- Lawmakers allege Musk misled on Neuralink monkey deaths.
- They urge SEC to probe if he committed fraud regarding brain chip safety.
- Controversy grows over animal testing as human trials near.
Elon Musk is facing pressure from Congress over controversial animal testing at his brain-chip startup Neuralink.
Four House representatives wrote the SEC urging an investigation into whether Musk committed securities fraud regarding Neuralink’s implants in monkeys.
Allegations from Lawmakers
The lawmakers allege the billionaire misled investors when stating this September that “no monkey has died as a result of a Neuralink implant.”
Reports emerged shortly after of over a dozen test monkeys euthanized following symptoms like brain swelling post-implant. One non-profit group previously requested an SEC probe of Musk’s claims.
Upcoming Aims from Neuralink
Neuralink aims to develop a brain interface to help paralyzed patients move and safeguard humanity from artificial intelligence. In May, the company gained FDA approval for human trials set to begin next year.
Thousands have already signed up to receive the implant promoted by Musk.
But Neuralink’s animal testing has sparked backlash. Critics say Musk misrepresented the safety record and health impacts of an implant now slated for human implantation pending federal oversight.
The congressmembers’ referral asks if Musk knowingly obscured evidence of Monica’s death involving Neuralink experiments in statements to investors and consumers.
The letter marks rising pressure from lawmakers over Musk’s handling of the innovative but controversial medical device company.
