Full Committee Markup

Okay. Good morning. The Committee on Science, Space, and Technology will now come to order. Pursuant to committee rule 2F, excuse me, without objection the chair is authorized to declare recesses of the committee at any time. Pursuant to committee rule 2F and house rule 11, recorded votes may be postponed. Today we meet to consider HR 8462, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act, and I now recognize myself for an opening statement. I would like to welcome everyone in this morning's full committee markup of a bill critical to the advancement of nearly every sector essential to America's future standing on the world stage, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act. This legislation builds on the original 2018 law to modernize federal quantum research and development, strengthen coordination across agencies, and accelerate the transition of quantum technologies into real world applications. It also invests in workforce development, expands partnerships with allies, and supports a competitive domestic quantum industry. Excuse me, quantum technology is not a distant concept. It is a foundational capability that will shape the future of computing, communications, energy, and national security. From securing our communications network to enabling next generation materials and breakthroughs in energy systems, quantum innovation will define which nations lead and which will fall behind. The United States has long been a global leader in the theoretical science that underpins quantum technologies. But leadership in theory alone is not enough. Across the globe, our competitors are investing heavily in turning that science into real world capabilities. In particular, the Chinese Communist Party has identified quantum as a mission critical technology and is moving aggressively to deploy quantum systems across communications, sensing, and computing applications. If we fail to keep pace, the consequences will be significant. Quantum advancements have direct implications for cybersecurity, military readiness, and economic competitiveness. The nation that leads in quantum will help set the rules of the road for the next generation of technological innovation, and that's why this legislation takes a comprehensive approach to strengthening America's quantum ecosystem. It ensures federal research programs move beyond basic science to applied research, demonstration, and commercialization. It reinforces partnerships between government, industry, and academia, recognizing that innovation does not happen in silos. It also invests in the workforce needed to sustain long term leadership in this field. This bill reflects the breadth of this committee's jurisdiction. Quantum capabilities intersect directly with our work on space, energy, and advanced computing. And by formally incorporating NASA into the National Quantum Initiative, we are ensuring that space based research and applications are part of our broader strategy. At the Department of Energy and our national laboratories, quantum research is already playing a role in advancing high performance computing and next generation energy systems. These are not isolated efforts. They are part of a coordinated national strategy to maintain American leadership. Importantly, this legislation strengthens collaboration with our allies. In a global technology race, the United States is strongest when it leads a coalition of like minded nations. By promoting international partnerships, we can expand research capabilities, set high standards, and counter the influence of adversarial actors seeking to control these technologies to their advantage. I also want to take a moment to recognize the constructive conversations that I've had with our ranking member, Mrs. Lofgren, as we have worked through this legislation. In particular, we have agreed that authorization levels will be addressed once we get more detailed information from the administration's FY 27 budget request for quantum specific activities. This approach allows us to move forward on policy while ensuring funding decisions are made in the appropriate context and aligned with the ongoing appropriations process. And by doing so, we can help ensure that all agencies are properly funded to achieve their ambitious goals. At its core, this bill is about ensuring the United States remains the world's leading technological and economic power. It is about making the investments necessary today to secure our national security and our prosperity tomorrow. It also reflects the reality that leadership in emerging technologies like quantum is not guaranteed but must be earned and then sustained. I look forward to advancing this legislation today and welcome thoughtful amendments as we work together to ensure this legislation is as strong and effective as possible. And now I'd like to recognize the ranking member for five minutes for her opening statement.

Well, thank you, Chairman Babin. Today our committee will consider a bill that advances quantum technology, the next frontier in computing, communications, and sensing. Introduced by Energy Subcommittee Chairman Randy Weber, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act continues the work this committee began eight years ago. I'm eager to build upon our prior accomplishment. For decades, the U.S. has enjoyed being the global leader in quantum information science in terms of both research output and investment across every quantum application and technology. Our leadership was built upon a foundation of investments and efforts at all levels in academia, industry, and our federal government. In 2018, Congress demonstrated strong bipartisan support for the emerging quantum industry with the National Quantum Initiative Act, which created a whole of government approach to advancing quantum technologies. However, U.S. leadership is far from assured. In fact, we're on the precipice of not just falling to second place, but maybe even third or fourth. In 2024, the Chinese Communist Party invested more than four times what the United States has done in quantum R and D. In 2025, the CCP announced a $138 billion fund to support their public private partnerships in emerging technologies including quantum computing. The Chinese Communist Party is in a position to outspend our efforts again this year and for the next five, while the U.S. administration is frankly taking a sledgehammer to U.S. science agencies, including the leading agencies for quantum information science. But China's not alone in its investments. Japan is planning to invest roughly 860 million in quantum research in 2026. In the European Union, the German government alone is planning to spend three billion on quantum technologies between 2022 and 2026. Now, while some may have trouble with this kind of math, let me lay out the consequences. Without significant investment, we sell out the future and waste whatever technological lead we've achieved so far. After significant outreach and bipartisan negotiations, we are ready today to update the National Quantum Initiative Act and meet emerging challenges for U.S. competitiveness in quantum. At the moment, this bill does not have any funds authorized as the chairman has mentioned. I had preferred to include authorized amounts, but in the spirit of bipartisanship and compromise, I support this bill. It was important to me, and I think the chairman agrees, that we not undercut the agencies as they seek to accelerate investments in quantum. Unfortunately, as the chairman has mentioned, we do not yet have fiscal year 2026 spending plans for the agencies. Chairman Babin has assured me he will work with me to address the challenge of appropriate spending levels so we can be assured that all of our relevant agencies have the resources to carry out the activities authorized under this bill before the bill moves to the floor. Overall, I support the bipartisan policy proposals outlined in this bill. With this bill, we can develop the critical human and physical infrastructure that will enable the United States to move quantum technologies from lab to market. Human infrastructure means preparing a quantum ready workforce in the United States from the skilled technician to the doctoral graduate. And physical infrastructure means creating new quantum testbeds, updated state of the art federal research laboratories, and new centers to advance research in quantum sensing, measurement, and engineering. The NQIA reauthorization will help leverage our international partners to maximize our quantum research and development capabilities and better compete with our adversaries. It also officially incorporates NASA into the NQI to ensure we're capitalizing on their unique capabilities, perspectives, and testing capacity. Lastly, the bill updates the goals and objectives of many quantum programs across agencies to ensure quantum research can move beyond basic science and into applied research, demonstration, and commercial applications. The United States must be the leader in this emerging technology, and achieving that requires a sound strategy on what policy changes and funding are needed to maintain U.S. leadership. And on that note, I want to thank the chairman and his staff for working with me and my staff on this legislation. I know we have a number of amendments. I think that we have reached agreement on most of them, and I would once note for all the members that you can be just as persuasive with a concise statement as a lengthy one. And with that, I will yield back the balance of my time.

