(Iowa) — Iowa and seven other states are suing Open AI over safety concerns about its popular AI chatbot, ChatGPT. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird was joined at the Iowa State Capitol today by her counterparts from Kansas, Nebraska, and West Virginia.
The lawsuit argues that despite Open AI’s claims that ChatGPT is safe for those ages 13 and older, evidence suggests that the chatbot has instead offered dangerous medical advice and promoted unhealthy behaviors for users, including children.
The attorneys general allege ChatGPT has provided dangerous medical advice, encouraged harmful behavior, and given inappropriate responses to vulnerable users.
Other states filing lawsuits include Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, and Montana. Although the attorneys general announced their actions together, each state is pursuing its own lawsuit under its respective state laws.
The states are seeking legal action to address the alleged violations and require changes to how OpenAI operates its technology. The lawsuits also seek financial damages and other penalties.
OpenAI says it has established safeguards for younger users, including parental controls and age-appropriate protections. The company says it continues to work with experts to strengthen its safety measures while supporting responsible development of artificial intelligence.
The lawsuits mark a significant escalation in state officials’ efforts to address concerns about the safety of artificial intelligence, particularly its potential effects on children and teenagers.
