Assembly Resolution No. 1261

BY: M. of A. Schiavoni

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
April 4-12, 2026, as Robotics Week in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
promote educational initiatives that inspire innovation, strengthen
workforce development, and prepare students across New York State for
the challenges of a rapidly evolving technological economy; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 4-12, 2026, as
Robotics Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of National Robotics Week; and

WHEREAS, Robotics and engineering education play a critical role in
fostering skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
(STEM), equipping students with the knowledge and problem-solving
abilities necessary to succeed in the 21st century; and

WHEREAS, Robotics competitions held throughout the nation, including
those organized by FIRST Robotics, provide invaluable hands-on learning
experiences that encourage teamwork, creativity, and technical
proficiency among students in grades K-12; and

WHEREAS, During the week of April 4-12, 2026, the FIRST Robotics
Championship will convene hundreds of school districts from across the
United States, including many from the State of New York, showcasing the
talent, dedication, and innovation of young engineers; and

WHEREAS, National Robotics Week serves as an important model,
recognizing robotic technology as a pillar of American innovation,
highlighting its growing importance across a wide variety of
applications, and emphasizing its ability to inspire technology
education and workforce development; and

WHEREAS, Robotics has proven uniquely effective in enabling students
of all ages to learn essential STEM concepts while inspiring them to
pursue careers in science and engineering fields; and

WHEREAS, Robotics Week promotes robotics education in K-12 schools,
hosting competitions and demonstrations across the state, and increasing
public awareness of the transformative power of robotics and
engineering; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, such a week provides opportunities for
students, educators, industry leaders, and communities, regardless of
educational background, to engage with emerging technologies, explore
real-world applications, and better understand the role robotics plays
in driving innovation, economic growth, and technological advancement;
and

WHEREAS, Recognizing Robotics Week in New York State reaffirms this
great State's commitment to fostering a skilled workforce, supporting
educational excellence, and maintaining its leadership in technological
innovation; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 4-12, 2026, as
Robotics Week in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.