Multiple state attorneys general have launched a coordinated investigation into OpenAI, issuing subpoenas on Friday demanding internal documents related to user data practices, minor safety protections, and advertising operations. New York, Colorado, and additional states are participating in the probe, which OpenAI confirmed in a Saturday statement. The company said it takes the concerns seriously and intends to engage constructively with state officials while highlighting that recent ChatGPT versions include stronger safeguards like parental controls.
The investigation reflects mounting regulatory scrutiny of artificial intelligence companies as documented cases of children harming themselves after using AI technology have increased alongside a surge in AI-generated scams. States have taken independent action on AI regulation this year, introducing dozens of bills and enacting over 100 laws that ban chatbots for young users, require security testing, and protect copyrighted materials from unauthorized AI training. The Trump administration recently barred Anthropic from allowing foreign nationals access to certain AI systems and issued an executive order requesting voluntary government oversight of new AI models before public release.
State-level enforcement actions against AI companies have already produced significant legal consequences. Florida became the first state to sue OpenAI this month, alleging ChatGPT poses risks to children and that the company failed to disclose product dangers. Florida's attorney general has also opened a criminal investigation into OpenAI based on messages between the chatbot and a suspect in a deadly Florida State University shooting. In January, California's attorney general announced an investigation into x.AI for generating non-consensual sexualized images of real women and minors.
Previous state investigations into tech companies have resulted in substantial financial penalties and prolonged litigation. New Mexico investigated Meta in 2023 for child safety violations on its social media platforms, including predators' ability to contact minors. Attorney General Raúl Torrez sued the company and secured a $375 million jury award in March. Kentucky has similarly sued Character.AI for violating consumer protection laws by exposing children to dangerous technology uses.
OpenAI declined to provide additional details about the current investigation beyond its public statement. The company emphasized its commitment to learning and improving safety measures, acknowledging that enhanced protections do not change what affected families have experienced. The New York Times, which is suing OpenAI and Microsoft for copyright infringement related to AI training on news content, first reported the investigation following initial coverage by The Wall Street Journal.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/06/13/technology/states-investigating-openai.html