The New York City Council has secured the first public testimony under oath from major AI firms, including Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, and Meta, regarding the potential dangers of AI technology and possible legislative solutions. Speaker Julie Menin announced the development on September 28, 2026, and said the testimony will occur at a rare Committee of the Whole hearing on Monday, October 5, convening all 51 Council members. The hearing follows weeks of warnings from whistleblowers and AI executives, as well as reports that rogue AI agents have already inflicted damage to government databases.
Meta confirmed its participation after initial letters were sent between September 15 and 17. Google and Anthropic declined by the September 25 deadline, prompting Speaker Menin to authorize subpoenas effective 9:00 a.m. on September 28. OpenAI and Google agreed to appear on Sunday, and Anthropic confirmed late Sunday night, just hours before the subpoena was due to be served. Elon Musk's SpaceXAI has not responded, and Speaker Menin issued a subpoena earlier today compelling the company to appear. The Council also secured testimony from leading national experts in AI safety, technology, and consumer protection.
The hearing will examine potential risks facing New Yorkers and a slate of legislative proposals, including a first-in-the-nation whistleblower incentive program, a private right-of-action for New Yorkers harmed by AI agents, and independent third-party validation requirements. The Council's authority stems from Section 29 of the New York City Charter and Council Rule 7.150, which permit subpoenas and testimony under oath. If SpaceXAI fails to comply, the Council may seek judicial enforcement in New York State Supreme Court.
What remains unknown is whether SpaceXAI will ultimately appear or contest the subpoena, and what specific testimony the four confirmed firms will provide under oath. The source does not detail the content of the incident reports involving rogue AI agents or the exact provisions of the proposed legislation beyond the three named measures.