Rep. Weber Introduces the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) introduced H.R. 8462, National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act (NQIA), legislation to strengthen America's leadership in quantum science and technology, bolster national security, expand workforce development, and counter growing competition from the Chinese Communist Party and other adversaries.

The legislation reauthorizes and modernizes the landmark National Quantum Initiative, first signed into law in 2018, to advance a coordinated federal strategy to move quantum research beyond basic science and into applied research, commercialization, and deployment. The bill expands programs across the federal government, supports domestic quantum supply chains, strengthens partnerships with U.S. allies, and formally incorporates NASA into the initiative.

The legislation is scheduled for markup before the full House Science, Space, and Technology Committee on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

"Quantum technology will help define the future of economic strength, scientific discovery, and national security," said Rep. Weber. "The United States must lead in this mission-critical field and not cede ground to the Chinese Communist Party. This legislation builds on the success of the original National Quantum Initiative by strengthening research, growing the workforce of tomorrow, and helping move breakthrough technologies from the lab into the real world."

"I want to thank Congressman Randy Weber for his leadership in advancing the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act," said Chairman Brian Babin, House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. "As we consider this legislation at Wednesday's full committee markup, it's clear this bill strengthens America's position in a rapidly evolving global race by modernizing our quantum research enterprise, supporting a skilled workforce, and deepening partnerships with our allies. Ensuring U.S. leadership in quantum technology is critical to our economic competitiveness and national security, and this legislation takes an important step forward."

The bill also includes provisions to:

• Require a strategy to expand cooperative quantum research efforts with U.S. allies;
• Authorize up to three National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) centers focused on quantum sensing, measurement, and engineering;
• Strengthen National Science Foundation (NSF) traineeships, fellowships, and workforce development programs;
• Authorize new quantum testbeds and a multidisciplinary coordination hub through NSF;
• Support the development of quantum foundries and domestic supply chains; and
• Formally authorize quantum research and development activities at NASA.

Quantum technologies have the potential to transform computing, secure communications, sensing, and defense capabilities. As global competition intensifies, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act will help ensure America remains at the forefront of one of the most consequential technological frontiers of the 21st century.

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