Premier Comments on Potential Risk of Supply Disruptions for Helium

Premier submitted comments to the Department of the Interior on the potential risk of supply disruptions for helium and the downstream impact to the defense, healthcare, aerospace, consumer electronics and other industries. Premier’s comments focused on the critical role that helium plays in healthcare and the detrimental impact a helium supply disruption would have on patient care. Specifically, Premier noted:

• There is an increased risk of helium supply chain disruption, especially given that helium is a finite resource with no reasonable alternatives.
• There are significant challenges to the global helium supply chain driven by geopolitical tensions, a lack of investment in new helium production and the pending sale of the Federal Helium System which would eliminate a domestic source of the product.
• A supply disruption of helium will jeopardize products vital to healthcare and negatively impact patient care.
• The federal government must take decisive action to mitigate the risks associated with the helium supply chain, including reassessing if sale of the Federal Helium System can be delayed given ongoing geopolitical issues. In addition, increasing investment in research and development of a comprehensive national helium strategy are critical steps to ensure a reliable and sustainable helium supply chain.