2LT International News

WASHINGTON, D.C.: U.S. Senator Josh Hawley said he has launched an investigation into Meta Platforms’ artificial intelligence policies, pressing the company for documents after reports that its AI chatbots could engage children in “romantic or sensual” conversations.

Lawmakers from both parties voiced concern following a Reuters report on an internal Meta document that described the controversial rules.

“We intend to learn who approved these policies, how long they were in effect, and what Meta has done to stop this conduct going forward,” Hawley said.

Meta declined to comment on Hawley’s letter but previously said the examples referenced in the document were “erroneous and inconsistent with our policies, and have been removed.”

Hawley’s request includes all drafts of the policies, the names of individuals who authorized them, and internal risk assessments regarding minors and potential in-person meetups. He also asked the company to provide details of any disclosures it has made to regulators about AI protections for children and limits on medical advice.

The Missouri Republican, a frequent critic of Big Tech, has previously pressed Meta on issues ranging from user safety to its attempts to expand into China. In April, he chaired a hearing referencing claims in a book by former Facebook executive Sarah Wynn-Williams about the company’s China strategy.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has invested heavily in AI tools, including generative chatbots. However, congressional scrutiny is mounting as regulators and lawmakers debate how to ensure that AI products are safe for younger users.