[House Report 115-950]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
115th Congress } { Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2d Session } { 115-950
======================================================================
NATIONAL QUANTUM INITIATIVE ACT
_______
September 13, 2018.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on
the State of the Union and ordered to be printed
_______
Mr. Smith of Texas, from the Committee on Science, Space, and
Technology, submitted the following
R E P O R T
[To accompany H.R. 6227]
[Including cost estimate of the Congressional Budget Office]
The Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, to whom
was referred the bill (H.R. 6227) to provide for a coordinated
Federal program to accelerate quantum research and development
for the economic and national security of the United States,
having considered the same, report favorably thereon with an
amendment and recommend that the bill as amended do pass.
CONTENTS
Page
Committee Statement and Views.................................... 8
Section-by-Section............................................... 12
Explanation of Amendments........................................ 15
Committee Consideration.......................................... 15
Application of Law to the Legislative Branch..................... 15
Statement of Oversight Findings and Recommendations of the
Committee...................................................... 15
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives............ 16
Duplication of Federal Programs.................................. 16
Disclosure of Directed Rule Makings.............................. 16
Federal Advisory Committee Act................................... 16
Unfunded Mandate Statement....................................... 16
Earmark Identification........................................... 16
Committee Estimate............................................... 16
Budget Authority and Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate... 16
The amendment is as follows:
Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the
following:
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``National Quantum
Initiative Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Definitions.
Sec. 3. Purposes.
TITLE I--NATIONAL QUANTUM INITIATIVE
Sec. 101. National Quantum Initiative Program.
Sec. 102. National Quantum Coordination Office.
Sec. 103. Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science.
Sec. 104. National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee.
Sec. 105. Sunset.
TITLE II--NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY QUANTUM
ACTIVITIES
Sec. 201. National Institute of Standards and Technology activities and
quantum workshop.
TITLE III--NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY CENTERS
FOR QUANTUM RESEARCH AND EDUCATION
Sec. 301. Quantum information science research and education program.
Sec. 302. Multidisciplinary Centers for Quantum Research and Education.
TITLE IV--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY RESEARCH AND NATIONAL QUANTUM
INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH CENTERS
Sec. 401. Quantum Information Science Research program.
Sec. 402. National Quantum Information Science Research Centers.
Sec. 403. Spending limitation.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) Advisory committee.--The term ``Advisory Committee''
means the National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee
established under section 104(a).
(2) Coordination office.--The term ``Coordination Office''
means the National Quantum Coordination Office established
under section 102(a).
(3) Institutions of higher education.--The term
``institutions of higher education'' has the meaning given the
term in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1001(a)).
(4) Program.--The term ``Program'' means the National Quantum
Initiative Program implemented under section 101(a).
(5) Quantum information science.--The term ``quantum
information science'' means the storage, transmission,
manipulation, or measurement of information that is encoded in
systems that can only be described by the laws of quantum
physics.
(6) Subcommittee.--The term ``Subcommittee'' means the
Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science of the National
Science and Technology Council established under section
103(a).
SEC. 3. PURPOSES.
The purposes of this Act are to ensure the continued leadership of
the United States in quantum information science and its technology
applications by--
(1) supporting research, development, demonstration, and
application of quantum information science and technology in
order to--
(A) expand the number of researchers, educators, and
students with training in quantum information science
and technology to develop a workforce pipeline;
(B) promote the development and inclusion of
multidisciplinary curriculum and research opportunities
for quantum information science at the undergraduate,
graduate, and postdoctoral level;
(C) address basic research knowledge gaps;
(D) promote the further development of facilities and
centers available for quantum information science and
technology research, testing and education; and
(E) stimulate research on and promote more rapid
development of quantum-based technologies;
(2) improving the interagency planning and coordination of
Federal research and development of quantum information science
and technology and maximizing the effectiveness of the Federal
Government's quantum information science and technology
research and development programs;
(3) promoting collaboration among government, Federal
laboratories, industry, and universities; and
(4) promoting the development of standards for quantum
information science and technology security.
TITLE I--NATIONAL QUANTUM INITIATIVE
SEC. 101. NATIONAL QUANTUM INITIATIVE PROGRAM.
The President shall implement a 10-year National Quantum Initiative
Program. In carrying out the Program, the President shall, acting
through appropriate Federal agencies, councils, working groups,
subcommittees, and the Coordination Office--
(1) establish the goals, priorities, and metrics for a 10-
year plan to accelerate development of quantum information
science and technology applications in the United States;
(2) invest in fundamental Federal quantum information science
and technology research, development, demonstration, and other
activities to achieve the goals established in paragraph (1);
(3) invest in activities to develop a quantum information
science and technology workforce pipeline;
(4) provide for interagency coordination of Federal quantum
information science and technology research, development,
demonstration, and other activities undertaken pursuant to the
Program;
(5) partner with industry and academia to leverage knowledge
and resources; and
(6) leverage existing Federal investments efficiently to
advance Program goals and objectives.
SEC. 102. NATIONAL QUANTUM COORDINATION OFFICE.
(a) Establishment.--The President shall establish a National Quantum
Coordination Office, which shall have--
(1) a Director appointed by the Director of the Office of
Science and Technology Policy, in consultation with the
Secretary of Commerce, the Director of the National Science
Foundation, and the Secretary of Energy; and
(2) staff that shall be comprised of employees detailed from
the Federal agencies that are members of the Subcommittee.
