0
0

Department of Energy Quantum Leadership Act of 2025

3/13/2025, 3:22 PM

Summary of Bill S 579

Bill 119 s 579, also known as the National Quantum Initiative Amendments Act, aims to make changes to the existing National Quantum Initiative Act. The main goal of this bill is to establish a program focused on research, development, and demonstration in the field of quantum technology.

The bill outlines specific objectives for this program, including promoting collaboration between government agencies, academia, and industry in order to advance quantum technology. It also emphasizes the importance of developing a skilled workforce in this area and ensuring that the United States remains a global leader in quantum research and development.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for funding and oversight of the program, as well as requirements for reporting on its progress and impact. It also addresses issues related to national security and the protection of intellectual property in the field of quantum technology. Overall, the National Quantum Initiative Amendments Act seeks to enhance the United States' capabilities in quantum technology through a comprehensive and coordinated research and development program.

Congressional Summary of S 579

Department of Energy Quantum Leadership Act of 2025

This bill modifies and reauthorizes various Department of Energy (DOE) programs related to quantum research and development and establishes several new, related research programs.

Specifically, the bill expands the scope of DOE’s quantum information science research program to include research, development, and demonstration on quantum information science, engineering, and technology. Among other requirements, DOE must (1) establish an early-stage research and development program in high-performance quantum computing; (2) study quantum science, engineering, and technology supply chain needs; and (3) establish a university-led trainee program to address quantum workforce development needs.

The bill also reauthorizes the National Quantum Information Science Research Centers and the Quantum User Expansion for Science and Technology program through FY2030. Further, the bill modifies DOE’s quantum network infrastructure program to require research related to the development of (1) quantum network and entanglement distribution protocols or applications, and (2) high-efficiency room-temperature photon detectors for quantum photonic applications.

Finally, the bill establishes an instrumentation and infrastructure program to maintain U.S. leadership in quantum information science, engineering, and technology; develop domestic quantum supply chains; and provide resources for the broader scientific community. In carrying out the program, DOE must develop, design, build, purchase, and commercialize specialized equipment, laboratory infrastructure, and state-of-the-art instrumentation. In coordination with industry and institutions of higher education, DOE must support the development of quantum foundries focused on meeting the device, hardware, software, and materials needs of the scientific community and the quantum supply chain.

Current Status of Bill S 579

Bill S 579 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 13, 2025. Bill S 579 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on February 13, 2025.  Bill S 579's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. (text: CR S974-977) as of February 13, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 579

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
5
Democrat Cosponsors
2
Republican Cosponsors
3
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 579

Primary Policy Focus

Energy

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 579

A bill to amend the National Quantum Initiative Act to provide for a research, development, and demonstration program, and for other purposes.
A bill to amend the National Quantum Initiative Act to provide for a research, development, and demonstration program, and for other purposes.

Comments

Estrella Conrad profile image

Estrella Conrad

779

1 year ago

I can't believe this new bill thingy that's supposed to do something with energy and quantum stuff. It sounds like a big waste of money and I don't think it's gonna help anyone. Why do they always gotta come up with these complicated laws that no one understands? I just want things to be simple and easy, not all this fancy science stuff. I hope this thing doesn't mess things up for me and my family.