DOJ: OpenAI Pays $3.2M for US Worker Discrimination

The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a $3.2 million settlement with AI company OpenAI. This settlement is for allegedly discriminating against American workers. The DOJ's investigation, which began in August 2025, focused on OpenAI's alleged violations of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Specifically, OpenAI was accused of citizenship status discrimination in recruitment and hiring related to permanent labor certification, known as PERM. The company did not promote certain job positions on its external job platform. Also, OpenAI required paper applications for PERM-related jobs, while allowing electronic applications for other positions. The agreement includes $1.2 million in civil penalties and a $2 million back-pay fund for victims. OpenAI must also change its recruitment practices. This action ensures U.S. workers get a fair chance at technology jobs.