Overview

Title

To reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative Act, and for other purposes.

ELI5 AI

The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2024 is like a plan to help scientists and engineers learn more about and build cool things with "quantum technology," which is a bit like magical science. The plan gives lots of money to special centers and teams, so they can work on making new technology while making sure everything stays safe and fair.

Summary AI

The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2024 aims to renew and update support for the advancement of quantum technology in the United States. This bill enhances the coordination of federal research and development in quantum information science, promotes international cooperation, and supports education and workforce development in this field. It authorizes funding for the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and other federal agencies to foster public-private partnerships, develop quantum research centers, and ensure national security in the quantum area. Additionally, the Act sets guidelines for international collaborations and standards to safeguard U.S. interests.

Published

2024-12-03
Congress: 118
Session: 2
Chamber: SENATE
Status: Introduced in Senate
Date: 2024-12-03
Package ID: BILLS-118s5411is

Bill Statistics

Size

Sections:
36
Words:
19,065
Pages:
96
Sentences:
378

Language

Nouns: 5,848
Verbs: 1,367
Adjectives: 991
Adverbs: 97
Numbers: 670
Entities: 1,131

Complexity

Average Token Length:
4.46
Average Sentence Length:
50.44
Token Entropy:
5.35
Readability (ARI):
27.99

AnalysisAI

General Summary
The bill reauthorizes and expands upon the National Quantum Initiative Act, initially enacted to support and advance quantum science, engineering, and technology in the United States. It introduces new sections to address definitions, extend the scope of various quantum programs, and strengthen international collaboration. This legislation, through different sections, authorizes funding and outlines responsibilities for various federal departments and agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), to foster quantum research and development, education, and international partnership.

Significant Issues
One significant issue with the bill is its broad definitions related to foreign countries and entities of concern, particularly in Section 2. It requires subjective determinations that might lead to inconsistent applications or misuse. Another notable concern is the large financial allocations without clear accountability or metrics for success, as seen with the funding for specific quantum centers and institutions. Additionally, the potential for increased bureaucratic overhead and inefficiency exists due to the involvement of multiple government departments without clear, streamlined coordination mechanisms.

The text also lacks specific guidelines for international collaborations, raising concerns about possible inappropriate handling of partnerships that could affect national security. Moreover, the vague language regarding coordination and collaboration might result in ambiguous interpretations and implementation inconsistencies.

Public Impact
Broadly, this bill aims to position the United States as a leader in quantum technology by increasing research funding, supporting education and workforce development, and fostering international collaborations. For the general public, this initiative could mean eventual advancements in technology that improve healthcare, communication, and other areas of daily life, although these benefits would likely be long-term rather than immediate.

However, the significant financial commitments without transparent success metrics might lead to concerns about government spending efficiency. Furthermore, the potential complexities and uncertainties in international collaborations could raise worries about national security implications brought on by sharing cutting-edge technology with other nations.

Stakeholder Impact
For stakeholders in quantum technology sectors, such as researchers and scientists, the bill's extensive funding allocations could present substantial opportunities for growth, development, and collaboration. Educational institutions and nonprofits focusing on quantum research stand to benefit from increased funding and partnerships. This could ultimately result in expanded educational programs, better research facilities, and enhanced global competitiveness.

Conversely, there is a risk that without clear criteria and oversight mechanisms, funds might not be optimally distributed or used, potentially hindering effectiveness and equity among recipients. Additionally, the broad criteria for determining foreign entities of concern could result in strained international research collaborations or restrict access to valuable global expertise and partnerships.

Overall, while the potential for advancing quantum technology through this bill is promising, careful attention to oversight, clear guidelines, and transparency will be crucial to realize its intended benefits fully.

Financial Assessment

The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2024 involves substantial financial allocations across various sections aimed at propelling advancements in quantum technology. Below is a detailed analysis of these financial references and their implications.

