OpenAI has endorsed the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) as part of its commitment to establish “AI-specific rules” for children’s safety. This endorsement coincides with KOSA’s passage in the Senate in 2024; the bill was first introduced in 2022.
KOSA mandates that social media companies and online platforms strengthen protections for children. The current version requires social media apps to allow minors to opt out of “addictive” features and algorithmic recommendations. Online platforms will also have a “duty of care” to address harmful content related to eating disorders, suicide, and sexual exploitation.
Other tech companies, including Apple, Microsoft, Snap, and X, have also expressed support for KOSA. Conversely, NetChoice, a trade group with members like Meta, opposes the bill, asserting that it could lead to censorship without enhancing child safety. Privacy and digital rights organizations such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation have also voiced opposition to KOSA.
OpenAI stated that KOSA is “complementary” to the safety measures it already has in place. Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane emphasized the importance of stronger safeguards, noting, “We can’t repeat the mistakes made during the rise of social media, when stronger safeguards for teens weren’t put in place until the platforms were already deeply embedded in young people’s lives.”
Currently, OpenAI faces multiple lawsuits alleging safety lapses related to ChatGPT. One lawsuit involves a family claiming wrongful death after a teen discussed suicidal plans with the chatbot. Another lawsuit alleges that a teen accidentally overdosed on drugs due to poor medical advice received from ChatGPT.
