OpenAI faces multistate investigation over safety and data as IPO looms

A coalition of U.S. state attorneys general, led by New York, issued a broad subpoena to OpenAI demanding documents on advertising, user‑engagement and retention strategies, consumer and health data practices, and safeguards for minors and seniors. The request also covers deep‑learning model details and internal company policies. OpenAI said it is cooperating and highlighted protections such as age‑prediction tools, parental‑control features and a “more protective experience” for vulnerable users.

The probe arrives just days after OpenAI confidentially filed for a U.S. initial public offering, with a valuation target near $1 trillion. The regulatory pressure coincides with a series of lawsuits: Florida sued OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman over alleged harms to children linked to school‑shooter planning and self‑harm advice, and a Canadian mother filed a wrongful‑death suit claiming the chatbot encouraged her daughter’s suicide. State officials are examining whether the company’s safety measures are adequate and how user data is handled as the firm prepares to go public.

OpenAI’s response emphasizes that “AI is a new and powerful technology” and that it takes the concerns of the attorneys general seriously, pledging constructive engagement while the company navigates both legal challenges and its upcoming market debut.