Todd Young
Senator for Indiana · Republican · United States
“SEC. ___4. NATIONAL QUANTUM INITIATIVE PROGRAM. Subsection (b) of section 101 of the National Quantum Initiative Act (15 U.S.C. 8811) is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1)-- (A) by striking ``development'' and inserting ``research, development, and near-, medium-, and long-term demonstration''; and (B) by striking ``information science and te…”
“(b) Responsibilities.--Under the program established under subsection (a), the Under Secretary shall-- (1) provide secure testing of innovations or tools developed to advance the science of biosecurity, biosafety, and responsible biotechnology innovation; (2) foster participation of nongovernmental experts in the development and testing o…”
“SEC. 204. INTERAGENCY COLLABORATION. Not later than 180 days after all nodes of the Network are designated, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, in cooperation with the Director and participating eligible entities (including institutions of higher education), shall-- (1) develop and promulgate standards to e…”
“``(11) Quantum computing.--The term `quantum computing' means any of a variety of quantum computing technologies, including quantum annealing and quantum gate-model systems that utilize a variety of architectures, such as superconductors, ion traps, photonics, neutral atoms, atomic spin, electron spin, or topological qubits.''; (6) by ame…”
“``(5) Competitive, merit-based review process.--The Director shall award grants under this subsection using a formal, merit-based review process for evaluating applications received by the Director under paragraph (2)(B) that shall-- ``(A) ensure that grants are awarded to the most technically sound and strategically aligned quantum techn…”
“(F) A process, administered by an official of the Department of Commerce designated by the Secretary-- (i) to receive findings from testing conducted in accordance with the standards developed under subsection (c)(4), reports of suspicious orders submitted by covered entities, and related tips and referrals from Federal, State, or local a…”
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“``(g) Coordination.--In supporting quantum testbeds established under this section, the Director of the National Science Foundation shall ensure coordination with other testbeds and other quantum facilities hosting Federal quantum technology and infrastructure supported by the National Science Foundation, including those testbeds and facilities authorized pursuant to section 10390 of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (42 U.S.C. 19110), or by other Federal agencies as determined appropriate by the Director, to avoid duplication and maximize use of Federal resources.”
“``(2) Partnering with other Federal agencies to enable opportunities for quantum testbed outcomes to be transitioned to such agencies in alignment with the missions of such agencies. ``(3) Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2026 and every 2 years thereafter until December 31, 2030, briefing the appropriate committees of Congress on the status of such quantum testbeds and providing recommendations for improving such quantum testbeds.”
“``(e) Prioritization.--In awarding grants under this section, the Director of the National Science Foundation shall prioritize the following: ``(1) Applicants that ensure that not less than 25 percent of the cost for a quantum testbed established under this section is provided by private or non-Federal entities, including through in-kind contributions. ``(2) Awards for consortia that include quantum industry participation. ``(3) Applicants that demonstrate a plan for transitioning quantum testbed outcomes, including through partnerships with industry or Federal agency end-users. ``(f) Roles and Responsibilities.--The Director of the National Science Foundation shall be responsible for the following: ``(1) Maintaining a record of notable outcomes from each quantum testbed established under this section.”
“``(d) Competitive, Merit-based Review Process.--The Director of the National Science Foundation shall select applications submitted under subsection (c) for awards using a formal merit-based review process that shall-- ``(1) ensure that applications selected are the most technically sound and strategically aligned; ``(2) prioritize applications that demonstrate strong potential to enhance United States leadership in quantum applications; ``(3) support initiatives that align with the strategic goals of the National Science Foundation while avoiding unnecessary duplication of efforts led by other Federal agencies; ``(4) facilitate a competitive, transparent, and objective selection process, utilizing qualified subject-matter experts; and ``(5) include appropriate consideration of application feasibility, cost-effectiveness, technological maturity, and risk mitigation.”
