S.Amdt. 6646

This amendment aims to expand and update the National Quantum Initiative Act, specifically focusing on the role of the Department of Energy (DOE) in quantum information science, engineering, and technology.

The amendment proposes the following changes and additions:

• DOE Research Expansion: It expands the DOE's research program to include engineering and technology. It adds a wide range of specific research fields, such as quantum chemistry, biology, and post-quantum cryptography, and requires the DOE to leverage existing federal and commercial data.

• Industry and Workforce Development: It mandates the Secretary of Energy to engage with the quantum industry to promote commercialization and support domestic supply chains. It also establishes a university-led traineeship program for undergraduate and graduate students.

• New Programs and Planning:

  • It creates a Quantum Verification and Validation Program to test and characterize quantum devices and systems.
  • It requires a 5-year strategic plan for high-performance computing that integrates quantum and AI technologies.
  • It establishes an early-stage research program for quantum high-performance computing.
  • It requires a study on quantum supply chain needs in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce.

• Infrastructure and Network Updates: It updates the goals for National Quantum Information Science Research Centers and the Quantum Network Infrastructure program, including the integration of ground-to-space and space-to-ground communications.

• Research Security: It introduces strict security measures to protect quantum research. This includes prohibiting the use of funds for institutions that maintain agreements with Confucius Institutes and banning the financing of quantum research activities between U.S. institutions and foreign countries or institutions of concern.