San Mateo County Moves to Regulate Commercial Humanoid Robots

The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution on August 11 to regulate the commercial use of untethered autonomous or semi-autonomous humanoid robots in retail stores and restaurants. Sponsored by Supervisor Ray Mueller, the resolution directs county staff to draft an ordinance that establishes a comprehensive permitting process for mobile humanoid robots.

Proposed regulations require businesses to provide onsite human supervision, ensure manufacturers have clean safety records, and install accessible emergency kill switches. The resolution also suggests implementing an annual fee for businesses to fund specialized HazMat and fire equipment. This funding would help first responders manage risks associated with lithium-ion battery thermal runaway.

The legislative move follows the launch of pilot programs by companies such as Tau Robotics and the operation of other non-humanoid robotic services in the region. During the process, labor representatives raised concerns regarding the transition; Rich Seguine of Local 2400 advocated for the specialized fire equipment, while Julie Lindsey of the San Mateo Labor Council urged the county to consider potential job losses resulting from robot deployment.