SPIE Welcomes US National Quantum Initiative Act

(Optics.org) SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics, has welcomed the passage of the US National Quantum Initiative (NQI) Act, (ref. H.R. 6227), a bipartisan bill which provides “for a coordinated Federal program to accelerate quantum research and development for the economic and national security of the United States.”
“The passage of this landmark bill delivers the exciting promise of a future-focused, technology-smart world,” said SPIE CEO Kent Rochford. “It’s very welcome news, not just for the organizations involved in the National Photonics Initiative, but for the next generation of researchers, scientists, and consumers. As quantum technologies shift from the research stage to development and engineering, they are creating entirely new industries and opportunities for innovation.
“The bill establishes the collaborative framework that is needed to produce research breakthroughs that will ultimately lead to fully enabled quantum applications. The multi-year authorized funding provided in the bill makes clear the commitment the United States has to being a leader quantum information science and technology. SPIE stands ready to assist with implementation at the agencies involved, and to work with appropriators to fully fund this initiative.”