7 CFR Part 1 - Agriculture

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Title 7 → Subtitle A → Part 1

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Title 7: Agriculture
PART 1—ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS
Contents
Subpart A—Official Records
§1.1 Purpose and scope.
§1.2 Policy.
§1.3 Agency implementing regulations.
§1.4 Public access to certain materials.
§1.5 Requests for records.
§1.6 Aggregating requests.
§1.7 Agency response to requests for records.
§1.8 Multitrack processing.
§1.9 Expedited processing.
§1.10 Search services.
§1.11 Review services.
§1.12 Handling information from a private business.
§1.13 Date of receipt of requests or appeals.
§1.14 Appeals.
§1.15 General provisions respecting release of records.
§1.16 Extension of administrative deadlines.
§1.17 Failure to meet administrative deadlines.
§1.18 Fee schedule.
§1.19 Exemptions and discretionary release.
§1.20 Annual report.
§1.21 Compilation of new records.
§1.22 Authentication.
§1.23 Records in formal adjudication proceedings.
§1.24 Preservation of records.
§1.25 Implementing regulations for the Office of the Secretary and the Office of Communications.
Appendix A to Subpart A of Part 1—Fee Schedule
Subpart B—Departmental Proceedings
§1.26
§1.27
§1.28
§1.29

Representation before the Department of Agriculture.
Rulemaking and other notice procedures.
Petitions.
Subpoenas relating to investigations under statutes administered by the Secretary of Agriculture.

Subpart C—Judicial Proceedings
§1.41 Service of process.
Subpart D—Claims
§1.51 Claims based on negligence, wrongful act or omission.
Subpart E—Cooperative Production of Television Films
§1.71
§1.72
§1.73
§1.74
§1.75
§1.76
§1.77
§1.78
§1.79

Purpose.
Policy.
Responsibility.
Basis for special working relationships.
General stipulations.
Department cooperation.
Assignment of priorities.
Development of special working relationships.
Credits.

Subpart G—Privacy Act Regulations

§1.110 Purpose and scope.
§1.111 Definitions.
§1.112 Procedures for requests pertaining to individual records in a record system.
§1.113 Times, places, and requirements for identification of individuals making requests.
§1.114 Disclosure of requested information to individuals.
§1.115 Special procedures: Medical records.
§1.116 Request for correction or amendment to record.
§1.117 Agency review of request for correction or amendment of record.
§1.118 Appeal of initial adverse agency determination on correction or amendment.
§1.119 Disclosure of record to person other than the individual to whom it pertains.
§1.120 Fees.
§1.121 Penalties.
§1.122 General exemptions.
§1.123 Specific exemptions.
Appendix A to Subpart G of Part 1—Internal Directives
Subpart H—Rules of Practice Governing Formal Adjudicatory Proceedings Instituted by the Secretary Under Various Statutes
§1.130
§1.131
§1.132
§1.133
§1.134
§1.135
§1.136
§1.137
§1.138
§1.139
§1.140
§1.141
§1.142
§1.143
§1.144
§1.145
§1.146
Officer.
§1.147
§1.148
§1.149
§1.150
§1.151

Meaning of words.
Scope and applicability of this subpart.
Definitions.
Institution of proceedings.
Docket number.
Contents of complaint or petition for review.
Answer.
Amendment of complaint, petition for review, or answer; joinder of related matters.
Consent decision.
Procedure upon failure to file an answer or admission of facts.
Conferences and procedure.
Procedure for hearing.
Post-hearing procedure.
Motions and requests.
Judges.
Appeal to Judicial Officer.
Petitions for reopening hearing; for rehearing or reargument of proceeding; or for reconsideration of the decision of the Judicial
Filing; service; extensions of time; and computation of time.
Depositions.
Subpoenas.
Fees of witnesses.
Ex parte communications.

Subpart I—Rules of Practice Governing Cease and Desist Proceedings Under Section 2 of the Capper-Volstead Act
§1.160
§1.161
§1.162
§1.163
§1.164
§1.165
§1.166
§1.167
§1.168
§1.169
§1.170
§1.171
§1.172
§1.173
§1.174
§1.175

Scope and applicability of rules in this part.
Definitions.
Institution of proceedings.
The complaint.
Answer.
Amendments.
Consent order.
Conference.
Procedure for hearing.
Post-hearing procedure and decision.
Appeal to the Judicial Officer.
Intervention.
Motions and requests.
Judges.
Filing; service; extensions of time; and computation of time.
Procedure following entry of cease and desist order.

Subpart J—Procedures Relating to Awards Under the Equal Access to Justice Act in Proceedings Before the Department
G
§1.180
§1.181
§1.182
§1.183
§1.184
§1.185
§1.186
§1.187

P
Definitions.
Purpose of these rules.
When EAJA applies.
Proceedings covered.
Eligibility of applicants.
Standards for awards.
Allowable fees and expenses.
Rulemaking on maximum rates for attorney fees.

