Tech bills of the week: quantum computing research; AI workforce development; and more

"This legislation would ensure quantum molecular simulations and modeling are included in the National Quantum Initiative. Quantum molecular simulations and modeling will enable scientists to study chemical elements and reactions with unprecedented precision. By harnessing the power of quantum computing, researchers can better understand molecular behavior, including nitrogen fixation, a key process in producing fertilizer for our agriculture industry."

"Quantum modeling and simulation involves programming computers to mimic what a fault-tolerant quantum system could do. As a real fault-tolerant, cryptographically-relevant quantum computer is still in development, simulation and modeling systems offer insight into the applications of a quantum computer that can sufficiently process a large number of qubits."

"The NSF AI Education Act would expand scholastic programs to support a domestic workforce fluent in AI and other technologies. Diverse academic institutions, including minority-serving institutions, non-profits, traditional schools and emerging research centers are all eligible to apply for the grant awards the bill proposes."

Rep. Randy Feenstra introduced legislation to amend the National Quantum Initiative Act by strengthening quantum modeling and simulation provisions. Quantum modeling and simulation allows computers to mimic fault-tolerant quantum systems currently in development, providing insights into quantum computing applications for processing large numbers of qubits. The bill emphasizes quantum molecular simulations' potential to enable unprecedented precision in studying chemical elements and reactions, particularly nitrogen fixation for agricultural fertilizer production. Separately, Senators Jerry Moran and Maria Cantwell introduced the NSF AI Education Act to expand workforce development in artificial intelligence and quantum computing through National Science Foundation programming. The legislation supports diverse academic institutions, including minority-serving institutions and research centers, in developing a domestic workforce skilled in emerging technologies. The Agriculture Department would assist in grant administration, with research focusing on integrating AI into modern agriculture and advanced manufacturing.

Read at Nextgov.com