The state of Florida has initiated legal proceedings against OpenAI and its chief executive, Sam Altman, asserting that the company deliberately released and aggressively promoted its ChatGPT product while hiding significant dangers associated with its use.
Lawsuit Alleges Concealment of Risks
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the civil complaint on Monday, stating that OpenAI suppressed internal safety alerts and misled users regarding the genuine nature and perils of the artificial intelligence tool. He described the action as the first state-led lawsuit of its kind in the nation.
“Today, we announced the first-in-the-nation state-led lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman,” Uthmeier said during a press conference. “OpenAI and Altman ignored internal and external safety warnings, put children at great risk, and allowed a dangerous product to reach millions of Floridians.”
Allegations of Prioritising Profit Over Safety
The civil complaint contends that OpenAI and Altman placed speed to market and commercial gain above user safety, disregarding repeated warnings from experts both within and outside the organisation. The lawsuit claims that the company deployed a product that facilitates and encourages harm, including self-harm and violence, while falsely assuring users of its safety.
Furthermore, the complaint asserts that ChatGPT collects data from minors without adequate parental oversight, leading to behavioural addiction and cognitive harm. OpenAI has also actively downplayed dangerous errors, according to the suit.
Florida law prohibits unfair and defective trade practices, officials noted. The complaint argues that OpenAI’s conduct causes ongoing harm to Floridians and demands accountability through legal remedies.
