Two federal science agencies team up on quantum and clean energy research
H.R. 1368 — DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act · Filed by Nicholas Begich (R-AK) · 3 cosponsors · Introduced Feb 14, 2025 · Passed chamber
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What it does
This bill authorizes the Department of Energy and NASA to jointly fund and conduct collaborative research in areas like advanced propulsion, quantum computing, space-based solar power, and fundamental physics. The two agencies will coordinate through memoranda of understanding, make competitive awards to universities, national labs, and other entities, and report back to Congress in two years on their progress and future plans.
Why we flagged it
The bill's core function is establishing a formal mechanism for DOE-NASA collaboration on joint research priorities, with no new appropriations, no private carve-outs, and no restrictions on citizen rights. It is a procedural and governance measure, not a substantive policy change.
What the text implies
- The bill authorizes 'non-reimbursable agreements' between DOE and NASA, meaning one agency can fund the other's work without cost recovery — this may shift budget priorities within agencies but is not explicitly funded here.
- Competitive awards are open to 'other appropriate entities' beyond federal labs and universities, potentially including private contractors, though merit review and agency policies apply.
The full analysis lists 4 implications of this text.
Who stands to gain
National Laboratories (DOE and NASA); Institutions of higher education; Non-profit research institutions