Financial Allocations

Section 12: Funding for NIST Activities

The bill authorizes up to $100,000,000 annually for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for scientific and technical research and services related to quantum technologies. This allocation reflects a significant investment in reinforcing the infrastructure and resources necessary for quantum innovation.

Section 13 and Section 202: Quantum Centers Funding

The Act provides for substantial funding, allocating up to $18,000,000 for each Quantum Center established under the National Institute of Standards and Technology. This budget is earmarked for each fiscal year from 2025 through 2029, indicating a commitment to sustained development in this area.

Section 16: Funding for QREW Coordination Hub and Quantum Testbeds

It designates up to $10,000,000 annually for the Quantum Reskilling, Education, and Workforce Coordination Hub and up to $50,000,000 annually for quantum testbeds. This funding is also slated for fiscal years 2025 through 2029, emphasizing the importance of developing a skilled workforce and testing new quantum technologies.

Section 18 and Section 505: NASA Quantum Activities

Lastly, the bill allocates up to $45,000,000 for each year from 2025 to 2029 for quantum-related activities under the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). This allocation supports research in quantum sciences applied to space and aeronautics.

Implications Relating to Identified Issues

Lack of Success Metrics and Potential Waste

One primary concern highlighted in the issues is the absence of clear accountability or success metrics associated with these substantial financial commitments. Large budget allocations, such as the up to $100 million annually for NIST, pose a significant risk of inefficient use without stringent oversight mechanisms. This risk is compounded by vague terminologies and broad coordination directives, which may not translate into effective execution or tangible outcomes if not clearly defined.

Bureaucratic Overhead and Duplication

The involvement of numerous departments, as seen in Section 6, could lead to increased bureaucratic overhead, which may inflate costs without necessarily driving efficiency or innovation. The lack of clear guidelines or criteria, particularly for establishing multiple quantum centers with an annual budget allocation of $18 million per center, further raises the potential of duplicating efforts and wasting resources.

International Cooperation and Security Concerns

While the Act authorizes efforts like the International Quantum Cooperation Strategy, it lacks explicit guidelines for managing these partnerships financially, introducing risks areas such as national security and potential misuse of funds. This absence of detailed parameters could result in challenges in justifying these expenditures against the potential outcomes expected from international collaborations.

Conclusion

The financial allocations within the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2024 demonstrate a robust commitment to advancing quantum technologies in the U.S. However, the lack of clear accountability measures, criteria for fund allocation, and detailed guidelines for cooperation raise concerns about the potential for inefficient use of these funds. Addressing these deficiencies would enhance the transparency and impact of the substantial financial resources dedicated to the nation's quantum initiatives.

Issues

  • The definitions of 'foreign country of concern' and 'foreign entity of concern' in Section 2 are broad and involve subjective determinations by government officials, which might lead to inconsistent application or misuse.

  • There is a significant allocation of funding without clear accountability or success metrics, such as up to $100,000,000 annually for NIST activities in Section 12 and up to $18,000,000 per center for quantum centers in Section 13, which could lead to potential wasteful spending.

  • The inclusion of multiple government departments and agencies in Section 6 might increase bureaucratic overhead without clear benefit, leading to potential inefficiencies or increased spending.

  • The absence of specific guidelines for international quantum cooperation in Sections 9 and 701 raises concerns about potential misuse or lack of accountability in international collaborations, possibly affecting national security.

  • Section 11 sets a sunset date for the National Quantum Initiative but does not specify the fate of ongoing projects or funding, leading to uncertainty about the continuation of these commitments after termination.

  • The language in several sections regarding coordination and collaboration is vague or broad (e.g., 'strategic allies and partners' in Section 4 and 'international alliances' in Section 9), which could lead to ambiguous interpretations and inconsistent implementation.

  • Section 13 regarding the establishment of quantum centers lacks criteria for determining the necessity for multiple centers, which could lead to potential duplication of efforts and inefficient use of resources.

  • There is a lack of clear evaluation criteria or frameworks for measuring success in various initiatives across several sections, such as the International Quantum Cooperation Strategy in Section 9 and quantum testbeds in Section 304, which could lead to inefficiencies and misallocation of resources.

