S.Amdt. 6519

SA 6519 is an amendment proposed by Mr. Durbin and Mr. Daines to be added to bill S. 4784. Its purpose is to expand and update the National Quantum Initiative Act, specifically focusing on the roles and programs managed by the Department of Energy.

The amendment aims to change or add the following:

• Expansion of Research Scope: It expands the Department of Energy's research, development, and demonstration program to include quantum engineering and technology alongside science. It lists specific priority fields for research, such as quantum physics, cryptography, and artificial intelligence systems.

• New Programs and Initiatives: ** Quantum Verification and Validation Program**: Establishes a new program to test, characterize, and validate quantum systems to maintain U.S. leadership. ** High-Performance Computing Strategic Plan**: Requires a 5-year plan for energy-efficient computing systems that integrate quantum and AI technologies. ** Early-Stage Quantum High-Performance Computing R&D**: Creates a program to support testbeds and prototypes to inform the strategic plan. ** Traineeship Program**: Establishes a university-led program to develop the quantum workforce, including students from specific eligible states. ** Supply Chain Study**: Mandates a study on supply chain needs and hurdles in the quantum industry.

• Industry and Infrastructure Growth: It directs the Secretary of Energy to engage with the quantum industry to promote commercialization, support domestic supply chains, and ensure small- and medium-sized businesses have access to specialized equipment.

• Updates to Existing Centers and Networks: It modifies the National Quantum Information Science Research Centers to allow for commercial entities in collaborations and provides for 5-year renewals based on merit. It also expands the Quantum Network Infrastructure program to include ground-to-space capabilities and a diversity of hardware modalities.

• Research Security and Restrictions: It adds strict security measures, including: ** Prohibiting funds** from being used by institutions of higher education that have agreements with Confucius Institutes. ** Banning the use of funds** to finance quantum research activities between U.S. institutions and foreign countries or institutions of concern.