Q–LEAP
- Bill Number
- H.R. 6742
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Science, Technology, Communications
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-12-16: Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
- Last Updated
- 2026-01-12T16:55:12Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
The Quantum Leaders Education and Advancement Program Act (Q-LEAP), or H.R. 6742, aims to extend funding and support for a National Science Foundation (NSF) pilot program focused on educating and training students and teachers in the basics of quantum mechanics—a branch of physics dealing with tiny particles like atoms and electrons that behave in unique ways, such as superposition (existing in multiple states at once).
Key Provisions
- Reauthorizes the Next Generation Quantum Leaders Pilot Program under the NSF.
- Extends the program's authorization period, allowing it to continue operations and receive funding beyond its original end date.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- Amends section 10661(f)(5) of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (Public Law 117-167) by replacing the expiration year "2026" with "2028."
- This two-year extension ensures the pilot program remains active without needing new legislation for basic continuation.
Potential Impacts
- Government Agencies: The NSF will have continued authority to allocate resources for quantum education initiatives, potentially increasing federal investment in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programs.
- Citizens: Students and teachers gain extended access to specialized training in quantum principles, fostering a skilled workforce in emerging technologies like quantum computing and secure communications.
- International Relations: By bolstering U.S. expertise in quantum science, the bill could enhance America's competitive edge in global tech races, particularly against nations like China investing heavily in quantum research.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- National Science Foundation (NSF): Primary administrator of the program.
- Educators and students: Especially those in higher education and K-12 levels focusing on physics and related fields.
- Quantum technology industry: Benefits from a growing pool of trained professionals.
- Federal lawmakers and science committees: Involved in oversight and future funding decisions.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: Simple reauthorization with no new regulatory burdens; aligns with existing NSF authorities under federal innovation laws.
- Constitutional: Supports Congress's power to promote science and education (Article I, Section 8), without raising separation-of-powers concerns.
- Political: Reinforces bipartisan interest in U.S. technological leadership, potentially paving the way for broader quantum policy expansions amid growing national security focus on quantum advancements.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Foushee, Valerie P. [D-NC-4]
Cosponsors (1)
Recent Actions
- 2025-12-16: Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
- 2025-12-16: Introduced in House
- 2025-12-16: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Quantum Leaders Education and Advancement Program Act — issued 2025-12-16 — PDF (2 pages)