Absolutely. Thank you. The gentlelady yields back. Other members are invited to submit opening statements into the record as well. So, consideration of HR 8462. Pursuant to notice, I now call up HR 8462, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act. The clerk will now report the bill.

HR 8462, a bill to reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative Act and for other purposes.

Without objection, the bill is considered as read and open for amendment at any point. Does any member wish to be recognized to speak on the underlying bill?

Mr. Chairman, I'd like to be recognized.

I now recognize the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Weber.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am pleased to sponsor and support HR 8462, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act. Say that 10 times. The Trump administration has identified quantum information science, technology, and engineering as one of the nation's highest research and development priority areas. First passed in 2018 during President Trump's first term, the National Quantum Initiative aimed to accelerate the nation's advancement in quantum sciences as well as technologies. These efforts demonstrate a long term commitment to American innovation as well as to maintaining U.S. leadership in science and technology. As the global push towards quantum supremacy intensifies, the United States faces growing pressure to maintain its leadership. Our adversaries, including the Chinese Government Party, CCP, the Chinese Communist Party, are committing significant resources to quantum information science. The U.S. cannot and must not afford to fall behind in the race for quantum supremacy. This legislation builds on the hard work and progress we've made over the past eight years to strengthen quantum information science. It sustains the basic research that underpins our success while including translational research to move quantum technologies toward real world applications. It also prioritizes workforce development, recognizing that a strong talent pipeline is absolutely critical to advancing and deploying these technologies. Lastly, it reinforces the importance of leveraging international partnerships to address the challenges and the threats posed by our adversaries. This legislation also formally adds the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA, to the National Quantum Initiative. NASA has made meaningful contributions to the goals of the National Quantum Initiative through targeted investments, including quantum enabled technologies for space science and precision measurement. Quantum science, engineering, and technology have the potential to redefine what's possible in this field. The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act to help unlock that potential is exactly what it's going to do. I want to thank everyone who took the time and effort to submit thoughtful feedback and suggestions on how Congress can strengthen the National Quantum Initiative. I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow members of this committee and stakeholders as we move this process forward. Mr. Chairman, I yield back.

Gentleman yields back and now I'd like to recognize Representative Ross from North Carolina for five minutes.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you Ranking Member Lofgren for holding this markup on this critically important bill. I'm proud to represent North Carolina's Second Congressional District, home to the IBM Quantum Hub at NC State University. Since its opening, the IBM Quantum Hub has been the center of quantum computing education, research, development, and implementation. I've also visited the Duke Quantum Center, a unique vertical quantum institute located in Congresswoman Foushee's district. I'm thrilled to see the advancements in quantum being made right at home in North Carolina, especially now in a moment of unprecedented international competition. I also want to thank the Chairman and the Ranking Member for including my amendments from last Congress in the underlying bill. The first amendment, which I co-led with Congressman Obernolte, is a version of my bill, the Leveraging Quantum Computing Act. This amendment would instruct our federal agencies to identify ways to take advantage of quantum computing and thus ensure our nation can continue to be a global leader in innovation and technology. I was also pleased to join Chairman Babin on the second amendment, which would leverage the Department of Energy's expertise to research how quantum computing can enhance the resilience and security of our electric grid. Thank you very much and I yield back.

Gentlelady yields back. Any further discussion? Ms. Salinas, recognized for five minutes. Gentlelady yields back. Any further discussion? Ms. Salinas, recognized for five minutes.

Thank you Chair Babin and Ranking Member Lofgren and... Thank you, Chair Babin and Ranking Member Lofgren, for holding today's markup. Quantum science and technology has remarkable potential to transform communications and computing. Our work today to reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative will help realize that potential and drive our innovation economy forward for decades to come. I want to thank Mr. Baird for working with me to ensure that researchers can take full advantage of these investments. Our bill, the Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act, is included in this reauthorization and will improve access to research resources, such as equipment and instrumentation, to enable cutting-edge quantum research. It also builds the quantum workforce by encouraging universities to collaborate with community and technical colleges to provide meaningful hands-on learning experiences for their students. Oregonians are at the forefront of quantum research, development, and education, which is reflected in the broad range of Oregon stakeholders across academia and industry supporting this bill. This includes the Oregon Institute of Technology, which is working to create a quantum computing innovation center and exploring the intersection of quantum computing and artificial intelligence while offering applied learning to their students. Oregon State and the University of Oregon also endorsed the legislation, and these world-class research universities are pushing the boundaries of scientific understanding in quantum fields. I'm also grateful from the support that we're getting from Intel, where engineers and technicians in Oregon are turning quantum research into commercial reality. Breakthroughs in quantum science will lead to faster drug development, better clean energy technologies, and improved climate modeling, helping us tackle some of society's biggest challenges right now. Thank you to my colleagues for your work on this important legislation. I look forward to passing a strong bipartisan authorization and I yield back.

