Committee approves AB 940 to enable California quantum innovation zones

Assemblymember Wicks (coauthored by Assemblymember Bennett and others) presented AB 940 to create a mechanism for cities and counties to form "quantum innovation zones" to coordinate state, local and private resources to retain and grow quantum computing businesses in California.

Wicks told the committee the measure would let two or more local jurisdictions adopt resolutions to establish a zone and prioritize state assistance such as tax incentives, grants, workforce programs and coordination with the University of California and other research institutions. "Whoever owns Quantum owns the future," she said, arguing California risks losing companies and researchers to states investing heavily in quantum technologies.

Assemblymember Stan Ellis, who has private-sector experience in quantum, described potential breakthroughs and applications in health, energy and materials science. Jason Murphy of the University of Californias Office of the President testified in strong support and urged prompt action to avoid losing talent and investment.

Committee members discussed equity and workforce-development concerns. Senator Smallwood Cuevas and others asked how the zones would ensure participation by women and underrepresented communities; authors and UC representatives said early-stage coordination and outreach would aim to build diverse pipelines and the bill allows for more than two zones if jurisdictions adopt them.

Senator Strickland moved the bill; the committee recorded votes in favor and referred AB 940 to the Senate Local Government Committee for further consideration. The clerks summary indicated the motion passed (10 yes votes by the committees reporting) and the item was placed on call for any members who were absent.

Why it matters: Supporters said the bill creates a framework for regional cooperation to retain and attract quantum-related firms and federal funding and to build workforce pipelines; members emphasized the need to proactively address equity and inclusion.

Next steps: AB 940 was sent to the Senate Local Government Committee for further work on implementation details, local resolution processes and equity provisions.