The Medical Imaging and Technology Alliance (MITA) said it supports the U.S. Senate passage of legislation to keep the Federal Helium Reserve open.
Lawmakers voted 97 to 2 to approve an amended version of HR 527, the Responsible Helium Administration and Stewardship Act, which would prevent premature closure of the reserve.
The Federal Helium Reserve provides approximately 50% of the nation's supply of helium. MRI systems must be regularly refilled with liquid helium to maintain normal operating temperatures.