§1.188 Awards against other agencies.
§1.189 Delegations of authority.
I
§1.190
§1.191
§1.192
§1.193
P
§1.194
§1.195
§1.196
§1.197
§1.198
§1.199
§1.200
§1.201
§1.202
§1.203

R

F

A

Contents of application.
Net worth exhibit.
Documentation of fees and expenses.
Time for filing application.
C

A

Filing and service of documents.
Answer to application.
Reply.
Comments by other parties.
Settlement.
Further proceedings.
Decision.
Department review.
Judicial review.
Payment of award.

Subpart K—Appearance of USDA Employees as Witnesses in Judicial or Administrative Proceedings
§1.210
§1.211
§1.212
§1.213
§1.214
§1.215
§1.216
party.
§1.217
§1.218
§1.219

Purpose.
Definitions.
General.
Appearance as a witness on behalf of the United States.
Appearance as a witness on behalf of a party other than the United States where the United States is not a party.
Subpoenas duces tecum for USDA records in judicial or administrative proceedings in which the United States is not a party.
Appearance as a witness or production of documents on behalf of a party other than the United States where the United States is a
Witness fees and travel expenses.
Penalty.
Delegations.

Subpart L—Procedures Related to Administrative Hearings Under the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act of 1986
§1.301
§1.302
§1.303
§1.304
§1.305
§1.306
§1.307
§1.308
§1.309
§1.310
§1.311
§1.312
§1.313
§1.314
§1.315
§1.316
§1.317
§1.318
§1.319
§1.320
§1.321
§1.322
§1.323
§1.324
§1.325
§1.326
§1.327
§1.328
§1.329
§1.330
§1.331
§1.332
§1.333
§1.334
§1.335

Basis, purpose and scope.
Definitions.
Basis for civil penalties and assessments.
Investigation.
Review by the reviewing official.
Prerequisites for issuing a complaint.
Complaint.
Service of complaint and notice of hearing.
Answer and request for hearing.
Default upon failure to file an answer.
Referral of complaint and answer to the ALJ.
Procedure where respondent does not request a hearing.
Procedure where respondent requests a hearing; notice of hearing.
Parties to the hearing.
Separation of functions.
Ex parte contacts.
Disqualification of reviewing official or ALJ.
Rights of parties.
Authority of the ALJ.
Prehearing conferences.
Disclosure of documents.
Discovery.
Subpoenas for attendance at hearing.
Fees.
Form, filing and service of papers.
Computation of time.
Motions.
Sanctions.
The hearing and burden of proof.
Location of hearing.
Witnesses.
Evidence.
The record.
Post-hearing briefs.
Determining the amount of penalties and assessments.

§1.336
§1.337
§1.338
§1.339
§1.340
§1.341
§1.342
§1.343
§1.344
§1.345
§1.346

Initial decision of the ALJ.
Reconsideration of initial decision.
Appeal to the judicial officer.
Stays ordered by the Department of Justice.
Stay pending appeal.
Judicial review.
Collection of civil penalties and assessments.
Right to administrative offset.
Deposit to Treasury of the United States.
Settlement.
Limitation.

Subpart M—Rules of Practice Governing Adjudication of Sourcing Area Applications and Formal Review of Sourcing Areas
Pursuant to the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990 (16 U.S.C. 620 et seq.)
§1.410
§1.411
§1.412
§1.413
§1.414
§1.415
§1.416
§1.417
§1.418
§1.419
§1.420
§1.421
§1.422
§1.423
§1.424
§1.425
§1.426
§1.427
§1.428
§1.429

Meaning of words.
Definitions.
Institution of proceedings.
Submission of a sourcing area application.
Docket number.
Notification of proceedings.
Comment period.
Review period.
Procedure upon no request for hearing.
Amendment of a sourcing area application.
Consent recommendation.
Prehearing conferences and procedures.
Conduct of the hearing.
Post-hearing procedure.
Motions and requests.
Judges.
Appeal to Judicial Officer.
Filing; identification of parties of record; service; and computation of time.
Depositions.
Ex parte communications.

