OpenAI Proposes Higher Capital Gains Taxes to Fund AI Transition Programs

OpenAI has published a 13-page policy paper proposing new economic frameworks for managing artificial intelligence's impact on the American workforce. The company suggests higher capital gains taxes on corporations that replace workers with AI, with proceeds funding expanded public safety net programs. The proposals include creating a public wealth fund, implementing four-day workweeks funded by what the paper calls "efficiency dividends," and establishing government programs to transition workers into what OpenAI describes as "human-centered" employment. The company argues these measures would be financed by economic gains generated by AI technology. The release comes at a politically charged moment for OpenAI. The New Yorker published a lengthy investigation chronicling CEO Sam Altman's history of misleading statements to investors, employees, board members, and lawmakers. The article documented instances where Altman publicly advocated for AI safety regulations while privately working to undermine related legislation. Policy experts offered mixed reactions to the economic proposals. Malo Bourgon, CEO of the Machine Intelligence Research Institute, noted that while the policy team likely acted with genuine intent, the company's track record raises questions about follow-through. Nathan Calvin of AI policy nonprofit Encode, who received a subpoena from OpenAI related to state legislative work, expressed skepticism based on the company's previous government engagement. The paper arrives as lawmakers in Washington and state capitals continue debating how to regulate rapidly advancing AI systems and mitigate potential labor market disruptions.