AB 2681: Weapons: robotic devices.

Existing law makes it a crime to possess a destructive device. Existing law makes it a felony to possess material with the intent to make a destructive device or explosive without obtaining a permit to do so.

This bill would prohibit a person from manufacturing, modifying, selling, transferring, or operating a robotic device, as defined, that is equipped or mounted with a weapon, as specified. The bill would make a violation punishable by a fine of at least $100 but not more than $2,000. The bill would exclude certain entities from these provisions, including, among other entities, a defense industrial company, as defined, with respect to robotic devices that are within the scope of a contract the company has or is seeking with the United States Department of Defense, or a person building a robot for participation in a bonafide robot competition, as described. By creating a new infraction, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.