New York Enforces 'Stop Hiding Hate' Act Requiring Social Media Transparency

New York has enacted the Stop Hiding Hate Act, requiring social media companies with over $100 million in annual revenue operating in the state to submit biannual reports to the Attorney General detailing their content moderation policies. These reports must explain how platforms define and address hate speech, racism, misinformation, harassment, extremism, and foreign political interference, including enforcement actions and flagged content data. The law aims to increase transparency and accountability to prevent social media from fueling hateful rhetoric and disinformation, a concern emphasized by both Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul. Companies are also mandated to publish their terms of service in clear language, detail user reporting processes, and outline potential disciplinary measures for policy violations. Failure to comply with the law can result in civil penalties up to $15,000 per violation per day and possible injunctive relief. The legislation, inspired in part by the January 6 Capitol insurrection, marks a significant state-level effort to regulate online content moderation while sparking discussions about compelled speech and free speech rights.