The New York State Legislature convened on September 20, 2024, to address pressing concerns regarding consumer protection and safety in the context of artificial intelligence (AI). A significant focus of the meeting was the impact of technology on children, highlighted by a passionate testimony from a parent and journalist who emphasized the urgent need for legislative action.

The speaker, representing the grassroots movement MAMA, expressed deep concern over the pervasive influence of digital technology and social media on youth. She pointed out that while technology promises connection, it has also opened doors for harmful entities, including child predators and hate groups, to infiltrate children's lives. The testimony underscored the alarming rise in youth mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and self-harm, which the speaker attributed to the unregulated proliferation of smartphones and social media.

The parent urged lawmakers to implement safeguards to protect children from the dangers associated with AI and social media. She cited internal documents from social media companies that reveal intentional design choices aimed at maximizing profit, often at the expense of user safety. The speaker referenced Geoffrey Hinton, a prominent figure in AI development, who warned about the potential misuse of AI technologies by bad actors.

Concerns were raised about the negative effects of generative AI on children's education and social interactions. The speaker noted that AI applications are being used to cheat in academic settings and that AI chatbots are increasingly integrated into social media, potentially exploiting children's vulnerabilities. Furthermore, she highlighted the risks of misinformation and harmful content exposure, including the alarming rise of apps that create deepfake images and facilitate cybercrimes targeting minors.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for lawmakers to prioritize the safety of children in the face of rapidly evolving technology. The speaker's testimony served as a stark reminder of the need for comprehensive regulations to ensure that AI products do not compromise the well-being of the youngest members of society. As discussions continue, the implications of these issues will likely shape future legislative efforts aimed at safeguarding children in an increasingly digital world.