Last week, Internet Works convened its New York lobby day in Albany, bringing the voices of Middle Tech to state lawmakers at a pivotal moment in policy discussions. 

Internet Works is the only trade association representing exclusively medium-sized Internet companies, or “Middle Tech”, that span the digital ecosystem and build platforms that support millions of users and small businesses every day to provide honest reviews, post and search for jobs, make purchases, connect authentically with others, and so much more.  As the New York legislature continues to tackle complex digital issues, our goal was to demonstrate that the tech industry is not a monolith and to advocate for thoughtful, right-sized policies that promote innovation while protecting users. 

Representatives from Internet Works’ member companies including Discord, Dropbox, Etsy, Indeed, and Roblox met with 6 legislative offices, in addition to the Office of Governor Kathy Hochul, to discuss practical right-sized solutions for the industry including:

  • Artificial Intelligence: Advocating for a risk-based approach to regulation as Middle tech companies deploy and integrate AI tools, as opposed to developers of foundational models. 
  • Online Safety and Age Assurance: Ensuring kids online safety remains a top priority as we advocate for device-level and operating system-level age assurance that still protects user privacy. 
  • Data Privacy and Competition: Keeping mandate requirements up to date with real world applications that keep user data private and protect consumers, without compounding the regulatory patchwork of state laws.  
Internet Works members with NY State Senator Andrew Gounardes from left to right: Austin Bernstein – Roblox ; Dave Barmore – Internet Works; Alison Klein – Indeed; Senator Andrew Gounardes; Belinda Sirha – Dropbox; Nicholas Krebs – Internet Works ; Kate Sheerin – Discord

Throughout the day, member companies gave real-world examples of how Middle Tech is already investing in trust, safety, and user protections – often going beyond existing legal requirements.  These conversations reinforced the value of collaborations between policy makers and industry stakeholders to craft smart legislation that operates as intended without unintended consequences. 

Internet Works members with NY State Assemblymember Alex Bores from left to right: Dave Barmore – Internet Works; Kate Sheerin – Discord; Alison Klein – Indeed; Assemblymember Alex Bores; Belinda Sirha – Dropbox; Beverly Hart – Etsy; Nicholas Krebs – Internet Works

This lobby day reinforced Internet Works as a resource for New York policymakers, and we look forward to future collaboration to ensure the Internet remains a place of limitless opportunity for the millions of users and small businesses who rely on Middle Tech.  We’re grateful to the lawmakers and staff who took the time with our members and look forward to continuing these important conversations across New York.