McClellan Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen U.S. Leadership in Robotics

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), alongside Rep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23) and Rep. Bob Latta (OH-05), introduced the National Commission on Robotics Act, bipartisan legislation to establish a national commission tasked with evaluating the United States' competitiveness in robotics and providing policy recommendations to strengthen American leadership in this critical technology sector.

The National Commission on Robotics Act would direct the Department of Commerce to establish an independent, temporary commission composed of 18 recognized experts in robotics and robotics applications. Commission members would be appointed by congressional leadership from both parties and by the President. The Commission would examine domestic and international developments in robotics, workforce and talent challenges, supply chain risks, manufacturing competitiveness, and the role of robotics in economic growth and national security.

"As our global community adapts to a constantly growing and evolving digital world, robotics will become more critically important to meet the demands of the 21st century," said Congresswoman McClellan. "The National Commission on Robotics Act helps ensure that the U.S. remains competitive on the global stage and a leader in technological development and innovation. Only by better understanding the economic impacts of robotics can we continue to work on the cutting edge of research that drastically improves and enriches people's lives."

"As robotics continue to reshape our economy, manufacturing base, and national security, it is essential that the United States remain the global leader in robotics innovation," said Congressman Obernolte. "This legislation brings together experts from industry, academia, and the public sector to help Congress develop smart, forward-looking policies that strengthen our workforce, secure our supply chains, and keep America competitive."

"The United States must lead when it comes to robotics and autonomous systems. Creating a commission to evaluate how robotics pertain to commerce, economic competitiveness, and national security will allow the U.S. to continue making important advancements in robotics. Further, evaluating how robotics can enhance workforce opportunities will spur future programs to attract and recruit leading talent in the field. I am proud to introduce the National Commission on Robotics Act with Representatives Obernolte and McClellan to strengthen U.S. competitiveness, drive innovation, and support workforce readiness as robotics technologies become more integral to our economy and everyday lives," said Congressman Bob Latta.

The Commission would submit an interim report within one year of its establishment and a final report within two years, offering actionable recommendations to Congress, the Administration, and relevant federal agencies.

"The age of autonomy and advanced robotics is here, and dominance in this industry will determine who leads the next industrial revolution," said Michael Robbins, President & CEO of AUVSI. "That's why America must get Robot Ready with a National Robotics Strategy-and why we strongly support this legislation to establish a National Robotics Commission to help drive that strategy forward. Together, these efforts will strengthen our industrial base, secure our supply chains, and accelerate innovation, ensuring the robotics industry delivers good jobs, higher productivity, enhanced safety, and lasting prosperity for the American people."

"Boston Dynamics applauds Congressman Obernolte, Congresswoman McClellan, and Congressman Latta on the introduction of the National Commission on Robotics Act, the first piece of federal legislation in support of the growth and success of the robotics industry in the United States," said Brendan Schulman, Vice President of Policy & Government Relations at Boston Dynamics. "The proposed establishment of a national commission is especially timely, as AI dramatically accelerates the capabilities of robots, and as foreign competition intensifies. Robots will not only transform core industries, help reshore critical manufacturing, and elevate job safety and efficiency - they will also redefine America's economic and industrial future."

"The Association for Advancing Automation (A3)applauds the leadership of Rep. Jay Obernolte, Rep. Jennifer McClellan, and Rep. Bob Latta and welcomes their introduction of legislation to establish a national robotics strategy. The accelerated adoption of robotics, along with enabling technologies like artificial intelligence, machine vision, and motion control, will strengthen every US industry in the future. Robotics and automation are essential to bringing more manufacturing back to the US while creating better, safer and higher paying jobs for American workers."

The National Commission on Robotics Act reflects a bipartisan commitment to ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of emerging technologies while creating jobs, strengthening domestic manufacturing, and supporting long-term economic growth.