  • The bill's definitions and amendments (e.g., in Section 2) make extensive use of technical jargon related to quantum technologies, which may not be easily understood by stakeholders without a background in science, potentially leading to misinterpretation or oversight.

Sections

Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.

1. Short title; table of contents Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The act is titled the "National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2024," and it includes a table of contents that outlines various sections related to quantum information science, such as programs, coordination offices, advisory committees, international strategies, and activities by various national institutions.

2. Definitions Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section updates definitions in the National Quantum Initiative Act, adding terms related to federal and national laboratories, foreign entities and countries of concern, quantum technologies like quantum computing and networking, and STEM fields. It ensures these terms reflect current scientific and national security considerations.

3. Purposes Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The amendments to Section 3 of the National Quantum Initiative Act broaden its focus to include science, engineering, and technology, and aim to boost training, create a skilled workforce, and encourage collaboration both domestically and internationally. Additionally, they seek to promote innovation, support emerging technologies linked to quantum science, and strengthen partnerships and trade controls with strategic allies, all to advance and commercialize quantum technology in the United States.

4. National Quantum Initiative Program Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The amendments to the National Quantum Initiative Act enhance the focus on research and development across various sectors, emphasize infrastructure and workforce retention, and expand collaboration to include small businesses and allies. This is aimed at improving coordination in federal quantum science and technology activities, as well as fostering partnerships between different sectors.

5. National Quantum Coordination Office Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The amendments to the National Quantum Initiative Act establish the National Quantum Coordination Office and outline its staffing and responsibilities. They emphasize improved coordination among quantum research ventures, collaboration with small businesses and nonprofits, and focus on strengthening the U.S. economy and workforce related to quantum technologies.

6. Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section amends the National Quantum Initiative Act to enhance the Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science by broadening its focus to include more departments, advancing quantum applications in various fields, introducing new metrics for measuring program impact, and identifying potential quantum technology use cases, which may also be compared to artificial intelligence technologies. Additionally, it emphasizes collaboration among federal agencies and requires reporting on the progress and challenges related to these initiatives.

7. National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section amends the National Quantum Initiative Act by updating qualifications for the Advisory Committee, adding new responsibilities including assessing global quantum programs, and planning a quantum communications network. It also sets a reporting requirement through 2030 and exempts the committee from certain federal advisory rules.

8. Subcommittee on the Economic and Security Implications of Quantum Information Science Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section amends the National Quantum Initiative Act, expanding the Subcommittee on the Economic and Security Implications of Quantum Information Science by adding new federal departments and agencies, enhancing the scope of quantum science to include engineering and technology, and recommending collaboration and strategies for attracting quantum science experts to federal roles.

9. International Quantum Cooperation Strategy Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The "International Quantum Cooperation Strategy" mandates the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to create and submit a strategy within a year for collaborating with other countries on quantum information science. This strategy aims to establish international partnerships, ensure U.S. involvement in global efforts, promote fair international standards, and protect human rights, among other goals, while considering potential risks to U.S. security and economic interests.

105A. International Quantum Cooperation Strategy Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The proposed section outlines a plan, known as the “International Quantum Cooperation Strategy,” to be developed by the U.S. government. This strategy aims to foster international collaborations in quantum technology with global allies, establish standards, ensure ethical practices, and address challenges related to security, innovation, and the global supply chain.

10. Prize challenges Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The National Quantum Initiative Act has been updated to allow leaders of federal agencies to conduct prize competitions aimed at speeding up the development of quantum technology. These competitions will encourage innovation in quantum computing and related fields by setting clear goals and could be coordinated with relevant government subcommittees.

106. National quantum prize challenges Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Federal agencies with representatives on the Quantum Information Science Subcommittee are allowed to organize competitions to speed up advancements in quantum technology, as long as there is available funding. These competitions will focus on making significant progress in areas like quantum computing and communication by setting clear goals and may receive recommendations from relevant subcommittees to guide their efforts.

