Photo of Jackie Benson

Jackie Benson

Subscribe to Jackie Benson's Posts

Jackie has more than two decades of experience counseling entrepreneurs, companies, and investors about corporate transactions and contracts, including mergers and acquisitions, state and federal securities law, private equity, venture capital and early-stage companies, financing, restructurings, and other corporate transactions, compliance issues and commercial agreements. Jackie leads the Quantum Computing section of the firm’s Technology and Artificial Intelligence industry group.

Follow:Read more about Jackie BensonJackie's Linkedin Profile

On June 22, 2026, President Trump issued two Executive Orders entitled “Ushering the Next Frontier of Quantum Innovation” (Quantum EO) and “Securing the Nation Against Advanced Cryptographic Attacks” (Cryptographic EO) demonstrating the increasing focus of the administration on quantum. 

Quantum technology is a rapidly growing technology using quantum-mechanical principles to process data in ways not possible with classical computers. Quantum computers and quantum technologies like photonics and sensors are undergoing significant research and development efforts that will impact every industry. One of the most immediately impactful issues related to quantum computers is their ability to break even the best classical computer encryption protocols. As a result, the United States and many other countries and large companies are dedicating significant funds to quantum research in an effort to ensure the protection of critical encrypted data. Quantum is both an amazing new technology and an imminent security threat.

Continue Reading Quantum Homework for Everyone: New Executive Orders on Quantum Technology

On May 14, 2026, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed SB 26-189, the new Colorado artificial intelligence statute which goes into effect January 1, 2027.  SB 26-189 replaces SB 24-205, the  controversial AI statute that had not yet become effective.

SB 26-189 was the result of several years of negotiations between groups seeking more regulation of AI, particularly with respect to consumer protection, and those concerned that SB 24-205 would impose significant costs and burdens on companies with employees, customers or other stakeholders in Colorado. 

Many technology industry participants would rather kiss a Wookiee than comply with SB 24-205 and expressed concern that SB 24-205 would cause technology companies to avoid Colorado due to its burdensome requirements.

Continue Reading Colorado Act Legislation: The AI Strikes Back

Colorado legislators have approved a five-month delay for the implementation of the Colorado Artificial Intelligence Act (the Act), moving the start date from Feb. 1, 2026, to June 30, 2026.

The decision follows a special legislative session called because of concerns stemming from compliance costs, industry lobbying, and fiscal impacts on businesses and the state. Colorado Budget Director Mark Ferrandino indicated that the law could cost the state alone between $2.5 million and $5 million annually to implement, and Colorado Governor Jared Polis indicated that the amount could be as much as $6 million per year. The Act, originally designed to address risks of algorithmic discrimination in sectors like employment, housing, and lending, will now give both lawmakers and businesses more time to clarify provisions and prepare compliance programs.

Continue Reading Colorado Gives Businesses Breathing Room Before AI Act Takes Effect