Experts support Massachusetts bill to ban weaponized robots

Massachusetts is considering legislation, S.1208, titled the “Act to ensure the responsible use of advanced robotic technologies,” aimed at regulating the ethical and safe use of robots statewide. Robotics experts, including representatives from MassRobotics, Boston Dynamics, and the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International, testified in support of the bill. The legislation would prohibit modifying, selling, or operating robots equipped with weapons and forbid using robots to threaten, restrain, or harass individuals. Exceptions are made for the U.S. Department of Defense, the Massachusetts National Guard, defense contractors under DOD contracts, and law enforcement under specific conditions such as bomb disposal or with judicial warrants for use on private property. The bill reflects growing concerns over the misuse of robotic technology, highlighted by incidents of weaponized robots appearing online. Boston Dynamics and other robotics companies have previously pledged not to weaponize their robots, underscoring industry support for ethical standards. The legislation also emphasizes the need for warrants when law enforcement uses