GAO: Updating the national quantum strategy could promote U.S. leadership

The National Quantum Initiative Act requires a strategic plan to help direct federal efforts in quantum information science, including quantum computing. An entity known as the Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science (SCQIS), co-chaired by four federal organizations, is responsible for drafting this strategic plan. Among these organizations, the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) plays a central role.

The Government Accountability Office found that, with respect to quantum computing, the current national quantum strategy does not fully address GAO’s desirable characteristics intended to help ensure accountability and more effective results.

For example, the relevant planning and reporting documents do not include performance measures to gauge progress on quantum computing. They also do not specify the level of resources, including infrastructure, needed for the National Quantum Initiative. In addition, they do not describe federal agencies’ specific roles and responsibilities, and they do not integrate agency-level plans to implement the strategy. 

Read more at Government Accountability Office