Public-private partnership for quantum application development acceleration

(a) In general Title IV of the National Quantum Initiative Act (15 U.S.C. 8851 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following: 405. Public-private partnership for quantum application development acceleration (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Quantum applications The term quantum applications means algorithms and applications which use quantum mechanics through quantum processing units. These applications include quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing, and quantum-hybrid applications which are applications that use both quantum computing and classical computing hardware systems. (2) Quantum sandbox The term quantum sandbox means a program— (A) for innovation and development of applications using quantum information sciences with a focus on near-term use cases; and (B) that can be used to develop and test demonstrations, proofs of concepts, and pilot applications. (3) Near-term use case The term near-term use case means an application that can be developed and deployed in less than 24 months. (b) Establishment of quantum sandbox required The Secretary of Commerce shall, in coordination with the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, establish a quantum sandbox through the establishment of a public-private partnership focused on quantum application development acceleration for quantum application near-term use cases. (c) Engagement As part of the Program and in carrying out subsection (b), the Secretary shall, acting through the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, engage with the Quantum Economic Development Consortium, the National Laboratories (as defined in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801)), federally funded research and development centers, and other members of the United States quantum computing and quantum information ecosystem.. (b) Clerical amendment The table of contents in section 1(b) of such Act is amended by adding after the item relating to section 404 the following new item: Sec. 405. Public-private partnership for quantum application development acceleration..