DOJ extracts $3.2 million from OpenAI over hiring discrimination allegations

The US Department of Justice has reached a $3.2 million settlement with OpenAI and one of its subsidiaries over allegations of discrimination against U.S. workers. The investigation revealed that OpenAI allegedly preferred workers with temporary visas over potential U.S. employees, even when they were equally qualified. The company allegedly failed to advertise job openings widely, opting instead to place ads on late-night radio and request paper applications, while accepting electronic applications for other positions.

As part of the settlement, OpenAI must post jobs on its public website, accept electronic applications, and train staff on anti-discrimination policies under the Immigration and Nationality Act. The company will pay $1.2 million in civil penalties and contribute $2 million to a back-pay fund for victims.