(b) Responsibilities.--The Coordination Office shall--
(1) provide technical and administrative support to--
(A) the Subcommittee; and
(B) the Advisory Committee;
(2) oversee interagency coordination of the Program,
including encouraging and supporting joint agency solicitation
and selection of applications for funding of projects under the
Program;
(3) serve as the point of contact on Federal civilian quantum
information science and technology activities for Government
organizations, academia, industry, professional societies,
State governments, and others to exchange technical and
programmatic information;
(4) ensure coordination between the Multidisciplinary Centers
for Quantum Research and Education established under section
302(a) and the National Quantum Information Science Research
Centers established under section 402(a);
(5) conduct public outreach, including dissemination of
findings and recommendations of the Advisory Committee, as
appropriate;
(6) promote access to and early application of the
technologies, innovations, and expertise derived from Program
activities to agency missions and systems across the Federal
Government, and to United States industry, including startup
companies; and
(7) promote access, through appropriate Government agencies,
to existing quantum computing and communication systems
developed by industry, academia, and Federal laboratories to
the general user community in pursuit of discovery of the new
applications of such systems.
(c) Funding.--Funds necessary to carry out the activities of the
Coordination Office shall be made available each fiscal year by the
participating agencies of the Subcommittee, as determined by the
Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
SEC. 103. SUBCOMMITTEE ON QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE.
(a) Establishment.--The President shall establish, through the
National Science and Technology Council, a Subcommittee on Quantum
Information Science.
(b) Membership.--The Subcommittee shall include--
(1) the National Institute of Standards and Technology;
(2) the National Science Foundation;
(3) the Department of Energy;
(4) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration;
(5) the Department of Defense;
(6) the Office of the Director of National Intelligence;
(7) the Office of Management and Budget;
(8) the Office of Science and Technology Policy; and
(9) any other Federal agency as considered appropriate by the
President.
(c) Chairs.--The Subcommittee shall be jointly chaired by the
Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the
Director of the National Science Foundation, and the Secretary of
Energy.
(d) Responsibilities.--The Subcommittee shall--
(1) coordinate the quantum information science and technology
research and education activities and programs of the Federal
agencies;
(2) establish goals and priorities of the Program, based on
identified knowledge and workforce gaps and other national
needs;
(3) assess and recommend Federal infrastructure needs to
support the Program; and
(4) evaluate opportunities for international cooperation with
strategic allies on research and development in quantum
information science and technology.
(e) Strategic Plan.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Subcommittee shall develop a 5-year
strategic plan, and 6 years after enactment of the Act develop an
additional 5-year strategic plan, with periodic updates as appropriate
to guide the activities of the Program, meet the goals, priorities, and
anticipated outcomes of the participating agencies.
(f) Reports.--The Chairs of the Subcommittee shall submit to the
President, the Advisory Committee, the Committee on Science, Space, and
Technology of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Energy and Natural
Resources of the Senate, and other appropriate committees of Congress
the strategic plans developed under subsection (e) and any updates to
such plans.
SEC. 104. NATIONAL QUANTUM INITIATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
(a) In General.--The President shall establish a National Quantum
Initiative Advisory Committee.
(b) Qualifications.--The Advisory Committee established by the
President under subsection (a) shall consist of members from industry,
academic institutions, and Federal laboratories. The President shall
appoint members to the Advisory Committee who are qualified to provide
advice and information on quantum information science and technology
research, development, demonstrations, education, technology transfer,
commercial application, or national security and economic concerns.
(c) Membership Consideration.--In selecting an Advisory Committee,
the President may seek and give consideration to recommendations from
the Congress, industry, the scientific community (including the
National Academy of Sciences, scientific professional societies, and
academia), the defense community, and other appropriate organizations.
(d) Duties.--The Advisory Committee shall advise the President and
the Subcommittee and make recommendations that shall be considered in
reviewing and revising the Program. The Advisory Committee shall
provide the President and the Subcommittee with an independent
assessment of--
(1) trends and developments in quantum information science
and technology;
(2) progress made in implementing the Program;
(3) whether the Program activities, priorities, and technical
goals developed by the Subcommittee are helping to maintain
United States leadership in quantum information science and
technology;
(4) the management, coordination, implementation, and
activities of the Program;
(5) the need to revise the Program;
(6) whether or not there are opportunities for international
cooperation with strategic allies on research and development
in quantum information science and technology; and
(7) whether national security, societal, economic, legal, and
workforce concerns are adequately addressed by the Program.
(e) Reports.--The Advisory Committee shall report, not less
frequently than once every 2 years, to the President on the assessments
required under subsection (d) and any recommendations to improve the
Program. The first report under this subsection shall be submitted not
later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act. The
Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall transmit
a copy of each report under this subsection to the Committee on
Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives, the
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology of the Senate, the
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate, and other
appropriate committees of the Congress.
(f) Travel Expenses of Non-Federal Members.--Non-Federal members of
the Advisory Committee, while attending meetings of the Advisory
Committee or while otherwise serving at the request of the head of the
Advisory Committee away from their homes or regular places of business,
may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of
subsistence, as authorized by section 5703 of title 5, United States
Code, for individuals in the Government serving without pay. Nothing in
this subsection shall be construed to prohibit members of the Advisory
Committee who are officers or employees of the United States from being
allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in
accordance with existing law.
(g) Exemption.--The Advisory Committee shall be exempt from section
14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.).
SEC. 105. SUNSET.
(a) In General.--Except as provided for in subsection (b), the
authority to carry out sections 101, 102, 103, and 104 shall terminate
on the date that is 11 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Extension.--The President may continue the activities under such
sections if the President determines that such activities are necessary
to meet national economic or national security needs.
TITLE II--NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY QUANTUM
ACTIVITIES
SEC. 201. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY ACTIVITIES AND
QUANTUM WORKSHOP.
