New York State will require warning labels on social media platforms

"The State of New York will now require social media platforms to display warning labels similar to those found on cigarettes. was passed by the New York Legislature in June and signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul on Friday. It will apply to any platforms that feature infinite scrolling, auto-play, like counts or algorithmic feeds. The labels will caution those on the platform about potential harm to young users' mental health."

"Social media companies will be required to display these warning labels when a user first interacts with any of the features the state considers predatory. The warning will also be displayed periodically after that interaction. "Keeping New Yorkers safe has been my top priority since taking office, and that includes protecting our kids from the potential harms of social media features that encourage excessive use,""

New York will require social media platforms to display cigarette-style warning labels on features deemed addictive, including infinite scrolling, auto-play, like counts and algorithmic feeds. Platforms must show the warnings when a user first interacts with any such feature and periodically thereafter. The requirement applies when platforms are accessed from New York. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the bill after passage by the Legislature in June and previously signed two bills aimed at protecting kids from social media. Similar proposals have appeared in California, international actions have restricted minors, and the US Surgeon General linked social media to youth anxiety and depression. Meta, Snap and TikTok were contacted for comment.

Read at Engadget