NY Governor Hochul Signs Bill Requiring Warning Labels on 'Addictive' Social Media

New York Governor Signs Bill Requiring Warning Labels on 'Addictive' Social Media

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a bill requiring social media platforms to show warning labels to younger users before they're exposed to features such as autoplay and infinite scrolling.

The bill, which was passed by the New York State Legislature in June, aims to protect children and teenagers from the potential negative effects of social media. The warning labels will be displayed on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and will inform users about the potential risks of excessive social media use.

According to the bill, social media platforms will be required to provide a clear and concise warning to users under the age of 18 before they access certain features, such as autoplay and infinite scrolling. The warning will also inform users about the potential risks of social media addiction and provide resources for help.

The bill is seen as a major victory for advocates of social media regulation, who have long argued that social media companies have a responsibility to protect their users, particularly children and teenagers. The bill is also seen as a model for other states and countries that are considering similar legislation.

Background

The bill was introduced in response to growing concerns about the negative effects of social media on children and teenagers. Studies have shown that excessive social media use can lead to a range of negative effects, including depression, anxiety, and decreased attention span.

Impact

The bill is expected to have a significant impact on social media companies, which will be required to implement the warning labels and provide resources for help. The bill is also expected to have a positive impact on users, who will be better informed about the potential risks of social media use.

Future Directions

The bill is seen as a major step forward in the regulation of social media, and is likely to have a significant impact on the industry. However, there are still many questions about how the bill will be implemented and enforced.

Sources

[3] NY Governor Hochul signs bill requiring warning labels on ‘addictive’ social media