“``(5) How the applicant will protect any research or advancements made as a result of using the quantum testbed. ``(6) How the applicant will facilitate transition of testbed outcomes to subsequent development stages, including real-world applications or agency use.”
“``(c) Applications.--An applicant for an award under this section shall submit to the Director of the National Science Foundation an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director determines to be necessary to evaluate the application using the criteria described in subsection (d). The application shall, at a minimum, describe the following: ``(1) How the applicant will assemble a workforce with the skills needed to operate a quantum testbed. ``(2) How the applicant will ensure broad access to a quantum testbed, including for start-ups and research institutions. ``(3) How a quantum testbed will operate after Federal funding has ended. ``(4) How the applicant will contribute to the quantum testbed, such as through funding or other resources required to develop quantum applications.”
“[[Page S2951]] ``(b) Purposes.--The quantum testbeds established under subsection (a) shall focus on advancing early-stage quantum research toward validated and deployable quantum applications, as determined by the Director of the National Science Foundation, through proof-of-concept testing, demonstrations, pilot projects, benchmarking, and prototyping, by-- ``(1) supporting translational quantum research and development activities for quantum application use cases, including, for testbeds featuring quantum software and quantum algorithms driving toward utility, leveraging approaches such as algorithm innovation and tools such as resource estimators; ``(2) providing accessible research resources for developing, testing, and benchmarking the application of quantum technologies to likely use cases, including enabling quantum cloud access; ``(3) investing in quantum computing technologies that show promise for viability, including directing funding to advance each layer of the stack and related systems engineering and integration; ``(4) demonstrating feasibility and establishing cost and benefit to facilitate transition to real-world applications or agency adoption; and ``(5) supporting the co-location of quantum instrumentation, fabrication, and enabling technologies within testbeds and affiliated user-access facilities to enable rapid prototyping, iteration, and scale-up for industry.”
“``(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2026, the Director of the National Science Foundation, in coordination with the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Secretary of Energy, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the heads of other Federal agencies, as determined appropriate by the Director of the National Science Foundation, shall make awards on a competitive, merit-based review basis to institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, federally funded research and development centers, or consortia thereof, to establish testbeds focused on quantum applications.”
“``(h) Briefing Requirements.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2026, and not less frequently than annually thereafter, the Director of the National Science Foundation shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on current and planned activities under this section. Each briefing shall include-- ``(1) an assessment of how each Center is progressing toward the goal of self-sustainability described in subsection (d)(2)(E); and ``(2) a summary of the most recent reports submitted by the Centers regarding such progress in accordance with subsection (d)(2)(H).''. SEC. ___17. QUANTUM TESTBEDS; RESEARCH SECURITY. Title III of the National Quantum Initiative Act (15 U.S.C. 8841 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``SEC. 303. QUANTUM TESTBEDS.”
“3722a) that have a primary focus on quantum information science, engineering, and technology. ``(2) Consultation.--Consultation under paragraph (1) may include discussion of-- ``(A) opportunities to align Federal research priorities with the research, development, technology translation, and workforce development activities of the designated regional technology and innovation hubs; and ``(B) opportunities for researcher exchange programs and sharing of facilities between the centers and the hubs. ``(3) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall be construed-- ``(A) to transfer the ownership or administrative control of any research facility; or ``(B) to alter the existing authorities or mission-related responsibilities of the Federal agencies, companies, or institutions that own or operate such facilities.”
