New York Proposes Smartphone Ban in Schools for Enhanced Child Safety

Governor Hochul aims to limit internet access and introduce measures to protect children's online privacy and mental health.

Students may only carry basic phones that allow calls and texts, addressing parental concerns over emergencies.
The Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act targets algorithmic feeds, requiring default chronological feeds for minors.
The New York Child Data Protection Act aims to restrict the collection of children's personal data by online platforms.
Tech companies, including Meta, have heavily lobbied against the proposed legislation.
Similar child safety bills are being considered or have been passed in other states like Maryland, Vermont, and California.