(a) National Institute of Standards and Technology Activities.--As
part of the Program described in title I, the Director of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology shall--
(1) continue to support and expand basic quantum information
science and technology research and development of measurement
and standards infrastructure necessary to advance commercial
development of quantum applications;
(2) use its existing programs, in collaboration with other
agencies, as appropriate, to train scientists in quantum
information science and technology to increase participation in
the quantum fields;
(3) establish or expand collaborative ventures or consortia
with other public or private sector entities, including
academia, National Laboratories, and industry for the purpose
of advancing the field of quantum information science and
engineering; and
(4) have the authority to enter into and perform such
contracts, including cooperative research and development
arrangements and grants and cooperative agreements or other
transactions, as may be necessary in the conduct of the work of
the Institute and on such terms as the Director considers
appropriate, in furtherance of the purposes of this Act.
(b) Quantum Workshop.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Director of the National Institute
of Standards and Technology shall convene a workshop of
stakeholders to discuss the future measurement, standards,
cybersecurity, and other appropriate needs for supporting the
development of a robust quantum information science and
technology industry in the United States. The goals of the
workshop shall be to--
(A) assess the current research on the issues
described in this paragraph;
(B) evaluate the research gaps relating to such
issues; and
(C) provide recommendations on how the National
Institute of Standards and Technology and the Program
can address the research needs identified.
(2) Report to congress.--Not later than 2 years after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology shall transmit to the
Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate a summary report containing the
findings of the workshop convened under this section.
(c) Funding.--The Secretary of Commerce shall devote $400,000,000 to
carry out this section, which shall include $80,000,000 for each of
fiscal years 2019 through 2023, subject to the availability of
appropriations, to come from amounts made available for the National
Institute of Standards and Technology. This section shall be carried
out using funds otherwise appropriated by law after the date of
enactment of this Act.
TITLE III--NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY CENTERS
FOR QUANTUM RESEARCH AND EDUCATION
SEC. 301. QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH AND EDUCATION PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--The Director of the National Science Foundation
shall carry out a basic research and education program on quantum
information science and engineering.
(b) Program Components.--In carrying out the program required under
subsection (a), the Director of the National Science Foundation shall
carry out activities that continue to support basic interdisciplinary
quantum information science and engineering research, and support human
resources development in all aspects of quantum information science and
engineering. Such activities shall include--
(1) using the existing programs of the National Science
Foundation, in collaboration with other Federal agencies, as
appropriate, to--
(A) improve the teaching and learning of quantum
information science and engineering at the
undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels; and
(B) increase participation in the quantum fields,
including by individuals identified in sections 33 and
34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities
Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a; 42 U.S.C. 1885b);
(2) formulating goals for quantum information science and
engineering research and education activities to be supported
by the National Science Foundation;
(3) leveraging the collective body of knowledge from existing
quantum information science and engineering research and
education activities;
(4) coordinating research efforts funded through existing
programs across the directorates of the National Science
Foundation; and
(5) engaging with other Federal agencies, research
communities, and potential users of information produced under
this section.
SEC. 302. MULTIDISCIPLINARY CENTERS FOR QUANTUM RESEARCH AND EDUCATION.
(a) Multidisciplinary Centers for Quantum Research and Education.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the National Science
Foundation, in consultation with other Federal agencies as
appropriate, shall award grants to institutions of higher
education or eligible nonprofit organizations (or consortia
thereof) to establish up to 5 Multidisciplinary Centers for
Quantum Research and Education.
(2) Collaborations.--A collaboration receiving an award under
this subsection may include institutions of higher education,
eligible nonprofit organizations, and private sector entities.
(3) Purpose.--The purpose of the Centers shall be to conduct
basic research and education activities in support of the goals
and priorities of the Program as determined in title I, to--
(A) continue to advance quantum information science
and engineering;
(B) support curriculum and workforce development in
quantum information science and engineering; and
(C) foster innovation by bringing industry
perspectives to quantum research and workforce
development, including by leveraging industry resources
and research capacity.
(4) Requirements.--An institution of higher education or an
eligible nonprofit organization (or a consortium thereof)
seeking funding under this section shall submit an application
to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing
such information as the Director may require. The application
shall include, at a minimum, a description of--
(A) how the Center will work with other research
institutions and industry partners to leverage
expertise in quantum science, education and curriculum
development, and technology transfer;
(B) how the Center will promote active collaboration
among researchers in multiple disciplines involved in
quantum research including physics, engineering,
mathematics, computer science, chemistry, and material
science;
(C) how the Center will support long-term and short-
term workforce development in the quantum field;
(D) how the Center can support an innovation
ecosystem to work with industry to translate Center
research into applications; and
(E) a long-term plan to become self-sustaining after
the expiration of Foundation support.
(5) Selection and duration.--
(A) In general.--The Centers selected and established
under this section are authorized to carry out
activities for a period of 5 years.
(B) Reapplication.--An awardee may reapply for an
additional, subsequent period of 5 years on a
competitive, merit-reviewed basis.
(C) Termination.--Consistent with the existing
authorities of the Foundation, the Director of the
National Science Foundation may terminate an
underperforming Center for cause during the performance
period.
(6) Funding.--The Director of the National Science Foundation
shall devote $250,000,000 to carry out this section, which
shall include $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through
2023, subject to the availability of appropriations, to come
from amounts made available for Research and Related Activities
and Education and Human Resources. This section shall be
carried out using funds otherwise appropriated by law after the
date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Graduate Traineeships.--The Director of the National Science
Foundation may establish a program 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 to pursue masters
or doctoral degrees in quantum information science.
