Raj Goyle, founder of Phone Free New York and a Democratic candidate for New York state comptroller, recently told Fox News that smartphone and social media users, especially minors, need this added protection.
"I love technology," he began. "I ran a technology company, but I'm a dad first."
He recognizes that phones are addictive.
"We're all addicted to our phones; let's admit it," Goyle said. "But children, their brains are still developing, and the data is clear: these are dangerous products."
He believes the rise in depression, mental health crises, bullying, and suicidal ideation among young people is evidence of that.
Governor Kathy Hochul (D) signed the legislation (bill S4505/A5346) into law the day after Christmas, requiring social media platforms to show warnings when a young person first encounters "predatory" or potentially addictive features like infinite scrolling, autoplay videos, algorithm-driven feeds, and push notifications / like counts.
Goyle is also proud of New York's statewide cellphone ban in public schools for students during the school day.
"It's the nation's largest bell-to-bell ban, so it's no different than a classroom ban," he relayed. "That means when you walk into that school, you put your phone away; you don't get it till the end of the day."
Early evidence suggests the cellphone ban has shown signs of success, with a statewide survey finding that over 90% of schools reported a smooth transition to the restrictions, and many schools have reported more positive classroom environments, better student engagement, and improved teaching efficiency.
"It's more successful than we ever imagined," Goyle said.
But will these warning labels on social media go over as well?
"It's another step in society's recognition as parents, as educators," Goyle told "Fox & Friends Weekend."
Though many people know the problems associated with smartphones and social media, he said there is still an awareness issue.
