New York Moves to Outlaw Killer Robots: The Battle Against Weaponized AI Begins

Rise of the Machines? New York Moves to Ban Weaponized Robots

The future of robotics is here, but who controls it? That’s the high-stakes question at the heart of New York’s latest legislative battle, as state lawmakers introduce the Responsible Robotics Act—a bill aimed at stopping civilians from turning robots into lethal machines.

Picture it: A quadruped robot striding through the streets, not as a helpful assistant, but as a remote-controlled enforcer, armed with a gun, a flamethrower, or worse. It sounds like science fiction, but chilling videos circulating online have already shown modified drones and robots packing serious firepower.

The proposed law would make it illegal to sell, modify, or operate a weaponized robot, imposing hefty fines on violators. But there’s a twist—the ban does not apply to police and defense contractors, who can still deploy armed robots under certain conditions. Lawmakers argue that these restrictions are necessary to prevent the misuse of advanced robotics, but critics say the exemptions for law enforcement open the door to an unsettling future.

The controversy comes as police departments nationwide ramp up spending on robotic surveillance and enforcement technology. From New York to Los Angeles, agencies are investing millions in robotic dogs, AI-powered drones, and even reconnaissance bots designed to enter dangerous situations. In 2016, Dallas police made history by using a bomb-equipped robot to eliminate a suspect. Now, some cities are even considering arming their robots with firearms.

Is this the dawn of an era where robots patrol our streets with deadly force? Or is this bill a crucial step toward ensuring that the rise of AI and robotics doesn’t turn dystopian? As the debate rages on, one thing is clear—this is only the beginning.

source: https://www.popsci.com/technology/new-york-law-weaponizing-robots/