“8842) is amended-- (1) in subsection (a), by striking ``5'' and inserting ``8''; (2) in subsection (c)-- (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``science and engineering'' and inserting ``science, engineering, and technology''; (B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``and engineering'' and inserting ``, engineering, and technology, including leveraging or expanding activities established pursuant to section 301(d)''; (C) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``, such as commercially available hardware and software'' after ``resources''; and (D) by adding at the end the following: ``(4) supporting research and development in enabling fields essential to the advancement of quantum information science, engineering, and technology, including materials science, fabrication science, and physics; ``(5) encouraging the establishment of multidisciplinary quantum research and education centers that leverage existing domestic infrastructure, including data centers and communications networks, to support the demonstration and field application of quantum technologies; and ``(6) promoting partnerships with industry to accelerate technology transfer and support domestic quantum innovation.''; (3) in subsection (d)(2)-- (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``quantum science,'' and inserting ``quantum information science, engineering, and technology,''; (B) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``biotechnology,'' after ``chemistry,''; (C) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``and'' after the semicolon; (D) in subparagraph (E), by striking the period and inserting a semicolon; and (E) by adding at the end the following: ``(F) how the Center will participate in international collaborations, as appropriate, to build a trusted global research network with allies and partners of the United States and other countries that share values with the United States; ``(G) how the Center will protect research from foreign countries of concern and foreign entities of concern, and the subsidiaries of such foreign entities, to ensure the competitiveness of the United States; and ``(H) how the Center will regularly assess and report on progress toward achieving self-sustainability, including metrics, milestones, and a timeline for meeting the long-term goal described in subparagraph (E).''; (4) in subsection (e), by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following: ``(2) Reapplication.--An awardee may reapply for an additional subsequent period of 5 years following a successful merit-based review.''; (5) in subsection (f), by striking ``2019 through 2023'' and inserting ``2026 through 2030''; and (6) by adding at the end the following: ``(g) Consultation With Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs.-- ``(1) In general.--In carrying out the activities of the Multidisciplinary Centers for Quantum Research and Education under this section, the Director of the National Science Foundation shall consult with the Secretary of Commerce regarding opportunities for such centers to engage in research and development activities with regional technology and innovation hubs designated under section 28 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C.”
“``(3) Requirements.--An institution of higher education or an eligible nonprofit organization (or a consortium thereof) seeking funding under this subsection shall submit to the Director of the National Science Foundation an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require.''. SEC. ___16. MULTIDISCIPLINARY CENTERS FOR QUANTUM RESEARCH AND EDUCATION. Section 302 of the National Quantum Initiative Act (15 U.S.C.”
“``(B) Enhancing access to equipment and instrumentation, including at partnering institutions, by facilitating information sharing, coordination, education, and training, including activities that provide meaningful hands-on learning experiences for students, including at community and technical colleges. ``(C) Enabling professional staff to support the operation, scheduling, and improvement of research resources used for quantum information science, engineering, and technology. ``(D) Expanding access for industry to quantum research infrastructure by prioritizing the placement of equipment and instrumentation in user-access facilities that support rapid iteration, including regional technology hubs, industry parks, co-locations operated by institutions of higher education and industry, and private sector testbeds.”
“``(2) Purpose.--Grants under paragraph (1) shall be used to facilitate quantum information science, engineering, and technology research and development, including by carrying out the following: ``(A) Upgrading or adding research resources to-- ``(i) accelerate the development of quantum technologies, including capabilities focused on addressing the roadblocks to implementation; and ``(ii) meet the materials, advanced materials development, high-performance computing, heterogeneous computing, networking, software, data, clean room, and device needs of the scientific community and the quantum supply chain.”
“``(f) Upgrading and Improving Access to Quantum Research Resources.-- ``(1) In general.--In carrying out the activities described in this section, the Director of the National Science Foundation, in consultation with the heads of other Federal departments and agencies, as appropriate, shall award grants to institutions of higher education or eligible nonprofit organizations (or consortia thereof) to upgrade research facilities and improve access to research resources, such as equipment and instrumentation, that is needed for research and development in quantum information science, engineering, and technology.”
“``(4) Restrictions.-- ``(A) Confucius institutes.--None of the funds made available under this subsection may be obligated or expended to an institution of higher education that maintains a contract or agreement between such institution and a Confucius Institute, as defined in section 10339A of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (42 U.S.C. 19039) or any successor of a Confucius Institute. ``(B) Foreign country of concern and foreign entity of concern.--None of the funds made available under this subsection may be obligated or expended to promote, establish, or finance quantum research activities between a United States entity and a foreign country of concern or foreign entity of concern, including the entity's subsidiaries.”
