Young, Shaheen Introduce Legislation to Promote U.S. Leadership in Quantum Research
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) recently introduced the International Quantum Research Exchange Act, legislation that would promote U.S. leadership in quantum research through international research exchanges with like-minded allies and partners. The bill would authorize the Department of State to support collaborative research programs with partner countries who have signed quantum cooperation statements with the United States.
“Quantum innovation is crucial to our national security priorities, including protecting our supply chains and ensuring we don’t rely on China for critical technologies,” said Senator Young. “Our bill will encourage partnerships with like-minded countries to increase America’s access to quantum R&D and maintain U.S. leadership in this emerging field.”
“Quantum-based technologies are the next frontier of innovation with implications for both our economy and our national security,” said Senator Shaheen. “For decades, U.S. researchers have led the world in advanced technologies. The United States should continue to do so with quantum science by building off the comparative strengths of our closest allies and partners, particularly in a time when strategic competitors like the People’s Republic of China are increasing their investments in quantum research. As Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, I will continue to explore every opportunity to strengthen U.S. international partnerships with countries that share our values.”
Key provisions of the International Quantum Research Exchange Act include creating a program led by the Department of State to enhance international cooperation in quantum information science and funding collaborative research programs with countries who have signed quantum cooperation statements with the United States. The bill would authorize funding in Fiscal Year 2026 to carry out such programs.
In the 118th Congress, Senator Young led the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act with Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), to reauthorize federal funding to accelerate quantum research and development at federal science agencies for the next five years. The bill will soon be reintroduced.