On Friday, New York state lawmakers passed legislation prohibiting social media platforms from exposing users under 18 to “addictive” algorithmic content without parental consent. This makes New York the latest state to take steps toward reducing online risks for children.
A companion bill, which restricts online sites from collecting and selling personal data of underage users, also received final approval in the New York Assembly on Friday, following its passage in the state Senate the previous day.
Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to sign both bills into law. She praised the measures as a “historic step forward in our efforts to address the youth mental health crisis and create a safer digital environment for young people.”
Social media companies like Meta Platforms (META.O), which owns Facebook and Instagram, might see a revenue impact. Supporters of the legislation referenced a recent Harvard University study that found the six largest social media platforms earned $11 billion from advertising to minors in 2022.
