Senate Bill Seeks to Boost Quantum Tech Development with Focus on Sensors and Post-Quantum Cryptography

The U.S. Senate has introduced a bill to promote quantum technology development, focusing on next-generation quantum sensors and strengthening supply chains. The bill requires the defense secretary to designate three priority projects for next-generation quantum sensors within 60 days of enactment and mandates deployment by September 30, 2028.

The bill aims to support part of an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on June 22, which includes plans to build quantum sensor networks, strengthen the domestic U.S. base of the quantum supply chain, and pursue development of quantum computers for scientific research by 2028.

The transition to post-quantum cryptography is also a key aspect of the bill, as it would require government agencies to adopt new cryptographic methods designed to maintain security even if quantum computers reach a level capable of breaking today's public-key cryptography systems. This could potentially affect cryptocurrency exchanges and custody providers, which may need to redesign their wallet management, electronic signatures, and overall security infrastructure.