11. Sunset of National Quantum Initiative Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section amends the National Quantum Initiative Act to state that the authority to carry out certain sections of the Act will end on December 30, 2034, unless specified otherwise.

12. National Institute of Standards and Technology activities and quantum consortium Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section outlines amendments to the National Quantum Initiative Act, focusing on enhancing research and collaboration in quantum technology. It emphasizes the development of quantum supply chains, international standards, and post-quantum cryptography, while also encouraging partnerships between government, academia, and private sectors to advance quantum science, engineering, and technology in the United States.

Money References

  • “(f) Funding.—Of the funds authorized to be appropriated for the National Institute of Standards and Technology pursuant to section 10211 of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (Public Law 117–167) for scientific and technical research and services laboratory activities, there is authorized to be appropriated to the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to carry out this section up to $100,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”.

13. National Institute of Standards and Technology Quantum Centers Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The bill proposes the creation of up to three quantum centers by the National Institute of Standards and Technology to boost research and technology development in quantum information science. These centers will be funded for five years with options for renewal, and will focus on areas like quantum sensing and engineering, leveraging available commercial technology, and coordinating with existing programs to improve U.S. competitiveness.

Money References

  • “(f) Funding.—The Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall allocate up to $18,000,000 for each center established under this section for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, subject to the availability of appropriations.

202. National Institute of Standards and Technology quantum centers Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section establishes a program led by the National Institute of Standards and Technology to create up to three quantum research centers. These centers will advance research and technology in quantum information science, receive up to $18 million in funding each year till 2029, and can operate for up to 5 years with the possibility of renewal.

Money References

  • (f) Funding.—The Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall allocate up to $18,000,000 for each center established under this section for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, subject to the availability of appropriations.

203. Research security Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section ensures that the research activities authorized by this title follow the guidelines set out in subtitle D of title VI of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act.

14. National Science Foundation quantum information science research and education activities Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section modifies the National Quantum Initiative Act to enhance research and education in quantum information science, engineering, and technology. It establishes programs for student traineeships, fellowships, and cooperative education, encourages collaboration among educational institutions, agencies, and nonprofits, and prioritizes resources and international cooperation to advance quantum research and workforce development.

15. Multidisciplinary centers for quantum research and education Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section amends the National Quantum Initiative Act to increase the number of multidisciplinary quantum research centers from 5 to 10 and expands their focus to include technology, outreach to underrepresented groups, and international collaborations. It also requires centers to protect research against foreign interests and mandates regular briefings to Congress by the National Science Foundation Director.

16. Quantum Reskilling, Education, and Workforce (QREW) Coordination Hub, quantum testbeds, and research security Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Quantum Reskilling, Education, and Workforce (QREW) Coordination Hub section of the bill outlines the establishment of a hub to improve education and job opportunities in quantum science and technology. It involves creating programs for universities and community colleges, coordinating with the quantum industry, supporting students from underrepresented groups, and developing career resources, with significant funding allocated for these efforts.

Money References

  • “(j) Funding.—The Director of the National Science Foundation shall allocate up to $10,000,000 for the Hub for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, subject to the availability of appropriations.
  • “(i) Funding.—The Director of the National Science Foundation shall allocate up to $50,000,000 for the quantum testbeds under this section for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, subject to the availability of appropriations.

303. Quantum Reskilling, Education, and Workforce (QREW) Coordination Hub Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section establishes a Quantum Reskilling, Education, and Workforce (QREW) Coordination Hub by awarding a consortium of higher education institutions and nonprofits for addressing workforce development in quantum science and technology. The Hub's purpose is to develop educational programs, promote quantum careers, coordinate with industry partners, and ensure diverse participation, with up to $10 million allocated annually from 2025 to 2029.

Money References

  • (j) Funding.—The Director of the National Science Foundation shall allocate up to $10,000,000 for the Hub for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, subject to the availability of appropriations.