“``(2) Alignment.--In carrying out this subsection, the Director of the National Science Foundation shall ensure alignment with the national strategy for quantum information science in accordance with Executive Order 14073 (87 Fed. Reg. 27909; relating to enhancing the National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee) or successor strategies. ``(3) Priority.--The Director shall prioritize research programs with countries that have signed a quantum cooperation statement with the United States.”
“``(5) Partnerships.--In carrying out the activities under this subsection, the Director of the National Science Foundation shall encourage recipients of awards under this subsection to partner with relevant Federal agencies, Federal laboratories, industry and other private sector organizations, and nonprofit organizations to facilitate the expansion of workforce pathways and hands-on learning experiences.''; (5) in subsection (d)-- (A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``QISE'' and inserting ``QISET''; (B) in paragraph (1)-- (i) by striking ``information science and engineering (referred to in this subsection as `QISE')'' and inserting ``information science, engineering, and technology (referred to in this subsection as `QISET')''; (ii) by striking ``at all education levels, including community colleges'' and inserting ``at appropriate education levels, including community colleges and career and technical education entities''; (C) in paragraph (2)-- (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``QISE'' and inserting ``quantum information science, engineering, and technology''; (ii) by striking subparagraph (C); (iii) by redesignating subparagraphs (D) and (E) as subparagraphs (C) and (D), respectively; (iv) in subparagraph (C), as so redesignated-- (I) by inserting ``, engineering, and technology'' after ``science''; and (II) by inserting ``, including those principles relevant to emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, microelectronics, and nanotechnology'' after ``fields''; and (v) by inserting after subparagraph (D), as so redesignated, the following: [[Page S2950]] ``(E) Methods to introduce security dimensions associated with quantum information science, engineering, and technology into STEM curricula.''; (D) in paragraph (3), by striking ``QISE'' and inserting ``quantum information science, engineering, and technology''; and (E) by striking paragraph (4); and (6) by adding at the end the following: ``(e) International Research on Quantum Information Science, Engineering, and Technology.-- ``(1) In general.--The Director of the National Science Foundation, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the heads of other Federal agencies, as appropriate, shall support international quantum information science, engineering, and technology research, as appropriate, to enhance international cooperation and meet United States commitments, including as part of the terms and conditions of bilateral or multilateral quantum information science, engineering, and technology research agreements.”
“``(4) Cooperative education programs.--The Director of the National Science Foundation, in consultation with heads of Federal agencies the Director considers appropriate, may establish, or use existing, programs to support cooperative education programs between institutions of higher education and employers that increase opportunities for undergraduate students to acquire experiential learning and professional experiences in quantum information science, engineering, and technology.”
“The Director of the National Science Foundation may prioritize fellowships that include an industry partner that provides financial assistance to awardees for direct or indirect costs. ``(3) Quantum research experiences for undergraduates.--The Director of the National Science Foundation shall seek to increase opportunities for quantum research for undergraduate students by encouraging proposals in quantum information science, engineering, and technology, through the research experiences for undergraduates provided under section 514 of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-6).”
“``(C) Considerations.--Eligible fellowships and scholarship programs under this paragraph may include temporary quantum- related positions at Federal or State agencies, National Laboratories, private sector entities, institutions of higher education, the quantum centers established under section 202, the Multidisciplinary Centers for Quantum Research and Education established under section 302, the National Quantum Information Science Research Centers established under section 402, and the initiatives established under section 503, or other quantum-relevant entities, as determined appropriate by the Director. ``(D) Competitive awards.--Fellowships and scholarships awarded under this paragraph shall be competitively awarded through a merit-based review process.”
