Bill > A01071

This bill amends the New York General Obligations Law by adding a new article prohibiting the knowing and reckless promotion of dangerous or false content online. Specifically, the bill makes it unlawful for a person to create, maintain, or contribute to a condition that endangers public safety through content promotion, including using algorithms that prioritize content in ways other than chronological order. The prohibited content includes material that advocates for violence, incites imminent lawless action, promotes self-harm, or includes false statements or fraudulent medical theories likely to endanger public health. The bill defines such actions as a public nuisance and provides two main enforcement mechanisms: the Attorney General or city corporation counsel can bring legal actions to stop violations and seek damages, and individuals who are directly harmed by such content can also pursue private legal action in state or federal court. The definitions of "knowingly" and "recklessly" are based on existing definitions in the New York Penal Law, and the bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law. This legislation appears aimed at holding online platforms and content creators accountable for potentially harmful algorithmic content promotion.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1071