New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a new law requiring social media platforms to display mental health warnings labels, aiming to curb the negative impact of certain digital features on young users across the state.
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The legislation targets platforms that rely on features such as infinite scrolling, auto-play videos and algorithm-driven content feeds, which critics say are designed to keep users engaged for prolonged periods. State officials argue that these mechanisms can encourage addictive behaviour, particularly among children and teenagers.
NY requiring TikTok, Meta, more social media platforms to display mental health warnings https://t.co/zeUVMTf4kq pic.twitter.com/Str7j275yg
— New York Post (@nypost) December 26, 2025
“Keeping New Yorkers safe has been my top priority since taking office, and that includes protecting our kids from the potential harms of social media,” Governor Hochul said while announcing the mandate. She stressed that the warnings are meant to inform users and families about the possible mental health risks linked to excessive and compulsive social media use.
Under the new law, platforms offering what the state describes as “addictive feeds” must clearly display mental health warnings to users. The legislation also empowers the New York attorney general to enforce the rules and seek civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation against companies that fail to comply.
With this move, New York joins other US states, including California and Minnesota, that have enacted similar measures to protect minors from harmful online practices. The law reflects growing concern among lawmakers, parents and educators about the relationship between social media use and rising rates of anxiety, depression and other mental health issues among young people.
Governor Hochul compared the new warning labels to those found on tobacco products and certain consumer goods, arguing that users deserve transparent information about potential risks. The measure also aligns with broader national scrutiny of major technology companies.
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In recent years, several US school districts have filed lawsuits against social media firms such as Meta Platforms, accusing them of contributing to mental health problems among students. In 2023, the US surgeon general issued an advisory calling for stronger safeguards for children online, including warning labels similar to those now mandated in New York.