UPDATE: New York Governor Kathy Hochul has just announced a bold legislative initiative aimed at protecting children from online predators, scammers, and artificial intelligence chatbots. This urgent proposal is part of her priorities for the upcoming 2026 State of the State address, scheduled for next Tuesday in Albany.
Hochul emphasized the pressing need for these measures, stating, “As New York’s first mom governor, the well-being and safety of our children has always been one of my top priorities.” The proposed package builds on existing efforts led by state Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Nily Rozic to create a safer digital environment for youth.
The legislative package includes provisions designed to establish a national standard for child safety online, addressing the unprecedented mental health challenges and dangers associated with navigating today’s digital landscape. Hochul highlighted the necessity of equipping children with the tools and protections they need in both online and real-world settings.
In recent years, Hochul has spearheaded significant legislation aimed at internet safety, including the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act. This act prohibits social media platforms from displaying algorithmically personalized feeds to users under 18 without parental consent. Additionally, a bell-to-bell ban on cellphones in schools was implemented in September, further enhancing student safety.
Hochul’s upcoming State of the State address is expected to detail these initiatives and outline her vision for a safer digital future for children. As the digital world continues to evolve, the urgency for comprehensive legislation to address these challenges has never been greater.
Stay tuned for live updates from Albany as Hochul shares her executive proposals. This is a critical moment in the fight for child safety online, and the implications of these measures could set a precedent for states across the nation. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media as we await further details!
