OpenAI, a prominent artificial intelligence research organization, has come under fire for allegedly imposing illegal restrictions on its employees’ communication with government regulators. Whistleblowers have accused the company of implementing severance, non-disparagement, and non-disclosure agreements that hinder employees from reporting securities violations to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A letter sent by lawyers representing anonymous whistleblowers to SEC Chair Gary Gensler outlines these concerns and requests an investigation into OpenAI’s contractual practices.
The letter claims that OpenAI’s agreements not only prohibit and discourage employees and investors from communicating with the SEC but also force employees to waive their rights to whistleblower incentives and compensation. Furthermore, the company allegedly requires employees to notify the company of any communication with government regulators. These allegations suggest that OpenAI’s prior non-disclosure agreements violated the law by imposing illegal restrictions on employees seeking employment, severance payments, and other financial considerations.
OpenAI has yet to respond to inquiries regarding these accusations. However, a company spokesperson informed The Washington Post that OpenAI’s whistleblower policy is designed to protect employees’ rights to make protected disclosures. Nevertheless, Senator Chuck Grassley has expressed concern over the potential chilling effect that OpenAI’s policies may have on whistleblowers’ ability to voice concerns and receive appropriate compensation. He emphasizes that as technology evolves, Congress must prioritize monitoring and mitigating the threats posed by AI, with whistleblowers playing a crucial role in this process. Consequently, Grassley asserts that OpenAI’s non-disclosure agreements must be revised to uphold whistleblowers’ rights.
This is not the first time OpenAI has faced scrutiny over its employment practices. Earlier this year, the company received criticism for its employee exit agreement, which reportedly included provisions that would strip former employees of their vested equity if they refused to sign or violated their non-disclosure agreements. In response to the backlash, CEO Sam Altman expressed remorse and stated that the company had never enforced these provisions. He also assured the public that OpenAI was in the process of revising its standard exit paperwork.
In conclusion, the allegations against OpenAI regarding illegal restrictions on employee communication with government regulators raise serious concerns about the company’s adherence to whistleblower protections. As the debate surrounding AI regulation and national security intensifies, it is imperative for companies like OpenAI to foster an environment that encourages transparency and accountability. By revising their non-disclosure agreements and ensuring that employees are not hindered from reporting potential violations, OpenAI can demonstrate its commitment to upholding whistleblower rights and contributing to the responsible development of artificial intelligence.