Subpart N—Policy With Regard to Indemnification of Department of Agriculture Employees
§1.501 Policy on employee indemnification.
Subpart O—Conditions in FERC Hydropower Licenses
G
§1.601
§1.602
§1.603
§1.604
H

P
What is the purpose of this subpart, and to what license proceedings does it apply?
What terms are used in this subpart?
How are time periods computed?
What deadlines apply to the trial-type hearing and alternatives processes?
P

R
§1.610 Who may represent a party, and what requirements apply to a representative?
D
§1.611
§1.612
§1.613
§1.620
§1.621
§1.622
§1.623
§1.624
§1.625
§1.626
§1.627
G

F

S

What are the form and content requirements for documents under this subpart?
Where and how must documents be filed?
What are the requirements for service of documents?
What supporting information must the Forest Service provide with its preliminary conditions?
How do I request a hearing?
How do I file a notice of intervention and response?
Will hearing requests be consolidated?
Can a hearing process be stayed to allow for settlement discussions?
How will the Forest Service respond to any hearing requests?
What will the Forest Service do with any hearing requests?
What regulations apply to a case referred for a hearing?
P

R

H

§1.630 What will OALJ do with a case referral?
§1.631 What are the powers of the ALJ?
§1.632 What happens if the ALJ becomes unavailable?

§1.633 Under what circumstances may the ALJ be disqualified?
§1.634 What is the law governing ex parte communications?
§1.635 What are the requirements for motions?
P

C

§1.640
§1.641
§1.642
§1.643
§1.644
§1.645
§1.646
§1.647
§1.650
§1.651
§1.652
§1.653
§1.654
§1.655
§1.656
§1.657
§1.658
§1.659
§1.660
A

D

What are the requirements for prehearing conferences?
How may parties obtain discovery of information needed for the case?
When must a party supplement or amend information it has previously provided?
What are the requirements for written interrogatories?
What are the requirements for depositions?
What are the requirements for requests for documents or tangible things or entry on land?
What sanctions may the ALJ impose for failure to comply with discovery?
What are the requirements for subpoenas and witness fees?
When and where will the hearing be held?
What are the parties' rights during the hearing?
What are the requirements for presenting testimony?
How may a party use a deposition in the hearing?
What are the requirements for exhibits, official notice, and stipulations?
What evidence is admissible at the hearing?
What are the requirements for transcription of the hearing?
Who has the burden of persuasion, and what standard of proof applies?
When will the hearing record close?
What are the requirements for post-hearing briefs?
What are the requirements for the ALJ's decision?
P

§1.670
§1.671
§1.672
§1.673
§1.674
§1.675

How must documents be filed and served under this subpart?
How do I propose an alternative?
May I file a revised proposed alternative?
When will the Forest Service file its modified condition?
How will the Forest Service analyze a proposed alternative and formulate its modified condition?
Has OMB approved the information collection provisions of this subpart?

Subpart P—Rules of Practice and Procedure Governing Formal Rulemaking Proceedings Instituted by the Secretary
§1.800
§1.801
§1.802
§1.803
§1.804
§1.805
§1.806
§1.807
§1.808
§1.809
§1.810
§1.811
§1.812
§1.813
§1.814
§1.815
§1.816
§1.817
§1.818
§1.819
A

Words in the singular form.
Scope and applicability of this subpart.
Definitions.
Institution of proceedings.
Notification by interested persons.
Docket number.
Judge.
Direct testimony submitted as written documents.
Motions and requests.
Conduct of the hearing.
Oral and written arguments.
Certification of the transcript.
Copies of the transcript.
Administrator's recommended decision.
Submission to Secretary.
Decision by the Secretary.
Filing, extension of time, effective date of filing, and computation of time.
Ex parte communications.
Additional documents to be filed with hearing clerk.
Hearing before Secretary.
: 5 U.S.C. 301, unless otherwise noted.

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Subpart A—Official Records
A

: 5 U.S.C. 301, 552; 7 U.S.C. 3125a; 31 U.S.C. 9701; and 7 CFR 2.28(b)(7)(viii).

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§1.1 Purpose and scope.
This subpart establishes policy, procedures, requirements, and responsibilities for administration and coordination of the Freedom of
Information Act (“FOIA”), 5 U.S.C. 552, pursuant to which any person may obtain official records. It also provides rules pertaining to the
disclosure of records pursuant to compulsory process. This subpart also serves as the implementing regulations (referred to in §1.3,

“Agency implementing regulations”) for the Office of the Secretary (the immediate offices of the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Under
Secretaries and Assistant Secretaries) and for the Office of Communications. The Office of Communications has the primary responsibility
for implementation of the FOIA in the Department of Agriculture (“USDA” or “Department”). The term “agency” or “agencies” is used
throughout this subpart to include both USDA program agencies and staff offices.
[65 FR 46336, July 28, 2000]

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§1.2 Policy.
(a) Agencies of USDA shall comply with the time limits set forth in the FOIA and in this subpart for responding to and processing
requests and appeals for agency records, unless there are unusual circumstances within the meaning of 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(B) and
§1.16(b). An agency shall notify a requester in writing whenever it is unable to respond to or process a request or appeal within the time
limits established by the FOIA.
(b) All agencies of the Department shall comply with the fee schedule provided as appendix A to this subpart, with regard to the
charging of fees for providing copies of records and related services to requesters.
[65 FR 46337, July 28, 2000]

