Editor’s Note: This legislative initiative signifies a significant stride towards bolstering the United States Department of Defense’s engagement with Quantum Information Science (QIS), propelling us closer to the realization of a utility-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer right here in our community.
[Matt Swayne | April 3, 2024 | The Quantum Insider]
Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has officially announced the introduction of the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act during an event at the Griffiss Institute in Rome, New York.
This legislative initiative aims to enhance the United States Department of Defense’s (DoD) engagement with Quantum Information Science (QIS), marking a significant push towards achieving a utility-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer in Rome, New York.
In her statement, Stefanik expressed her enthusiasm for the legislation, stating, “I am excited to announce one of the new pieces of legislation that I am introducing right here in Rome, it’s called the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act.”
According to Stefanik, The Defense Quantum Acceleration Act is set to accelerate the adoption of quantum technology within the U.S. Department of Defense, leveraging Stefanik’s extensive experience in advocating for military and defense partnerships across Upstate New York and the North Country. This initiative fits into a broader ecosystem of national security efforts being undertaken in the region, benefiting from the collaborative environment fostered by local leadership in Oneida County.
She highlighted the bill’s aim to “supercharge the DoD’s approach to Quantum Information Science” and underscored the importance of maintaining global leadership in quantum technologies.
“So we want to make sure when it comes to Quantum, that we continue to be the world leader,” Stefanik said. “That is why I am introducing this legislation.”
For Stefanik, the bill isn’t just about global leadership, it can help her home district.
Stefanik said, “It’s not only important for national security purposes but also important for right here in Oneida County and right here in Rome.”
In the statement, the Congresswoman also reflected on her role and contributions to the national security framework through her positions on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Committee on Intelligence, mentioning,
“I am proud to serve as the senior most New Yorker on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Committee on Intelligence,” Stefanik said.
In addition to the legislative announcement, Stefanik secured over $415 million in funding for the Air Force Research Lab through the FY2024 appropriations process, further supporting the region’s role in advancing national defense technologies.
Stefanik’s announcement was made alongside notable figures such as New York State Senator Joe Griffo, Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr., City of Rome Mayor Jeff Lanigan, and Griffiss Institute President and CEO Heather Hage.
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