Senior representatives from Anthropic, OpenAI, Google and Meta are appearing before the New York City Council on Monday as lawmakers examine the risks linked to rapidly advancing artificial intelligence. The rare Committee of the Whole hearing brings all 51 council members together to question the companies and review proposed AI safeguards.
The hearing puts some of the world’s biggest AI developers under direct public scrutiny. Representatives are expected to answer questions about AI safety, security, accountability and the potential impact of increasingly capable AI systems on New Yorkers.
The Council secured public testimony under oath from the four companies. Meta agreed to participate earlier, while Anthropic, OpenAI and Google confirmed their attendance after the Council warned that it could use subpoena powers to compel testimony.
The companies’ representatives will also face questions from lawmakers as the city considers new rules for AI systems. The Council has linked the hearing to concerns over incidents involving AI agents and broader warnings from researchers and industry whistleblowers about the pace of AI development.
The hearing comes as New York City considers a package of proposals aimed at creating stronger safeguards and accountability for AI. The proposals include independent third-party validation of AI systems and requirements for human operators to retain the ability to shut down certain systems.
Lawmakers are also considering a private right of action that could allow New Yorkers harmed by AI agents to seek legal remedies. Another proposal would establish a whistleblower incentive programme designed to encourage people to report potential violations linked to AI development or deployment.
The Council is also examining measures related to AI safety incidents, privacy and misleading safety claims. The proposals reflect growing pressure on governments to establish guardrails as AI adoption expands across businesses and public services.
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