TITLE IV--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY RESEARCH AND NATIONAL QUANTUM
INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH CENTERS
SEC. 401. QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Energy shall carry out a basic
research program on quantum information science.
(b) Program Components.--In carrying out the program required under
subsection (a), the Secretary shall--
(1) formulate goals for quantum information science research
to be supported by the Department of Energy;
(2) leverage the collective body of knowledge from existing
quantum information science research;
(3) coordinate research efforts funded through existing
programs across the Office of Science; and
(4) engage with other Federal agencies, research communities,
and potential users of information produced under this section.
SEC. 402. NATIONAL QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH CENTERS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Energy shall ensure that the Office
of Science carries out a program, in consultation with other Federal
agencies, as appropriate, to establish and operate up to 5 National
Quantum Information Science Research Centers to conduct basic research
to accelerate scientific breakthroughs in quantum information science
and technology and to support research conducted under section 401.
Such centers shall be established through a competitive, merit-reviewed
process, and consider applications from National Laboratories,
institutions of higher education, research centers, multi-institutional
collaborations, and other appropriate entities.
(b) Collaborations.--A collaboration receiving an award under this
subsection may include multiple types of research institutions and
private sector entities.
(c) Requirements.--To the maximum extent practicable, the Centers
developed, constructed, operated, or maintained under this section
shall serve the needs of the Department of Energy, industry, the
academic community, and other relevant entities to create and develop
processes for the purpose of advancing basic research in quantum
information science and improving the competitiveness of the United
States.
(d) Coordination.--The Secretary shall ensure the coordination of,
and avoid unnecessary duplication of, the activities of each Center
with the activities of--
(1) other research entities of the Department, including the
Nanoscale Science Research Centers, the Energy Frontier
Research Centers, and the Energy Innovation Hubs; and
(2) industry.
(e) Selection and Duration.--
(1) In general.--The centers selected and established under
this section are authorized to carry out activities for a
period of 5 years.
(2) Reapplication.--An awardee may reapply for an additional,
subsequent period of 5 years on a competitive, merit-reviewed
basis.
(3) Termination.--Consistent with the existing authorities of
the Department, the Secretary may terminate an underperforming
Center for cause during the performance period.
(f) Funding.--The Secretary of Energy shall devote $625,000,000 to
carry out this section, which shall include $125,000,000 for each of
fiscal years 2019 through 2023, subject to the availability of
appropriations, to come from amounts made available for the Office of
Science. This section shall be carried out using funds otherwise
appropriated by law after the date of enactment of this Act.
SEC. 403. SPENDING LIMITATION.
No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry out
this Act and the amendments made by this Act, and this Act and such
amendments shall be carried out using amounts otherwise available for
such purpose.
Committee Statement and Views
PURPOSE AND SUMMARY
H.R. 6227, the ``National Quantum Initiative Act,'' was
introduced by Chairman Lamar Smith and sponsored by Ranking
Minority Member Eddie Bernice Johnson. The purpose of H.R. 6227
is to provide for a coordinated Federal program to accelerate
quantum research and development for the economic and national
security of the United States. The bill establishes a 10-year
program to advance quantum research and technology applications
and workforce development. The bill authorizes quantum
activities at the National Institute of Standards and
Technology (NIST), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and
the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science.
BACKGROUND AND NEED FOR LEGISLATION
Quantum Information Science (QIS) is a multi-disciplinary
field of research that is at an inflection point. Advancing
current quantum science into real world applications will
create scientific and technological breakthroughs that will
stimulate economic growth and enhance American global
competitiveness. QIS is also critical to national security, as
the nation that develops quantum communications technology
first will enable secure networks and possess powerful decoding
capabilities.
QIS is based on exploiting subtle aspects of quantum
physics, such as ``quantum superposition'' and ``entanglement''
for valuable, real-world technologies. These technologies can
handle computationally complex problems, provide communication
security and enhance navigation, imaging and other sensing
technologies in ways that are impossible using conventional
hardware.
It is vital that the United States increase and accelerate
its quantum efforts to maintain the nation's scientific and
technological leadership. H.R. 6227 meets these challenges by
bringing a ``whole of government'' approach to moving QIS to
the next level of research and development through addressing
fundamental research gaps, creating a stronger workforce
pipeline and taking the lead in developing quantum standards
and measures for global use to give U.S. companies and workers
an enduring competitive advantage. The bill also encourages
private sector companies, which are investing heavily in
quantum research, and a wave of quantum technology start-ups,
to contribute their knowledge and resources to a national
effort.
H.R. 6227 establishes a National Quantum Coordination
Office within the White House Office of Science and Technology
Policy (OSTP) to oversee interagency coordination, provide
strategic planning support, serve as a central point of contact
for stakeholders, conduct outreach and promote
commercialization of federal research by the private sector.
The bill authorizes research activities at NIST, NSF and DOE.
H.R. 6227 also establishes up to five NSF multidisciplinary
centers for quantum research and education and up to five DOE
National Quantum Information Science Research Centers.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
On January 28, 2015, the Subcommittee on Energy held a
hearing titled, ``Supercomputing and American Technology
Leadership.'' Witnesses were: Mr. Norman Augustine, Board
Member, Bipartisan Policy Center; Dr. Roscoe Giles, Chairman,
DOE Advanced Scientific Computing Advisory Committee; Mr. David
Turek, Vice President, Technical Computing, IBM; and Dr. James
Crowley, Executive Director, Society for Industrial and Applied
Mathematics.
