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13 June 2018
The Optical Society Applauds the House Science Committee’s Intent to Introduce Quantum Legislation
13 June 2018
The Optical Society Applauds the House Science Committee’s Intent to Introduce Quantum Legislation
Washington, DC – The Optical Society (OSA) applauds the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Committee for announcing its intent to introduce quantum legislation. Yesterday, the committee released a fact sheet outlining the National Quantum Initiative Act of 2018. Support for quantum information science is an investment in the future for economic security. Some examples include its applications in communications, biophotonics and sensing.
“OSA is pleased to see the House Science Committee supporting the national need for quantum research and technology with this bill,” said Elizabeth Rogan, CEO of The Optical Society. “As a cofounder of the National Photonics Initiative (NPI), we believe this investment is critical if the U.S. wants a leadership role in these technology developments. Quantum research and technology holds great potential, and OSA looks forward to continuing to work with lawmakers on this initiative.”
From the NPI Press Release: NPI has been actively working with lawmakers to lay groundwork for this important legislation since 2017. Last year, at the request of the Science Committee, the NPI created a white paper entitled A Call for a National Quantum Initiative. The white paper explored how and why it is necessary to create a new information infrastructure using quantum technology. In October 2017, Dr. Chris Monroe, chief scientist and founder, IonQ, and professor of Physics at the University of Maryland, touted the potential benefits of quantum technology in testimony before the Committee given on behalf the NPI. In April 2018, the NPI – through the expertise of Dr. Monroe and Dr. Michael Raymer, professor of Physics at the University of Oregon – unveiled the National Quantum Initiative (NQI) Action Plan and presented it to lawmakers during the annual NPI Capitol Hill Day that same month. The operational goals of the NQI are to produce a world-leading industrial quantum technology workforce; engineer, industrialize and automate quantum technology; provide access to the emerging quantum computer systems; develop conventional technology and intellectual property; produce quantum software and new applications; and continue the research needed to support these goals. The NPI has also highlighted the role the Department of Defense can play in the NQI.
About the NPI
The National Photonics Initiative (NPI) is a collaborative alliance among industry, academia and government to raise awareness of photonics and the impact of photonics on our everyday lives; increase cooperation and coordination among US industry, government and academia to advance photonics-driven fields; and drive US funding and investment in areas of photonics critical to maintaining US economic competitiveness and national security. The initiative is being led by top scientific societies including the American Physical Society (APS), the IEEE Photonics Society, the Laser Institute of America (LIA), The Optical Society (OSA) and SPIE, the International Society for Optics and Photonics. For more information visit www.lightourfuture.org. About The Optical Society
Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) is the leading professional organization for scientists, engineers, students and business leaders who fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate achievements in the science of light. Through world-renowned publications, meetings and membership initiatives, OSA provides quality research, inspired interactions and dedicated resources for its extensive global network of optics and photonics experts. For more information, visit osa.org.
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