“``(B) Requirements.--An eligible participant in the fellowship and scholarship program under this paragraph shall-- ``(i) be enrolled in or have graduated from a STEM degree program at an institution of higher education within the United States; and ``(ii) have demonstrated interest in quantum information science, engineering, and technology, such as by taking not less than 1 quantum science or quantum-relevant course as part of the participant's degree program or by participating in a summer school program that focuses on quantum information science, engineering, and technology.”
“``(2) Quantum fellowships and scholarships.-- ``(A) In general.--The Director of the National Science Foundation, in consultation with heads of Federal agencies as the Director considers appropriate, may use existing programs to support fellowships and scholarships for students at institutions of higher education for the purpose of-- ``(i) increasing quantum information science, engineering, and technology exposure for undergraduate and graduate STEM students; and ``(ii) increasing postgraduation employment opportunities for STEM students who demonstrate potential to pursue careers in quantum information science, engineering, and technology.”
“8841) is amended-- (1) in the section heading, by inserting ``, engineering, and technology'' after ``science''; (2) in subsection (a), by striking ``science and engineering'' and inserting ``science, engineering, and technology''; (3) in subsection (b)-- (A) in paragraph (1)-- (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``science and engineering'' and inserting ``science, engineering, and technology''; and (ii) in subparagraph (B)-- (I) by striking ``human resources'' and inserting ``education and workforce''; and (II) by striking ``science and engineering'' and inserting ``science, engineering, and technology''; and (B) in paragraph (2)-- (i) in subparagraph (A)-- (I) in clause (i)-- (aa) by striking ``science and engineering'' and inserting ``science, engineering, and technology''; and (bb) by striking ``and'' after the semicolon; (II) in clause (ii), by inserting ``and'' after the semicolon; and (III) by adding at the end the following: ``(iii) to pursue research at the frontiers of quantum information science, engineering, and technology, and explore solutions to important challenges for the development and application of quantum technologies;''; (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``science and engineering'' and inserting ``science, engineering, and technology''; and (iii) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``science and engineering'' and inserting ``science, engineering, and technology''; (4) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following: ``(c) Student Traineeships, Fellowships, and Other Models.-- ``(1) Quantum traineeships.--The Director of the National Science Foundation, in consultation with heads of Federal agencies as the Director considers appropriate, may use existing programs to make awards to institutions of higher education or nonprofit organizations (or consortia thereof)-- ``(A) to provide traineeships to graduate students at institutions of higher education within the United States who are citizens of the United States and who choose or plan to pursue master or doctoral degrees in quantum information science, engineering, and technology, or related fields; and ``(B) to provide such graduate students with opportunities for research experiences in government or industry related to such students' quantum studies.”
“(d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director shall submit to Congress a report describing the findings of the Director with respect to the study conducted under subsection (b). SEC. ___15. NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH AND EDUCATION ACTIVITIES. Section 301 of the National Quantum Initiative Act (15 U.S.C.”
“(c) Considerations.--In conducting the study under subsection (b), the Director shall, to the maximum extent practicable-- (1) determine the manufacturing capabilities necessary to produce reliable quantum components and systems at scale and identify gaps in access to such capabilities and limited domestic sources; (2) evaluate the extent to which such capabilities and gaps are already addressed, or could reasonably be addressed, by private industry, existing Manufacturing USA institutes, or other Federal programs; (3) evaluate existing Federal and non-Federal efforts relating to quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum networking to determine whether any proposed Manufacturing USA institute would duplicate or overlap with ongoing activities; (4) evaluate whether and to what extent barriers to technology development and transition, including those associated with moving from early-stage research to scaled production, are persistent and not already being addressed through private sector investment or existing Federal programs; (5) evaluate the feasibility of supporting domestic activities that include the capability to design, fabricate, and test materials, devices, structures, and manufacturing processes for quantum technologies or systems; (6) evaluate the full lifecycle costs of establishing, operating, and sustaining a Manufacturing USA institute for quantum manufacturing, including long-term Federal funding requirements, administrative costs, and risks of cost escalation; (7) evaluate alternative approaches, including leveraging existing Manufacturing USA institutes, targeted competitive grants, public-private partnerships, or other mechanisms that may more efficiently address identified barriers to technology development and transition; and (8) evaluate the estimated economic impact associated with the establishment of a Manufacturing USA institute described in subsection (b), including impacts on regional economies, suppliers, and job growth.”
