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New York Moves to Limit Algorithm-Based Social Media Feeds for Minors

Legislation aims to protect children's mental health by requiring parental consent for algorithm-curated content.

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New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, left, listens as Attorney General Letitia James speaks during a news conference in New York, Oct. 11, 2023. New York lawmakers on Tuesday, June 4, said they were finalizing legislation that 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. Hochul and James have been advocating for the regulations since October, facing strong pushback from the tech industry. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)
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Overview

  • The proposed law would block social media platforms from showing algorithm-based feeds to minors without parental approval.
  • Instead of algorithm-driven content, young users would see posts in chronological order from accounts they follow.
  • The bill has faced criticism from tech industry groups, citing privacy concerns and potential First Amendment violations.
  • Supporters argue the measure is essential for safeguarding the mental health and development of children.
  • If passed, the law would also restrict notifications to minors during late-night hours without parental consent.