On April 10, 2024, Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act of 2024 in both chambers of Congress. The bill aimed to accelerate the adoption and implementation of quantum information science technologies within the Department of Defense.
According to the press release from Representative Stefanik’s office, the legislation would establish a framework for the DoD to optimize its approach to developing and transitioning quantum technology. Key provisions included designating a Principal Quantum Advisor to the Secretary of Defense within 180 days of enactment, tasked with developing a strategic quantum roadmap and providing an independent budget assessment of current DoD quantum spending to Congress.
The bill also authorized the establishment of a National Security Quantum Information Science Adoption Acceleration Testbed, a joint center of excellence operated by the Secretary of Defense in consultation with the Secretary of Energy. This testbed was designed to enable the Defense Innovation Unit to execute the transition of near-term quantum capabilities using $55 million in funding received for that purpose in Fiscal Year 2024.
Additional provisions addressed workforce development, directing the Secretary of Defense to increase opportunities for quantum information science study within military service academies, war colleges, and other DoD educational institutions. Each Armed Force would be required to adopt standard operating procedures for quantum workforce development.
The bill received endorsements from multiple quantum industry companies, including IBM, IonQ, PsiQuantum, D-Wave, Atom Computing, and Quantinuum, as well as the Quantum Industry Coalition. The Senate version (S.4105) was referred to the Committee on Armed Services but did not advance further during the 118th Congress.