S. 579 · Where this bill is now
In committee
Introduced in the Senate, Feb 13, 2025
What this bill does
In plain words · AI-written from the official summaryExpanding U.S. quantum computing research efforts
The Department of Energy would expand its quantum research programs to include engineering and technology alongside basic science. The bill would establish new efforts in high-performance quantum computing, study workforce and supply chain needs, and require research into quantum networks and advanced detectors. It also creates a program to build specialized equipment and facilities, including quantum foundries that help develop the materials and hardware the quantum field needs.
How it affects you
Directly, this affects scientists, engineers, and students interested in quantum technology careers, especially those at universities participating in the new trainee program. More broadly, the bill aims to strengthen U.S. quantum capabilities, though the summary doesn't describe specific effects on everyday people or businesses outside the quantum research field.
Read the official summary (Introduced in Senate, Feb 13, 2025)
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.
Written by AI (Claude) using only the official summary by the Congressional Research Service, the Library of Congress’s nonpartisan research staff. It can miss nuance, so check the official summary and the bill text for details.
1st SessionS. 579
A BILL
Department of Energy Quantum Leadership Act of 2025
Sponsor: Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL) · Introduced Feb 13, 2025 · Science, Technology, Communications · 1 version of the text
Sources: Congress.gov actions and votes · bill text from GovInfo · latest official action Feb 13, 2025: “Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. (text: CR S974-977)”
Sections
Sections · 6
- Sec. 1Short titleNo change
- Sec. 2Department of Energy quantum information science research programNo change
- Sec. 3DOE Quantum Instrumentation and Foundry ProgramNo change
- Sec. 4National Quantum Information Science Research CentersNo change
- Sec. 5Department of Energy quantum network infrastructure research and development programNo change
- Sec. 6Department of Energy Quantum User Expansion for Science and Technology programNo change