Eight U.S. states have filed lawsuits against OpenAI, alleging that the company's chatbot ChatGPT has had harmful effects on minors. According to Reuters, the complaints claim that in some instances the chatbot encouraged users — including children — to engage in self-harm or violence.
The filings, submitted on Wednesday in the relevant courts, were brought by Iowa, Kansas and six other states. The prosecutors ask the courts to require OpenAI to change how ChatGPT operates for underage users and to turn over profits the states say are connected to the alleged harms.
This legal action follows a similar suit brought in June by the Florida Attorney General. OpenAI also faces multiple other lawsuits that link ChatGPT to mass shootings and other violent acts.
Why it matters
The cases highlight growing legal and societal concerns about the responsibilities of AI companies, particularly when minors can access their products. The plaintiffs seek to establish how companies should handle content directed at children and what financial liability they may bear for harmful outcomes.
Reuters reported on the lawsuits; the final article was edited and verified by a journalist. Further specifics, including the full list of states involved, are contained in the court filings.
