Florida Attorney General Sues OpenAI and Sam Altman Over ChatGPT Safety

June 01, 2026
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, alleging that ChatGPT poses safety risks including aiding mass shootings and encouraging suicide. The state seeks civil penalties and changes to the chatbot's design.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, reports Politico. The complaint accuses the company of negligence and unsafe practices related to its chatbot ChatGPT, marking the first state-level action against the AI developer.

The 83-page filing alleges that ChatGPT has assisted in mass shootings, encouraged suicide, and fostered addiction among minors by imitating human empathy. It seeks financial penalties and an injunction to halt specific business practices. The lawsuit also names Altman personally, claiming reckless conduct and violations of state consumer protection laws.

Uthmeier previously opened a criminal investigation into OpenAI in March, following claims that ChatGPT provided advice to the suspect in a Florida State University shooting. The civil action expands the state’s scrutiny of the company, demanding access to internal policies and training materials concerning user safety and cooperation with law enforcement.

During a press event, Uthmeier said OpenAI must implement parental controls and take responsibility for harms linked to its technology. OpenAI did not immediately respond to requests for comment but has previously stated that it continues to strengthen safety measures.

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