The New York City Council has issued a subpoena requiring Elon Musk, or another company representative, to testify as part of an investigation concerning artificial intelligence safety, according to CNBC.
Key facts
- The New York City Council issued a subpoena to Elon Musk, according to CNBC.
- The subpoena requires Musk or another company representative to testify.
- The testimony relates to an investigation concerning AI safety.
- CNBC's report refers to the entity as 'SpaceXAI'.
- The development was reported by CNBC on 28 September 2026.
The New York City Council has issued a subpoena to Elon Musk in connection with an investigation into artificial intelligence safety, according to CNBC. The subpoena requires that Musk, or another company representative, appear to testify before the council. CNBC referred to the entity involved as ‘SpaceXAI’.
The action places one of the most prominent figures in the technology industry at the centre of a municipal inquiry focused on the safety of AI systems. According to CNBC, the investigation concerns AI safety, though the report did not detail the specific issues under examination.
A subpoena is a legal instrument that compels an individual or organisation to provide testimony or documents. In this case, the requirement extends to Musk personally or to another designated representative, giving some flexibility over who appears.
The scope, timeline and next steps of the investigation were not specified in the available reporting. It is also not clear from the source what particular practices or products prompted the council to seek testimony.
As reported, the subpoena marks a formal step by New York City lawmakers to gather information directly from an executive associated with advanced AI development. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation proceeds.
Why it matters
Local governments are increasingly seeking direct oversight of companies developing powerful AI systems, and a subpoena from a major city council signals growing scrutiny of how such technology is built and deployed. The outcome could shape how policymakers approach AI safety accountability more broadly.
Frequently asked questions
Who was subpoenaed by the New York City Council?
Elon Musk was issued a subpoena, which requires him or another representative of SpaceXAI to testify.
What is the investigation about?
According to CNBC, the investigation concerns AI safety, though the specific issues were not detailed in the reporting.
Does Elon Musk have to appear personally?
The subpoena requires that Musk or another representative of SpaceXAI testify, allowing the company to designate who appears.