House bill would restrict China-linked robots in Defense Department operations

What happened

Rep. Sheri Biggs introduced the Stop Beijing’s Bots Act on October 22, 2026. The House referred H.R. 10860 to its Armed Services Committee; the official action history shows no passage or enactment.

What the bill proposes

If enacted, the bill would bar the Defense Department from new or renewed contracts for covered robotic systems after one year, restrict their operation in sensitive environments after two years, and phase out federal spending on their lease or operation. It defines covered systems to include specified China-produced quadrupeds and unmanned ground vehicles, certain LiDAR products, and other systems the Defense Secretary identifies under the bill's criteria.

These are proposed restrictions, not current law. The bill includes case-by-case, time-limited waiver authority with conditions and notice to congressional defense committees. Its deadlines would run from enactment, if Congress passes it and it is signed.

Verified October 27, 2026. This is a RobotMe summary of the official record; it is not legal advice.