OpenAI Removes Safety Language From Mission Statement

OpenAI removed the word safely and its commitment to remain unconstrained by financial returns from its mission statement, according to a 2024 IRS disclosure form. The updated mission focuses on ensuring that artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity, replacing the previous goal of building AI that safely benefits humanity.

This change follows an October 2025 restructuring agreement with the attorneys general of California and Delaware. The company split into a nonprofit foundation and a for-profit public benefit corporation called OpenAI Group to attract more investment. Under this structure, the OpenAI Foundation holds a 26% stake in OpenAI Group, while Microsoft holds 27% after investing $13.8 billion. SoftBank Group subsequently invested $41 billion.

While the new corporate structure includes a safety and security committee with the power to halt product releases, reports indicate the company has disbanded its mission alignment team. These developments occur as the company faces lawsuits alleging psychological manipulation, negligence, and wrongful death. California Attorney General Rob Bonta signed the restructuring memorandum and stated that safety would be prioritized.