U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) have introduced the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act. The legislation aims to support the development and application of quantum technology, which is considered important for U.S. national security and economic competitiveness.
Senator Cantwell stated, “From scientific breakthroughs in healthcare to clean energy solutions, quantum technology is a game-changer and federal investment is vital to accelerating the transition from basic science to quantum innovation and practical applications. The State of Washington, with its vibrant tech industry, national lab partnerships and a growing pipeline of quantum engineers and technicians, is poised to become ‘Quantum Valley.’ By investing in workforce development, promoting international cooperation with trusted allies and supporting resilient domestic supply chains, the National Quantum Initiative will position the United States to drive innovation, benefit from economic growth and create high-skilled jobs.”
Senator Young commented, “We need to ensure the United States has the talent and research capabilities required to lead the global tech competition and outcompete China. Quantum technologies promise to dramatically transform every industry and sector of our economy and revolutionize our technological capabilities. The National Quantum Initiative strengthens the research and development investments and builds a strong workforce which plays a critical role in safeguarding America’s economic and national security. This legislation, which reauthorizes the NQI, is critical to ensuring American leadership in quantum technology.”
Senator Durbin added, “In Illinois, we know that quantum computing is the future. If we hope to push this field forward, we must invest in our quantum research centers and offer scientists the resources to advance computing, security, and connectivity. I’m joining my colleagues in support of the bipartisan National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act to ensure that we continue leading the quantum revolution.”
Senator Daines said, “I’m proud to introduce the NQIA with Senator Todd Young. In the past several years, Montana has become a leader in quantum and photonics research. The industry supports our economy and provides hundreds of Montana jobs. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to ensure critical research programs continue so the U.S. remains at the forefront of cutting-edge technology.”
Senator Luján noted, “Ensuring the U.S. is at the forefront of quantum research and development is crucial for national security and technological advancements. To strengthen U.S. leadership in quantum technology, I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act to boost quantum innovation nationwide. New Mexico is a leader in U.S. quantum research, and this legislation will help drive innovation in our state.”
Senator Blackburn stated: “I’ve worked for years to reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative, and I’m pleased to join my colleagues in introducing a bill that will ensure America will dominate the global quantum race. Tennessee will play a critical role in ensuring we do not fall behind adversaries like Communist China. The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act would reauthorize quantum programs to advance innovative quantum research, protect our national security, and advance President Trump’s goal of American quantum supremacy.”
According to Senator Baldwin: “Wisconsin has always been an engine for innovation – and I’m committed to ensuring that our state stays on the forefront of the up-and-coming industries that will create jobs and economic growth for the future. I’m proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to support the cutting-edge work in quantum computing being done at Wisconsin’s research universities and ensure our nation remains competitive on the global stage for the next generation.”
Senator Budd remarked: “Maintaining America’s leadership in technological innovation is non-negotiable for our national defense and economic growth. Quantum computing has transformative potential in finance, healthcare, secure communications, and other fields. We must continue to strategically invest in quantum research and development to ensure continued American security and prosperity well into the future.”
Senator Schumer said: “Quantum technology is critical to national security and new jobs and innovation, which is why I have long fought to invest in the R&D, workforce, and supply chains required to maintain American leadership in this critical technology. This legislation will provide necessary sustained federal investment so that the quantum industry is made in America not China.”
Senator Rounds stated: “Alongside artificial intelligence, quantum technology has potential as one of most consequential technologies of this generation,” adding that President Trump identified dominance as key for American leadership.
The original National Quantum Initiative was enacted in 2018; since then it has supported startups across various areas such as computing or sensing while helping train new engineers through coordinated public-private investment.
The proposed legislation would extend authorization by five years through December 2034; expand coverage beyond basic research; authorize NASA involvement; establish up three new NIST centers; create five NSF multidisciplinary centers plus testbeds; develop an international cooperation strategy; direct plans on supply chain resilience; initiate prize challenges; expand education infrastructure.
Industry leaders expressed support:
Paul Stimers from Quantum Industry Coalition said: "The Quantum Industry Coalition applauds Senator Young and Senator Cantwell for introducing...This vital legislation will help advance U.S. leadership..."
Celia Merzbacher from QED-C commented: "The NQI is a critical component...The NQI Reauthorization will further grow...QED-C is excited..."
Arvind Krishna from IBM stated: "Quantum computing is accelerating rapidly...Reauthorizing NQI essential...urge Congress pass measure..."
Fred Humphries from Microsoft remarked: "Microsoft supports...as vital step maintaining U.S....plays crucial role driving innovation..."
Hartmut Neven from Google said: "Google thanks Senators Young & Cantwell...Since 2018 Initiative secured U.S....proud partner..."
Niccolo de Masi from IonQ added: "IonQ thanks Senator Young & Cantwell...quantum technologies transform world economy..."
Matt Kinsella from Infleqtion said: "Infleqtion applauds Senators Cantwell & Young...will accelerate deployable capabilities..."
John Levy from SEEQC remarked: "...Congress should reaffirm commitment strategic industry...strongly supports bipartisan leadership..."
Nick Farina from EeroQ commented: "...pleased support bipartisan reauthorization recognizes small business power innovation needed..."
Barbara Snyder from Association of American Universities stated: "...applaud Senators Young & Cantwell advancing...help ensure universities remain strong contributors..."
Dr Kai-Mei Fu at University Washington added: "...investment empowers us train next generation researchers strengthens ability innovate..."
According to its official website, The Senate Commerce Science & Transportation Committee acts as standing committee overseeing relevant policy including science issues like those addressed by this bill.
Sens Cantwell Young Durbin Daines previously introduced similar legislation S 5411 December 2024 following original five-year authorization signed December 2018.
For more information about legislative activities related commerce science transportation see the committee's official site.
