WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 17, 2025) — Yesterday, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics, and Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Research and Technology, introduced the bipartisan Quantum Leaders Education and Advancement Program (Q-LEAP) Act to strengthen K-12 quantum information science and engineering (QISE) education across the country. The bill reauthorizes and expands the National Science Foundation (NSF)’s Quantum Education Pilot Program, increasing access to quantum literacy and supporting schools in integrating quantum curriculum nationwide.
QISE combines quantum mechanics, science, and engineering to unlock next-generation technologies in computing, communications, and sensing. These innovations are reshaping industries and will define many jobs of the future. By helping students develop foundational skills in quantum science early, the United States can better prepare its students and the future quantum workforce for the advanced technologies that are shaping the nation’s future.
Specifically, the Q-LEAP Act would:
- Reauthorize the Next Generation Quantum Leaders Pilot Program with $8 million in funding through Fiscal Year 2028 to support long-term investment in K-12 quantum education and training.
- Direct NSF to encourage coordination amongst awardees, elementary and secondary institutions, and state educational agencies to build upon the National Q–12 Education Partnership and programs, such as the Q2Work Program.
- Expand the development and implementation of QISE curricula, research, and training for students and teachers to enhance K-12 QISE education and opportunities.
“Our children are tomorrow’s innovators, and Congress has a responsibility to give them every opportunity to succeed,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “North Carolina’s Research Triangle has long been a hub for discovery and innovation, and continued investment in STEM and early education will help future generations lead in emerging fields like quantum science. I’m proud to partner with Congressman Obernolte on the Q-LEAP Act and look forward to advancing this effort as part of the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization.”
“Quantum technology will catalyze the next era of economic growth, scientific discovery, and national security. The Q-LEAP Act ensures we are investing in the students and educators who will form the backbone of our quantum workforce, strengthening U.S. innovation while keeping us competitive with our global rivals. Reauthorizing this program is a smart, forward-looking step to make sure the United States remains at the forefront of this critical emerging technology.” said Congressman Obernolte (CA-23).
“Quantum information science and technology is an emerging field that is critical to our future,” said Dr. Celia Merzbacher, Executive Director of the Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C). “The growing quantum industries, including members of QED-C, need a pipeline of workers with quantum-relevant skills and knowledge. Teaching students about quantum before they enter college will ensure the nation is prepared for the quantum-enabled future.”
“Google welcomes the Q-LEAP Act, an important investment for America's future technological leadership, and thanks Congresswoman Foushee and Congressman Obernolte for introducing it. Google Quantum AI is a leader in quantum computing, with a mission to build quantum computing for otherwise impossible problems. To maintain our competitive edge in quantum technologies, the United States must strengthen and expand our workforce, and early education and literacy efforts to address quantum information science and engineering (QISE) provide the foundation for doing so. QISE education can also serve to address gaps across a broader range of STEM fields by sparking students' initial interest in STEM. We are proud to partner with and support the Q-12 Partnership, and are glad to see this proposal to build on important ongoing work in this space.” said Hartmut Neven, Founder and Lead, Google Quantum AI.
“This legislation represents an essential commitment to reauthorizing and expanding the National Science Foundation’s Quantum Education Pilot Program, providing essential resources to develop a strong, diverse, and forward-looking quantum workforce in the United States. The Q-LEAP Act’s support for integrating quantum information science and engineering (QISE) into K–12 and undergraduate education is particularly meaningful. Introducing quantum concepts early in the learning journey will strengthen STEM engagement, expand participation among underrepresented students, and help cultivate the interdisciplinary skills required by quantum-related careers. We look forward to supporting the passage of the Q-LEAP Act and to continued collaboration to strengthen America’s quantum ecosystem.” said Philip Farah, VP of Sales and Strategic Partnerships, IonQ.
The full text of the bill can be found here.