Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins Leads Passage of First-in-Nation Legislation Regulating Social Media Algorithms to Protect Children

Under the leadership of New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, the Senate has passed groundbreaking legislation to prevent social media companies from showing harmful and addictive content to children under the age of 18, and limit the collection and use of children’s personal information. 

“As we navigate the threats social media poses to our youth in today’s ever-evolving technological landscape, I’m proud that, under my leadership, the Senate is the first in the nation to pass legislation that would prohibit how social media companies can target children,” said Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. “These bills place the power back in the hands of parents and protect our children from addictive and exploitative practices. Together, we will continue to take all necessary actions to protect the mental well-being of New York’s children.”

The Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act would prevent social media companies from showing addictive feeds – with content designed to keep children “glued” to devices – for users under 18, unless they have parental consent. It would also prohibit social media platforms from sending overnight push notifications, so that addictive notifications will no longer wake children in the middle of the night.

The Child Data Protection Act will limit media companies from collecting, using, sharing or selling personal information and data of anyone under the age of 18. Both pieces of legislation aim to protect children’s well-being and privacy.

Click here for more information on the legislative package.