support and expand high-quality out-of-school programming. In Illinois’ 2027 state budget, $35 million is guaranteed. In Michigan, $135 million is allocated for before and after school programing.
A proper execution is necessary to ensure the settlement funds are appropriately disseminated; however, this is a historic opportunity to provide the first ever dedicated public funding to after school in Wisconsin.
What does this mean for Wisconsin Youth Company?
Wisconsin Youth Company programs encourage choice-based play that comes in a variety of forms. For Wisconsin Youth Company, After School time looks like playing “The Ground is Lava” with friends on the playground or crafting rubber band bracelets after snack. Each program includes spaces and materials for quiet/reading time, dramatic play, constructive play, and active time, in addition to projects. Settlement funds would allow us to continue high-quality, play-based programming and provide ample opportunity to expand and upgrade essential services for working families.
Kaul and his team have worked hard to ensure social media conglomerates are held accountable; however, the fight is not over.
Your input is extremely crucial to this next step to ensure allocated funds directly support programs important to you. We encourage contacting Attorney General Kaul’s office to express just how essential out-of-school care is to you and your family. Together, we strive to provide a better tomorrow for children to flourish.
