A new House bill wants to further spur research and development within the U.S. quantum technology field

Bipartisan legislation aims to further allocate federal resources to developing quantum information technologies within the U.S.

Introduced by Rep. Jay Obernolte, R-Calif., the Quantum Sandbox for Near-Term Applications Act prioritizes public-private sector collaboration to further innovate quantum technologies and systems. It specifically asks that the secretary of the Department of Commerce and director of its subagency, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, set up a “quantum sandbox” program focused on fostering commercial tech development. 

“Quantum information science is a foundational technology that is transforming the economy of the 21st century,” the bill reads. “Robust leadership in quantum research and near-term development will have a great impact on the economic security of the United States.”

Under the bill’s provisions, the new quantum sandbox program will also work with the Quantum Economic Development Consortium and the National Laboratories on federally-funded research.

Rep. Haley Stevens, R-Mich., has co-authored the bill, and Reps. Randy Weber, R-Texas, and Richard Hudson, R-N.C. have co-sponsored it.