Gentlelady yields back and now I'd like to recognize the gentlelady from Ohio, Ms. Sykes, five minutes.

Thank you so much, Mr. Chair, and to the Ranking Member for holding this markup on the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act. While I often hear that this committee is not the one with fireworks, it is certainly one that is very impactful to the well-being and the future of our country. Quantum technology has the power to fundamentally revolutionize healthcare, construction, national security, finance, and more, leading to better lives for people in Ohio's 13th Congressional District and across the nation. And it's one of the reasons I'm so excited to support this bill because it also includes two of my bills, H.R. 8520, the Quantum for Health Act, and H.R. 3788, the Support for Quantum Supply Chains Act. Healthcare is one of the, if not the largest industry in my district, and back home in Northeast Ohio, we're already seeing how organizations are utilizing quantum technology to revolutionize healthcare. For example, in 2021, the Cleveland Clinic, which has multiple sites in Ohio's 13th District and across the world, and IBM announced a 10-year partnership to use quantum computing to accelerate research and to treatments and vaccines that will help improve the lives of patients and solve some of our greatest healthcare challenges. My Quantum for Health Act amends the National Quantum Initiative to include healthcare and other diverse sectors. This will empower innovation across industries, ensuring America can establish itself as a true leader in quantum technology. In addition to adding to the multidisciplinary centers for quantum research and education, this bill also adds that these centers will conduct outreach to underrepresented groups in STEM. But it has come to my attention that there are members on this committee that take opposition to such underrepresented groups being a part of our quantum excellence, and so much so that they are willing to tank the entire bill. Such an action is short-sighted and quite frankly, mean. We need more people interested in science, and arbitrary regulations removing individuals from accessing their talents will push us further behind and not allow us to be as competitive as we should be on the global stage. I urge my colleagues to oppose any amendments that would cut language related to the Quantum for Health Act and uplifting underrepresented groups who deserve and have the talent to participate in quantum sciences. After all, we can't take full advantage of quantum technologies if we do not have a secure infrastructure or workforce to support that innovation. My bipartisan Support for Quantum Supply Chains Act would support our breakthrough quantum technologies and maintain American leadership by supporting the domestic supply chain. Signed into law in 2018, the National Quantum Initiative Act directed NIST to create a Quantum Economic Development Consortium to be the voice for the quantum industry. Currently, it comprises over 250 quantum industry and academic stakeholders, demonstrating the strength of our innovation in the quantum sector. In a recent survey, they reported that there were more than 8,200 quantum-related positions opening in 2025. This presents a great opportunity for our workforce, but also a challenge for the industry if we do not invest in opportunities for domestic quantum talent, including through our domestic supply chain. This supply chain includes specialized components such as cryogenics, control electronics, photonics, and rare materials. Since this market is so specialized, government investment and coordination will be needed to strengthen supply chains so we can capitalize on quantum's technology's potential. Again, I want to say thank you to the Ranking Member and the Chair for holding this meeting, and I want to give a special shout-out to Representative Crawford for his partnership on this legislation and to my colleagues for their unique and interesting work on the underlying bill, which will absolutely accelerate transformative quantum technology. Thank you, Mr. Chair, I yield back.

Gentlelady yields. I'd like to recognize gentlelady from Michigan, Ms. Stevens, five minutes.

Well, thank you, Mr. Chair, and what a delight to be in this committee room marking up our Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act. We are an innovative nation tied into the future of new technologies and economies of scale. And we all know that we cannot win on the world stage without quantum technology. And it has the potential, as you well know, Mr. Chair, to solve some of our toughest challenges in chemistry, material sciences, and healthcare. But it also does present some risks, and the same computational power that enables breakthroughs can also break today's encryption standards, threatening our national and economic security. Which is why we have to double down with vision, direction, and leadership. A defining technology race of the 21st century, and of course, we are not alone in recognizing that. Mr. Chair, as you are aware, China has been investing aggressively for years with the explicit goal of surpassing the United States. And while America remains strong in foundational research, China is rapidly advancing in commercialization and deployment. So we don't want to fall behind, and we want everyone in the Congress to hear what we are doing from the mighty and humble Science Committee today with H.R. 8462, which ensures that the United States is not just leading in discovery, but winning in deployment, commercialization, and our favorite, workforce development, because jobs are the great elixir. So we got to move quantum out of the lab and into the real economy, okay? We've got these incredible universities who I've worked with for a very long time. You know, we all remember when President Obama started Manufacturing USA. He created this great lab that exists actually in upstate New York, but they're doing some incredible things with quantum technology and fiber optics, and that needs to be recognized. It also needs to be recognized, Mr. Chair, that this is bipartisan work, alright, from the last Congress. We still say that here in the Science Committee. And so I'm really pleased that this bill has got priorities that I've been leading on. It includes my bipartisan Post-Quantum Cybersecurity Standards Act. So this is about staying ahead of these bad actors. And quantum computers as they advance, they're going to be capable of breaking the encryption that protect financial systems, our energy grid, and our healthcare data. My legislation directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology to accelerate the adoption of post-quantum cryptography, especially in high-risk sectors. And this is how we protect American infrastructure before it's too late. Second, the bill includes my bipartisan Quantum Sandbox legislation with the Chair of the Subcommittee on Research and Technology, my collaborative colleague for many years, Congressman Obernolte. So this establishes testbeds to move quantum technologies from the lab to real-world applications. We all like talking about the quantum sandbox. So if we want to compete globally, we have to build, test, deploy in the United States, and preferably in a place called Michigan, where our universities are world-class and our workforce is second to none. So for Michigan, we're one of five states left in the country where manufacturing is the lifeblood of our economy. It is the top driver of our GDP. It means designing better materials, building more efficient vehicles, and ensuring our workers lead in the next generation of innovation. So the choice before us is very simple. We can invest now, we can lead now, we can secure American leadership, or we can fall behind and let our competitors set the terms. I know where I stand. I also know where almost every person on this committee stands. So what we need to do is talk to the roadblocks in the upper chamber about getting serious about quantum, because we've been doing this for three terms now and we can't wait any longer. So American leadership in technology has never been accidental. It is the result of deliberative investment, strong partnerships, and a commitment to innovation. This bill continues that legacy and positions the United States to lead in quantum for decades to come. I urge my colleagues to support and Mr. Chair, I proudly yield back.

