Enlarge / Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI at an interview during the inaugural day of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland on January 16, 2024. (credit: Bloomberg / Contributor | Bloomberg)
The pressure mounts on OpenAI as calls grow for transparency regarding potential AI hazards. Allegations surfaced from whistleblowers who claimed to have informed the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that the company’s non-disclosure agreements may have unlawfully silenced employees from voicing significant safety issues to government officials.
In a formal correspondence to OpenAI yesterday, Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) requested proof that the organization has ceased using contracts that could “suppress” its “employees from making protected disclosures to regulators.” This inquiry underscores mounting concerns within Congress about corporate accountability in relation to emerging technology risks.
Senator Grassley specifically called for documentation related to current employment terms including severance packages and agreements regarding non-disparagement and confidentiality clauses. He emphasized that these documents are vital for ensuring transparency and encouraging whistleblowers who could play a crucial role in identifying new threats posed by AI advancements. Such measures are integral for shaping robust policies aimed at mitigating existential risks as technological innovations continue evolving.
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