San Mateo County Passes Robot Licensing Ordinance Requiring Worker Protections

San Mateo County's Board of Supervisors on September 18 passed a robot licensing ordinance that creates a regulatory framework for businesses using autonomous AI-controlled robots. Proposed by county supervisor Ray Mueller, the measure is described as a first-of-its-kind rule addressing both public safety risks such as lithium-ion battery fires and the workforce impact of robots replacing human workers.

Under the ordinance, businesses that operate robots in spaces accessible to humans—where the robots have autonomous capabilities, cameras or sensors, and are powered by rechargeable lithium batteries—would need to obtain a permit. Applicants must disclose safety and manufacturer information, and submit an economic impact assessment and a workforce impact mitigation plan.

For employees displaced by robots, employers must choose one of three options: offer another position with pay equal to the original role; provide 60 days' notice and severance pay; or pay a new county "automation impact fee" into a fund that supports retraining for workers displaced by automation, helping them learn new skills and find new jobs.

The county said the ordinance still needs final approval and will take effect 30 days after it is formally passed.