Advancing American Quantum Leadership Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17]
- Committees
- Financial Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 2, 2026
Bottom line
The bill expands the types of quantum technologies eligible for U.S. Export-Import Bank financing, aiming to bolster American competitiveness in the broader quantum sector against foreign rivals.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to broaden the scope of technologies covered under the Program on China and Transformational Exports. Specifically, it changes the eligible category from "Quantum computing" to the more expansive "Quantum information science and technology," allowing the Export-Import Bank to support a wider range of U.S. exports in the quantum sector.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that expanding the definition from 'quantum computing' to 'quantum information science and technology' is essential for the U.S. to maintain its global leadership in a rapidly evolving and strategically vital field. They contend that the broader definition accurately reflects the full spectrum of quantum innovation, including sensing, communication, and materials, ensuring the Export-Import Bank can support a wider array of U.S. companies competing against state-backed foreign entities, particularly from China.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that broadening the scope of the Export-Import Bank's programs, even for strategic technologies, could lead to increased government intervention in markets, potentially distorting competition or exposing taxpayers to undue risk if projects in nascent technologies fail. Some may also question the effectiveness of such a broad mandate without clear guidelines for what constitutes 'quantum information science and technology' beyond computing, potentially leading to inefficient allocation of resources.
The bill text is extremely short and straightforward, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its direct legislative impact.
Section 2
Expansion of Transformational Exports Program to include Quantum Information Science and Technology
This section amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to broaden the definition of quantum technologies eligible for support under the Program on China and Transformational Exports. Previously, the program specifically mentioned "Quantum computing." This bill replaces that narrow term with the more comprehensive "Quantum information science and technology," allowing the Export-Import Bank to finance a wider array of U.S. exports in areas like quantum sensing, communication, and materials, in addition to computing.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this expansion is vital for U.S. national security and economic competitiveness. They contend that 'quantum computing' is too narrow a term to capture the full scope of emerging quantum technologies, and by broadening it, the U.S. can ensure its companies receive necessary financial backing to compete globally, especially against nations like China that heavily subsidize their strategic industries.
Critics contend
Opponents might argue that such a broad definition could dilute the focus of the Transformational Exports Program, potentially leading to less effective targeting of critical technologies or an overextension of the Export-Import Bank's mandate into areas where private financing might be more appropriate. They may also raise concerns about the government picking winners and losers in a nascent industry.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the need for targeted strategic investment in critical technologies with the risk of overly broad government intervention or potential for misallocation of resources in a rapidly evolving field. It also navigates the tension between supporting U.S. industry and potentially distorting international markets.