Comment from Alice Bean

[200.432, 200.454, 200.461, 200.206, 200.450] To Whom it May Concern: I am a professor of physics working with large international collaborations on experimental particle physics. I am writing in my personal capacity to oppose the proposed revisions to sections 200.432, 200.454, 200.461, 200.206, and 200.450 that would restrict typical professional expenses, curtail the communication of scientific results, and place excessive scrutiny on the activities of scientists. My membership in professional scientific societies has aided my productivity in research by connecting me with others in fields similar to mine. Others have already solved some of the logistical problems that come about when one does complex research and I can concentrate on the scientific problems. Networking with other physicists is invaluable to learn about what has already been done so as not to work on already solved problems. These conferences also help scientists to find new jobs as well as to see younger scientists who may be able to help with my own research Publications are the lifeblood of science. Without knowing what others have accomplished already, my research can't move forward. Our research group every week reviews the publications to find out what is happening. I am considered a prolific publisher and now have had a distinguished science career. Part of my success is that others know of my publications and have cited my work. I have also been able to train other scientists due to this success. Scientists need collaboration and communication to move forward. To get the best science, you have to know what has been done already and you can communicate your progress so others also move forward.