The Tools For Parents

Many states have made efforts to pass legislation that address better tools for online safety for kids.  We are currently featuring the efforts in the state of New York 

• New York Section 2803 "Bell to Bell" policy was approved in May of 2025

• Prohibits student cell phone use in schools, with noted exceptions

For text of the policy and other details go to:

nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/EDN/2803

Status: Went into effect state wide beginning in the fall of 2025

In June of 2024, New York passed the New York State Senate bill S7694A "Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) Act 

• Default setting for algorithms with an addictive feed component is set to off when feed is being delivered to a minor account. Parents can turn the addictive feed component on.

• Signed into law by Governor Hochul in June of 2024
• Has not been implemented - law provides a grace period
• Attorney General has set the guidelines to trigger the law. The law goes into effect 180 days after the AG has set the guidelines

• Sponsored by State Senator Gounardes - senate district 26

For text of bill and other details go to:

NY State Senate Bill 2023-S7694A

Status: Currently, the Attorney General is taking feedback from the public.  If you would like to send your thoughts, click:

Send the Attorney General feedback | New York State Attorney General

In March of 2025, House Committee on Consumer Affairs and Protection Proposed House Bill A 6549 - "NY Children's Online Safety Act"

• Attempts to require independent age verification for internet sites and platforms
• Has provisions for parental control for financial activity
• Committee on Consumer Affairs and Protection vote in favor of the bill on 5-27-25
• Sponsored by Assemblywoman Rozic - state house district 25

For text of bill and other details go to:

NY State Assembly Bill 2025-A6549

Status: Awaiting approval by the Speaker of the NY State Assembly, Assemblyman Carl E. Heastie (District 83) to be put on the floor calendar for a full Assembly vote