New Rules Are Coming for Kids on Social Media in New York

The Endless Scroll Could Look Different for Kids

That endless social media scroll that keeps kids (and let's be honest, adults too) glued to their phones could be changing.

New York has finalized new rules aimed at protecting children online and giving parents more say.

The rules are designed to limit some of the features that keep kids glued to their screens, including addictive algorithm-driven feeds and late-night notifications.

a black cell phone

Less Endless Scrolling, More Parental Control

Under the new regulations, kids under 18 won't automatically get those never-ending personalized feeds based on what the platforms think they want to see unless a parent gives permission.

Beginning January 25, 2027, social media companies will have to verify ages and get parental consent before allowing minors to access certain features.

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The rules also target those late-night notifications that can keep kids checking their phones when they should probably be sleeping.

Platforms will be restricted from sending notifications to minors between midnight and 6 AM without permission.

Young boy watches a tablet in bed at night

New York Says It's About Protecting Kids

The SAFE for Kids Act was signed into law in 2024 and is one of the nation's more aggressive attempts to address concerns about social media's impact on young people.

Social media companies will have to comply with the new rules, and violations could lead to penalties.

Supporters say it's a big step toward giving parents more control, while critics have raised concerns about privacy and how the rules will be enforced.

Love it or hate it, one thing is clear: the days of kids having unlimited access to everything online without many guardrails could be changing.