“(b) Study Required.--The Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and the members of the Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science and the Subcommittee on the Economic and Security Implications of Quantum Science, conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing or supporting a Manufacturing USA institute focused on quantum manufacturing, including manufacturing capabilities and activities related to quantum computing (inclusive of all modalities and qubit architectures), quantum sensing, and quantum networking.”
“``(e) Coordination.-- The Director shall ensure coordination and avoid unnecessary duplication of the activities carried out under this section with existing activities of the Institute, other activities carried out under this Act, and other related programs, as appropriate.''. SEC. ___14. FEASIBILITY STUDY ON MANUFACTURING USA INSTITUTE FOR QUANTUM MANUFACTURING. (a) Definition of Manufacturing USA Institute.--In this section, the term ``Manufacturing USA institute'' has the meaning [[Page S2949]] given such term in section 34(d) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278s(d)).”
“``(c) Coordination and Engagement.--In carrying out subsection (b), the Director shall -- ``(1) coordinate activities with the members of the Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science and the Subcommittee on Economic and Security Implications of Quantum Science; and ``(2) 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, including industry. ``(d) Success Metrics.--In administering this section, the Director shall, in consultation with the entities described in subsection (c), define clear success metrics for the quantum sandbox established under subsection (b).”
“``(b) Establishment of Collaborative Venture for Quantum Application Development Acceleration.--Consistent with the activities authorized under this title, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall establish or expand an existing collaborative venture or consortia with other public or private sector entities-- ``(1) for innovation and development of applications using quantum information sciences with a focus on near-term use cases; and ``(2) that can be used to develop and test demonstrations, proofs of concept, and pilot applications.”
“``(a) Definition of Near-term Use Case.--In this section, the term `near-term use case' means-- ``(1) in the case of an application that includes the development of quantum computing hardware, an application that can be developed and deployed in less than 3 years; or ``(2) in the case of an application that includes quantum technologies in general, including quantum communication, sensing, algorithm development for hybrid applications, supply chain innovation, or demonstrations of computational advantage, where new quantum computer hardware would not need to be developed, an application that can be developed and deployed in less than 18 months.”
“19231 et seq.) and section 6432 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159; 42 U.S.C. 7144b note). ``SEC. 204. COLLABORATION FOR QUANTUM APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT ACCELERATION.”
“``(f) Briefing Requirements.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2026, and not less frequently than once each year thereafter, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall provide the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives a briefing on current and planned activities under this section. ``SEC. 203. RESEARCH SECURITY. ``The activities authorized under this title shall be carried out in a manner consistent with subtitle D of title VI of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (42 U.S.C.”
“``(d) Commercial Technology.--Each center established under this section may leverage commercially available hardware and software to carry out the activities described in subsection (a), unless such hardware or software is manufactured in, or by, a foreign country of concern. ``(e) 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 2026 through 2030, subject to the availability of appropriations. Such amounts shall be derived from amounts appropriated pursuant to section 10211 of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (Public Law 117- 167).”
“``(b) Requirements.--To the maximum extent practicable, centers established and operated under this section shall serve the mission of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, for the benefit of the broader United States quantum information science community, for the following purposes: ``(1) Advancing research and standardization in quantum information science, engineering, and technology. ``(2) Advancing technology development. ``(3) Improving the competitiveness of the United States. ``(c) Coordination.--The Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall ensure coordination and avoid unnecessary duplication of the activities carried out under this section with existing activities of the Institute, other activities carried out under this Act, and other related programs, as appropriate.”
