UPDATE: New York Governor Kathy Hochul has just announced a groundbreaking legislative package aimed at protecting children from online predators, scammers, and the dangers posed by artificial intelligence chatbots. This urgent initiative is part of her priorities for the 2026 State of the State address, set to be delivered next Tuesday in Albany.
The proposed legislation is designed to create a nation-leading standard for child safety in both online and real-world environments. “As New York’s first mom governor, the well-being and safety of our children has always been one of my top priorities,” Hochul declared. “Today, we are continuing to break new ground to give our kids the tools and safeguards they need to contend with the unprecedented mental health challenges and real-world dangers of navigating today’s digital world.”
This legislative effort builds on earlier initiatives spearheaded by state Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Nily Rozic. Among the highlights of Hochul’s new proposals are measures that specifically address the risks associated with social media and AI technologies.
The Governor’s focus on child safety in the digital landscape is not new. Recent legislation she championed includes the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act, which prohibits social media companies from showing personalized feeds to users under 18 without parental consent. Additionally, a ban on cellphones in schools, implemented in September 2023, aims to reduce distractions and improve student welfare.
As children increasingly engage with technology, the need for robust protective measures becomes more urgent. Hochul’s proposals are poised to set a benchmark for other states, offering a comprehensive approach to safeguarding youth in an age where digital interaction is ubiquitous.
The community is encouraged to take notice as these developments unfold, with Hochul set to unveil her full executive proposals during her address next week. The emphasis on children’s safety amid rising concerns about online threats and mental health challenges underscores the pressing need for action in this evolving landscape.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and for the latest insights from Hochul’s upcoming State of the State address.
