New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02181

Introduced
1/15/25  
Refer
1/15/25  

Caption

Prohibits interactive computer service providers from knowingly promoting content to a targeted user and with the intention of developing the content, cause the user extreme emotional harm, physical injury or financial injury.

Summary

Bill S02181 seeks to amend the general business law in New York by prohibiting interactive computer service providers from knowingly promoting content that could cause extreme emotional harm, physical injury, or financial injury to targeted users. The bill defines key terms such as 'interactive computer service,' 'content,' and 'promote,' and establishes the conditions under which service providers can be held liable for damages resulting from their actions. The intent is to protect users from harmful content that may be disseminated based on their personal data.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would create new legal obligations for interactive computer service providers operating in New York, making them liable for promoting content that leads to severe harm to users. This could significantly alter how these companies operate, as they would need to implement stricter content moderation policies and potentially face civil penalties of up to $10,000 for violations. The law aims to enhance user safety and accountability in the digital space, but it may also raise concerns about the balance between regulation and free speech.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S02181 appears to be mixed, with proponents advocating for user protection against harmful content, while critics may express concerns about the implications for free speech and the operational burdens placed on service providers. The absence of voting history and committee discussions makes it difficult to gauge the overall legislative support or opposition at this time.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential impact on free speech rights, as the bill seeks to regulate content based on its potential harm. Critics may argue that such regulations could lead to overreach and censorship, while supporters emphasize the need for accountability in the digital landscape. The balance between protecting users and preserving free expression is likely to be a central theme in discussions surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

NY A03263

Same As Prohibits interactive computer service providers from knowingly promoting content to a targeted user and with the intention of developing the content, cause the user extreme emotional harm, physical injury or financial injury.

Previously Filed As

NY A01108

Prohibits interactive computer service providers from knowingly promoting content to a targeted user and with the intention of developing the content, cause the user extreme emotional harm, physical injury or financial injury.

NY A03263

Prohibits interactive computer service providers from knowingly promoting content to a targeted user and with the intention of developing the content, cause the user extreme emotional harm, physical injury or financial injury.

NY HB1576

Interactive computer service providers; require parental consent and access to minor user's account history.

NY A00927

Prevents interactive computer service providers from knowingly or negligently promoting developed content that is dangerous or otherwise injurious to minors; assesses a civil penalty to social media networks that knowingly or negligently promote such content.

NY S02319

Prevents interactive computer service providers from knowingly or negligently promoting developed content that is dangerous or otherwise injurious to minors; assesses a civil penalty to social media networks that knowingly or negligently promote such content.

NY A03335

Prevents interactive computer service providers from knowingly or negligently promoting developed content that is dangerous or otherwise injurious to minors; assesses a civil penalty to social media networks that knowingly or negligently promote such content.

NY S04561

Prevents interactive computer service providers from knowingly or negligently promoting developed content that is dangerous or otherwise injurious to minors; assesses a civil penalty to social media networks that knowingly or negligently promote such content.

NY HB1618

Parental consent; require for minors before use of interactive computer services.

NY SB1077

interactive computer service; prostitution; violation

NY SB2104

Gaming; include online, interactive and computerized versions thereof, increase penalties, and authorize forfeiture.

Similar Bills

WY HB0162

Interactive gaming.

MS SB2740

Mississippi Keeping Kids Safe Online Act; enact.

DC B26-0044

Business Improvement District Resiliency Act of 2025

MD HB5

Criminal Law - Child Sexual Abuse Material - Artificial Intelligence Software

WV HB4397

Relating to privilege tax on holding a license to operate interactive wagering

CA AB2412

State agencies or departments: public communications.

HI SB2496

Relating To Early Learning.

HI HB2019

Relating To Early Learning.