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§1.3 Agency implementing regulations.
Each agency of the Department shall promulgate regulations setting forth the following:
(a) The location and hours of operation of the agency office or offices where members of the public may gain access to those materials
required by 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2) and §1.4 to be made available for public inspection and copying.
(b) Information regarding the publication and distribution (by sale or otherwise) of indexes and supplements to indexes that are
maintained in accordance with the requirements of 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2) and §1.4(c);
(c) The title and mailing address of the official or officials of the agency authorized to receive requests for records submitted in
accordance with §1.5(a), and to make determinations regarding whether to grant or deny such requests. Authority to make such
determinations includes authority to:
(1) Extend the 20 working day administrative deadline for reply pursuant to §1.16;
(2) Make discretionary releases pursuant to §1.19(b);
(3) Make determinations regarding the charging of fees pursuant to appendix A to this subpart;
(d) The title and mailing address of the agency official who is authorized to receive appeals submitted in accordance with §1.14 and to
make determinations regarding whether to grant or deny such appeals. Authority to determine appeals includes authority to:
(1) Extend the 20 working day administrative deadline for reply pursuant to §1.16 (to the extent the maximum extension authorized by
§1.16(c) was not used with regard to the initial request;
(2) Make discretionary releases pursuant to §1.19(b);
(3) Make determinations regarding the charging of fees pursuant to appendix A to this subpart; and
(e) Other information which would be of concern to a person wishing to request records from that agency in accordance with this
subpart.
[65 FR 46337, July 28, 2000]

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§1.4 Public access to certain materials.
(a) In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2), each agency within the Department shall make the following materials available for public
inspection and copying (unless they are promptly published and copies offered for sale):
(1) Final opinions, including concurring and dissenting opinions, as well as orders, made in the adjudication of cases;
R

(2) Those statements of policy and interpretation which have been adopted by the agency and are not published in the F
;
(3) Administrative staff manuals and instructions to staff that affect a member of the public;

(4) Copies of all records, regardless of form or format, which have been released pursuant to a FOIA request under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(3),
and which because of the nature of their subject matter, have become or are likely to become the subject of subsequent requests for
substantially the same records. Agencies shall decide on a case by case basis whether records fall into this category, based on the
following factors:

(i) Previous experience with similar records;
(ii) The particular characteristics of the records involved, including their nature and the type of information contained in them; and
(iii) The identity and number of requesters and whether there is widespread media, historical, academic, or commercial interest in the
records.
(5) A general index of the records referred to in paragraph (a)(4) of this section.
(b) Records encompassed within paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(5) of this section created on or after November 1, 1996, shall be made
available to the public by computer telecommunications or, if computer telecommunications means have not been established by the
agency, by other electronic means.
(c) Each agency of the Department shall maintain and make available for public inspection and copying current indexes providing
identifying information regarding any matter issued, adopted or promulgated after July 4, 1967, and required by paragraph (a) of this section
to be make available or published. Each agency shall publish and make available for distribution copies of such indexes and supplements
to such indexes at least quarterly, unless it determines by notice published in the F
R
that publication would be unnecessary
and impracticable. After issuance of such notice, each agency shall provide copies of any index upon request at a cost not to exceed the
direct cost of duplication.
(d) Each agency is responsible for preparing reference material or a guide for requesting records or information from that agency. This
guide shall also include an index of all major information systems, and a description of major information and record locator systems.
(e) Each agency shall also prepare a handbook for obtaining information from that agency. The handbook should be a short, simple
explanation to the public of what the FOIA is designed to do, and how a member of the public can use it to access government records. The
handbook should be available on paper and through electronic means, and it should identify how a requester can access agency Freedom
of Information Act annual reports. Similarly, the annual reports should refer to the handbook and how to obtain it.
(f) It is appropriate to make frequently requested records available in accordance with paragraph (a)(4) of this section in situations
where public access in a timely manner is important, and it is not intended to apply where there may be a limited number of requests over a
short period of time from a few requesters. Agencies may remove a record from this access medium when the appropriate official
determines that it is unlikely there will be substantial further requests for that document.
[65 FR 46337, July 28, 2000]

