OpenAI accused of restricting employees from sharing concerns with regulators

From Washington Post: 2024-07-13 12:34:22

Whistleblowers filed a complaint alleging OpenAI prohibited employees from warning regulators about risks its tech poses. OpenAI required staff to waive federal whistleblower compensation rights, and get consent to disclose info to federal authorities. Policies reflect industry-wide concerns about muzzling tech workers amid calls for AI regulation by policymakers.

Whistleblowers sent a seven-page letter to the SEC alleging OpenAI’s secretive employee agreements stifled dissent. The agreements failed to address securities violations disclosure to the SEC and threatened criminal prosecution under trade secret laws. OpenAI said it has already removed nondisparagement terms from employee agreements to encourage safety debate on AI technology.

Tech workers and regulators have long been vexed by tech companies’ confidentiality agreements, which limit reporting of misconduct. Concerns are mounting about the AI sector lacking regulation, prompting calls for whistleblowers’ help in understanding dangers posed by AI. Senator Chuck Grassley is calling for changes to OpenAI’s nondisclosure agreements to protect whistleblowers’ rights.

OpenAI whistleblowers have submitted complaints to the SEC in June, alleging illegal employee agreements that might violate federal laws. The SEC has responded to the complaint, but it’s unclear if an investigation has been launched. The SEC must address OpenAI’s agreements promptly to ensure employee rights to report violations without retaliation.



Read more at Washington Post: OpenAI illegally stopped staff from sharing dangers, whistleblowers say