Comment from Brandie Quarles

[200.432, 200.454, 200.461, 200.206, 200.450] To Whom it May Concern: I am a postdoctoral scholar in plant biology. 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. Being a member professional societies has provided me with extra research funding (reducing how much I need to get from the federal government), allowed me to network and expand my job opportunities, and build additional skills (ex: teaching). Attending scientific conferences has allowed me to share my research and network, both of which have been vital for my career progression. Having access to the scientific record is essential for research. If we don't know what has been done and discovered previously we cannot conduct innovative science. I have recently published two papers in academic journals recently. Publishing these papers has increased my job prospects and gotten the word out about the important plant ecology findings in my work. This rule would heavily limit typical professional activities, affecting individuals' career progression, the production of innovative science, and the ability to share government funded science with the public (§ 200.461).