It was a bold action, calling for conservation and enhancement of the nation's helium reserves at a time when pending legislation calls for abolishing the reserve. Faced with the prospect of severe cuts in science spending over the next seven years, most scientific groups have been reluctant to speak out on issues that might offend powerful members of Congress. But silence carries its own risk.
Most political leaders share in the general scientific illiteracy of the public.
Their decisions on scientific and technical issues, therefore, should be informed by the views of the scientists. Alas, the scientific community has been notoriously timid about letting its views be known on controversial issues. The prevailing view seems to be that nothing is to be gained, and much might be lost, by speaking out on the scientific merits of such projects. It's a seriously flawed argument. Funding is limited.