NEW YORK (NewsNation) — New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is expected to propose a bill this week that would restrict social media companies from using addictive algorithms for users under the age of 18 and prevent Big Tech firms from profiting off their data.
Lawmakers argue that social media platforms are addictive and damaging to young children and teens.
“Addictive algorithms that are intended to bombard our young people when they scroll social media and to draw them in deeper,” Hochul said.
Opponents warn that the bill could make things worse for children, leading internet companies to collect more information about its users.
If the bill is passed, it’ll be the first legislation of its kind.
New York is going to lead in this space: Hochul
The legislation would allow parents to block their children from getting social media posts curated by a platform’s algorithm, a move to rein in feeds that critics argue keep young users glued to their screens.
It would also prevent social media platforms, like Instagram and TikTok, from using algorithms and social media feeds used by children, requiring them to offer chronological feeds. The legislation would also ban platforms from sending notifications to minors during late night and early morning hours without parental consent.
“This is a moment where we have to stand up and be successful. Then, say to other states some of you have tried you didn’t get quite as far as us or other states haven’t attempted. This is the way you do it. New York is going to lead in this space,” Hochul said.
Opponents push back against social media bills
Similar legislation is being advanced in California and considered in Minnesota and South Carolina.
Last year, Utah became the first state to implement a broad social media ban for children followed by Arkansas, Louisiana, Ohio, Texas and Florida.
Opponents are pushing back against the bill, raising questions about the constitutionality of New York’s and other states’ proposed or enacted social media restrictions.
“I’m a parent; I’ve got two kids. Being a parent in the social media era is difficult. But turning over parenting to Gov. Hochul and AG Leticia James is a bad idea, even though the goals may be noble. The First Amendment is there to protect us from having the government decide what speech, what content is appropriate for our kids,” said Carl Szabo, vice president of NetChoice.
New York may ban smartphones from schools
Hochul is also considering new legislation to protect children’s mental health by banning smartphone use during school hours.
Under the legislation, kids would only be allowed to use flip phones, which don’t have internet access.
Florida and Indiana have implemented a ban similar to this no cell phones and classrooms. Additionally, eight other states from Kansas to Vermont are considering legislation.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
