San Mateo County Advances Worker Protections for Autonomous Robots
Covered businesses must choose among three remedies for workers displaced by autonomous robots.
- By Danielle Naidu
- Sep 16, 2026
A 4-0 vote by the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors advanced permitting requirements addressing worker displacement and safety hazards associated with autonomous robots.
The ordinance would apply to businesses using covered robots in unincorporated San Mateo County. Qualifying machines use cameras or sensors, operate at least partly without human control in areas accessible to workers or the public and rely on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Businesses seeking permits would have to submit an economic impact assessment and workforce mitigation plan. For displaced workers, employers would have to offer redeployment at equal or greater pay, provide 60 days' notice plus severance or pay a County Automation Impact Fee into a workforce retraining fund.
Permit applicants would also have to disclose the robot's manufacturer, safety record and recalls. Businesses would have to demonstrate compliance with applicable battery safety, accessibility, privacy and food safety requirements.
The ordinance addresses the risk of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, which can cause fires that reignite and release toxic gases. Businesses would pay a fee to support specialized equipment, inspections and first-responder training.
The measure is scheduled to return to the Board of Supervisors for final adoption. If adopted, it would take effect 30 days later.
About the Author
Danielle Naidu is assistant editor for Security Today, Campus Security Today, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.