Quantum in Practice Act
- Bill Number
- H.R. 7749
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Science, Technology, Communications
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-03-02: Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
- Last Updated
- 2026-03-19T15:27:10Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
The Quantum in Practice Act (H.R. 7749) aims to expand the National Quantum Initiative Act by incorporating quantum modeling and simulation into federal research efforts. This focuses on using quantum computing to improve molecular simulations, which could drive innovations in fields like medicine, energy, and materials science.
Key Provisions
- Findings Section: Congress highlights the potential of quantum computing to advance molecular modeling and simulation beyond current supercomputer capabilities. It lists potential benefits, such as:
- Developing low-cost synthetic fertilizers by modeling bacterial nitrogen fixation.
- Creating more effective medications with fewer side effects.
- Improving battery technologies and energy storage.
- Designing lighter, stronger metals and durable materials for protective gear.
- Advancing superconductors.
- Amendments to Definitions and Programs:
- Updates the definition of "quantum information science" to explicitly include "modeling" and "simulation" alongside computing.
- Adds "quantum molecular modeling or simulation" as a priority area in the federal Quantum Information Science Research Program.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- Modifies Section 2(6) of the National Quantum Initiative Act (15 U.S.C. 8801(6)) by inserting "modeling, simulation" into the definition of quantum information science.
- Revises Section 401(b)(3) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 8851(b)(3)) by adding a new subparagraph (H) to prioritize quantum molecular modeling or simulation in research activities, building on existing priorities like quantum computing and networking.
These changes integrate modeling and simulation as core components of national quantum research without altering funding mechanisms or creating new programs.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Agencies involved in the National Quantum Initiative, such as the Department of Energy, National Science Foundation, and National Institute of Standards and Technology, may need to adjust research priorities and allocate resources to quantum modeling projects, potentially increasing federal investment in simulation technologies.
- On Citizens: Could lead to practical benefits like cheaper fertilizers, better drugs, and advanced batteries, improving agriculture, healthcare, and energy access for everyday Americans.
- On International Relations: Enhances U.S. leadership in quantum technology, potentially strengthening competitiveness against global rivals in scientific innovation, though it does not directly address foreign policy.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Researchers and Scientists: Gain expanded federal support for quantum simulation tools to study chemical reactions and materials.
- Industries: Sectors like pharmaceuticals (for drug development), agriculture (for fertilizers), energy (for batteries and superconductors), and defense (for materials) stand to benefit from breakthroughs.
- Government and Academia: Federal research agencies and universities involved in the National Quantum Initiative will see broadened scope in their work.
- General Public: Indirectly affected through innovations that could lower costs and improve products in daily life.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: The bill makes minor, technical amendments to an existing law, ensuring quantum modeling aligns with broader quantum research without introducing new regulatory burdens or enforcement mechanisms.
- Constitutional: No apparent conflicts; it supports Congress's authority under the Commerce Clause to promote scientific progress and interstate commerce through research funding.
- Political: Reinforces bipartisan interest in quantum technology (introduced by a diverse group of representatives), signaling continued U.S. commitment to emerging tech amid global competition, but it avoids controversial elements like budget specifics or mandates.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (12)
Rep. Stevens, Haley M. [D-MI-11], Rep. Valadao, David G. [R-CA-22], Rep. Miller-Meeks, Mariannette [R-IA-1], Rep. Kean, Thomas H. [R-NJ-7], Rep. Wittman, Robert J. [R-VA-1], Rep. Yakym, Rudy [R-IN-2], Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17], Rep. McBride, Sarah [D-DE-At Large], Rep. Lofgren, Zoe [D-CA-18], Rep. Neguse, Joe [D-CO-2], Rep. Rose, John W. [R-TN-6], Rep. McGuire, John J. [R-VA-5]
Recent Actions
- 2026-03-02: Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
- 2026-03-02: Introduced in House
- 2026-03-02: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Quantum in Practice Act — issued 2026-03-02 — PDF (3 pages)