The Canadian government is prepared to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots if technology companies fail to demonstrate adequate safeguards for Canadian users. This warning comes from Evan Solomon, Canada’s Minister responsible for AI, who asserted that OpenAI’s “failure” to report an 18-year-old Canadian user contributed to a mass school shooting in British Columbia in February.
Sources familiar with the case revealed that Jesse Van Rootselaar, the individual in question, spent several days in June of the previous year detailing scenarios involving armed violence using ChatGPT. His posts were flagged by an automated review system, raising concerns among OpenAI employees. Approximately a dozen staff members within the company reportedly discussed whether action was necessary regarding Van Rootselaar’s writings. Some employees interpreted his texts as potentially indicating real, physical violence and urged leadership to notify Canadian authorities. However, OpenAI’s management ultimately decided against contacting law enforcement.
Minister Solomon stated, “Clearly, there was an omission. This is a terrible tragedy. We are deeply disturbed by reports suggesting there was an opportunity to report this matter to law enforcement. We want to ensure that if any company has such an opportunity, they seize it.”
Following these revelations, Chan Park, OpenAI’s policy lead, along with six other company representatives, met with government officials in Ottawa on Tuesday. Canadian ministers later described this meeting as “disappointing.”
Sean Fraser, the Minister of Justice, emphasized his expectation that OpenAI implement meaningful safety measures. He warned, “If these are not forthcoming very soon, the government will take action. Trust must be earned. We genuinely need to see what changes are to be expected from the company.”
OpenAI, for its part, has announced that it has strengthened its security measures and revised its policies concerning when police should be notified about incidents related to violent acts. The company stated, “Ministers, however, stressed that Canadians expect further concrete steps – and this message was clearly and unequivocally understood. We have committed to providing updates on additional measures in the coming days, while continuing to support law enforcement and collaborate with the government to enhance the safety of artificial intelligence.”
Jesse Van Rootselaar opened fire on February 10 at a school in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, resulting in the deaths of eight people. Police confirmed that Van Rootselaar was found dead at the scene, having taken his own life. Authorities revealed that Van Rootselaar was previously known to local police, who had visited his residence multiple times concerning mental health issues and had temporarily removed weapons from the property on prior occasions.