OpenAI received subpoenas from several U.S. states as part of a probe into possible user harm linked to its chatbot as it prepares for an anticipated initial public offering. The probe follows criticisms that ChatGPT encouraged self-harm and criminal acts, and scrutiny of how the company used health data and other personal information. OpenAI said it will respond “constructively” and pointed to existing measures to protect customers. It also referenced prior outreach to real-world support when users express harmful intent. The company’s response comes days after it filed for its IPO, placing regulatory scrutiny and capital market timing in direct overlap. The probe is part of a broader AI governance fight across the U.S. and abroad, including investigations into chatbot safety practices and national security constraints placed on other AI vendors preparing to go public. For higher education, it also signals increasing legal risk tied to AI use in academic advising, tutoring pilots, and student-facing services.