OpenAI launches independent safety board with power to delay model releases

OpenAI is transforming its Safety and Security Committee into an independent "Board oversight committee" with the authority to halt AI model launches over safety concerns, according to a company blog post.

This decision follows a 90-day review of OpenAI’s safety protocols and procedures. The committee, chaired by Zico Kolter and including members such as Adam D'Angelo, Paul Nakasone, and Nicole Seligman, will oversee major model releases and has the power to delay launches until safety concerns are addressed.

Notably, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who was previously on the committee, is no longer a member.

The committee's creation appears similar to Meta’s Oversight Board, designed to offer independent review. But none of the Oversight Board’s members are on Meta’s board of directors.