New York Governor Kathy Hochul outlined her sweeping efforts to combat youth mental health challenges tied to technology, highlighting her plan to ban cell phones in classrooms and curb the influence of addictive social media algorithms.

Writing as New York’s “first Mom Governor,” Hochul described the harmful impact of constant smartphone use on young people — citing rising anxiety, disconnection, and loneliness. “Our kids are lonelier, more anxious, and increasingly disconnected,” she wrote. “Addictive technology is hurting our kids.”

Beginning this fall, phones will be banned during school hours, from bell to bell, to restore real-life connection in classrooms, cafeterias, and hallways.

Crackdown on Addictive Algorithms: New York has already taken action to limit the influence of social media companies profiting off kids' attention.

Through her “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, Hochul is funding community centers, playgrounds, and summer youth jobs to encourage outdoor engagement and real-world interaction.

“I’ll never stop fighting for our children’s futures,” Hochul declared. “Let’s get offline and get outside.”