HB1504
To Create The Offense Of Manufacturing, Modifying, Selling, Transferring, Or Operating A Robotic Device Or An Uncrewed Aircraft That Is Equipped Or Mounted With A Weapon.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill proposes to create a new chapter in Arkansas law, Chapter 80 of Title 5, which would define and criminalize certain actions related to robotic devices and uncrewed aircraft equipped with weapons. It establishes definitions for "robot competition," "robotic device," "uncrewed aircraft," and "weapon." The bill makes it unlawful to knowingly manufacture, modify, sell, transfer, or operate a robotic device or uncrewed aircraft that is equipped with a weapon. It also prohibits knowingly modifying a robotic device's programming to harm human beings or property. Violations are classified as misdemeanors with fines ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. The bill specifies that individuals using or directing such devices to commit other offenses will be held criminally liable for those offenses. Governmental entities are explicitly excluded from the regulations regarding procurement and operation of these devices. The bill outlines exceptions for defense industrial companies, those testing anti-weaponization technologies with waivers, participants in robot competitions under specific conditions, and individuals using blank-firing weapons as props. It also exempts government employees, law enforcement, and accredited bomb squads acting in the public performance of their duties for specific purposes like disposing of explosives or destroying property in life-threatening situations. Additionally, the bill allows for civil actions against those violating these provisions, potentially awarding damages and attorney's fees, but provides protections for law enforcement and bomb squad members acting in good faith.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
['The general public and property owners could benefit from increased safety and security due to the criminalization of weaponized robotic devices and uncrewed aircraft. Law enforcement agencies and bomb squads are beneficiaries as they are explicitly exempted and can continue to utilize such technology for public safety purposes like bomb disposal or critical threat situations. Companies involved in defense contracting or those developing anti-weaponization technologies may also benefit from specific exemptions and the possibility of obtaining waivers, allowing them to continue operations under certain conditions. Furthermore, participants in supervised robot competitions, where specific safety precautions are in place, are protected from these prohibitions.', 'Governmental entities are generally excluded from the regulations proposed by this bill, allowing them to continue their operations involving robotic devices and uncrewed aircraft without being subject to the new prohibitions or penalties. Specifically, individuals employed by federal, state, county, or municipal law enforcement agencies, or accredited bomb squads, are permitted to operate these devices when acting within the scope of their official duties for purposes such as explosives disposal, training, or destroying property to prevent imminent death.']
Who Might Suffer?
['Individuals or entities that manufacture, modify, sell, transfer, or operate robotic devices or uncrewed aircraft equipped with weapons, and are not covered by the specified exceptions, would be negatively impacted. This includes potential manufacturers, sellers, and operators who do not fall under the defense industry, waiver provisions, robot competition rules, or governmental exemptions. They would face criminal penalties, including significant fines, and could be held liable for any harm caused by the unlawful use of such devices. Individuals who modify the programming of robotic devices with the intent to harm property or people would also be subject to these penalties.', "While specific exemptions exist, entities or individuals seeking to develop or utilize advanced robotic or drone technology for commercial or experimental purposes that involve weaponization, or even in scenarios not explicitly covered by the exceptions, might face significant hurdles or be deterred by the potential legal ramifications and penalties. The broad definition of 'weapon' and the strict liability provisions could create uncertainty and risk for those pushing the boundaries of robotic and uncrewed aircraft applications outside of the explicitly defined safe harbors."]