Massachusetts has proposed banning the arming of robots

Associated Press

Two Massachusetts senators have introduced a bill to ban the manufacture, sale and use of armed robots, including by law enforcement.

Here's What We Know

According to supporters of the ban, including Boston Dynamics and human rights activists, it is necessary to maintain public confidence in the use of robotics by police.

According to the document, law enforcement must obtain a warrant to launch a robot on private property. Violators of the rules could face fines ranging from $5,000 to $25,000.

If passed, the ban will only apply in Massachusetts, where many manufacturers, including Boston Dynamics and iRobot, are based.

Boston Dynamics has previously repeatedly opposed arming its Spot robots and even signed a public pledge not to do so.

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Source: Gizmodo