San Mateo County passes robot permit rule, requiring companies to submit plans for workers affected by automation

San Mateo County in California has passed a robot permit system. It sets rules for companies using robots controlled by autonomous AI. The rule was proposed by County Supervisor Ray Mueller. It focuses on public safety risks like lithium battery fires and the impact on workers when robots replace human jobs.

Under the rule, companies must get a permit before using robots in places where people can enter. The robots must have some autonomous ability, cameras or sensors, and lithium battery power. Companies must share safety and maker information, plus an economic impact review and a plan to reduce harm to workers.

For workers who lose jobs to robots, companies must choose one of three options: offer another job with pay no lower than before; give 60 days notice and severance pay; or pay a new "county automation impact fee" into a worker retraining fund. The fee helps people who lost jobs to automation get new skills and find work.

The rule still needs final approval and takes effect 30 days after that.