New York City Council members questioned senior executives from leading artificial intelligence companies about the potential risks posed by AI technology during a lengthy public hearing on Monday. The session came as the council considers imposing regulatory measures on the AI industry.
Council Speaker Julie Menin pressed representatives from Google, Meta, Anthropic, and OpenAI—who appeared either in person or virtually—on their ability to quantify the worst-case, catastrophic risks associated with AI. Menin challenged the executives on their responsibility to ensure product safety, likening the situation to a pharmaceutical company developing a drug without knowing if it could cause harm.
Morgan Dwyer, head of policy development and operations at OpenAI, responded that quantifying such risks is difficult and suggested that the precise measurement may not be necessary. Menin responded critically to this stance, emphasizing the importance of clarity and accountability in assessing AI safety.
The hearing began with testimony from AI whistleblowers, who raised concerns about the potential for AI to disrupt the city’s economy and infrastructure if left unregulated. Some council members also voiced alarm over the broader societal risks they associate with the technology.
In contrast, company representatives highlighted the positive applications of AI. Dwyer pointed to AI’s role in accelerating solutions for economic, scientific, and social challenges, including advances in medical research and empowering small businesses through new tools and services.
Still, the tech executives acknowledged the inherent risks. Dwyer stated that no technology is without risk and recognized that some risks could be unacceptable if safeguards are not in place. Logan Graham, Anthropic’s head of the Frontier Red Team, warned that without proper protections, the potential hazards of AI could be significant.
The discussions underscored a growing tension between the promise of AI-driven innovation and the imperative to manage its risks. As New York City officials contemplate regulatory options, the hearing revealed both the complexities of governing emerging technologies and the urgent demand for clearer accountability from industry leaders.