Archive · 29 Dec 2025
New York mandates mental health warnings on social media
New York's governor has passed a new law that makes social media companies put up warnings about how too much time on these apps can hurt your mental health.
This is because many young people are getting addicted to scrolling and watching videos on these apps.
If the companies don't follow the law, they could have to pay a fine.
The governor thinks this is important, just like warning labels on cigarettes.
Other countries are also worried about this problem, and they're trying to find ways to help.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation requiring social media platforms to display mental health warning labels.
The law targets platforms with infinite scrolling, auto-play, and algorithmic feeds.
Violations will result in civil fines of up to $5,000 per offense, enforceable by the state’s attorney general.
Hochul compared the warnings to those on tobacco packaging, emphasizing the risks to mental well-being, especially for children.
The legislation follows global concerns about social media addiction, with other nations also taking action.
- Who
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul and social media platforms
- What
- Legislation requiring mental health warning labels on social media platforms
- When
- December 26
- Where
- New York
- Why
- To address digital addiction and protect mental health, especially among adolescents and young adults
- Legislation Signed By
- Governor Kathy Hochul
- Date of Legislation
- December 26
- Targeted Platform Features
- Infinite scrolling, auto-play, algorithmic feeds
- Penalty for Violation
- Civil fine of up to $5,000 per violation
- Authorized Enforcement
- State’s attorney general