Senators Push Bill Blocking Federal Agencies from Using Chinese-Made Robots

Bipartisan senators plan to introduce legislation preventing federal agencies from purchasing or operating humanoid robots manufactured by Chinese companies. The proposed American Security Robotics Act cites national security concerns over potential data collection and remote control capabilities.

A bipartisan pair of senators announced Thursday their intention to propose legislation that would prevent federal agencies from purchasing or operating humanoid robots manufactured by Chinese companies.

Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, who holds the third-highest Republican leadership position in the Senate, and New York Senator Chuck Schumer, the chamber’s top Democrat, are set to present the American Security Robotics Act. The proposed legislation would prevent federal agencies from acquiring or utilizing unmanned ground vehicles produced by adversarial nations like China and would block federal funding for such robotic systems.

The proposed legislation emerges as Chinese manufacturers compete against American companies like Tesla in developing humanoid robots capable of performing various tasks, from hazardous industrial operations to domestic duties. Two Chinese companies, Agibot and Unitree, are reportedly preparing for public stock offerings in China this year as their robotic products gain market traction.

The senators expressed concerns Thursday that these robotic systems pose national security threats due to their potential for collecting information to transmit to China or being operated remotely from Chinese locations. Congressional members previously requested that the Pentagon include Unitree on its list of companies collaborating with China’s military forces.

“Robots made by Communist China threaten Arkansans’ privacy and our national security,” Cotton stated.

Schumer explained that Chinese companies backed by the Chinese Communist Party “are running their standard playbook – this time in robotics – trying to flood the U.S. market with their technology, which presents real security risks and threats to Americans’ privacy and American research and industry.”

The proposed legislation would include exceptions allowing military and law enforcement agencies to study Chinese robotic technology, provided the devices cannot send or receive information from China.

Representative Elise Stefanik, a Republican from New York, planned to announce companion legislation in the House of Representatives on Thursday.

“We must continue to promote and propel America’s robotics superiority while safeguarding our privacy and national security from adversaries,” Stefanik stated.