On October 14, eight states filed separate lawsuits against OpenAI, alleging that ChatGPT harmed young users and violated state consumer-protection laws. The lawsuits seek changes to the chatbot, but no court has ruled on the allegations.

The states filed in their own courts, not as one federal case, Reuters reported:

  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • Idaho
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • West Virginia

What the states allege

The lawsuits claim ChatGPT’s design can encourage dangerous behavior and that OpenAI misled users about the product’s safety. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said Iowa’s civil case alleges violations of the state’s Consumer Fraud Act. These are claims made by the states, not findings by a court.

Reuters reported that the states are seeking court orders requiring changes to ChatGPT, as well as civil penalties and damages. The reported requests also include restricting the development of self-improving AI models unless OpenAI can ensure they are aligned with human values. The specific remedies are set out in the court filings.

What happens next

The lawsuits begin a legal challenge. They do not create a new AI law or automatically require OpenAI to change ChatGPT. The courts must consider the states’ claims and OpenAI’s response before deciding whether to order any remedies.

The immediate consequence is a court fight, not an immediate change to ChatGPT. The states’ requested restrictions will depend on what judges decide.

The Iowa attorney general published the state’s October 14 announcement and its civil petition. Reuters reported that OpenAI had not immediately responded to a request for comment when its report was published.