Hoosier State Today

On December 4, 2024, U.S. Senators Todd Young and Maria Cantwell introduced the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act in Washington. The legislation aims to authorize federal funding for quantum research and development at federal science agencies over the next five years.

Senator Young emphasized the importance of quantum technology, stating, “Quantum research and development is critical to our economic and national security. This legislation prioritizes advancements in quantum and will help address technological and workforce challenges in the quantum sector.”

Senator Cantwell added, “Advancements in quantum science and technology are a game-changer. From healthcare breakthroughs to clean energy solutions, quantum applications in sensing, computing, and communications will reshape our future.” She further noted that the act strengthens America’s competitive edge through R&D investments by fostering public-private collaboration.

The initiative addresses what is known as the "valley of death," a phase where promising technologies can stall between research and commercialization. Federal support plays a vital role during this phase by supporting early research in academia and national labs, training engineers and researchers, and building necessary infrastructure.

Indiana University President Pamela Whitten expressed her support for Senator Young's efforts: “Indiana University appreciates Senator Young’s leadership in introducing the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act.” Similarly, Dr. Jeff Rhoads from Notre Dame acknowledged the significance of continued investments in workforce development: “Thank you to Senators Cantwell and Young for their leadership... We are proud to partner with other academic partners.”

Purdue University President Mung Chiang stated that Purdue stands ready to support this important legislation: “The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act provides the framework to accelerate groundbreaking research... As part of Purdue Computes... securing tech-driven prosperity for America.”

Quantum Corridor CEO Thomas P. Dakich highlighted the necessity of federal investment: “This legislation is critical to the development... Leadership from the federal government will position the U.S. as the world’s leader.”

The bill proposes refocusing efforts from basic research toward practical applications while expanding its scope to include agencies like NIH, State Department, SBA among others. It also suggests establishing new NIST quantum centers along with NSF Multidisciplinary Centers for Research/Education hubs dedicated specifically towards education/workforce initiatives as well enhancing NASA’s satellite/sensing work related directly or indirectly towards earth sciences.

Quantum computing promises potential breakthroughs across multiple domains such as drug discovery or weather forecasting among others due largely because these machines solve problems exponentially faster than traditional computers currently do; meanwhile sensing applications offer precise measurements essential various fields including navigation/tracking systems alongside seismic/infrastructure monitoring tasks just name few examples given context surrounding ongoing developments within industry overall today globally speaking alike domestically here stateside specifically.