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Senate committee backs bill to create quantum innovation zones to keep industry in California
Summary
AB 940 would authorize localities to form 'quantum innovation zones' to concentrate state support, workforce training, and incentives for quantum computing; the committee voted the measure out to Senate Local Government with bipartisan backing and discussion about equitable workforce development.
The Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee on June 23 voted to advance AB 940, a bill that would allow two or more cities and counties to form quantum innovation zones to coordinate state incentives, grants and workforce programs aimed at retaining and growing quantum-computing businesses in California.
Assemblymember Wicks, the bill’s author, said the measure is designed to keep quantum research and companies in California amid mounting investments from other states and countries. She and coauthor Assemblymember Stan Ellis said zones would leverage local research institutions, workforce-training programs and private investment to create regional hubs for quantum innovation. Jason Murphy of the University of California Office of the President testified in strong support and said UC stands ready to partner.
Committee discussion focused on equitable access to the economic opportunities the zones might produce. Senator Smallwood Cuevas asked how the zones would ensure participation from women and underrepresented groups; sponsors and UC representatives said the bill establishes a framework for coordination and that future implementation would need to include deliberate pipeline and hiring efforts across higher-education partners, including CSU and community colleges.
Senators expressed concern about other states’ investments and the need to retain talent. The committee moved the bill to the Senate Local Government Committee; the clerk recorded sufficient votes and the item was placed on call for final clerical confirmation. Committee members said the bill establishes an initial framework and more work will follow to address equity and participation as the zones are developed.