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§1.5 Requests for records.
(a) Any person who wishes to inspect or obtain copies of any record of any agency of the Department shall submit a request in writing
and address the request to the official designated in regulations promulgated by that agency. The requester may ask for a fee waiver. All
such requests for records shall be deemed to have been made pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, regardless of whether the
request specifically mentions the Freedom of Information Act. To facilitate processing of a request, the requester should place the phrase
“FOIA REQUEST” in capital letters on the front of the envelope or on the cover sheet of the facsimile transmittal.
(b) A request must reasonably describe the records to enable agency personnel to locate them with reasonable effort. Where possible,
a requester should supply specific information regarding dates, titles, names of individuals, names of offices, and names of agencies or
other organizations that may help identify the records. If the request relates to a matter in pending litigation, the requester should identify
the court and its location.
(c) If an agency determines that a request does not reasonably describe the records, the agency shall inform the requester of this fact
and extend the requester an opportunity to clarify the request or to confer promptly with knowledgeable agency personnel to attempt to
identify the records the requester is seeking. The “date of receipt” in such instances, for purposes of §1.13, shall be the date of receipt of
the amended or clarified request.
(d) If a request for records or a fee waiver made under this subpart is denied, the requester shall have the right to appeal the denial.
Requesters also may appeal agency determinations of a requester's status for purposes of fee levels under sec. 5 of appendix A to this
subpart. All appeals must be in writing and addressed to the official designated in regulations promulgated by the agency which denied the
request. To facilitate processing of an appeal, the requester should place the phrase “FOIA APPEAL” in capital letters on the front of the
envelope or on the cover sheet of the fax transmittal.
(e) Requests that are not addressed to a specific agency in USDA, or which pertain to more than one USDA agency, or which are sent
to the wrong agency of USDA, should be forwarded to the Department's FOIA Officer in the Office of Communications, U.S. Department of
Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250.
(f) The Department FOIA Officer will determine which agency or agencies should process the request, and, where necessary, refer the
request to the appropriate agency or agencies. The Department FOIA Officer will also notify the requester of the referral and of the name of
each agency to which the request has been referred.
(g) A request will be properly received when it is in the possession of the component agency that has responsibility for maintaining the
requested records.
(h) Each agency shall develop and maintain a record of all written requests and appeals received in that agency. The record shall
include the names of the requester; a brief summary of the information requested; whether the request or appeal was granted, denied, or

partially denied; the exemption from mandatory disclosure under 5 U.S.C. 552(b) upon which any denial was based; and the amount of any
fees associated with the request or appeal.
[65 FR 46337, July 28, 2000]

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§1.6 Aggregating requests.
When an agency reasonably believes that a requester, or a group of requesters acting in concert, is attempting to break a request
down into a series of requests for the purpose of evading the assessment of fees, the agency may aggregate any such requests and
charge accordingly. One element that may be considered in determining whether such a belief would be reasonable is the brevity of the
time period during which the requests have been made.
[65 FR 46338, July 28, 2000]

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§1.7 Agency response to requests for records.
(a) 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(A)(i) provides that each agency of the Department to which a request for records is submitted in accordance with
§1.5(a) shall inform the requester of its determination concerning that request within 20 working days of its date of receipt (excepting
Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays), plus any extension authorized under §1.16. If the agency determines to grant the request, it
shall inform the requester of any conditions surrounding the granting of the request (e.g., payment of fees) and the approximate date upon
which the agency will provide the requested records. If the agency grants only a portion of the request, it shall treat the portion not granted
as a denial, and make a reasonable effort to estimate the volume of the records denied and provide this estimate to the requester, unless
providing such an estimate would harm an interest protected by an exemption of the FOIA. If the agency determines to deny the request in
part or in whole, it shall immediately inform the requester of that decision and provide the following:
(1) The reasons for the denial;
(2) The name and title or position of each person responsible for denial of the request;
(3) The requester's right to appeal such denial and the title and address of the official to whom such appeal is to be addressed; and
(4) The requirement that such appeal be made within 45 days of the date of the denial.
(b) If the reason for not fulfilling a request is that the records requested are in the custody of another agency outside USDA, other than
in the permanent custody of the National Archives and Records Administration (“NARA”), the agency shall inform the requester of this fact
and shall forward the request to that agency or Department for processing in accordance with its regulations. If the records are in the
permanent custody of NARA, the agency shall so inform the requester. Information about obtaining access to records at NARA may be
obtained through the NARA Archival Information Locator (NAIL) Database at http://www/nara.gov/nara.nail.html, or by calling NARA at
(301) 713-6800. If the agency has no knowledge of requested records or if no records exist, the agency shall notify the requester of that
fact.
[65 FR 46338, July 28, 2000]

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§1.8 Multitrack processing.
(a) When an agency has a significant number of requests, the nature of which precludes a determination within 20 working days, the
requests may be processed in a multitrack processing system, based on the date of receipt, the amount of work and time involved in
processing the request, and whether the request qualifies for expedited processing.
(b) Agencies may establish as many processing tracks as appropriate; processing within each track shall be based on a first-in, first-out
concept, and rank-ordered by the date of receipt of the request.
(c) Agencies may provide a requester whose request does not qualify for the fastest track an opportunity to limit the scope of the
request in order to qualify for a faster track. This multitrack processing system does not lessen agency responsibility to exercise due
diligence in processing requests in the most expeditious manner possible.
(d) Agencies shall process requests in each track on a “first-in, first-out” basis, unless there are unusual circumstances as set forth in
§1.16, or the requester is entitled to expedited processing as set forth in §1.9.
[65 FR 46338, July 28, 2000]