On June 28, 2017, the Energy Subcommittee and the Research
and Technology Subcommittee held a hearing titled, ``Material
Science: Building the Future.'' Witnesses were: Dr. Matthew
Tirrell, Deputy Laboratory Director for Science and Chief
Research Officer, Argonne National Laboratory; Dr. Laurie
Locascio, Acting Associate Director for Laboratory Programs and
Director, Material Measurement Laboratory, National Institute
of Standards and Technology; Dr. Adam Schwartz, Director, Ames
Laboratory; Dr. Fred Higgs, John and Ann Doerr Professor of
Mechanical Engineering, Rice University.
On October 24, 2017, the Energy Subcommittee and the
Research and Technology Subcommittee held a hearing titled,
``American Leadership in Quantum Technology.'' Witnesses were:
Dr. Carl J. Williams, Acting Director, Physical Measurement
Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology; Dr.
Jim Kurose, Assistant Director, Computer and Information
Science and Engineering Directorate, National Science
Foundation; Dr. John Stephen Binkley, Acting Director of
Science, U.S. Department of Energy, Dr. Scott Crowder, Vice
President and Chief Technology Officer for Quantum Computing,
IBM Systems Group; Dr. Christopher Monroe, Distinguished
University Professor & Bice Zorn Professor, Department of
Physics, University of Maryland and Founder, and Chief
Scientist, IonQ, Inc.; and Dr. Supratik Guha, Director,
Nanoscience and Technology Division, Argonne National
Laboratory, and Professor, Institute for Molecular Engineering,
University of Chicago.
On January 30, 2018, the Committee held a hearing titled,
``Department of Energy: Management and Priorities.'' Witnesses
were: the Honorable Paul Dabbar, Under Secretary for Science,
U.S. Department of Energy; and the Honorable Mark Menezes,
Under Secretary of Energy, U.S. Department of Energy.
On March 14, 2018, the Committee held a hearing titled,
``National Laboratories: World-Leading Innovation in Science.''
Witnesses were: Dr. Mark Peters, Director, Idaho National
Laboratory; Dr. Susan Seestrom, Advanced Science and Technology
Associate Laboratory Director and Chief Research Officer,
Sandia National Laboratory; Dr. Mary E. Maxon, Associate
Laboratory Director for Biosciences, Lawrence Berkeley National
Laboratory; Dr. Chi-Chang Kao, Director of Stanford Linear
Accelerator Center, National Accelerator Laboratory; and Dr.
Paul Kearns, Director, Argonne National Laboratory.
On March 15, 2018, the Committee held a hearing titled ``An
Overview of the National Science Foundation Budget Proposal for
Fiscal Year 2019.'' Witnesses were: Dr. France Cordova,
Director, National Science Foundation; and Dr. Maria T. Zuber,
Chair, National Science Board.
On May 9, 2018, the Committee held a hearing titled, ``An
Overview of the Budget Proposal for the Department of Energy
for Fiscal Year 2019.'' The witness was the Honorable Rick
Perry, Secretary, U.S. Department of Energy.
On June 27, 2018, the full Committee approved by voice vote
H.R. 6227, the National Quantum Initiative Act, as amended.
COMMITTEE VIEWS
The potential of Quantum Information Science
The Committee believes that Quantum Information Science--
the measurement, manipulation, transmission, and storage of
information that is encoded in sub-atomic particle systems that
can only be understood and controlled by the laws of quantum
physics--is one of the most promising and exciting fields of
science today. QIS involves a multitude of science and
engineering disciplines, with potential applications in
cybersecurity, medicine, communications, financial services and
transportation.
The Committee is concerned that as other nations around the
world are rapidly advancing quantum programs, the United States
faces the threat of falling behind. China and the European
Union are investing billions of dollars in new research
facilities and equipment for quantum computing. China, in
particular, has stated publicly its national goal of surpassing
the U.S. during the next decade.
The Committee believes that now is the time to compose a
national quantum strategy and preserve America's dominance in
the scientific world. The Committee believes that the United
States must leverage the expertise and resources of U.S.
industry, academia and government to move QIS to the next level
of research and development. The Committee believes that the
United States has an opportunity to be a world leader in
quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum communications.
National Institute of Standards and Technology
The Committee recognizes the National Institute of
Standards and Technology's leadership role in the field of
quantum information science and technology. The Committee
acknowledges NIST's current intramural and extramural research
efforts that are critical to driving advancements in the field
of quantum in order to maintain the Nation's preeminence in the
field.
The Committee recommends $80,000,000 each fiscal year, for
5 years, to support NIST's QIS activities. The Committee
believes that this additional investment of $50,000,000 a year
over the current level of NIST support for QIS research will
help accelerate the scientific advancements necessary to
maintain United States leadership in QIS. The Committee
encourages NIST to utilize such models as public-private
partnerships and industry and academic consortia to use its
unique capabilities to accelerate quantum measurement science,
standards development, basic research and workforce
development.
National Science Foundation
The Committee recognizes that the National Science
Foundation's (NSF) scientific leadership and decades of
sustained support for basic research in physics, quantum
mechanics, mathematics, computer science, engineering and other
core fields has enabled the advances in QIS that are occurring
and possible today. The Committee believes that NSF's support
for innovative academic research collaborations with industry,
private foundations, other agencies, as well as international
collaborations, gives NSF an important leadership role in
accelerating QIS research and workforce development as part of
the National Quantum Initiative.
