robot ( \rō-bät) noun - 1: a machine that looks like a human being and performs various complex acts (as walking or talking) of a human being; also : a similar but fictional machine whose lack of capacity for human emotions is often emphasized; 2: a device that automatically performs complicated often repetitive tasks; 3: a mechanism guided by automatic controls; 4: a creation limited only by your imagination.

The Advisory Committee's Goals

• Increase general awareness of challenges and issues among Members of Congress and policy analysts;

• Educate Members of Congress and congressional staff on current & future research and development, and utilization initiatives

• Serve as a forum where robotics-related policy issues can be exchanged, debated and discussed by members of Congress;

• Ensure that our nation remains globally competitive as the robotics industry expands and further affects the way we live our lives.

Robots go where it's dirty, dull, or dangerous. They reduce exposure to toxins and perform jobs nobody should, as in pipeline inspections. Robots increase accuracy and reliability on assembly lines and improve speed, producing cheaper mass-produced goods. They reduce risk to the military and First Responders, and go where humans can't.

If you would like more information about the advisory committee, please contact Erica Wissolik at (202) 530-8437, or Debbie Tekavec at (202) 547 8515.

Last Updated: 04 April 2013