H 4637
An Act relative to civil rights and technology
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Bill overview
This bill, titled ‘An Act relative to civil rights and technology,’ addresses the use of robotic devices, particularly those equipped with weapons, and establishes guidelines for law enforcement and other entities. It defines key terms like ‘robotic device’ and ‘weapon,’ prohibits the manufacture, sale, or operation of weaponized robots, and outlines restrictions on their use by law enforcement. The bill also requires transparency regarding robotic device usage by law enforcement agencies and establishes a process for obtaining legal authorization for their deployment.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘robotic device’ and ‘weapon’ for legal purposes.
- Prohibits the manufacture, sale, transfer, possession, and operation of robotic devices equipped with weapons.
- Restricts the use of robotic devices to threaten, harass, or restrain individuals.
- Exempts certain entities, including the Department of Defense and defense industrial companies under specific conditions.
- Requires law enforcement to obtain warrants before deploying robotic devices on private property or conducting surveillance.
- Mandates quarterly reporting by law enforcement agencies on robotic device usage to the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
- Allows individuals to file civil lawsuits for violations of the bill.
- Authorizes the promulgation of rules and regulations by the Secretary of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
Who is affected
- Law enforcement agencies
- Manufacturers and sellers of robotic devices
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Cosponsors
Lindsay N. Sabadosa
Michael J. Finn
Patricia A. Duffy
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Bill H.4637 194th (Current)
An Act relative to civil rights and technology
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Sponsor: Joint Committee on the Judiciary Status: Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means
Tabs
Bill History Cosponsors Committee Vote Committee Summary
Bill History
Displaying 3 actions for Bill H.4637
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 10/23/2025 | House | Reported from the committee on The Judiciary |
| 10/23/2025 | House | New draft of H1688 and H1978 |
| 10/23/2025 | House | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means |
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