HB1504

This bill creates the new criminal offense of manufacturing, modifying, selling, transferring, or operating a robotic device or uncrewed aircraft equipped with a weapon. It defines key terms such as robotic device, uncrewed aircraft, and weapon, which includes items like firearms, explosives, and flamethrowers. The bill establishes fines ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 for violations and mandates that anyone using these devices to commit another offense is held criminally liable as if they personally committed the act. Exemptions are provided for defense industrial companies with federal contracts, authorized robot competitions, and the entertainment industry. Furthermore, it explicitly exempts law enforcement, bomb squads, and government entities when acting in the public performance of their duties. Finally, the bill creates a civil cause of action allowing individuals injured by violations of the law to sue for damages, attorney's fees, and court costs.