Bipartisan Effort: The Quantum Encryption Readiness and Resilience Act is led by Representatives Subramanyam and McGuire to counter quantum cybersecurity threats.
National Strategy: The bill mandates a comprehensive plan to assess and mitigate risks posed by quantum computing advancements.
Industry Support: Key stakeholders like the Quantum Economic Development Consortium endorse the urgent need for post-quantum cryptography.
Quantum computing is no longer a distant dream but a rapidly approaching reality, and with it comes the urgent need to address quantum cybersecurity threats. On August 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C., Congressmen Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10) and John McGuire (R-VA-05), alongside Representatives Haley Stevens (D-MI-11) and Pat Harrigan (R-NC-10), introduced the Quantum Encryption Readiness and Resilience Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to safeguard sensitive U.S. data by establishing a national strategy to prepare for quantum-enabled cyberattacks, ensuring the nation stays ahead in the global race for quantum supremacy.
Quantum computers offer significant advancements in fields such as drug discovery and artificial intelligence. However, their ability to break current encryption standards poses significant risks to national security. For example, adversaries could decrypt financial transactions, defense secrets, or critical infrastructure data, compromising the nation’s safety. Disturbingly, evidence suggests malicious actors are already collecting encrypted data, banking on future quantum capabilities to unlock it. Consequently, the need for robust post-quantum cryptography has never been more pressing.
Why Quantum Cybersecurity Matters
The Quantum Encryption Readiness and Resilience Act addresses a critical gap: the absence of a comprehensive assessment of U.S. quantum capabilities compared to other nations. Without this, the nation risks falling behind in the global quantum race. The bill mandates several key actions to bolster cybersecurity, including evaluating quantum readiness, tracking innovation across public and private sectors, and identifying vulnerable economic sectors. Additionally, it calls for a national plan to mitigate risks and enhance information sharing between government and industry, fostering a unified defense against quantum threats.
“The race for quantum supremacy is underway, and the United States cannot afford to fall behind in protecting our nation's most sensitive information."
— Congressman Suhas Subramanyam
Congressman McGuire emphasized the strategic importance of the legislation, stating, “The United States must prioritize quantum technology in order to promote peace through strength.” His focus on monitoring and addressing gaps in quantum capabilities underscores the bill’s proactive approach. Similarly, Congressman Harrigan highlighted the need for accountability, noting that regular updates on progress and risks will keep the U.S. ahead of adversaries.
Industry and Congressional Support
The legislation has garnered strong backing from industry leaders, reflecting widespread recognition of the quantum threat. Celia Merzbacher, Executive Director of the Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QEDC), stressed the urgency of adopting post-quantum cryptographic standards, stating, “As progress is made in the field of quantum computing, it is essential that the public and private sector move expeditiously to adopt post-quantum cryptographic standards.” Similarly, Paul Stimers of the Quantum Industry Coalition (QIC) noted, “Because adversaries are stealing encrypted data now for future decryption by quantum computers, now is the time to move to post-quantum cryptography.”
“Quantum technology will shape the future of our national security. I’m proud to be an original cosponsor of this bill because it holds our government accountable to protect every American."
— Congressman Pat Harrigan
Congresswoman Stevens emphasized the economic implications, particularly for Michigan’s small businesses and research hubs. She noted that while the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is developing post-quantum tools, a broader understanding of the threat’s scale is essential. The Business Software Alliance (BSA) also endorsed the bill, with Craig Albright, SVP of U.S. Government Relations, commending its focus on leveraging government expertise to maintain U.S. leadership in quantum solutions.
A Call to Action
The Quantum Encryption Readiness and Resilience Act is a forward-thinking step to protect the U.S. from quantum cybersecurity threats. By fostering collaboration between government, industry, and research institutions, the bill ensures a cohesive strategy to secure sensitive data. As quantum computing advances, this legislation positions the U.S. to lead in both innovation and security. Policymakers, businesses, and citizens must support this effort to safeguard the nation’s future in the quantum era.
