A coalition of state attorneys general has initiated an investigation into OpenAI, according to reports. New York’s attorney general issued a subpoena to the company on June 13, 2026, seeking documents related to advertising, user engagement, model behavior, consumer data, and the treatment of minors and seniors. OpenAI has confirmed it is cooperating with the probe, though it has not disclosed which states are involved or the specific details of the request. A company spokesperson told The Wall Street Journal that the company is committed to safely deploying AI and has added safeguards for minors and individuals in difficult situations. The spokesperson also stated that ChatGPT now includes features that direct users to real-world resources and human contacts.
OpenAI faces multiple legal challenges, including lawsuits over alleged copyright infringement and its role in suicide incidents. Earlier this month, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier sued the company and its CEO, Sam Altman, alleging they ignored safety warnings and put children at risk. Altman recently apologized to the community of Tumbler Ridge, Canada, after the company failed to alert law enforcement following the banning of a suspected shooter’s ChatGPT account. The company is also preparing to file confidentially for an initial public offering.
OpenAI recently won a high-profile legal battle against its co-founder Elon Musk, who had accused the company of violating its founding agreement. Musk’s lead attorney announced plans to appeal the decision. Despite these legal hurdles, the company continues to face scrutiny over its safety practices and data management. The investigation reflects growing regulatory interest in AI safety and corporate responsibility. OpenAI has stated it takes the concerns of state attorneys general seriously and intends to engage constructively with their offices.
Source: techcrunch
