H.R. 3220: Quantum Sandbox for Near-Term Applications Act of 2025

The Quantum Sandbox for Near-Term Applications Act of 2025 aims to enhance the development and acceleration of quantum applications through a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors. Here are the key components of the bill:

Bill Title

The bill is formally titled the "Quantum Sandbox for Near-Term Applications Act of 2025".

Findings

Congress expresses several findings regarding quantum technology, including:

• The ongoing importance of the National Quantum Initiative in promoting Quantum Information Science.
• The necessity of continuous innovation within the U.S. quantum industry.
• The potential for quantum applications to provide effective solutions for various challenges faced by both public and private sectors.
• The accessibility of quantum computing technology through cloud services and dedicated programs.
• The anticipated benefits of these innovations to businesses and consumers alike.
• The recognition of quantum information science as a foundational technology that is influencing the economy.
• The necessity of strong leadership in quantum research for the economic security of the nation.
• The critical role of workforce development in cultivating leaders in quantum applications.

Public-Private Partnership for Quantum Application Development

The bill proposes to amend the National Quantum Initiative Act to establish a public-private partnership aimed at accelerating the development of quantum applications. Here are the major elements:

Definitions

• Quantum Applications: These include algorithms and applications that utilize quantum mechanics through quantum processing units, such as quantum computing, communication, sensing, and hybrid applications that combine both quantum and classical computing.
• Quantum Sandbox: This refers to a program for innovating and developing applications using quantum sciences, focusing on near-term use cases. It allows for the creation and testing of prototypes and pilot programs.
• Near-Term Use Case: This is defined as an application that can be developed and deployed within 24 months.

Establishment of the Quantum Sandbox

The bill mandates that the Secretary of Commerce, together with the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), will establish this quantum sandbox program. The goal is to focus on accelerating applications in quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing, and quantum-hybrid computing that have near-term use cases.

Engagement and Collaboration

The Secretary, via the Director of NIST, is required to collaborate with various entities including:

• The Quantum Economic Development Consortium
• National Laboratories
• Federally funded research and development centers
• Other stakeholders involved in the U.S. quantum computing ecosystem

Clerical Amendment

The bill also includes a clerical amendment to the table of contents of the National Quantum Initiative Act, adding a new section for the established public-private partnership for quantum application development acceleration.

Relevant Companies

• IBM: As a major player in quantum computing, IBM could benefit from federal support for quantum application development.
• Alphabet Inc. (Google): Google operates in quantum research and could be involved in partnership initiatives under the new framework.
• Microsoft: Microsoft has significant investments in quantum computing and may be directly affected by new partnership opportunities.
• RunSimple (RUN): This company focuses on quantum application development and might thrive with increased government interest and funding.
• Amazon: With Amazon Web Services offering quantum computing services, they could see benefits from expanding access to quantum technology.