Bill > S05476

This bill establishes a comprehensive statewide initiative to address youth mental health in relation to social media. The legislation creates two main components: a public awareness campaign and a mandatory educational curriculum. The statewide youth mental health and social media campaign, to be led by multiple state commissioners, will focus on educating children, young adults, parents, and educators about the potential negative impacts of social media on mental health. The campaign aims to promote awareness of research, provide education on reducing anxiety and cyberbullying effects, highlight mental health resources, and suggest alternative self-expression methods. Additionally, the bill requires the education system to integrate a social media usage component into kindergarten through 12th-grade instruction, covering topics such as mental health risks, healthy social media behaviors, and available support resources. Schools will be required to develop age-appropriate curricula and provide training for teachers delivering this instruction. The commissioners involved will be required to submit an annual report to state leadership evaluating the campaign's effectiveness and recommending potential legislative improvements. The bill is set to take effect on the first of July following its passage, with preparatory regulatory work authorized immediately.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5476