304. Quantum testbeds Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section mandates the National Science Foundation to collaborate with various federal agencies to establish quantum testbeds by providing competitive grants to eligible institutions. These testbeds aim to accelerate quantum technology development, encourage diverse participation, and ensure strategic partnerships and coordination across federal resources, with funding allocated through fiscal years 2025 to 2029.

Money References

  • (i) Funding.—The Director of the National Science Foundation shall allocate up to $50,000,000 for the quantum testbeds under this section for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, subject to the availability of appropriations.

305. Research security Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The activities mentioned in this section must align with the rules in another part of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act.

17. National Science Foundation cryptography research Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The National Science Foundation's cryptography research section of the Cyber Security Research and Development Act has been updated to specifically include post-quantum cryptography, based on its definition in the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act.

18. National Aeronautics and Space Administration quantum activities Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is authorized to engage in research related to quantum information science, engineering, and technology, focusing on space and aeronautics. NASA can collaborate with other federal agencies and expand educational and public outreach programs, with up to $45 million allocated annually from 2025 to 2029, depending on budget availability.

Money References

  • “The Administrator shall allocate up to $45,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to carry out this title, subject to the availability of appropriations.

501. Definition of Administrator Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

In this section, the term "Administrator" is defined as the person who leads the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

502. Quantum information science, engineering, and technology research for space and aeronautics Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section authorizes the Administrator to conduct research on quantum information science, engineering, and technology, especially for space and aeronautics, and encourages cooperation with other federal agencies. Within 180 days from the enactment, the Administrator must submit a strategy to Congress outlining the necessary resources, cooperative efforts, and research areas like quantum sensing, networking, and computing.

503. National Aeronautics and Space Administration quantum initiatives Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section outlines a plan for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to create initiatives focused on using quantum information science for space and aeronautics applications. These initiatives will be selected through a competitive process and may involve partnerships with educational institutions and other organizations, with projects lasting up to five years and the possibility to reapply for continuation if they meet specific criteria.

504. Research security Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section specifies that any research security activities permitted under this title must be aligned with the guidelines set out in subtitle D of title VI of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act.

505. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Administrator is allowed to allocate up to $45 million each year from 2025 to 2029 to support this specific title, as long as the funds are available. The money should come from funds given to NASA.

Money References

  • The Administrator shall allocate up to $45,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to carry out this title, subject to the availability of appropriations.

19. National Institute of Health quantum activities Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The amendment to the National Quantum Initiative Act allows the Director of the National Institutes of Health to create a research program focused on using quantum sensors and computing for medical purposes. This program includes research, case studies, partnerships between different disciplines, and developing a diverse workforce with training and fellowship opportunities in biomedical quantum information science.

601. Quantum research program Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section describes a program where the National Institutes of Health Director can work with other agencies to develop quantum sensors and computing for biomedical use. This includes offering grants for research, studying how these technologies could be used in medicine, forming collaborations across different fields, and training a diverse workforce in biomedical quantum information science.

20. Department of State quantum activities Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Department of State is authorized to create a program focused on international collaboration in quantum technology, which includes grants for joint research and scientist exchanges with participating countries. The program requires coordination with various science and technology agencies, alignment with national quantum strategies, consultation with experts, and annual reporting to Congress, and will be in effect for ten years.

701. Department of State International Quantum Cooperation Program Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section outlines a program by the Secretary of State to boost international cooperation in quantum information science through grants and exchange programs, working with various agencies and aligning with national strategies. It also requires consultation with experts and an annual report to Congress, with these activities ending 10 years after the law's enactment.

21. Comptroller General review and report Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Comptroller General must review research and development programs under the National Quantum Initiative Act to find ways to reduce unnecessary paperwork and speed up access to government facilities for researchers. Within one year after the review, a report should be submitted to certain congressional committees with findings and recommendations.

22. Clerical amendments Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The clerical amendments update the National Quantum Initiative Act’s table of contents by adding new sections about international cooperation, quantum research and education programs, and related security measures. Additionally, new titles are introduced for NASA, the National Institutes of Health, and the Department of State, detailing their roles and activities in quantum science and technology.