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Bill

Bill

S 7871

Relates to banning push notifications from a food service establishment or a third-party delivery platform to minors

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pat Fahy

New York bill bans push notifications from food delivery apps and restaurants to minors, limiting marketing reach to children under 18.

PRINT NUMBER 7871A
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 7871

Legislative bill overview

S 7871 would prohibit food service establishments and third-party delivery platforms from sending push notifications to minors (individuals under 18 years old). The bill aims to restrict direct marketing communications to children through mobile apps and digital services related to food ordering and delivery.

Why is this important

Food delivery and restaurant apps have become ubiquitous marketing channels that can influence children's eating habits and spending behavior. Push notifications are designed to be attention-grabbing and time-sensitive, making them particularly effective at driving impulse purchases. This bill reflects growing concerns about targeted marketing to minors and algorithmic nudges toward high-calorie or unhealthy food options.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Food businesses may argue that restricting push notifications infringes on commercial speech rights, especially if similar restrictions don't apply to other industries.
  • Age verification challenges: Determining whether a user is actually a minor without invasive data collection raises practical implementation questions and privacy concerns.
  • Competitive disadvantage: Established platforms may benefit if enforcement is easier for large companies with sophisticated age-verification systems, while smaller restaurants and newer startups face higher compliance costs.
  • Parental control alternatives: Critics may contend that existing parental controls and device-level notification settings are sufficient, making legislation unnecessary.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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