House Committee on Science, Space and Technology Looks to Promote Quantum Science through New Legislation

The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology is hoping to introduce a new bill next month to strengthen U.S. quantum information science and technology development. Actions listed in the legislation in support of this include the creation of a 10-year National Quantum Initiative, and supporting initiatives such as the creation of new quantum research and development (R&D) centers, at the Department of Energy (DOE), National Science Foundation (NSF), and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

The U.S. is at a pivotal point whereby its position as a global leader in science and technology is no longer guaranteed. As countries such as China continue to increase their federal investment in R&D, the U.S. needs to stay on pace or it will fall behind.

At a House Science Committee hearing on American Leadership in Quantum Technology last October, Chairman Lamar Smith remarked, “Although the United States retains global leadership in the theoretical physics that underpins quantum computing and related technologies, we may be slipping behind others in developing the quantum applications—programming know-how, development of national security and commercial applications.”

Currently, one of the most pressing challenges to the success of the bill is ensuring it receives sufficient funding. Funding needs to be approved by Congress through separate appropriations legislation.

For more information on DOE quantum science initiatives, click here: https://science.energy.gov/~/media/grants/pdf/lab-announcements/2018/LAB_18-1910.pdf

For more information on NSF quantum science initiatives, click here: https://nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=244648&org=NSF&from=news

For more information on NIST quantum science initiatives, click here: https://www.nist.gov/topics/quantum-information-science