New York social media rules: New York will require social media platforms to display mental health warnings for young users if they employ infinite scrolling, auto-play or algorithmic feeds, Governor Kathy Hochul announced.
“Keeping New Yorkers safe has been my top priority since taking office, and that includes protecting our kids from the potential harms of social media features that encourage excessive use,” Hochul said.
The legislation targets platforms offering what it describes as “addictive feeds,” along with auto-play and infinite scroll features. The law covers conduct occurring partially or entirely within New York but does not apply when users access platforms from outside the state.
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New York’s attorney general can pursue legal action under the law and seek civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation.
Hochul drew parallels between the social media labels and warnings found on tobacco products about cancer risks or plastic packaging about suffocation hazards for young children.
The move follows similar legislation in California and Minnesota. Earlier this month, Australia banned social media use for children under 16.
Representatives from TikTok, Snap, Meta and Alphabet did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Concerns about social media’s impact on children’s mental health have grown internationally. Multiple U.S. school districts have filed lawsuits against Meta Platforms and other social media companies over the issue.
In 2023, the US surgeon general released an advisory recommending safeguards for children on social media. The surgeon general later advocated for warning labels similar to those now mandated in New York.