Memphis Standard

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn has introduced a series of legislative initiatives aimed at enhancing the development, manufacturing, and defense applications of quantum technology in the United States. The proposed legislation includes the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act, co-sponsored by Senator Maggie Hassan, the Quantum Sandbox for Near-Term Applications Act, co-sponsored by Senator Ben Ray Luján, and the Advancing Quantum Manufacturing Act, co-sponsored by Senator Gary Peters.

"Tennessee is among the states leading the nation in quantum development, and we need to continue building on this momentum to strengthen quantum technology across the nation," said Senator Blackburn. "These bills would provide a strategic roadmap for quantum development, promote continued innovation, and supercharge the Defense Department’s approach to quantum technology to advance our national security. I look forward to working with the Commerce Committee to pass these bills and reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative."

The Defense Quantum Acceleration Act aims to enhance the Department of Defense's approach to quantum technology, leveraging work from institutions like Oak Ridge National Lab in Tennessee. The act would establish a framework to optimize the development and transition of quantum technology, develop a strategic quantum roadmap, and authorize a defense quantum technology testbed to assist the Defense Innovation Unit.

The Quantum Sandbox for Near-Term Applications Act proposes establishing a public-private partnership to facilitate near-term quantum application development and acceleration. The Advancing Quantum Manufacturing Act suggests establishing a Manufacturing USA Institute for Quantum Manufacturing and seeks to improve coordination between the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation for quantum development activities.

Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz has acknowledged Senator Blackburn's leadership in advancing quantum computing research, which aims to foster innovation, protect national security, and create new industries.