We’ve all probably heard the phrase, “If you build it, they will come.” Unfortunately, the city of Coeur d’Alene seems to have misinterpreted that line as “if you regulate it, they will come.” The City Council is considering new restrictions and regulations on … wait for it … robots! The driving force behind this idea seems to be city attorney Mike Gridley who says that if new regulations help “recruit more jobs to the area, then why not?” Mayor Steve Widmyer is on board as well claiming that the “timing is great for the city to pass an ordinance” regulating robots. What these gentlemen seem to be forgetting (or perhaps ignoring) is that it is freedom—not regulation—that serves to create the most fertile breeding ground for innovation/Parrish Miller, Idaho Freedom Foundation. More here. (AP file photo: robot from old "Lost in Space" TV program)

• Related: Coeur d'Alene council to discuss regulations for robots tonight/Coeur d'Alene Press