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§1.9 Expedited processing.
(a) A requester may apply for expedited processing at the time of the initial request for records. Within ten calendar days of its receipt
of a request for expedited processing, an agency shall decide whether to grant it, and shall notify the requester of the decision. Once the
determination has been made to grant expedited processing, an agency shall process the request as soon as practicable. If a request for
expedited processing is denied, the agency shall act expeditiously on any appeal of that decision.

(b) A request or appeal will be taken out of order and given expedited treatment whenever the agency determines that the requester
has established either of the following criteria:
(1) Circumstances in which the lack of expedited treatment could reasonably be expected to pose an imminent threat to the life or
physical safety of an individual; or
(2) An urgency to inform the public about an actual or alleged federal government activity, if made by an individual primarily engaged in
disseminating information. Representatives of the news media would normally qualify as individuals primarily engaged in disseminating
information; however, other requesters must demonstrate that their primary activity involves publishing or otherwise disseminating
information to the public as a whole, and not just a particular segment or group. “Urgency” contemplates that the information has a
particular value that will be lost if not disseminated quickly. Ordinarily this means a breaking news story of general public interest.
Information of historical interest only or information sought for litigation or commercial activities would not meet the test of urgency, nor
would a news media publication or broadcast deadline unrelated to the news breaking nature of the information.
(c) A requester who seeks expedited processing must provide a written statement that the requester has certified to be true and correct
to the best of the requester's knowledge, explaining in detail the basis for requesting expedited processing. The agency will not consider the
request to have been received unless accompanied by a written, certified statement, and will be under no obligation to consider the request
for expedited processing until it receives such a written, certified statement.
(d) the same procedures apply to requests for expedited processing of administrative appeals.
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§1.10 Search services.
Search services are services of agency personnel—clerical or professional—used in trying to find the records, that are responsive to a
request. Search services includes both manual and electronic searches and time spent examining records for the purpose of finding
information that is within the scope of the request. Search services also include services to transport personnel to places of record storage,
or records to the location of personnel for the purpose of the search, if such services are reasonably necessary.
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§1.11 Review services.
(a) Review services are services of agency personnel—clerical or professional—in examining records, both paper and electronic,
located in response to a request that is for a commercial use (as specified in sec. 6 of appendix A to this subpart) to determine whether any
portion of any record located is exempt from mandatory disclosure.
(b) Review services include processing any records for disclosure e.g., doing all that is necessary to redact exempt portions and
otherwise prepare records for release.
(c) Review services do not include the time spent resolving general legal or policy issues regarding the application of exemptions.
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§1.12 Handling information from a private business.
Each USDA agency is responsible for making the final determination with regard to the disclosure or nondisclosure of information in
agency records that has been submitted by a business. When, in the course of responding to an FOIA request, an agency cannot readily
determine whether the information obtained from a person is privileged or confidential business information, the policy of USDA is to obtain
and consider the views of the submitter of the information and to provide the submitter an opportunity to object to any decision to disclose
the information. If a request (including a subpoena duces tecum as described in §1.215) is received in USDA for information that has been
submitted by a business, the agency shall:
(a) Provide the business information submitter with prompt notification of a request for that information (unless it is readily determined
by the agency that the information requested should not be disclosed or, on the other hand, that the information is not exempt by law from
disclosure). Afford business information submitter reasonable time in which to object to the disclosure of any specified portion of the
information. The submitter must explain fully all grounds upon which disclosure is opposed. For example, if the submitter maintains that
disclosure is likely to cause substantial harm to it competitive position, the submitter must explain item-by-item why disclosure would cause
such harm. Information provided by a business submitter pursuant to this paragraph may itself be subject to disclosure under FOIA;
(b) Notify the requester of the need to inform the submitter of a request for submitted business information;
(c) Determine whether the requested records are exempt from disclosure or must be released;
(d) Provide business information submitters with notice of any determination to disclose such records prior to the disclosure date, in
order that the matter may be considered for possible judicial intervention; and

