The bill amends Chapter 140 of the General Laws by adding a new section, 131Z, which establishes regulations regarding the use of robotic devices equipped with weapons. It makes it unlawful for any individual to manufacture, sell, or operate such devices, imposing severe penalties for violations, including mandatory prison sentences ranging from 2 to 15 years for repeat offenders. The bill also prohibits the use of robotic devices to threaten, harass, or physically restrain individuals, with corresponding penalties for these offenses. Notably, the legislation outlines specific exemptions for the U.S. Department of Defense, certain defense industrial companies, and law enforcement agencies under defined circumstances.

Additionally, the bill mandates that law enforcement agencies obtain a warrant before deploying robotic devices for surveillance or on private property, ensuring judicial oversight. It allows individuals to file civil actions for damages resulting from violations of this section and requires law enforcement to document and publicly report their use of robotic devices quarterly. The executive office of public safety is tasked with overseeing these reports and the attorney general is responsible for establishing regulations related to waivers for specific uses of robotic devices.