The Committee recommends $50,000,000 each fiscal year, for
five years, to establish up to five NSF Multidisciplinary
Centers for Research and Education. The Committee believes that
this should supplement important core research NSF is already
supporting in QIS research and education activities. The
Committee has not recommended an overall allocation for QIS
research for NSF. The Committee believes that NSF supports many
multidisciplinary research projects that contribute to the
knowledge of QIS and an overall recommended level could be
unintentionally limiting to NSF and its research over the next
five years.
Department of Energy
The Committee recognizes DOE's capabilities, research
infrastructure, and expertise in materials science, physics,
applied mathematics, and computer science provide a foundation
for significant advances in QIS research and technological
development. In particular, the DOE National Laboratories,
which operate world-class, open-access user facilities around
the country, provide access to the supercomputers, x-ray light
sources, photon sources, and neutron sources that are necessary
to conduct ground-breaking quantum research. The Committee
supports DOE's current efforts to increase investment in QIS
across the Office of Science, including for proposed programs
in Biological and Environmental Research, High Energy Physics,
Nuclear Physics, Basic Energy Sciences, and Advanced Scientific
Computing Research (ASCR), as requested in the President's
fiscal year 2019 Budget.
The Committee also recommends the establishment of up to
five National Quantum Information Science Research Centers,
which will support the DOE Office of Science's basic research
mission by convening talented groups of researchers in order to
conduct basic research and accelerate scientific breakthroughs
in quantum information science and technology. The Committee
recommends $125,000,000 each fiscal year, for five years, to
establish and operate these centers. The Committee encourages
DOE to consider a cross-cutting research approach to ensure
coordination of QIS research across the Office of Science and
effective engagement with the research community and industry.
The Committee acknowledges the contributions of the
following reports: the Basic Energy Sciences Advisory Committee
(BESAC) ``Grand Challenges'' report; the BESAC ``From Quanta to
the Continuum: Opportunities for Mesoscale Science'' report;
and the 2015 publication of the Office of Science Quantum
Computing Working Group titled, ``ASCR Report on Quantum
Computing for Science.''
Quantum computing resources
The Committee believes that federal research agencies,
through their quantum research programs and the new NSF and DOE
Centers, should utilize existing or new prototype quantum
computers and communications systems for federally funded
research. The Committee believes that the most transformative
QIS technology will likely be the quantum computer, with its
ability to solve certain problems that can never be approached
with conventional devices.
Section-by-Section
TITLE I--NATIONAL QUANTUM INITIATIVE
Sec. 1. Short title; Table of contents
This section establishes the short title for the bill as
the ``National Quantum Initiative Act.''
Sec. 2. Definitions
This section defines the terms ``Advisory Committee,''
``Coordination Office,'' ``institutions of higher education,''
``Program,'' ``quantum information science,'' and
``Subcommittee.''
Sec. 3. Purposes
This section outlines the purposes of the Act in promoting
U.S. leadership in quantum information science and technology
by supporting research and development, as well as improving
interagency planning and coordination within Federal programs,
promoting collaboration among government, Federal laboratories,
industry, and universities, as well as promoting the
development of standards for quantum information science and
technology security.
Sec. 101. National Quantum Initiative Program
This section directs the President to implement a 10-year
National Quantum Initiative Program. The Program will establish
goals, priorities, and metrics for quantum science and
technology in the U.S., invest in Federal quantum research and
development, develop a quantum workforce pipeline, provide for
interagency coordination of Federal quantum information
science, research, and development, as well as partner with
industry and academia to leverage knowledge and resources.
Sec. 102. National Quantum Coordination Office
This section establishes a National Quantum Coordination
Office within the White House Office of Science and Technology
Policy. The Office will provide technical and administrative
support to the Subcommittee and the Advisory Committee, oversee
interagency coordination, serve as the point of contact on
Federal civilian quantum information science and technology
activities, including public outreach and dissemination of
findings and recommendations, promote access to and early
application of technologies, innovations, and expertise derived
from quantum activities, and promote access to existing quantum
computing and communications systems for research. This section
also directs funding for the Coordination Office come from
funds made available by the participating agencies of the
Subcommittee, as recommended by the Director of the Office of
Science and Technology Policy.
Sec. 103. Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science
This section directs the President to establish a
Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science of the National
Science and Technology Council. The Subcommittee shall include
OSTP, NIST, NSF, DOE, the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration, the Department of Defense, the Office of the
Director of National Intelligence, the Office of Management and
Budget, and any other federal agencies designated by the
President. The Subcommittee will be co-chaired by the NIST
Director, NSF Director, and the DOE Secretary. The Subcommittee
will coordinate QIS among the Federal agencies, establish the
Program's goals and priorities, recommend Federal
infrastructure needs, and evaluate opportunities for
international cooperation on quantum research. This section
directs the Subcommittee to develop a five-year strategic plan,
and another five-year strategic plan, six years after
enactment. This section requires the Subcommittee Chairs to
submit reports to the President, the Advisory Committee, and
Congress.
Sec. 104. National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee
This section directs the President to establish a National
Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee comprised of members from
industry, academia, and Federal laboratories. Specific
qualifications and criteria for membership consideration are
also outlined in this section. The Advisory Committee will
advise the President and the Subcommittee and make
recommendations that shall be considered in reviewing and
revising the Program, including independent assessments
outlined in this section. A report is due to the President
within one year of enactment, and subsequently once every two
years, on the assessments required, as well as any
recommendations to improve the Program.
Sec. 105. Sunset
This section terminates authority to carry out the National
Quantum Initiative Program, the National Quantum Coordination
Office, the National Quantum NSTC Subcommittee, and the
National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee 11 years after
enactment. The President can extend the activities of these
programs if they are necessary to meet national economic and
security needs.
