ALBANY, NY – (April 2, 2024) Today, Members of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus hosted the first episode of the “Caucus Corner'' of the 2024 legislative session. The Caucus Corner is an audio series initiated by members to discuss and analyze major Caucus priorities from its annual People’s Budget with policy experts and community-based organizations from across the state. Additionally, Caucus members are able to increase support for various initiatives and campaigns.

With the Caucus Corner, members have the opportunity to talk directly to New Yorkers on the issues that matter most to them. This series creates a forum for media, government officials, and constituents to gather and explore the various affairs before the state. This week, the members discussed the Child Data Protection Act.

Listen to the program here on Spotify or on Youtube.

As part of the program, the panelists discussed just how few privacy protections are in place for minors online. This lack of protection means some of the most vulnerable New Yorkers can have their location and other personal data tracked and shared with third parties while they are spending time in online spaces. To protect the privacy of children, the New York Child Data Protection Act will prohibit all online sites from collecting, using, sharing, or selling personal data of anyone under the age of 18, unless they receive informed consent or unless doing so is strictly necessary for the purpose of the website. For users under 13, this informed consent must come from a parent. The bill authorizes OAG to enforce the law and may enjoin, seek damages, or civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation.

“We know technology and social media have been seamlessly integrated into our daily routines…” said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic. “There is a benefit to these online networks, but also we have to ensure there are safety measures around that. This is because we have seen what’s at the far ends of it: exploitation and the buying and selling of data.”

“We should be taken aback, because our children's information, the information of your son, daughter, nieces or nephews, is being sold for millions, if not even billions… Literally, our kids are being sold.” Said Chair of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislative Caucus, Michaelle Solages.

“The NYSPCC has seen all forms of abuse and neglect against our children, our most vulnerable." said Interim Executive Director/ Legal Counsel for The NYSPCC, Muna Heaven. “I think conventionally, we think of abuse or harm as something we can see, like bruises, welts, or lacerations. But, in a digital age, things have changed. What we need to do is to make sure our laws are reflecting on ways that are all responsible for protecting our children.”