Bill > A03941

This bill directs the New York State commissioner of mental health to develop and implement a comprehensive public awareness campaign focused on the negative mental health impacts of social media and cell phone use among school-age children. The campaign will specifically address critical issues such as social media's addictive qualities, its detrimental effects on social skill development, and its potential to increase feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression among adolescent users. Additionally, the campaign will highlight the amplification of peer bullying and the correlation with increased rates of adolescent suicide and suicide attempts. The campaign must utilize multiple communication channels including public forums, social media, mass media, internet, radio, and print advertising, and will include educational materials on the office's website. The commissioner is required to consult with stakeholders and consumer advocates to ensure the campaign is culturally competent and linguistically appropriate. The public awareness initiative is mandated to begin within 60 days of the law's effective date and will continue until June 30, 2028, with the ultimate goal of raising awareness and helping parents, educators, and children understand and mitigate the potential mental health risks associated with excessive social media and cell phone use.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3941