(e) Notify business information submitters promptly of all instances in which FOIA requesters bring suit seeking to compel disclosure of
submitted information.
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§1.13 Date of receipt of requests or appeals.
The date of receipt of a request or appeal shall be the date it is received in the agency and office responsible for the administrative
processing of FOIA requests or appeals.
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§1.14 Appeals.
(a) Requesters seeking administrative appeal of a denial of a request for records or denial of a fee waiver must ensure that the appeal
is received by the agency within 45 days of the date of the denial letter.
(b) Each agency shall provide for review of appeals by an official different from the official or officials designated to make initial denials.
(c) 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(A)(ii) provides that each agency in the Department to which an appeal of a denial is submitted shall inform the
requester of its determination concerning that appeal within 20 working days (excepting Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays),
plus any extension authorized by §1.16, of its date of receipt. If the agency determines to grant the appeal, it shall inform the requester of
any conditions surrounding the granting of the request (e.g., payment of fees) and the approximate date upon which compliance will be
effected. If the agency grants only a portion of the appeal, it shall treat the portion not granted as a denial. If it determines to deny the
appeal either in part or in whole, it shall inform the requester of that decision and of the following:
(1) The reasons for denial;
(2) The name and title or position of each person responsible for denial of the appeal; and
(3) The right to judicial review of the denial in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4).
(d) Each agency, upon a determination that it wishes to deny an appeal, shall send a copy of the records requested and of all
correspondence relating to the request to the Assistant General Counsel, General Law Division, Office of the General Counsel (“Assistant
General Counsel”). When the volume of records is so large as to make sending a copy impracticable, the agency shall enclose an
informative summary of those records. The agency shall not deny an appeal until it receives concurrence from the Assistant General
Counsel
(e) The Assistant General Counsel shall promptly review the matter (including necessary coordination with the agency) and render all
necessary assistance to enable the agency to respond to the appeal within the administrative deadline or any extension of the
administrative deadline.
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§1.15 General provisions respecting release of records.
(a) When releasing documents, agencies shall provide the record in any form or format the requester specifies, if the record is readily
reproducible in that form of format. Agencies shall make reasonable efforts to maintain their records in forms or formats that are
reproducible. In responding to requests for records, agencies shall make reasonable efforts to search for records in electronic form or
format, except when such efforts would significantly interfere with the operation of an agency's automated information system. Such
determinations shall be made on a case-by-case basis.
(b) In the event a requested record contains some portions that are exempt from mandatory disclosure and others that are not, the
official responding to the request shall ensure that all reasonably segregable nonexempt portions are disclosed, and that all exempt
portions are identified according to the specific exemption or exemptions which are applicable. The amount of deleted information shall be
indicated on the released portion of paper records. Deletions may be marked by use of brackets or darkened areas indicating removal of
information, or by any other method that would reasonable demonstrate the extent of the deletion. In the case of electronic deletion, or
deletion in audiovisual or microfiche records, if technically feasible, the amount of redacted information shall be indicated at the place in the
records, if technically feasible, the amount of redacted information shall be indicated at the place in the record where such deletion was
made. This may be done by use of brackets, shaded areas, or some other identifiable technique which will clearly show the limits of the
deleted information.
(c) If, in connection with a request or an appeal, a charge is to be made in accordance with sec. 8 of appendix A to this subpart,
agencies shall inform the requester of the fee amount and of the basis for the charge. Each agency, in accordance with sec. 8 of appendix
A to this subpart, may require payment of the entire fee, or a portion of the fee, before it provides the requested records. An agency shall
require full payment of any delinquent fee owed by the requester plus any applicable interest prior to releasing records on a subsequent
request or appeal. If a requester refuses to remit payment in advance, an agency may refuse to process the request or appeal with written
notice to that effect forwarded to the requester. The “date of receipt” appeal for which advance payment has been required shall be the date
that payment is received.

