The US Treasury, commerce department, and other government offices have asked OpenAI to stagger the release of its upcoming GPT 5.6 model, according to the Financial Times. The request aims to give federal agencies time to screen users before widespread deployment. It marks an unusual pre-emptive intervention by the administration into an AI company's product rollout.
This is not a legally binding order but a formal request from multiple cabinet-level departments. The move signals deepening government interest in controlling access to advanced AI systems. OpenAI has not publicly responded to the request.
The Treasury and commerce department specifically requested limited distribution of GPT 5.6 to enable user vetting. No specific timeline or criteria for the vetting process have been disclosed. The model is believed to be more powerful than its predecessor.
If implemented, the staggered release could slow GPT 5.6 adoption, particularly in commercial and international markets. The request may also set a precedent for future AI model launches. Industry watchers will be watching for OpenAI's official response.
Critics argue the request could stifle innovation and create an uneven playing field for US AI firms. Some security experts, however, support government oversight of highly capable AI models.