TITLE II--NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY QUANTUM
ACTIVITIES
Sec. 201. National Institute of Standards and Technology Activities and
Quantum Workshop
This section directs NIST to continue to support quantum
information science and technology research and development of
measurement and standards infrastructure necessary to advance
deployment of commercial quantum applications, establishes or
expands collaborations with public or private sector entities,
and grants authority to enter into contracts or other
transactions for quantum research and development. This section
also requires NIST to convene a workshop of stakeholders within
one year of enactment to discuss the future measurement,
standards, cybersecurity, and other needs for supporting the
development of the quantum information science and technology
industry in the United States. A report is also required within
two years of enactment on the findings of the workshop. This
section authorizes $400,000,000 to carry out the section over
five years, which shall include $80,000,000 for each fiscal
year 2019 through 2023.
TITLE III--NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY CENTERS
FOR QUANTUM RESEARCH AND EDUCATION
Sec. 301. Quantum information science research and education program
This section directs the NSF Director to carry out a basic
research and education program on quantum information science
and engineering. It directs the NSF Director to continue to
support interdisciplinary QIS research and human resource
development, use existing programs at NSF to improve the
teaching and learning of QIS, increase participation of
underrepresented individuals in the quantum fields, formulate
NSF's goals for quantum research, coordinate research efforts
across the Foundation, and engage with other Federal agencies.
Sec. 302. Multidisciplinary Centers for Quantum Research and Education
This section directs the NSF Director to award grants to
eligible entities to establish up to five Multidisciplinary
Centers for Quantum Research and Education. The purpose of the
Centers is to conduct basic research and education activities
in support of the Program. The section specifies requirements
for Center applications. Centers are authorized for five years
and can reapply for five additional years on a competitive,
merit-based process. This section authorizes $250,000,000 to
support the Centers, which shall include $50,000,000 for each
fiscal years 2019 through 2023. This section also authorizes
the NSF Director to establish a traineeship program for U.S.
citizen graduate students at U.S. institutions of higher
education in QIS.
TITLE IV--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY RESEARCH AND NATIONAL QUANTUM
INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH CENTERS
Sec. 401. Quantum information science research program
This section directs the Secretary of Energy to carry out a
basic research program on quantum information science. This
program will formulate scientific goals for QIS basic research
in the U.S., utilize the collective knowledge from existing
quantum research, coordinate research efforts across the DOE
Office of Science, and engage users of the quantum information
produced.
Sec. 402. National Quantum Information Science Research Centers
This section directs the DOE Office of Science to establish
and operate up to five National Quantum Information Science
Research Centers to conduct basic research to accelerate
scientific breakthroughs in quantum information science and
technology. This section also outlines criteria for
establishment, collaborations, and other requirements. The
Centers are directed to carry out activities for a period of
five years. This section authorizes appropriations of
$625,000,000 over five years for the Office of Science to carry
out this section, which shall include $125,000,000 for each
fiscal years 2019 through 2023.
Sec. 403. Spending limitation
No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to
carry out this Act and its amendments, and shall be carried out
using amounts otherwise available for such purpose.
Explanation of Amendments
An amendment offered by Representative Randy Hultgren was
adopted by the Committee. The amendment adds to the
Coordination Office responsibility for promoting access to
existing quantum systems for research.
Committee Consideration
On June 27, 2018, the Committee met in open session and
ordered reported favorably the bill, H.R. 6227, as amended, by
voice vote, a quorum being present.
Application of Law to the Legislative Branch
Section 102(b)(3) of Public Law 104-1 requires a
description of the application of this bill to the legislative
branch where the bill relates to the terms and conditions of
employment or access to public services and accommodations.
This bill provides for a coordinated Federal program to
accelerate quantum research and development for the economic
and national security of the United States. As such this bill
does not relate to employment or access to public services and
accommodations.
Legislative branch employees and their families, to the
extent that they are otherwise eligible for the benefits
provided by this legislation, have equal access to its
benefits.
Statement of Oversight Findings and Recommendations of the Committee
In compliance with clause 3(c)(1) of rule XIII and clause
(2)(b)(1) of rule X of the rules of the House of
Representatives, the Committee's oversight findings and
recommendations are reflected in the descriptive portions of
this report.
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives
H.R. 6227, the National Quantum Initiative Act, will
accelerate quantum research and development for the United
States' economic and national security.
Duplication of Federal Programs
No provision of H.R. 6227 establishes or reauthorizes a
program of the Federal Government known to be duplicative of
another Federal program, a program that was included in any
report from the Government Accountability Office to Congress
pursuant to section 21 of Public Law 111-139, or a program
related to a program identified in the most recent Catalog of
Federal Domestic Assistance.
Disclosure of Directed Rule Makings
The Committee estimates that enacting H.R. 6227 does not
direct the completion of any specific rule makings within the
meaning of 5 U.S.C. 551.
Federal Advisory Committee Act
The Committee finds that the legislation does not establish
or authorize the establishment of an advisory committee within
the definition of 5 U.S.C. App., Section 5(b).
Unfunded Mandate Statement
Section 423 of the Congressional Budget and Impoundment
Control Act (as amended by Section 101(a)(2) of the Unfunded
Mandate Reform Act, P.L. 104-4) requires a statement as to
whether the provisions of the reported include unfunded
mandates. In compliance with this requirement the Committee has
received a letter from the Congressional Budget Office included
herein.
Earmark Identification
H.R. 6227 does not include any congressional earmarks,
limited tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in
clause 9 of rule XXI.
