Full Committee Markup of H.R. 390, H.R. 3679, H.R. 3259, and H.R. 3705

2025-06-11

Loading video...

Summary

The Committee on Science, Space, and Technology convened to mark up four bipartisan bills aimed at addressing various national challenges through scientific and technological advancements[ 00:18:58-00:19:08 ]

[ 00:19:20 ] . These bills focus on improving wildfire response, strengthening cybersecurity against quantum threats, empowering small businesses with artificial intelligence, and enhancing fog forecasting for maritime safety.

Wildfire Response Enhancement (ACERO Act)

This theme addresses HR 390, the ACERO Act, which seeks to modernize aerial responses to wildfires[ 00:20:24 ]

. The legislation leverages NASA's advanced drone and aviation technologies to assist firefighters and streamline coordination among agencies, tackling issues like outdated systems and poor communication during aerial efforts[ 00:20:31 ] . It aims to ensure safer and more efficient operations as fire season approaches[ 00:20:41 ] . The bill also promotes collaboration and includes provisions for accountability through annual progress reports to Congress. Furthermore, it prohibits the procurement of drones from foreign adversaries like China, securing taxpayer dollars for domestic innovation. An amendment was adopted to align the bill's text with language from the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2024.

Post-Quantum Cybersecurity Standards

This section focuses on HR 3259, the Post-Quantum Cybersecurity Standards Act, which is vital for strengthening America's position in quantum computing and artificial intelligence[ 00:20:48 ]

. The bill directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to provide guidance and support for the voluntary adoption of quantum-resistant cryptographic standards, particularly for high-risk sectors[ 00:20:56 ] . This proactive approach is crucial because current encryption methods are becoming vulnerable to advanced quantum computing[ 00:21:06 ] . Adversaries are potentially storing encrypted data now for future decryption when quantum capabilities advance. The legislation also promotes necessary updates in cryptography and increases coordination across sectors to secure digital infrastructure before new threats emerge[ 00:21:21 ] . It also directs the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support research in post-quantum cryptography to ensure the U.S. remains at the forefront of this technology.

Small Business AI Advancement

HR 3679, the Small Business Artificial Intelligence Advancement Act, addresses the critical need to help small businesses integrate AI technologies[ 00:21:51 ]

. Small businesses are recognized as the backbone of the American economy[ 00:21:55 ] . However, they risk falling behind larger players as AI becomes central to productivity and growth[ 00:22:07 ] . The bill directs NIST to create practical and accessible resources, including technical standards, best practices, and case studies, to help small businesses understand and utilize AI without massive overhead or confusion[ 00:22:16 ] . An amendment was adopted to ensure NIST's privacy and cybersecurity guidance are included in these resources, addressing potential pitfalls for first-time users of AI technology[ 00:52:50 ] .

Fog Observations and Geographic Forecasting (FOG Act)

HR 3705, the Fog Observations and Geographic Forecasting Act, focuses on improving the accuracy of coastal marine fog forecasting[ 00:22:36 ]

. Coastal marine fog presents significant safety risks and economic impacts. Massive delays at ports due to dense fog have led to billions in economic losses. The bill requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to develop a targeted project to enhance maritime safety, safeguard critical infrastructure, and reduce economic impacts by increasing marine-based observations, improving modeling, and enhancing communication of advisories. This initiative fosters collaboration with commercial and academic partners and leverages existing NOAA tools.

The meeting exhibited a generally collaborative and efficient tone, with strong bipartisan support for the four bills discussed[ 00:19:20 ]

[ 00:22:51 ] . Multiple speakers highlighted the importance of bipartisan cooperation in addressing critical national challenges[ 00:20:45 ] [ 00:47:52 ] . However, a recurring undercurrent of concern emerged regarding the administration's budget cuts to key scientific agencies such as NASA, NIST, and NOAA. Members expressed worry that these cuts could undermine the very agencies tasked with implementing the legislation and maintaining America's scientific prowess. Despite these concerns, all four bills were favorably reported to the House. This outcome underscores a shared commitment to advancing the proposed solutions.