Artificial Intelligence and Screen Time Regulation in New York
A one-year moratorium on artificial intelligence use has been introduced for students from kindergarten through middle school in New York City to protect their development.
New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Schools Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels announced a one-year artificial intelligence moratorium and new screen time policies covering students from 2-K through 8th grade.
AI Moratorium and Scope
The new policy implemented in New York City will enforce a one-year moratorium on student-facing generative artificial intelligence for students from 2-K through the 8th grade during the 2026-2027 academic year.
This decision will directly affect approximately 600,000 public school students, which corresponds to two-thirds of the system's total enrollment.
Screen Time and Age Limitations
Under the new regulations, one-to-one screen time is restricted for students in the 2nd grade and below, while a limit of 30 minutes per day is recommended for grades 3 through 5, and 45 minutes per day for grades 6 through 8.
The application aims to prioritize the development of human connections and fundamental skills by limiting children's relationship with technology.
High School Pilot Programs and Educational Modules
While a limited number of pilot programs are being implemented for high school students, artificial intelligence literacy classes will be provided twice a year to help students develop critical thinking skills.
The selected pilot programs will be conducted under instructor supervision in accordance with strict security and data privacy standards.
Exceptions and Technology Reviews
Exceptions will be granted for the use of assistive technology for students with disabilities, multilingual learners, and those participating in career readiness programs such as computer science.
All technology tools to be used in schools will undergo a comprehensive review process and be subject to audits for compliance with security and transparency standards.