OpenAI Settles Discrimination Case for $3.2 Million

OpenAI has agreed to a $3.2 million settlement concerning allegations of discrimination against American job applicants. The Justice Department claimed that OpenAI and its subsidiary Statsig made it harder for US citizens to find and apply for certain positions, favoring foreign workers on temporary visas.

These alleged discriminatory practices included failing to post jobs publicly, requiring paper applications, and advertising roles late at night on the radio. Such measures were reportedly designed to discourage American applicants, allowing the companies to claim a lack of qualified domestic candidates and justify hiring foreign visa holders.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon stated that discriminating against US workers in favor of temporary visa holders is illegal. The settlement comprises $1.2 million in penalties and a $2 million fund to compensate those allegedly harmed. OpenAI must also revise hiring policies, ensure public job postings, accept electronic applications, train staff, and undergo Justice Department monitoring.

While fewer than ten positions were involved, officials emphasized the settlement's significance in addressing the harm of shutting out American applicants from lucrative tech roles. OpenAI has denied any wrongdoing. This case aligns with broader US government efforts to address alleged abuses in foreign-worker visa programs.