New York Outlines Rules for Ban on Addictive Social Media Feeds for Kids

New York Attorney General Letitia James on Monday unveiled proposed regulations to implement the state’s crackdown on addictive social media feeds for minors, including new standards for verifying users’ ages.

The Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act, passed last year, bars platforms from showing algorithm-driven feeds to users under 18 without parental consent. Instead, apps like TikTok and Instagram must limit feeds for minors to posts from accounts they already follow. The law also prohibits push notifications to minors between midnight and 6 a.m.

The proposed rules outline methods for confirming age and parental consent, such as verifying an uploaded image, or cross-checking an email or phone number against existing records. Users under 18 who want algorithmic feeds or late-night alerts would need parental approval.

Supporters argue curated feeds drive excessive screen time and worsen mental health issues among teens. “Children and teenagers are struggling with high rates of anxiety and depression because of addictive features on social media platforms,” James said in releasing the rules, which now enter a 60-day public comment period.

Digital rights advocates, however, have criticized age verification laws as threats to privacy and free speech. More than 20 states have passed similar laws, though many are tied up in court.

James’ office noted that platforms like Instagram have already begun experimenting with age-assurance tools, but said voluntary steps fall short of the protections required under the SAFE Act. Once finalized, the regulations would give companies 180 days to comply.