Committee Estimate
Clause 3(d)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the House of
Representatives requires an estimate and a comparison by the
Committee of the costs that would be incurred in carrying out
H.R. 6227. However, clause 3(d)(3)(B) of that rule provides
that this requirement does not apply when the Committee has
included in its report a timely submitted cost estimate of the
bill prepared by the Director of the Congressional Budget
Office under section 402 of the Congressional Budget Act.
Budget Authority and Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate
With respect to the requirements of clause 3(c)(2) of rule
XIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives and section
308(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and with respect
to requirements of clause (3)(c)(3) of rule XIII of the Rules
of the House of Representatives and section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the Committee has received
the following cost estimate for H.R. 6227 from the Director of
Congressional Budget Office:
U.S. Congress,
Congressional Budget Office,
Washington, DC, July 20, 2018.
Hon. Lamar Smith,
Chairman, Committee on Science, Space, and Technology,
House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: The Congressional Budget Office has
prepared the enclosed cost estimate for H.R. 6227, the National
Quantum Initiative Act.
If you wish further details on this estimate, we will be
pleased to provide them. The CBO staff contact is Janani
Shankaran.
Sincerely,
Mark P. Hadley
(For Keith Hall, Director).
Enclosure.
H.R. 6227--National Quantum Initiative Act
Summary: H.R. 6227 would establish an office and a program
to advance research in quantum information science and
technology applications. The bill would authorize the
appropriations for the Department of Energy (DOE), the National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the National
Science Foundation (NSF) to carry out related activities. CBO
estimates that implementing H.R. 6227 would cost $1.1 billion
over the 2019-2023 period, assuming appropriation of the
authorized and necessary amounts.
Enacting the bill would not affect direct spending or
revenues; therefore, pay-as-you-go procedures do not apply.
CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 6227 would not increase
net direct spending or on-budget deficits in any of the four
consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2029.
H.R. 6227 contains no intergovernmental or private-sector
mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA).
Estimated cost to the Federal Government: The estimated
budgetary effect of H.R. 6227 is shown in the following table.
The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 250
(science, space, and technology) and 370 (commerce and housing
credit).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By fiscal year, in millions of dollars--
----------------------------------------------------------------
2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2019-2023
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INCREASES IN SPENDING SUBJECT TO APPROPRIATION
Department of Energy:
Authorization Level........................ 0 125 125 125 125 125 625
Estimated Outlays.......................... 0 69 106 125 125 125 550
National Institute of Standards and Technology:
Authorization Level........................ 0 80 80 80 80 80 400
Estimated Outlays.......................... 0 62 78 80 80 80 380
National Science Foundation:
Authorization Level........................ 0 50 50 50 50 50 250
Estimated Outlays.......................... 0 6 24 37 44 49 160
National Quantum Coordination Office:
Estimated Authorization Level.............. 0 1 1 1 1 1 5
Estimated Outlays.......................... 0 1 1 1 1 1 5
Total:
Estimated Authorization Level.......... 0 256 256 256 256 256 1,280
Estimated Outlays...................... 0 138 209 243 250 255 1,095
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basis of estimate: For this estimate, CBO assumes the
legislation will be enacted near the end of 2018. Section 403
of the bill states that no additional funds are authorized to
be appropriated by H.R. 6227. In CBO's view, however, the bill
effectively authorizes the appropriation of specified amounts
by directing agencies to fund certain activities.
H.R. 6227 effectively would authorize appropriations
totaling $1.3 billion over the 2019-2023 period for the
following agencies:
$125 million annually for DOE to carry out
basic research and establish and operate quantum
information science research centers;
$80 million annually for NIST to expand
quantum research and advance commercial development of
quantum applications; and
$50 million annually for the NSF to carry
out a quantum research and education program and to
award grants to nonprofit organizations and
institutions of higher education.
According to a Congressional Research Service report, in
recent years the federal government has spent between $200
million and $250 million annually on quantum information
science research and development.\1\ DOE, NIST, and NSF
received appropriations in 2018 for such activities. Under
current law, no specific sums are authorized to be appropriated
to those agencies for those purposes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Congressional Research Service, Federal Quantum Information
Science: An Overview (July 2, 2018).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H.R. 6227 also would direct the President to establish a
national quantum coordination office to manage interagency
activities and conduct public outreach. Under the bill, the
office would be staffed by employees detailed from federal
agencies such as DOE, NIST, the NSF, the Department of Defense,
the Office of Management and Budget, and the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration. Based on programs of
similar size and scope, CBO estimates that the office would
require five full-time employees annually at a cost of about
$150,000 each. The bill also would establish an advisory
committee of representatives from industry, academic
institutions, and federal laboratories, whose travel expenses
could be reimbursed. CBO estimates that such expenses would be
insignificant in any year. In total, CBO estimates that
implementing the bill's staffing provisions would cost $1
million annually.
Based on historical spending patterns for similar
activities, and assuming appropriation of the authorized and
necessary amounts, CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 6227 would
cost $1.1 billion over the 2019-2023 period.
Pay-As-You-Go considerations: None.
Increase in long-term direct spending and deficits: CBO
estimates that enacting H.R. 6227 would not increase net direct
spending or on-budget deficits in any of the four consecutive
10-year periods beginning in 2029.
Mandates: H.R. 6227 contains no intergovernmental or
private-sector mandates as defined in UMRA.
Estimate prepared by: Federal Costs: Janani Shankaran
(Department of Energy and National Science Foundation), Stephen
Rabent (National Institute of Standards and Technology);
Mandates: Jon Sperl.
Estimate reviewed by: Kim P. Cawley, Chief, Natural and
Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit; H. Samuel Papenfuss,
Deputy Assistant Director for Budget Analysis.
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