National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization

Summary#

This bill would reauthorize and update the National Quantum Initiative Act. It expands the law's language to include quantum engineering and technology, updates definitions, and extends Federal coordination of quantum research. The bill directs agencies (including NIST, NSF, DOE, and NASA) to create centers, testbeds, workforce programs, and international cooperation plans. It requires studies and plans on quantum supply chains, promotes standards and post-quantum cryptography work, authorizes prize challenges, and adds rules for research security. The bill sets a sunset for the National Quantum Initiative authorities on December 30, 2034 and orders the National Nanotechnology Program to terminate 180 days after enactment.

What it means for you#

  • Students and educators: The bill authorizes traineeships, fellowships, scholarships, teacher research experiences, and programs to add quantum content to K–12 and higher education curricula.
  • Universities and researchers: The bill creates competitive grants for new or expanded multidisciplinary centers, testbeds, and research infrastructure and calls for upgraded access to equipment and resources.
  • Industry, startups, and small businesses: The bill encourages public–private partnerships, participation in consortia and testbeds, prize competitions, and coordination to strengthen domestic supply chains.
  • Federal agencies and labs: The bill expands coordination through a National Quantum Coordination Office, subcommittees, and an advisory committee; it asks agencies to identify quantum use cases and avoid duplication.
  • General public: The bill requires plans and reports on supply chains, international cooperation, standards, and research security; it does not itself create immediate changes to individual services or benefits.

Expenses#

  • National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST): Authorizes $85,000,000 per fiscal year for each of 2026 through 2030 to carry out specified NIST activities (section 201), subject to appropriations and certain derivation rules.
  • NIST Quantum Centers: Directs allocation of up to $18,000,000 per center for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030, for centers established under the bill, subject to appropriations.
  • NASA: Directs allocation of up to $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030 for NASA quantum activities, subject to appropriations.
  • Other costs and total program funding: No publicly available information in the bill text on total cost estimates or specific authorization amounts for NSF, DOE, or other program elements beyond the amounts noted above.

Proponents' View#

The bill states its purposes include expanding the number of researchers, educators, and students trained in quantum fields; developing and retaining talent consistent with national security; facilitating development of quantum applications; promoting innovation; supporting related emerging technologies; strengthening and securing the quantum supply chain; improving the maturity and scale of the domestic quantum industry; and coordinating international cooperation and standards.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.