“``(5) Competitive, merit-based review process.--The Director shall award grants under this subsection using a formal, merit-based review process for evaluating applications received by the Director under paragraph (2)(B) that shall-- ``(A) ensure that grants are awarded to the most technically sound and strategically aligned quantum technology proposals; ``(B) prioritize proposals that demonstrate strong potential to enhance leadership by the United States in quantum applications, quantum metrology, and the development of quantum standards; ``(C) support initiatives that align with the strategic goals of the National Institute of Standards and Technology while avoiding unnecessary duplication of efforts led by other Federal agencies; ``(D) facilitate a competitive, transparent, and objective selection process, utilizing qualified subject-matter experts; and ``(E) include appropriate consideration of project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, technological maturity, and risk mitigation.”
“``(4) Grants.-- ``(A) In general.--The Director shall carry out the program required by paragraph (1) through the award of grants to eligible applicants seeking to establish and operate centers under the program. ``(B) Duration of grant awards.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, the duration of a grant awarded under subparagraph (A) shall be a period of 5 years. ``(C) Renewal.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, each grant awarded under subparagraph (A) may be renewed for successive periods of 5 years following a successful merit-based review by the Director. ``(D) Termination.--Consistent with the authorities of the Institute, the Director may terminate a grant awarded under subparagraph (A) for an underperforming center for cause during the performance period of the grant.”
“``(iii) Multi-institution collaborations, including multiple types of research institutions, private sector entities, Federal laboratories, and nonprofit organizations, or consortia thereof. ``(3) Selection of applications and prioritized topics.-- The Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall solicit proposals and prioritize the following topics in the initial selection of applications submitted under paragraph (2)(B), subject to merit-based review (including review of the criteria described in paragraph (5)): ``(A) Advancing quantum sensing and measurement technologies. ``(B) Advancing the manufacturing and scale-up of quantum systems and quantum-enabling technologies. ``(C) Addressing technology barriers to quantum networking and communications.”
“``(2) Program details.-- ``(A) Competitive, merit-based review process.--The centers established and operated under paragraph (1) shall be established through a competitive, merit-based review process described in paragraph (5). ``(B) Applications.--An eligible applicant described in subparagraph (C) seeking to establish and operate a center described in paragraph (1) shall submit to the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology an application therefor at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director determines to be necessary to evaluate the application using the criteria described in paragraph (5). ``(C) Eligible applicants.--Eligible applicants described in this subparagraph are the following: ``(i) Institutions of higher education. ``(ii) Nonprofit organizations.”
“Title II of the National Quantum Initiative Act is amended by adding at the end the following new sections: ``SEC. 202. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY QUANTUM CENTERS. ``(a) Establishment.-- ``(1) In general.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall, in consultation with such heads of other Federal departments and agencies as the Director considers appropriate, carry out a program to establish and operate at least 1, but not more than 3, centers to accelerate research, development, deployment, and standardization of quantum information science, engineering, and technology.”
“``(f) Funding.-- ``(1) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized to be appropriated to the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to carry out this section $85,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030. ``(2) Derivation of funds.--Amounts made available pursuant to paragraph (1) for each of fiscal years 2026 and 2027 shall be derived from amounts 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.''. SEC. ___13. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY QUANTUM CENTERS.”
“``(IV) Monitoring and evaluating the success of the upgrade and assessing the security of the system. ``(v) A plan for implementing the above performance measures, including evaluating and monitoring entities that are at high risk of quantum attacks, including sector risk management agencies. ``(B) Report to congress.--Not later than 360 days after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that includes the National Quantum Cybersecurity Upgrade Strategy developed under subparagraph (A). [[Page S2948]] ``(4) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this section may be construed to authorize the development or implementation of any rulemaking or regulatory action for non-Federal entities.”