Gentlelady yields back. We have had notification that votes have been called, so the committee will now stand in recess subject to the call of the chair, and we will reconvene after votes. Your staffs will be communicated with. The Committee on Science, Space, and Technology will now come to order. Is there any further discussion on the underlying bill that we had been discussing? If no further discussion on the underlying bill, we will proceed with amendments in the order listed on the roster. First amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Gillen of New York. The clerk shall report Gillen amendment 075.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Ms. Gillen of New York. Page 13, strike line 7...

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read and I recognize Representative Gillen of New York for five minutes to explain her amendment.

Well, thank you, Chairman. And thank you for bringing us together for this markup today. My amendment, co-sponsored by our colleague Representative Jay Obernolte of California, will help promote regional quantum hubs across our country by fostering private sector partnerships and harnessing innovation to grow our economy. I was proud to work with Congressman Obernolte on this amendment and on the underlying bipartisan, bicameral Advancing Regional Quantum Hubs Act with Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Marsha Blackburn. Mr. Chairman, our amendment would require the National Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science to prioritize strengthening the innovation, entrepreneurial, and research capacity of regions like Long Island and others which have existing strengths in this field. This amendment would authorize the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Commerce to collaborate in support of regional hubs for quantum innovation. Mr. Chairman, you noted in your opening remarks the critical importance of our nation's of enhancing our nation's quantum capabilities. And I've heard from entrepreneurs and business owners from across my district and across New York State who are eager to work with the federal government to advance quantum technology. Our national security depends on our ability to invest in, scale, and quickly deploy technologies like AI and quantum. At this committee's as this committee works to set our nation's quantum strategy for the next decade, our amendment will ensure that we are catalyzing our nation's innovation hubs to protect our national security while growing our economy. I urge all my colleagues to support this bipartisan amendment and with that, I yield back.

Gentlewoman yields back. Now I'd like to recognize the gentleman from California for five minutes.

Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'd like to thank Congresswoman Gillen for submitting this amendment. It's an honor for me to co-lead it with her. We're all aware that quantum information science and technology, or QIST, has far-reaching implications for our country's national security, economic competitiveness, and technological leadership. QIST leverages quantum mechanics to process, transmit, and sense information in ways that are fundamentally impossible with classical technologies. I believe that strengthening America's leadership in quantum science requires us to build innovation capacity not just here in Washington, D.C., but in the communities where world-class research and industry are already taking shape. That's why I've joined Congresswoman Gillen in offering this amendment to support regional quantum innovation initiatives and enhance the educational and research capabilities of regions that have strengths in quantum fields. This amendment will ensure that federal agencies can partner directly with local innovators, universities, and startups working on breakthrough quantum technologies. It will help accelerate discoveries, boost regional economies, and ensure that the United States remains at the forefront of this strategically vital field. The regional quantum initiative that this amendment fosters will help bring universities, research institutions, startups, industry players, and government entities together to create the ecosystem required for QIST innovation and deployment. I'd like to thank Congresswoman Gillen for her leadership in this area and urge my colleagues to support the amendment. I yield back.

Gentleman yields back. If there's no further discussion on the amendment, the question is on the adoption of Gillen amendment 075. All those in favor say aye.

Aye.

Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Amo of Rhode Island. The clerk shall report Amo amendment 072.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Mr. Amo of Rhode Island.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read. I recognize Representative Amo of Rhode Island for five minutes to explain his amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Yes, sir. Quantum is going to shape the future. From our economy to our national security to scientific discovery and how we understand the world around us. But as we build that future, we need to be clear about where these technologies show up in the real world. There's still a lot that we don't know about quantum, more stones to overturn, uses to discover, and applications to hone. But one thing is certain, we cannot afford to let the blue economy be left behind in a quantum revolution. Our oceans drive trade, support national defense, and are central to climate science. And quantum has real potential here. Better navigation, more precise environmental monitoring, and the list goes on. So my amendment is simple. It ensures that the oceans and coastal systems are explicitly included in how we think about quantum applications and that ocean science is part of the research ecosystem that we're building. It cannot be forgotten by the subcommittee on quantum information science and the multidisciplinary centers for quantum research and education. We have to prioritize the blue economy and look, some might say this is a small fix, but I think it connects the bill to a major and growing part of our economy. Ensuring that oceans and the blue economy are at the center of the quantum conversation will enable coastal states like mine, Rhode Island, to reap the rewards of the quantum revolution. So I urge you to support my common sense amendment. I yield back.

Gentleman yields back. If there's no further discussion on the amendment, the question is on the adoption of Amo amendment 072. All those in favor say aye.

Aye.

Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the ayes have it and the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Self of Texas. The clerk shall report Self amendment 161.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Mr. Self of Texas.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read. I recognize Representative Self of Texas for five minutes to explain his amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I rise to offer an amendment that addresses a critical gap in our quantum strategy. The software layer. This concept comes from the 2025 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission report, which made it clear that world-class hardware alone is not enough. Without strong software foundations, we will not achieve real-world capability or advantage. This amendment focuses on benchmarking, verification, secure software supply chains, and much more. If we want to lead, we have to build the systems that work, scale, and can be trusted. This ensures software is treated as a core priority alongside hardware. I urge adoption. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I yield back.

