Bill > H4637

This bill proposes new regulations for robotic devices, specifically focusing on preventing their weaponization and misuse. The legislation defines a "robotic device" as a machine capable of remote operation or autonomous movement, such as an uncrewed aerial vehicle, and establishes strict criminal penalties for manufacturing, modifying, selling, transferring, possessing, or operating a robotic device equipped with a weapon. Violations can result in state prison sentences ranging from 2.5 to 5 years for first-time offenses, with increasingly severe penalties for repeat offenses. The bill also prohibits using robotic devices to threaten crimes, harass individuals, or physically restrain people, with potential fines and imprisonment. Notably, the legislation provides exemptions for the Department of Defense, Massachusetts National Guard, and defense industrial companies under specific conditions. Law enforcement agencies are permitted to use weaponized robotic devices in limited circumstances, such as disposing of explosives or preventing imminent threats to life. The bill requires law enforcement to obtain warrants for deploying robotic devices on private property or for surveillance, mandates quarterly public reporting of robotic device usage, and allows individuals to bring civil actions for damages resulting from violations. The attorney general and the secretary of public safety are tasked with developing specific regulations to implement these provisions.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on the Judiciary (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4637