Massachusetts could become the first state in the United States to outlaw the weaponization of robots. A bill has been filed by Representative Lindsay Sabadosa and Senator Michael Moore that seeks to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and operation of robotic devices or drones armed with weapons. Additionally, the bill aims to prevent robots from threatening or harassing individuals.

Under the proposed legislation, police would be required to obtain a warrant before deploying a robot to someone’s residence. Violating this rule could result in a fine of up to $25,000. The bill also sets a precedent for responsible robotics regulation, with Senator Moore expressing hope that it can serve as a model for other states.

The initiative to ban weaponizing robots has received support from various organizations, including Boston Dynamics. According to Vice President of Policy & Government Relations Brendan Schulman, weaponizing general purpose robots without proper oversight jeopardizes public trust and acceptance of this emerging technology.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) also strongly supports the bill, highlighting the potential threat that weaponized robots pose to safety and basic rights. ACLU of Massachusetts Technology for Liberty Program Director Kade Crockford emphasizes the importance of preventing these dystopian visions from becoming a reality and ensuring that weaponized robots remain confined to the realm of fiction.

By taking proactive measures to regulate the use of robots and drones, Massachusetts aims to strike a balance between technological advancement and public safety. The legislation is an important step toward establishing safeguards and ethical guidelines for the future deployment of robots in society.

Sources:
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