Today, the U.S. Senate introduced a bipartisan bill proposing $2.5 billion for quantum technology research. Preparations are underway for the upcoming confirmation hearing of labor secretary nominee Lori Chavez-DeRemer, anticipated to face rigorous scrutiny. The Senate will reconvene on February 18, 2025.
Today, the U.S. Senate remained in recess, with no official sessions or committee hearings scheduled. Despite the lack of formal proceedings, legislative activity continued as Senators introduced new bills and prepared for upcoming sessions.
Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Steve Daines (R-MT) introduced the Department of Energy Quantum Leadership Act of 2025, proposing over $2.5 billion in funding for quantum technology research and development from fiscal years 2026 to 2030. This bipartisan effort aims to enhance the United States’ position in quantum sciences, focusing on expanding research programs, addressing supply chain challenges, and fostering workforce development. quantumcomputingreport.com
Additionally, the Senate is gearing up for significant confirmation hearings. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, President Trump’s nominee for labor secretary, is slated to appear before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee on February 19. Her nomination is expected to face rigorous scrutiny, particularly concerning her past support for union-related legislation, which has raised questions among both Republican and Democratic senators. nypost.com
Looking ahead, the Senate will reconvene on February 18, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. The session will commence with the traditional reading of George Washington’s Farewell Address, followed by a period of morning business. Committee hearings are also scheduled for the week, including a Small Business and Entrepreneurship meeting and a Veterans’ Affairs hearing to examine pending nominations. senate.gov
Bibliography:
- “$2.5 Billion Department of Energy Quantum Leadership Act of 2025 Introduced in the U.S. Senate,” Quantum Computing Report, February 15, 2025. quantumcomputingreport.com
- “Trump’s labor secretary pick Lori Chavez-DeRemer expected to face tough grilling during Senate hearings,” New York Post, February 15, 2025. nypost.com
- “U.S. Senate,” Senate.gov, February 15, 2025. senate.gov
