On March 18, 2026, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) published a report (GAO-26-107759) finding that the quantum computing component of the national quantum strategy does not fully address characteristics intended to ensure accountability and effective results. The GAO report said the relevant planning and reporting documents do not include performance measures to gauge progress on quantum computing, do not specify the level of resources needed for the National Quantum Initiative, and do not describe federal agencies’ specific roles and responsibilities.
GAO also found that the documents do not integrate agency-level plans to implement the strategy. The report said that updating the strategy to address these characteristics could improve interagency planning and coordination, lead to more efficient use of federal resources, and produce faster progress in delivering the technology. The federal government spends approximately $200 million per year on quantum computing activities, according to the report.
The report noted that the Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science (SCQIS), co-chaired by four federal organizations including the Office of Science and Technology Policy, is responsible for drafting the strategic plan required by the National Quantum Initiative Act. GAO recommended updates to the national strategy for quantum computing to address the identified gaps.