New York, December 27, 2025
In a groundbreaking move, New York State has enacted a law requiring social media platforms to display mental health warning labels. This legislation targets the potential mental health risks associated with addictive features that particularly affect young users. With evidence showing that excessive social media usage can lead to anxiety and depression, the law aims to promote a safer online environment for adolescents. The New York State Attorney General will enforce compliance, imposing penalties for non-adherence, and advocates for increased awareness among families regarding children’s online interactions.
New York State Mandates Mental Health Warning Labels on Social Media
New legislation aims to protect young users from social media’s potential mental health risks.
New York, NY—In a significant move to safeguard the youth, New York State has enacted a law that mandates social media platforms display warning labels regarding the potential mental health risks associated with addictive features. This legislation is a response to growing concerns over excessive social media use and its impact on mental well-being among adolescents.
Signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul on December 26, 2025, the legislation emphasizes the need for protective measures aimed specifically at children and teenagers. With research indicating that prolonged social media engagement can lead to serious mental health issues, the law aims to create a more transparent digital environment where families can make informed decisions about their online interactions.
The Legislation Breakdown
Under this new law, social media platforms that incorporate addictive features such as infinite scrolling, autoplay, and algorithmic feeds are required to display clear and unavoidable warning labels. These warnings must be visible to users upon their initial interaction with the features and regularly thereafter, preventing users from dismissing or bypassing them.
Enforcement Mechanism
The law is enforced by the New York State Attorney General’s Office, which is empowered to impose civil penalties of up to $5,000 for each violation. This enforcement mechanism serves as a strong reminder for platforms to adhere to these essential regulations aimed at protecting the mental health of young users.
Addressing the Mental Health Crisis
With recent studies revealing that adolescents devoting more than three hours a day on social media face double the risks of anxiety and depression, this legislation underscores the urgency of addressing the youth mental health crisis. Moreover, a considerable portion of teenagers report feeling negatively influenced by social media, citing concerns over body image and overall mental well-being. This sets the stage for legislative action aimed at empowering families and protecting youth interests.
Alignment with National Trends
The enactment positions New York alongside states like California and Minnesota, which have also implemented measures to mitigate the risks posed by social media. The law aligns with recommendations from the U.S. Surgeon General, who advocates for transparency in social media practices to help bolster the mental health of younger populations.
Empowering Families and Communities
The underlying objective of this legislation is to promote a safer digital environment, encouraging parents and guardians to engage more thoughtfully with their children regarding online behavior. By facilitating greater awareness and discussion around the impact of social media, New York seeks to empower families to navigate the digital realm responsibly.
Conclusion
This landmark legislation marks a proactive step by New York State toward addressing the vital issue of youth mental health in the context of modern technology. By mandating warning labels on social media platforms, the state aims to foster informed decision-making and ultimately create a more supportive environment for children and teenagers as they navigate their online lives. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and advocate for local initiatives that support mental health and well-being in New York.
FAQ
The legislation requires social media platforms with addictive features like infinite scrolling, autoplay, and algorithmic feeds to display warning labels about potential mental health risks to young users.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed the bill into law on December 26, 2025.
Platforms that fail to comply with the law can face civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation, enforced by the New York State Attorney General’s Office.
The law applies to social media platforms that offer addictive features such as addictive feeds, autoplay, or infinite scroll.
The purpose is to protect young users from the adverse effects of excessive social media use by providing clear warnings about potential mental health risks associated with certain platform features.
Key Features of the Legislation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Warning Labels | Platforms must display clear, unavoidable warning labels about potential mental health risks associated with addictive features. |
| Enforcement | Enforced by the New York State Attorney General’s Office, with civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation. |
| Affected Platforms | Applies to social media platforms with addictive features like infinite scrolling, autoplay, and algorithmic feeds. |
| Purpose | To protect young users from the adverse effects of excessive social media use by providing clear warnings about potential mental health risks. |
Now Happening on X
- @Pirat_Nation (December 27, 2025): New York to require social media platforms to display mental health warnings, targeting features like infinite scrolling and algorithmic feeds that could harm young users. View on X
- @NYSOPDV (December 26, 2025): Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation mandating warning labels on social media to protect youth mental health from addictive features. View on X
- @MunshiPremChnd (December 26, 2025): New York is taking a stand with a new law requiring mental health warning labels on addictive social media features for young users. View on X
- @bilyonaryo_ph (December 27, 2025): Governor Kathy Hochul announced a new law requiring social media platforms to show warning labels on features like infinite scrolling due to mental health risks for young users. View on X
- @DrIanWeissman (December 27, 2025): New York law now mandates warning labels on social media platforms for features that may harm young users’ mental health. View on X
- @dzrhnews (December 27, 2025): Under New York’s new law, social media platforms must display warnings about mental health risks from infinite scrolling and similar features. View on X
- @catcheronthesly (December 27, 2025): New York requires social media warning labels for addictive features to address potential harm to young users’ mental health. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Photographs of Bill Clinton on Epstein’s Jet Resurface
Mayor Adams Unveils Initiatives to Support NYC SNAP Recipients
Long Island Nonprofits Recognized for Community Impact
Business Leaders Fund $3 Million to Oppose Mamdani’s Candidacy
How to Cultivate a Beautiful Community Garden in the Heart of New York City
10 Must-Read Tips for Starting Your First New York Home Garden
Panel to Discuss Digital Engagement Strategies at NewsTECHForum
Woods Lonergan PLLC: NYC’s Authority on Business Litigation
Queens Homeowner Cuts Down City Trees for Better View
Trump Administration Orders States to Reverse SNAP Payments
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
