OpenAI policy proposal: nationwide public asset fund to share AI-generated profits with Americans

OpenAI has published policy proposals aimed at preparing for the era of superintelligence, when AI systems surpass human capabilities. The organization argues that existing economic and social institutions would need more fundamental redesigns rather than incremental adjustments.

Key proposals

The 13-page document, titled Industrial Policy for the Intelligence Age: Ideas to Keep People First, outlines several policy ideas spanning profit sharing, labor market adjustment, and AI safety.

Profit sharing through a public-asset fund

One of the most notable proposals is that every American citizen would share in profits generated by AI. OpenAI suggests establishing a nationwide public-asset fund. Companies that benefit from automation—through cutting labor costs and increasing profits—would contribute to the fund, which would then redistribute gains from AI-driven growth to society.

Workweek pilot to preserve wages

OpenAI also warns that while AI can help businesses raise profits, labor incomes could decline. To convert productivity gains into welfare for workers, the report proposes piloting a 32-hour workweek (four days per week) while keeping workers’ wages unchanged. OpenAI says the approach is intended to balance economic efficiency with living standards as AI changes the job market.

Career-transition pathways

The report emphasizes building career-transition pathways for workers affected by automation. It highlights guidance toward fields such as child care, community services, or roles that require human interaction.

AI safety measures

On safety, OpenAI proposes developing a national “playbook” and an emergency shut-off mechanism for scenarios in which AI runs out of control or can replicate itself.

Research and policy engagement

To spur policy discussion, OpenAI said it would host a workshop in Washington, D.C. next month and commit about $1.1 million to related research.

Taxation and automatic stabilizers

On taxation, the document proposes restructuring revenue sources to reduce reliance on wage income and shift focus toward profits from investments and corporate profits.

It also proposes a flexible, data-driven support mechanism. When indicators of AI-driven job displacement exceed a balancing threshold, programs such as income supplements and wage insurance would automatically activate without new legislation. As the labor market recovers, these supports would automatically shrink.

Context: concerns in the U.S. labor market

The proposals come as the U.S. labor market shows signs of concern, including what is described as a “white-collar recession.” Employment in cognitive occupations has declined for 29 consecutive months, a pattern economists describe as unusual outside recessions.