Gentleman yields back. This amendment... would you like to say speak on this? Ranking member for five minutes.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to thank Mr. Self for his amendment to ensure quantum software is included. Many of the discussions I've had around quantum technology have centered on hardware challenges, however, he is exactly right. The U.S. will need software innovation if we are to properly use error-proof quantum computers and we've support this amendment and I encourage all of our committee to do so and I yield back.

Gentlewoman yields back. And I would like to speak. This amendment addresses software components in our national quantum strategy. It's important not to forget about the software element of quantum technologies, not just the hardware. Ensuring secure software and its supply chains will help bolster economic competitiveness and national security. This recommendation came from the 2025 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission report and I would urge its adoption. Is there further discussion? If there's no further discussion on the amendment, the question is on adoption of Self amendment 161. All those in favor say aye.

Aye.

All those opposed say no. And the opinion of the chair, the ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Foushee of North Carolina. The clerk shall report Foushee amendment 055.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Mrs. Foushee of North Carolina.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read and I recognize Representative Foushee of North Carolina for five minutes to explain her amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. My amendment supports state and local governments as they prepare for the transition to post-quantum cryptography. As quantum technologies advance, we must ensure that our cybersecurity infrastructure keeps pace. State and local governments will need guidance and support to implement new standards. This amendment helps ensure that our public systems remain secure. I thank the chairman and ranking member for their leadership and I urge my colleagues to support this amendment. Yield back.

Gentlewoman yields back. And I'd like to recognize the gentlewoman from Oregon, Ms. Bonamici.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move to strike the last word and speak in favor of the amendment and in support of the underlying bill. Mr. Chairman.

Recognized.

Thank you. I support the amendment, which is a great idea and a good addition to this bill. And also I want to thank you, Chair Babin and Ranking Member Lofgren, for your leadership on this bipartisan National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization. As we heard in this committee earlier this year, quantum technology is no longer confined to theory or early-stage research. The agency witnesses made clear that we're entering a phase where quantum systems demonstrate practical value and where the U.S. must focus on scaling and deployment. We're beginning to see tangible use cases for this technology to improve public safety and planning, for example. Quantum sensors can improve navigation in settings where GPS is unreliable. They can improve early earthquake detection, which is essential for Oregonians living on or near the Cascadia subduction zone. The sensors can also enhance drought monitoring to help farmers and water managers prepare for drier seasons. In healthcare, quantum-enabled tools can improve imaging, accelerate drug discovery, and help model complex biological systems. In Oregon, in the district I'm honored to represent, we have a strong foundation to build quantum leadership. Companies like Intel and Hillsboro are advancing semiconductor manufacturing with silicon spin qubits to reliably scale quantum systems. And at Oregon State University, which I happily work with even though I'm an Oregon Duck, researchers study advanced materials and nanotechnology to make quantum computing faster, smaller, and more efficient. And at the University of Oregon, my alma mater, they lead in quantum entanglement, superposition, and materials research that really do underpin next-generation technologies. As quantum matures, the U.S. needs to support the full technology ecosystem and that's true from discovery to deployment. This bill recognizes that and would strengthen research and development, expand workforce pathways, and improve interagency clarity. It also heeds the comments that we heard in January that federal efforts need deliberately to connect quantum research to applications. Bridging that gap requires sustained support for basic quantum research and the tools to help it mature. As the Department of Energy has highlighted, testbeds and user facilities are critical to explore real-world quantum uses. And as NIST testified, it also requires taking workforce challenges seriously so we can broaden the quantum field. At that hearing, I raised concerns about the stability of the quantum workforce pipeline, which depends on students, technicians, engineers, and researchers who can access long-term careers. That pipeline is showing warning signs. Graduate physics enrollment declined last year. This is a priority of mine as a member of the Education Committee and the Subcommittee on Higher Education. And international students, who represent roughly half of U.S. quantum talent, are increasingly hesitant to study or stay in the United States. At the same time, agencies face staffing losses, delayed and frozen grants, and debilitating budget proposals that make it harder to plan and build out long-term programs. So if we reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative but agencies don't have the staff to review proposals, manage grants, or support researchers, U.S. quantum leadership will slip further away. This issue has remained a bipartisan priority, but we can't claim to want to lead in quantum if we weaken the institutions that make that leadership possible. The president's budget would cut the National Science Foundation by 55 percent and cut NIST by nearly 54 percent. And just last week, the president dismissed the entire National Science Board, the nonpartisan advisory board for federal science activities. Haphazard actions like this create instability and seed U.S. leadership to global competitors. So if we want quantum technologies that improve public safety, strengthen the economy, and support scientific discovery, we need to meet that ambition with sustained support for the federal science enterprise, and that includes our system of higher education. So thank you again to the chair and ranking member for your work on this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Gentlewoman yields back. If there is no further discussion on the amendment, is somebody else? I'm sorry. Ms. McClain Delaney, you're recognized for five minutes.

Thank you, Mr. Chair and ranking member. I do support this amendment and echo many of the comments about research and other items that were made by Rep Bonamici. And I would like to give my opening comments as I was not here given the erratic schedule of today. I want to begin by acknowledging that quantum information science is one of the few areas where the committee has consistently found bipartisan common ground, and that legacy is definitely worth protecting. It's also deeply important to me and to my district in Maryland Six. I always say that the National Institute of Standards and Technology, which is located in Gaithersburg, is probably one of America's crown jewels of research. It should come as no surprise that NIST is at the forefront of research with two of the most significant campuses in the country for quantum R&D. Leadership in quantum technology is not merely a question about the behavior of the smallest particles in our universe. It is an economic and national security. It is about our U.S. innovation. Countries that dominate in quantum computing, sensing, and communications will hold the decisive, decisive advantage in cryptography, logistics, intelligence, and secure infrastructure. We cannot afford to fall behind. I am particularly encouraged by provisions that strengthen the quantum workforce pipeline, expand international cooperation with allies and partners, and direct serious attention to supply chain security, a big issue for me personally. Those priorities reflect exactly the kind of strategic long-term thinking that technology demands. I've noted this in committee before, but it bears repeating one more time. Last year, Governor Wes Moore launched Maryland's Capital of Quantum Initiative, a groundbreaking public-private partnership uniting our state, our universities, private industry, and federal researchers. It is designed to harness Maryland's highly skilled workforce and deep technical expertise to help the United States compete and lead in the quantum race. This initiative reflects the very spirit of the talent pipeline envisioned in the bill, and I'm proud to see these same principles now reflected here today. Still, I must note my concerns about the authorization levels in the base text. Ranking Member Lofgren has been clear. Undercutting funding levels in this bill will jeopardize future negotiations right when we should be signaling unity and resolve. I hope the majority will continue to engage seriously on this point to support our researchers. I look forward to a productive markup, and I remain committed to seeing this bill move forward in a way that will advance U.S. leadership and innovation in quantum technology. Thank you, and I yield back.

