New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued two advanced notices of proposed rulemaking for recently signed children’s online safety laws. These notices aim to protect minors on social media platforms and websites by allowing parents, children, advocates, stakeholders, social media companies, and tech industry professionals to submit comments and suggestions. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) is tasked with creating rules to safeguard New York children online under the new laws sponsored by Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Nily Rozic.
“New Yorkers are looking to this office to protect children on social media apps and online, and the rules we are drafting will do precisely that,” said Attorney General James. She emphasized the importance of public participation in shaping these rules over the next 60 days.
The legislation aims to address concerns about addictive features of social media platforms and the collection and sharing of children's personal data. Major social media companies use algorithmic feeds designed to keep users engaged by harnessing personal data, which increases addiction risks among young users. Additionally, children's location and other personal data are often tracked, shared, and sold without consent.
Senator Andrew Gounardes expressed his support for robust rulemaking: “I was proud to sponsor and pass legislation that will serve as a national model for how to protect our children from Big Tech.” Assemblymember Nily Rozic echoed these sentiments, highlighting the significance of prioritizing children's needs over corporate profits.
Danny Weiss of Common Sense Media commended Attorney General James for initiating an open rulemaking process: “We look forward to submitting our views and priorities, and encourage all New York families...to take advantage of this open process.”
Stakeholders have 60 days to submit comments via email at ProtectNYKidsOnline@ag.ny.gov regarding the SAFE for Kids Act or ChildDataProtection@ag.ny.gov regarding the Child Data Protection Act. Following this period, OAG will begin formal rulemaking procedures including public comment periods before finalizing any rules.
Attorney General James acknowledged contributions from advocacy groups such as Common Sense Media, Mothers Against Media Addiction, and the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children in supporting these legislative efforts.
This initiative is part of broader efforts by Attorney General James to address online safety concerns. Previous actions include leading coalitions against Meta's practices affecting youth mental health and advocating for better data security measures.