Gov. Kathy Hochul has proclaimed February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in New York, highlighting efforts to improve digital safety and prevent youth violence.
State officials say the initiative builds on Hochul’s recent efforts to strengthen online protections for teenagers and expand access to mental health support.
“Every New Yorker deserves to build healthy and supportive relationships online and offline while feeling safe and protected,” Hochul said in a statement.
In recent years, the state has enacted legislation aimed at limiting harmful features on social media platforms, restricted cellphone use in schools, and introduced safeguards for artificial intelligence systems. In her 2026 State of the State address, Hochul proposed additional protections for children from online predators, scammers and AI tools she claimed are harmful.
The New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence is leading several initiatives this month, including training programs for teens and parents focused on technology-facilitated abuse and online harassment. The agency has also launched a digital awareness display called “What the Flag?!?” highlighting healthy and unhealthy relationship behaviors.
The display is based on real experiences submitted by New Yorkers through social media and is available on OPDV’s website and social media platforms.
In addition, OPDV continues its “Power Down Speak Up” campaign, which encourages young people to make safe online choices and provides guidance for parents, educators and law enforcement.
“Teens are growing up in a truly digital age where online experiences shape their relationships and mental health,” OPDV Executive Director Kelli Nicholas Owens said. “We must ensure they have the tools and support they need to stay safe.”
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said exposure to dating violence can have long-term physical and mental health consequences for young people, particularly when abuse occurs online.
New York’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline is available 24 hours a day at 800-942-6906. Text support is available at 844-997-2121, and online chat services are available through the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence.