Gentlewoman yields back. Hearing no further discussion on the amendment, the question is on adoption of Foushee Amendment 055. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Those opposed say no. The opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Harrigan of North Carolina. The clerk shall report Harrigan Amendment 055.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Mr. Harrigan of North Carolina.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read, and I recognize Representative Harrigan of North Carolina for five minutes to explain his amendment.

Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman. My amendment simply ensures that small businesses are included within the scope of the NIST Quantum Centers program. Including small and innovative startups in discussions surrounding quantum computing and quantum research is fundamentally essential to maintaining our leadership on this crucial emerging technology. Who knows where the next quantum breakthrough is going to come from? After all, both Microsoft and Apple started in garages and now their devices and applications are ubiquitous in business and governments across the world. Making sure that small businesses have a seat at the table ensures that we do not miss out on the next quantum breakthrough and provides opportunities for otherwise overlooked businesses to make their mark in the quantum space. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this common-sense amendment, and Mr. Chairman, I yield back.

Gentleman yields. Ms. Lofgren.

I would just like to thank Mr. Harrigan for his amendment and which we think is important and highlights the role that startups play, and I support the amendment and yield back.

Gentlewoman yields. I support the gentleman's amendment as well. It ensures that small business concerns are explicitly included in the quantum ecosystem, helping to expand participation and strengthen innovation across the private sector. I would urge my colleagues to support its inclusion in the bill. If there's no further discussion on the amendment, the question is on the adoption of Harrigan Amendment 055. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Self of Texas. The clerk shall report Self Amendment 159.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Mr. Self of Texas.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read, and I now recognize Representative Self of Texas for five minutes to explain his amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I rise to offer an amendment to the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act. This amendment strikes all languages directing agencies to prioritize participation in different categories, including underrepresented groups. The concern here is straightforward. The term is not clearly defined anywhere in the bill or it's left open to interpretation. Congress does our nation no favors when we do that. And I also have real concerns about moving forward with a reauthorization that does not include clear authorization levels. We've seen the previous years funded by the Appropriations Committee and should have used that as a baseline. We're currently $39 trillion in debt. At a time like this, we cannot continue the practice of authorizing programs without defining what we are actually willing to spend. That said, Mr. Chairman, I recognize the importance of getting this bill across the finish line, and in the interest of continuing the legislative process, I will not press the amendment at this time. I withdraw my amendment.

The amendment is withdrawn, and we will move on. Thank you. The next amendment is on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Menefee of Texas. The clerk shall report Menefee Amendment 006.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Mr. Menefee of Texas.

Mr. Chairman, in Mr. Menefee's absence, I would offer this amendment on his behalf. This is a thoughtful amendment which directs the NSF centers authorized under the bill to support technology transfer and applications of quantum science. A core theme of this reauthorization is bridging the gap for technologies to move from lab to market, and this amendment supports those efforts. So with that, I would yield back.

Any other discussion? There's no further discussion on the amendment. The question is on adoption of Menefee Amendment 006. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Those opposed say no. The opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Whitesides of California. The clerk shall report Whitesides Amendment 048.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Mr. Whitesides of California.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read, and I recognize Ms. Lofgren of California for five minutes to explain the amendment.

Thank you. Mr. Whitesides is in the Armed Services Committee. Oh, here he is. Okay.

Just in time, Mr. Whitesides. You go ahead and introduce your amendment there.

Thank you so much, Mr. Chairman and ranking member. I'm offering this amendment today because I believe a small change in language can make a meaningful difference in how NASA approaches one of the most exciting frontiers in science and technology. The underlying bill does important work directing NASA to identify opportunities for quantum information science across its mission portfolio. But as written, the strategy language focuses on the solar system and the universe and doesn't explicitly call out Earth science as a domain where quantum technology can deliver real breakthroughs. My amendment fixes that. By adding a reference to measurements of the Earth, we're making clear that quantum sensing and measurement technologies have a critical role to play right here at home in how we study our home planet. And NASA is already doing that. The Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder is an early-stage Earth science project that uses quantum sensing from space to achieve unprecedented precision in measuring Earth's gravity field. Scientists from JPL, which serves my district in California, is adjacent to my district, are deeply involved in that work. It's exactly the kind of mission this bill is designed to accelerate. Better measurements of Earth's gravity and surface conditions aren't abstract. They improve our understanding of sea-level rise, groundwater depletion, and the forces shaping our climate. Quantum technology may be what gets us there. This is a targeted additive change. It doesn't restructure the bill or create new mandates. It simply ensures the statute reflects the full scope of where quantum science can take us, including the planet we call home. I urge my colleagues to support the amendment, and I yield back.

Gentleman yields. Is there no further discussion on the amendment? The question is on the adoption of Whitesides Amendment 048. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Those opposed say no. The opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Obernolte of California. The clerk shall report Obernolte Amendment 063.

