Rep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23), together with Rep. Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and Rep. Bob Latta (OH-05), has introduced the National Commission on Robotics Act in Congress. The bipartisan bill aims to create a national commission to assess U.S. competitiveness in robotics and recommend policies to maintain American leadership in this sector.
The proposed legislation would require the Department of Commerce to form an independent, temporary commission made up of 18 experts in robotics and related applications. Appointments would be made by congressional leaders from both parties as well as the President. The commission’s mandate includes reviewing developments in robotics both domestically and internationally, analyzing workforce challenges, supply chain risks, manufacturing competitiveness, and considering how robotics affect economic growth and national security.
“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.”
Congresswoman McClellan added: “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. 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.”
Congressman Latta stated: “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.”
The commission would be required to deliver an interim report within one year of its creation followed by a final report within two years containing recommendations for Congress, federal agencies, and administration officials.
Industry leaders have expressed support for this initiative. Michael Robbins of AUVSI said: “The age of autonomy and advanced robotics is here, and dominance in this industry will determine who leads the next industrial revolution… That’s why America must get Robot Ready with a National Robotics Strategy—and why we strongly support Rep. Obernolte’s legislation… Together these efforts will strengthen our industrial base, secure our supply chains, and accelerate innovation…”
Brendan Schulman from Boston Dynamics commented: “Boston Dynamics applauds Congressman Obernolte…on the introduction of the National Commission on Robotics Act… The proposed establishment of a national commission is especially timely as AI dramatically accelerates capabilities… Robots will not only transform core industries…they will also redefine America’s economic and industrial future.”
A statement from A3 added: “The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) applauds the leadership of Rep. Jay Obernolte…and welcomes their introduction of legislation…Robotics and automation are essential to bringing more manufacturing back while creating better jobs for American workers.”
Rep. Jay Obernolte has represented California’s 23rd District since 2021 after serving previously in California’s State Assembly from 2014–2020; he succeeded Paul Cook as representative for this district.
The new bill reflects bipartisan intent for maintaining U.S leadership in emerging technologies while supporting job creation—Obernolte was born in Chicago in 1970; he holds a BS from California Institute of Technology.
