S. 1397: International Quantum Research Exchange Act

This bill, known as the International Quantum Research Exchange Act, aims to enhance international collaboration in the field of quantum information science. Here are the main points of the bill:

Establishment of a Quantum Cooperation Program

The bill mandates the Secretary of State to create a program focused on:

• Enhancing international cooperation in quantum information science through the awarding of matching grants. These grants will be available to institutions of higher education or eligible nonprofit organizations engaged in collaborative research with foreign partners.
• Supporting international scientist exchange programs that can range from a few days to several years.

Coordination and Strategic Alignment

To effectively implement this program, the Secretary of State must coordinate with several key entities:

• The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
• The Director of the National Quantum Coordination Office.
• Co-Chairs of relevant subcommittees within the National Science and Technology Council.

Additionally, the program must be aligned with the National Quantum Information Science Strategy and can only fund collaborative research with countries that have signed relevant quantum cooperation agreements with the U.S.

Research Security Measures

The activities authorized under this bill must adhere to regulations that ensure research security and integrity. This includes compliance with existing national security policies aimed at safeguarding U.S. interests in research and development.

Consultation Process

In developing and operating the program, the Secretary of State is required to consult with:

• The appropriate congressional committees.
• The Special Envoy for Critical and Emerging Technologies.
• Industry leaders within the United States.
• Technology experts, including those from academic institutions.
• Representatives from relevant U.S. Government agencies.

Reporting Requirements

Every two years after the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State must submit an annual report to Congress detailing:

• The activities conducted in the previous year under this program.
• A list of priority countries targeted for collaboration on quantum information science.

Funding Authorization

The bill provides for an appropriation of $20 million for the fiscal year 2026 to help support the initiatives outlined in the program.

Duration of the Program

The authorities granted under this section will terminate ten years after the enactment of the bill.

Relevant Companies

• IBM (International Business Machines Corporation) - Involved in quantum computing research and development, and could benefit from increased international collaboration in quantum science.
• MSFT (Microsoft Corporation) - Engaged in quantum computing and may expand its global partnerships through the proposed initiatives.
• AMZN (Amazon.com, Inc.) - Involved in quantum technologies and could see advantages from international grants and collaborations.