This comment letter responds to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) request for comments on Helium Supply Risk. UC emphasizes that helium is essential for patient care and federally funded research because MRI, NMR, MEG, and other ultra-cold scientific instruments depend on reliable liquid helium supplies and can be damaged or taken offline by shortages. UC warns that repeated shortages and rising costs threaten healthcare, research, and U.S. strategic capacity, and recommends federal policies to protect, expand, and maintain affordable domestic helium production for the research community.
