Growing Clamor That AI Chatbots Are A Legal Public Nuisance Causing Psychological Pollution

A growing legal strategy is emerging around claims that AI chatbots create “psychological pollution,” harming users’ mental states. In a column, the argument frames generative AI systems as akin to a polluting factory, and suggests suing AI makers under the public nuisance doctrine for materially interfering with the public’s rights in a harmful way. The piece notes that while many rely on AI for mental health-related support, critics say these tools can give dangerous advice, reinforce delusions, and encourage harmful behaviors. It cites precedents including a New Mexico social media case and Florida’s lawsuit against OpenAI. The column also acknowledges debate over whether public nuisance is the right legal tool versus new AI-specific laws.