National Security Commission Quantum Computing Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 15, 2026
Bottom line
This bill creates a temporary, independent commission tasked with comprehensively assessing the state of quantum computing and its impact on U.S. national and economic security, providing recommendations to the President and Congress.
What it actually does
This bill establishes the National Security Commission on Quantum Computing, an independent, temporary commission tasked with reviewing advances in quantum computing. The Commission will assess the United States' competitiveness, identify methods to maintain technological advantage, examine international trends, and consider workforce development, military applications, and ethical implications to address national security and economic needs. It is funded with up to $10 million from the Department of Defense and is required to submit reports to the President and Congress before terminating in October 2030.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that establishing a dedicated commission is crucial for the United States to maintain its technological edge and address the profound national security and economic implications of rapidly advancing quantum computing capabilities, ensuring a coordinated federal strategy and timely policy recommendations.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that existing federal agencies and initiatives are already addressing quantum computing research and national security implications, making a new, temporary commission redundant or an inefficient use of resources that could potentially duplicate ongoing efforts.
The bill text is very short and easily digestible, allowing ample time for stakeholders to understand its provisions and implications.
Section 2(a)
Establishment of the National Security Commission on Quantum Computing
This section formally creates an independent commission within the executive branch, named the National Security Commission on Quantum Computing. It specifies that the Commission will operate as an independent establishment and a temporary organization, indicating its limited duration and autonomous nature in conducting its review and providing recommendations.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that an independent commission is necessary to provide an unbiased, comprehensive assessment of quantum computing's national security implications, free from existing bureaucratic constraints and able to offer fresh perspectives.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that establishing a new commission adds another layer of bureaucracy and could overlap with the work of existing agencies or advisory bodies already focused on emerging technologies, potentially leading to inefficiencies.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between the desire for an independent, focused review and the potential for redundancy with existing government efforts in the quantum computing space, which could lead to resource allocation debates.
Section 2(b)
Scope of Review for Quantum Computing Advances
This section outlines the broad mandate of the Commission, requiring it to review advances in quantum computing. The review must specifically consider methods to advance U.S. quantum computing development to meet national security needs, including economic risk, Department of Defense requirements, and common defense. It details specific areas of inquiry such as U.S. competitiveness, technological advantage, international trends, research investments, workforce development, military employment risks (including international law and escalation), and ethical considerations.
Section 2(c)
Commission Membership and Appointment Process
The Commission will consist of 11 members. The Secretary of Defense appoints 3 members, while the Chair and Ranking Minority Member of both the Senate and House Armed Services Committees each appoint 2 members. A deadline of 90 days after enactment is set for appointments, with a provision that unmade appointments will reduce the total number of commissioners, ensuring the commission can proceed even if some appointments are delayed.
Section 2(g)
Commission Funding
This section allocates up to $10,000,000 from amounts authorized for the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2027 to fund the Commission's operations. These funds are specified to remain available until expended, providing flexibility for the Commission's work over its lifespan without being constrained by annual budget cycles.
Section 2(h) and 2(i)
Reporting Requirements and Commission Termination
The Commission is mandated to submit an initial report to the President and Congress within 180 days of enactment, detailing its findings and recommendations. A comprehensive report is due one year after enactment, and annually thereafter until the Commission terminates on October 1, 2030. This sets a clear timeline for its work and ensures regular updates to policymakers.