A judge denied TikTok’s motion to dismiss Utah’s lawsuit against the company.
Utah first filed its lawsuit in October 2023 against the company alleging violations of the Utah Consumer Protection Act. The state claimed TikTok deceptively portrayed the app as safe. Then in December, TikTok tried to dismiss the lawsuit.
The order signed Tuesday denied TikTok’s attempt to dismiss the lawsuit. This means the litigation will most likely continue.
TikTok did not immediately return a request for comment.
Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes said in a statement he was thrilled with the ruling and called it a crucial step in “our battle against the harmful practices of TikTok.”
“We refuse to let a social media giant evade responsibility for its role in fostering addiction and exposing our children to multifarious threats,” said Reyes. “This case is all about safeguarding our kids and holding TikTok accountable for its actions.”
Margaret Busse, executive director of Utah Department of Commerce (which houses the Division of Consumer Protection — the plaintiff), said they will be steadfast as they protect children.