Bill · S. 5313· Senate(119-S-5313)
Quantum-GUARD Act of 2026
- Introduced
- 8/6/2026
- Last activity
- 8/6/2026 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- Sponsored by
- Christopher Coons
- Cosponsors
- - 0 - 2
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
This bill is known as the Quantum Grid Utility Assurance and Resilient Defense Act of 2026 or the Quantum-GUARD Act of 2026. It requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to consider cybersecurity risks from quantum computers and the use of post-quantum cryptography when reviewing reliability standards. The bill directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a post-quantum cryptography sandbox program within one year to support grid security innovation. It also requires the Secretary to conduct a study and submit a report on bulk-power system risks and obstacles to transitioning high-value systems within one year. Finally, the Secretary must publish a report describing the outcomes of the sandbox program within three years.
Yes· 3 of 4
Does this better protect the country from computer attacks?+7
The bill enhances national security by requiring protections against quantum computing threats to the electric grid.
Does this put more money into scientific research?+5
The bill promotes innovation through the establishment of a PQC sandbox for development and testing.
Does this give the federal government more power?+3
The bill expands the regulatory scope and research mandates of federal energy and security agencies.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Section 3 requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to consider quantum computer cybersecurity risks and post-quantum cryptography when reviewing reliability standards, which helps protect the power grid for the public.
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Section 4 directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a post-quantum cryptography sandbox to bring together stakeholders and address cybersecurity challenges, which can benefit individuals by improving electric grid reliability and safety.
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Section 5 requires the Secretary of Energy to conduct a study on cybersecurity risks and make the unclassified portion of the report available to the public, ensuring transparency and keeping citizens informed.
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- The provided text does not contain any specific provisions outlining negative consequences, burdens, or harms for individuals or groups of people in the United States.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Improves Cybersecurity Defense+7
- Education And Technology
- Increases Scientific Research Funding+5
- Governance And Ideology
- Increases Federal Power+3Improves Government Transparency+2
- 9/24/2026
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- 8/6/2026
- Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- Introduced in Senate
Katie BrittRepublican · Alabama
Mike RoundsRepublican · South Dakota