House passes quantum computing bill; potential benefits seen for private-sector cybersecurity

The House unanimously passed the bipartisan National Quantum Initiative Act on Thursday, legislation that could enhance private-sector cybersecurity by tapping the ability for quantum computing to more easily mitigate security risks.

H.R. 6227, sponsored by House Science Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX), ranking member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) and 28 other committee members, would create a “unified national quantum strategy.” According to the House Science Committee, quantum computers “have the potential to operate millions of times faster than today’s most...