WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced the Quantum Leadership in Emerging Applications and Policy (LEAP) Act which will ensure the United States remains the world leader in quantum by establishing a legislative commission to tackle the issues facing American ingenuity:

“The United States cannot afford to fall behind to adversaries like Communist China when it comes to quantum information science and technology as global competition accelerates,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Quantum LEAP Act would establish a much-needed, expert-driven commission to equip Congress with the insights necessary to protect our national interests by keeping the United States the world leader in quantum technology. We can’t let the Chinese Communist Party take the lead.”

“I am proud to introduce bipartisan legislation to help ensure the U.S. stays competitive in quantum science and engineering, which is crucial for national security and technological advancements,” said Senator Luján. “This legislation would create a commission to analyze and offer policy recommendations on emerging quantum sciences and technologies to Congress. New Mexico is a leader in U.S. quantum research, and this legislation will help drive innovation and economic growth in our state.”

BACKGROUND

• Quantum information science and technology represent a technological frontier that has the potential to revolutionize computing, cybersecurity, materials science, and communications.

• U.S. leadership in quantum is more important than ever as global competition accelerates from adversaries like China. 

• The U.S. faces numerous challenges to win the quantum race, including fragmented efforts across agencies, a lack of cohesive policy direction, underdeveloped commercial pathways, and a shortage of skilled workforce. 

• Earlier this year, Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) recognized Senator Blackburn for her leadership on advancing a reauthorization of quantum computing research programs to drive innovation, protect the nation, and create new industries.

QUANTUM LEAP ACT

• The Quantum LEAP Act would:

• Establish a bipartisan legislative commission composed of 12 members, including both Congressional and private sector experts;

• Require an evaluation of quantum information science development needs across national security, economic competitiveness, supply chains, public-private partnerships, workforce development, and commercialization;

• Require collaboration with federal agencies such as the Departments of Commerce, Energy, Defense, National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Science Foundation, and the National Quantum Coordination Office; and

• Mandate a report to Congress within two years on legislative recommendations.

ENDORSEMENTS

This legislation is supported by EPB of Chattanooga, Quantinuum, IBM Quantum, the Quantum Industry Coalition, D-Wave, and the Hudson Institute Quantum Alliance Initiative.

“EPB of Chattanooga strongly supports the creation of the Commission on American Quantum Information Science. In a city that’s already laying the groundwork for the emergence of the quantum industry by utilizing our fiber optic infrastructure to support collaborative efforts to commercialize quantum technology, we see this Commission as a vital step in aligning national policy with the rapid pace of technological development. A legislative voice will complement the work of the Quantum Advisory Council and help ensure that communities like ours will have a seat at the table as the U.S. charts its quantum future,” said David Wade, CEO of EPB of Chattanooga.

“Quantinuum strongly supports the bipartisan Quantum LEAP Act. This landmark legislation affirms the strategic importance of quantum technologies to our national and economic security. We commend Senators Blackburn and Luján for their leadership in establishing a Commission that will unite experts across sectors to ensure U.S. leadership in this critical frontier,” said Dr. Rajeeb Hazra, President & CEO of Quantinuum.

"The Commission on American Quantum Information Science will give Congress expert, nonpartisan guidance on this critical technology. Complementing the Executive Branch’s advisory efforts will strengthen our national approach to quantum innovation, workforce development, and international collaboration, ensuring U.S. leadership and security while developing quantum technology. We commend Senators Blackburn and Luján for their leadership in introducing this important legislation,” said Jay Gambetta, Vice President of IBM Quantum.

“Quantum information science has profound potential for the national security and economy of the United States and requires a strategic approach.  The Quantum Industry Coalition commends Sen. Blackburn and Sen. Lujan for addressing this issue and looks forward to working with them to advance this important legislation this year,” said Paul Stimers, Executive Director of the Quantum Industry Coalition.

RELATED

• Blackburn Introduces Bills to Strengthen Quantum Development, Manufacturing, and Defense Applications

Click here for bill text.