New York Cracks Down on Social Media with Bill Limiting "Addictive Feeds" for Kids

New York is making a bold move to protect children from the potential harms of social media. The state legislature recently passed the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act, which limits how social media platforms can engage with users under 18.

The legislation targets algorithmic feeds, which curate content based on user data and preferences. Critics argue these feeds can be manipulative and lead to excessive screen time, potentially impacting mental health.

The SAFE Act would require social media companies to obtain parental consent before showing "addictive feeds" to minors. These feeds prioritize content based on user information, as opposed to chronological order. Platforms would still be allowed to offer chronological feeds, which wouldn't require parental approval.

Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to sign the bill into law. This move comes alongside the New York Child Data Protection Act, which restricts the collection and sale of personal data from users under 18.

The legislation has sparked controversy, with tech industry groups like NetChoice expressing concerns about its constitutionality and potential impact on free speech. They argue the bill would require age verification systems, which could lead to government overreach.

Despite these concerns, New York is taking a firm stance on protecting children's online well-being. This legislation could pave the way for stricter social media regulations across the country.