A coalition of eight states announced on Wednesday that they have initiated lawsuits against OpenAI in various courts nationwide. They claim that ChatGPT has caused harm to its users, including advising some—like teenagers—on self-harm or harming others.
The attorneys general from these states, which include Iowa, Kansas, and Arizona, have filed their lawsuits individually in state courts. They assert that ChatGPT is intentionally designed to be friendly and engaging, which builds trust with users. However, the lawsuits argue that the chatbot reinforces harmful delusions, promotes risky behaviors, and even aids in planning acts of violence such as mass shootings.
This legal action is noted as one of the largest organized challenges against an AI company to date, contributing to various legal troubles OpenAI is currently facing as it prepares for a public listing. It’s worth mentioning that Florida’s attorney general initiated the first state lawsuit in June.
These lawsuits also contend that OpenAI has breached state consumer protection laws by misleading users regarding the safety of ChatGPT. They further claim that the company has created a public nuisance endangering the health of residents.
The states are seeking judicial orders that would require OpenAI to modify how ChatGPT operates. Specifically, they want to prevent the company from developing self-improving AI models unless it can guarantee those models align with human values.
In addition to Iowa, Kansas, and Arizona, the states involved also include Arkansas, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, and West Virginia. They are pursuing civil monetary penalties for OpenAI’s alleged violations of state laws, as well as damages.
An OpenAI spokesperson has not yet provided a response to requests for comments on this matter.
The company is also contending with numerous lawsuits from private individuals claiming that ChatGPT has facilitated plans for mass shootings or other violent actions.
