US House leaders propose five-year extension for National Quantum Initiative Act

Reps. Frank Lucas and Zoe Lofgren, who serve as the chairman and ranking member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, plan to introduce a bill that seeks to renew the National Quantum Initiative Act (NQIA) for an additional five-year period. The proposed legislation aims to prolong this support until the fiscal year 2028, with a specific focus on global competition and the expansion of quantum technology applications.

Notable aspects of the bill encompass giving priority to international research collaborations, formulating strategies to bolster cooperation and competitiveness, especially in relation to countries like China and Russia, and establishing quantum testbeds to facilitate practical research. The bill has garnered optimism from industry experts and stakeholders due to its emphasis on immediate commercial applications and the broader development of the workforce. Furthermore, the legislation formalizes the Quantum Economic Development Consortium to support workforce development and engagement with stakeholders in quantum research innovation.

Why does this matter?

This bill underscores Congress’s dedication to advancing quantum technology and leveraging its practical applications. The NQIA, originally enacted in 2018, has played a crucial role in distributing federal support for quantum computing research in the United States. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will undertake fresh research priorities, and NASA will join the list of agencies benefiting from NQIA funding for research in quantum information sciences.