Amendment to H.R. 8462 offered by Mr. Obernolte of California.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read, and I recognize Representative Obernolte of California for five minutes to explain the amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Everyone on this committee knows that quantum computing is an absolutely game-changing advancement in technology. It will dramatically increase the speed at which computers can run algorithms and solve problems, enabling new opportunities to improve our supply chains, transportation networks, electrical grid, and our communication resilience. As written, the base text in the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act will help ensure the United States can realize the benefits from these technological gains and remain a global leader in the development of this technology. Critically, however, I believe that we can remain a global leader in not only the development, but also the deployment of new quantum technologies by providing a cloud-based venue for developers to produce quantum-enabled software tools from a variety of different systems for use in sectors such as telecommunications, financial services, healthcare, and defense. My amendment does exactly that, and aims to increase quantum technology commercial advancement by establishing the Collaborative Venture for Quantum Application Development Acceleration Program. This program allows government and industry partners to come together to deploy quantum and quantum hybrid applications for near-term use. As many of my colleagues are aware, particularly on this committee, unlike traditional computers, which store and analyze data as either zeros or ones, quantum computers operate with quantum bits, known as qubits, which are complex dual systems of both zero and one simultaneously, a concept derived from quantum physics. Although fully developed commercial quantum computing remains years away, finding new ways to tackle critical challenges is a key objective of this new consortium. Once use cases are identified, the Collaborative Venture for Quantum Application Development Acceleration Program can provide an expedited pathway to develop targeted applications through public-private partnerships. This amendment and the Collaborative Venture for Quantum Application Development Acceleration Program together will drive U.S. innovation towards solving critical world real-world challenges impacting American society and will augment the long-term basic research currently being conducted through the National Quantum Initiative. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time, Mr. Chairman.

Gentleman yields, and I'd like to recognize the ranking member of California.

I want to thank Mr. Obernolte, and I understand he worked with Ms. Stevens for this good amendment. We do know that one of the core challenges with advancing quantum technologies is a so-called valley of death between lab and market, and this amendment would establish a public-private partnership at the Department of Commerce to focus on near-term quantum applications and would accelerate technology transfer. It's a good amendment, and I would encourage everyone to support it.

Any further discussion? Hearing none, on the adoption of Obernolte amendment 063. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Those opposed say no. The opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Webster of Florida. Clerk shall report Webster amendment 036.

Amendment to H.R. 8462, offered by Mr. Webster of Florida.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read, and I recognize Representative Webster of Florida for five minutes to explain the amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. For decades, we have let Communist China corner the market on rare earth materials and other critical materials. So this amendment would help us avoid any making any mistakes that we had in the past with a new critical material, helium-3. Helium-3 is necessary for cooling certain kinds of quantum computers to absolute near absolute zero so that they can function. It's also used in sensors to detect nuclear and radiological material at their borders. But it's extremely rare. Only two or three kilograms are produced every year worldwide. This amendment would ensure that the National Quantum Initiative is taking helium-3 into account so that we build a robust domestic supply chain for this critical material. Urge my colleagues to support this amendment. I yield back.

Any further discussion? Hearing none, the question is on the adoption of Webster amendment 036. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Those opposed say no. The opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Subramanyam of Virginia. The clerk shall report Subramanyam amendment 112.

Amendment to H.R. 8462, offered by Mr. Subramanyam of Virginia.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read, and I recognize Representative Subramanyam of Virginia for five minutes to explain the amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I'm very supportive of the work we're doing today to reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative. And with some of these investments, we will be pushing through and pushing forward breakthroughs in quantum computing, which will have incredible incredibly positive impact. But we also need to look more into how quantum would have negative impacts and impact our security, because the quantum computers of the future could break encryption, could compromise financial transactions, defense secrets, and other national security data. So this amendment is language from the bipartisan Quantum Encryption Readiness and Resilience Act by myself and Representative McGuire. This would require an assessment of the country's quantum capabilities, track quantum innovations in other countries, identify sectors vulnerable to quantum, and create a national plan to mitigate risks posed by quantum computers. I hope you'll support this amendment. I yield back.

Gentleman yields back. Any further discussion? Hearing none, the question is on the adoption of Subramanyam amendment 112. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Those opposed say no. The opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Van Epps of Tennessee. Clerk shall report Van Epps amendment 008.

Amendment to H.R. 8462, offered by Mr. Van Epps of Tennessee.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read, and I recognize Representative Van Epps of Tennessee for five minutes to explain his amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. American researchers have made significant advancements in quantum over the last several years. Yet it is crucial we continue to rapidly move beyond scientific research into commercially deployable applications, including our military capabilities. For example, quantum sensing supports a wide range of battlefield applications, such as navigation in GPS-denied environments and detection of electronic warfare systems. Bringing quantum from the lab into the field can empower American warfighters for mission success. However, these capabilities have not yet fully matured into operational systems for routine use. That's why the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act is a step in the right direction. Updating quantum programs to move from lab development into real-world deployment and creating quantum testbeds to translate research into private sector quantum development. These updates align with the exciting contributions Tennessee's 7th District has made in quantum. Recently, Vanderbilt University partnered with EPB of Chattanooga to launch the Institute for Quantum Innovation. This institute will provide Vanderbilt's leading quantum research programs access to the EPB Quantum Center, the nation's first facility to provide commercial access to a trapped ion quantum computer and a photonics-based local quantum network. Vanderbilt's efforts prove the U.S. is ready to move from the lab to real-work application for quantum, and with Tennessee leading the way. My amendment ensures the important updates in this reauthorization bill are effectively implemented to bring quantum technologies into real-world use. The amendment directs OSTP and the National Academies to assess the National Quantum Initiative Program to ensure it meets its goals, particularly as it relates to the development of quantum applications. In addition, the amendment directs NIST to conduct a study and produce a report to this committee on impediments to collaboration between federally backed research centers, industry, and academia. For the U.S. to sustain its quantum leadership, it is essential that any gaps between American researchers and private industry are decisively identified and tactically remedied. By passing this amendment, this committee clearly demonstrates that the updated policy priorities made in the reauthorization bill will translate into effective policy delivery. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and I yield back.

