UPIs NanoWorld update takes a look at regulation. Theres some interesting snippets in there, mixed with the usual misconceptions (any article alleging that Eric Drexler coined the word nanotechnology’ will always have skimped on the research). For instance, the Drexlerians do not have a monopoly on planning for the life changing effects of nanotechnology any more than they hold exclusive rights to passing off theories as fact, neither is the divide over approaches to nanotechnology regulation related to whether you believe in nanobots or not.
More intriguing is the fact that the President’s Export Council’s Subcommittee on Export Administration is launching a study on the need for nanotech export controls. Whether they decide to impose restrictions on nanobots or nanotubes will be interesting, though most materials are already being also produced outside the USA. More likely will be a document attached to your nanotubes similar to the Export Compliance Agreement that Dell already force on their customers, agreeing that the machine will not be exported to a variety of axis of evil type countries, or used in the production of nuclear weapons.