Meta Platforms faces a class action lawsuit from current and former employees who allege the company used artificial intelligence to identify workers for termination during workforce reductions announced in 2024.
The plaintiffs claim Meta deployed a monitoring program that collected employee performance data and fed it to AI systems that recommended specific workers for layoffs. The company provided this AI-generated information to select managers and executives who then made final termination decisions, according to the complaint.
The suit raises questions about algorithmic bias in employment decisions and transparency obligations under federal labor law. The plaintiffs contend that Meta failed to disclose the role of AI in the selection process, violating their rights to fair treatment and notice. They argue the company did not provide workers an opportunity to challenge the AI recommendations before termination.
Meta conducted significant workforce reductions beginning in March 2024, cutting approximately 10,000 positions across its product and business divisions. Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg cited performance issues and organizational efficiency as reasons for the cuts. The company deployed layoffs in waves, with each round affecting different departments.
The class action seeks damages for all employees affected by the AI-assisted termination process and demands injunctive relief requiring Meta to disclose its use of artificial intelligence in future employment decisions. The plaintiffs also seek statutory penalties and attorney fees.
This lawsuit highlights emerging legal exposure for technology companies using AI in human resources decisions. Federal regulators, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, have increased scrutiny of AI hiring and termination tools, citing discrimination risks. The case tests whether companies must provide procedural safeguards when algorithms influence employment outcomes.
Meta has not publicly responded to the allegations. The company previously stated its workforce reductions targeted underperforming employees and sought to align staffing with business priorities.