Humanoid Robotics Oversight and Blocking of Obtainment from Totalitarians Act of 2025; Humanoid ROBOT Act of 2025
Summary
The Humanoid Robotics Oversight and Blocking of Obtainment from Totalitarians Act of 2025, also known as the Humanoid ROBOT Act of 2025, aims to mitigate national security risks associated with humanoid robots produced in countries of concern. It restricts government procurement and contractor use of humanoid robots designed, tested, developed, or manufactured by covered entities, which include governments, political parties, and entities connected to countries of concern. The Act also mandates reviews by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) of investments in humanoid robot technologies.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to increased scrutiny of foreign investments in US humanoid robotics companies. It will also force government agencies and contractors to seek alternative sources for humanoid robots, potentially impacting project costs and timelines. The Secretary of Defense can waive prohibitions for national security or research purposes.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security by limiting access to advanced technology by potential adversaries.
- Protection of intellectual property and proprietary information of United States persons.
- Increased awareness of the potential threats posed by humanoid robots.
- Potential for growth in the domestic robotics industry as companies seek to fill the demand created by the restrictions.
- Safeguarding of data and privacy of US citizens from foreign governments.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs for government projects due to the need to source humanoid robots from more expensive or less advanced suppliers.
- Possible delays in government projects if suitable alternatives cannot be found quickly.
- Risk of hindering research and development if access to certain technologies is restricted.
- Potential for retaliatory measures from countries of concern, impacting international relations.
- Limited scope, as it focuses solely on humanoid robots and not other types of advanced technology.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution's broad goals of providing for the common defense (Preamble) and regulating commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). The restrictions on government contracting and foreign investment are within the powers granted to Congress. The Act does not appear to infringe on individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).