“``(iv) Recommended performance measures for upgrading to post-quantum cryptography for the following tasks: ``(I) Preparation for upgrading to post-quantum cryptography, including-- ``(aa) the adoption of hardware integrating quantum- resistant cryptographic algorithms; and ``(bb) the deployment of software-only post-quantum cryptography overlays that meet or exceed security standards set forth in the Federal Information Processing Standards issued by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. ``(II) Establishment of a baseline understanding of the data inventory, including through the use of automated tools to identify assets. ``(III) Planning and execution of post-quantum cryptographic solutions, including ensuring that data at rest and in motion is subject to appropriate protections.”
“``(ii) Recommended standards to apply to determine whether a quantum computer meets such definition, including-- ``(I) the characteristics of such computers; and ``(II) the particular point at which such computers are capable of attacking real-world systems that classical computers are unable to attack. ``(iii) Guidelines for assessing the urgency of upgrading to post-quantum cryptography for each Federal agency relative to-- ``(I) the critical functions of each agency; and ``(II) the risk each agency faces should a cryptographically relevant quantum computer attack a system operated by the agency.”
“``(3) Strategy for federal agency upgrade to post-quantum cryptography.-- ``(A) National quantum cybersecurity upgrade strategy.--The Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy and in consultation with the Quantum Economic Development Consortium and the head of any other agency the Secretary of Commerce considers appropriate, shall develop a National Quantum Cybersecurity Upgrade Strategy that includes the following: ``(i) A definition of a cryptographically relevant quantum computer.”
“``(B) Dissemination of guidance.-- ``(i) In general.--The Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall make available to entities in the private sector the guidance established under subparagraph (A). ``(ii) Special publications.--The Director may satisfy the requirement under clause (i) through the publication of Special Publications.”
“``(E) Sector risk management agency.--The term `sector risk management agency' has the meaning given such term in section 2200 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 650). ``(2) Guidance on upgrading to post-quantum cryptography.-- ``(A) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the head of any other agency the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology considers appropriate, shall establish guidance for upgrading information systems to post-quantum cryptography, including guidance that is specifically tailored for critical infrastructure sectors.”
“``(D) Post-quantum cryptography.--The term `post-quantum cryptography'-- ``(i) means those cryptographic algorithms or methods that are assessed not to be specifically vulnerable to attack by either a quantum computer or classical computer; and ``(ii) includes-- ``(I) the lattice-based digital signature algorithm specified in National Institute of Standards and Technology Federal Information Processing Standards Publication 204 (dated August 13, 2024; relating to Module-Lattice-Based Digital Signature Standard), or any successor standard; ``(II) the module-lattice-based key-encapsulation mechanism specified in National Institute of Standards and Technology Federal Information Processing Standards Publication 203 (dated August 13, 2024; relating to Module-Lattice-Based Key- Encapsulation Mechanism Standard), or any successor standard; and ``(III) any cryptographic algorithm or method implemented in accordance with National Institute of Standards and Technology Federal Information Processing Standard Publication 140-3 (dated March 22, 2019; relating to Security Requirements for Cryptographic Modules), or any successor standard, operating within a zero trust architecture as described in National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication 800-207 (dated August 2020; relating to Zero Trust Architecture), or any successor standard.”
“``(B) Classical computer; quantum computer.--The terms `classical computer' and `quantum computer' have the meanings given such terms in section 3 of the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act (Public Law 117-260; 6 U.S.C. 1526 note). ``(C) Critical infrastructure sectors.--The term `critical infrastructure sectors' means the critical infrastructure sectors defined in the National Security Memorandum on `Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience' (NSM-22), dated April 30, 2024.”
“``(B) Foreign countries or entities of concern.--None of the funds made available under this subsection may be obligated or expended to promote, establish, or finance quantum research activities between a United States entity and a foreign country of concern or foreign entity of concern, including the entity's subsidiaries, except such restriction shall not apply to participation by award recipients in consensus-based international standardization activities. ``(e) Post-quantum Cryptography Deployment.-- ``(1) Definitions.--In this subsection: ``(A) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term `appropriate congressional committees' means-- ``(i) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate; and ``(ii) the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives.”