Comment from Eric Wells

[200.202(e), 200.220] To Whom it May Concern: I am a professor of physics at Augustan University in Sioux Falls, SD. I teach and do research in atomic, molecular, and optical physics. I am writing in my personal capacity to oppose the proposed revisions to sections 200.202(e) and 200.220 that would restrict international scientific collaboration and isolate American scientists. Broad interpretation of this rule could potentially restrict students from around the world from coming to the US and receiving grant funding. Many of the students I have interacted with over the years, including a number of Augustana students, are international. Science, and in particular, the basic research I am involved with, is an international activity and should not be unduly restricted. While I do not have large collaborations with other countries, I work with many foreign graduate students at US institutions. Restricting this international workforce will hurt our ability to get research done. Scientific work is international and always has been. Inconsistent or broad application of these proposed rules will harm the ability of the US to participate in this global enterprise, and ultimately harm our country.