I'd like to recognize the ranking member, Ms. Lofgren.

I'll just like to thank Mr. Van Epps for this amendment. We have studied it and support it, and I would encourage everyone to do the same. I yield back.

She yields back. And I'd like to say that I commend the gentleman for offering this amendment. This provision strengthens oversight of the National Quantum Initiative by requiring an independent assessment of the program's progress and identifying barriers to collaboration. A clearer understanding of performance and coordination across government, industry, and academia will help maximize the impact of our investments. I support its inclusion in the bill. If there's no further discussion on the amendment, the question is on adoption of Van Epps amendment 008. All those in favor say aye.

Aye.

Those opposed say no. The opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The next amendment on the roster is the amendment offered by Representative Obernolte of California. The clerk shall report Obernolte amendment 064.

Amendment to H.R. 8462, offered by Mr. Obernolte of California.

Mr. Chairman, I reserve a point of order. I would like to say, reserving the point of order, this is a good amendment. It's just not within the committee's jurisdiction. And I...

Yes, ma'am. The gentlewoman from California reserves a point of order. The gentleman from California, Mr. Obernolte, is recognized to explain the amendment.

Mr. Chairman, members of this committee are aware that the threat posed by quantum computing to our national cybersecurity infrastructure is not merely hypothetical, it is eminent. Cryptographic systems that protect some of our most sensitive federal data were designed for a pre-quantum world, and we cannot afford to wait until our adversaries have the capability to break them before we act. The time to modernize this infrastructure is immediately. In 2022, the Congress directed that federal entities protect unclassified information to post-quantum cryptographic or PQC strength. Since then, departments and agencies have responded through the National Security Memorandum NSM-10, with the General Services Administration coordinating procurement on a 10 to 20-year timeline for the transition to PQC protection, largely through the purchase of hardware components. Unfortunately, this approach offered by GSA also comes with an enormous price tag because new equipment must be procured, and this creates disruption because the new hardware must be physically installed. My amendment addresses this by authorizing federal agencies to procure and deploy interim PQC software to protect federal systems against the emerging threat of quantum computing-enabled cyberattacks without forcing them to pay for new and expensive hardware. My amendment does not pick winners and losers in the marketplace, instead, it sets a rigorous floor of technical and security requirements grounded in NIST standards and empowers federal agencies to move quickly to meet them. Importantly, this amendment would also protect taxpayers and federal agencies from vendor lock-in. Agencies would retain full control over their own encryption keys, and contracts are required to include opt-out provisions so the federal government is never held hostage to a single provider. As members of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, I believe, and I think we all believe, Congress has a responsibility to ensure our federal systems are prepared for the technological realities ahead. This amendment is a common sense, fiscally responsible step towards that goal. Unfortunately, as the ranking member pointed out, the cross-agency nature of this amendment renders it outside the jurisdiction of this markup, and so I will reluctantly be moving to withdraw it at this time. But I'd like to thank the chairman and my staff for working with me on the language, and while we couldn't get it over the finish line in this markup, I am looking forward to continuing to work with them and my colleagues to find opportunities to move common sense policy such as this through the legislative process in the future. I withdraw the amendment and, Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Gentleman yields, and the amendment is withdrawn. Thank you. The next amendment on the roster is an amendment offered by Representative Foushee of North Carolina. The clerk shall report Foushee amendment 054.

Amendment to H.R. 8462, offered by Ms. Foushee of North Carolina.

Without objection, the amendment is considered as read. I recognize Representative Foushee of North Carolina for five minutes.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. North Carolina has strong leadership in quantum science, with institutions like the Duke Quantum Center and NC State helping prepare thousands of students each year for careers in science and engineering. But maintaining U.S. leadership in quantum and translating that leadership into economic growth and good-paying jobs requires a strong talent pipeline that starts in K-12 and extends through advanced research careers. Programs like the National Q-12 Education Program supported by NSF and bipartisan efforts such as the Q-LEAP Act that I introduced with Congressman Obernolte are important steps in that direction. My amendment would reauthorize the Next Generation Quantum Leaders Pilot Program to support strengthening pathways from K-12 education through higher education and into the quantum workforce. As we work to maintain U.S. leadership in quantum, we must invest not only in the science, but also in the people who will drive these breakthroughs. Programs like Q-LEAP help ensure that this talent pipeline continues to grow. I thank the chair and ranking member for their leadership, and I urge my colleagues to support this amendment. And thank you, Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Gentlewoman yields back. If there's no further discussion on the amendment, the question is on the adoption of Foushee amendment 054. All those in favor say aye.

Aye.

Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. There are no additional amendments on the amendment roster. Are there any further amendments? Hearing none, a reporting quorum being present, I move that the committee report H.R. 8462, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act, as amended, to the House with the recommendation that the bill be favorably approved. The question is on favorably reporting H.R. 8462, as amended, to the House. All those in favor say aye.

Aye.

Those opposed say nay. The ayes have it, and the bill as amended is ordered favorably reported. Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. Without objection, I ask that staff be authorized to make any necessary technical and conforming changes to the bill. So ordered. Members have two calendar days to submit supplemental minority or additional views on these measures. And I would also like to make a sad announcement as well. There's a young lady in here, and I'm looking at her right now, Ms. Joyce Benjamin, who's been with us on my congressional personal staff and also here at SST, who is going to be leaving us. This is her last day. And I guess I feel at liberty to say that some lucky guy is getting ready to marry this young lady. And so we wish you the very, very best. May God bless and Godspeed. Okay, Joyce.

Congratulations.

Amen. Amen. Okay, with no further business before the committee, the committee stands adjourned.