On December 21, 2018, the United States solidified its commitment to quantum technology advancement by enacting the H.R.6227 – National Quantum Initiative Act. Passed with near-unanimous support from both houses of Congress, this landmark legislation outlines a comprehensive 10-year plan aimed at maintaining and enhancing U.S. leadership in quantum technologies.
Key Provisions of the National Quantum Initiative Act:
- Establishment of the National Quantum Coordination Office: Located within the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, this office is tasked with overseeing interagency coordination, providing strategic planning support, serving as a central point for stakeholder contact, promoting outreach, and facilitating the commercialization of federally funded research.
- Support for Quantum Research: The act significantly boosts funding and support across several federal agencies:
- The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) is supported to develop quantum measurement standards and technology.
- The Department of Energy (DOE) is endorsed to conduct basic research and establish national quantum research centers.
- The National Science Foundation (NSF) is encouraged to support fundamental quantum research and education through academic multidisciplinary centers.
- Promotion of Private Sector Involvement: The legislation calls on U.S. high-tech companies and quantum technology startups to contribute their expertise to national efforts, addressing research gaps and enhancing the workforce pipeline to secure a long-term competitive advantage for the U.S.
- Strategic Focus on Education and Workforce Development: The act emphasizes the importance of training a new generation of scientists and engineers in quantum technologies, aiming to power an economic and scientific revolution.
- Coordination and International Cooperation: Under the aegis of the National Science and Technology Council, the Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science is empowered to coordinate quantum research and education across federal agencies, recommend infrastructure needs, and evaluate opportunities for collaboration with strategic allies.
