OpenAI Releases Past Employees from Non-Disparagement and Nonsolicitation Agreements, Protects Vested Equity

May 24, 2024, 12:44 AM

OpenAI has announced that it is releasing a majority of its past employees from non-disparagement agreements tied to their exit contracts and equity. This policy change means that former staffers will no longer be bound by clauses that prevented them from speaking negatively about the company. The decision also includes a commitment not to cancel the vested equity of these employees. Additionally, OpenAI will not enforce nonsolicitation agreements in connection with their employment. The announcement follows criticism of OpenAI's leadership for requiring lifelong non-disparagement agreements and non-disclosure agreements that forbade employees from revealing these clauses. The company confirmed the policy change via email to former employees.