(d) In the event compliance with the request or appeal involves inspection of records by the requester rather than providing copies of
the records, the agency response shall include the name, mailing address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted to arrange
a mutually convenient time for such inspection.
(e) Whenever duplication fees, or search fees for unsuccessful searches (see sec. 4(f) of appendix A to this subpart), are anticipated to
exceed $25.00, and the requester has not indicated, in advance, a willingness to pay fees as high as those anticipated, agencies shall
notify the requester of the amount of the anticipated fee. If an extensive and therefore costly successful search is anticipated, agencies also
should notify requesters of the anticipated fees. The notification shall offer the requester the opportunity to confer with agency personnel to
reform the request to meet the requester's needs at a lower fee. In appropriate cases, an advance deposit in accordance with sec. 8 of
appendix A to this subpart may be required.
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§1.16 Extension of administrative deadlines.
(a) In unusual circumstances as specified in this section, when additional time is needed to respond to the initial request or to an
appeal, agencies shall acknowledge the request or the appeal in writing within the 20 working day time period, describe the unusual
circumstances requiring the delay, and indicate the anticipated date for a substantive response that may not exceed 10 additional working
days, except as provided in the following:
(1) In instances in which the agency, with respect to a particular request, has extended the response date by 10 additional working
days, if the agency finds that it cannot make a response determination within the additional 10 working day period, the agency shall notify
the requester and provide the requester an opportunity to limit the scope of the request to allow the agency to process the request within
the extended time limit, or an alternative time frame for processing the request or a modified request.
(2) If the requester refuses to reasonably modify the request or arrange for an alternative time frame for processing the request, the
FOIA provides that such refusal shall be considered as a factor in determining whether there are exceptional circumstances that warrant
granting additional time for the agency to complete its review of the records, as set forth in 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(C)(iii). The term “exceptional
circumstances” does not include a delay that results from a predictable agency backlog, unless the agency demonstrates reasonable
progress in reducing its backlog of pending requests.
(b) As used in this section, “unusual circumstances” that may justify delay are:
(1) The need to search for and collect the requested records from field facilities or other establishments that are separate from the
office processing the request;
(2) The need to search for, collect, and appropriately examine a voluminous amount of separate and distinct records which are
demanded in a single request; or
(3) The need for consultation, which shall be conducted with all practicable speed, with another Department or agency having a
substantial interest in the determination of the request or among two or more components of agency having substantial subject-matter
interest in the request.
N
(b): Consultation regarding policy or legal issues between an agency and the Office of the General Counsel, Office of Communications,
or the Department of Justice is not a basis for extension under this section.

(c) The 10-day extension authorized by this section may be divided between the initial and appellate reviews, but in no event shall the
total extension exceed 10 working days.
(d) Nothing in this section shall preclude the agency and the requester from agreeing to an extension of time. Any such agreement
should be confirmed in writing and should specify clearly the total time agreed upon.
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§1.17 Failure to meet administrative deadlines.
In the event an agency fails to meet the administrative deadlines set forth in §1.7 or §1.14, plus any extension authorized by §1.16, it
shall notify the requester, state the reasons for the delay, and the date by which it expects to dispatch a determination. Although the
requester may be deemed to have exhausted his or her administrative remedies under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(C), the agency shall continue
processing the request as expeditiously as possible and dispatch the determination when it is reached in the same manner and form as if it
had been reached within the applicable deadline.
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§1.18 Fee schedule.
Pursuant to §2.28 of this title, the Chief Financial Officer is delegated authority to promulgate regulations providing for a uniform fee
schedule applicable to all agencies of the Department regarding requests for records under this subpart. The regulations providing for a
uniform fee schedule are found in appendix A to this subpart.

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§1.19 Exemptions and discretionary release.
(a) All agency records, except those specifically exempted from mandatory disclosure by one or more provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552(b),
shall be made promptly available to any person submitting a request under this subpart.
(b) Agencies are authorized, in their sole discretion, to make discretionary releases when such release is not otherwise specifically
prohibited by Executive Order, statute, or regulation.
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§1.20 Annual report.
(a) Each agency of the Department shall compile the following Freedom of Information Act statistics on a fiscal year basis beginning
October 1, 1997, and report the following information to the Office of Communications no later than November 30 following the fiscal year's
close:
(1) The number of requests for records received and the number of requests which were processed;
(2) The number of determinations made not to comply with initial requests for records made to it under §1.5(a), and the reasons for
each such determinations;
(3) The number of appeals made by persons under §1.14(b), the result of such appeals, and the reason for the action upon each
appeal that results in a denial of information.
(4) A complete list of all statutes that the agency relies upon to authorize the agency to withhold information under 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(3),
a description of whether a court has upheld the decision of the agency to withhold information under each such statute, and a concise
description of the scope of any information withheld;
(5) The number of requests for records pending before the agency as of September 30 of the preceding year, and the median number
of days that such requests had been pending before the agency as of that date:
(6) The median number of days taken by the agency to process different types of requests;
(7) The total amount of fees collected by the agency for processing requests;
(8) The number of full-time staff of the agency devoted to processing requests for records under this section, and the total amount
expended by the agency for processing such requests.
(b) Each agency shall compile the information required by paragraph (a) of this section for the preceding fiscal year into a report and
submit this report to the Director of Communications, Office of Communications, no later than November 30 following the fiscal year's close.
(c) The Director of Communications, Office of Communications, shall combine the reports from all the agencies within USDA into a
Departmental report, and shall submit to the Attorney General on or before February 1 of each year in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(e).
(d) Each agency shall make the report available to the public including by computer telecommunications, or if computer
telecommunications means have not been established by the agency, by other electronic means.
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§1.21 Compilation of new records.
Nothing in 5 U.S.C. 552 or this subpart requires that any agency create a new record in order to fulfill a request for records. However,
an agency is required to provide a record in a form or format specified by a requester, if the record is readily reproducible by the agency in
the form or format requested. Creation of records may be undertaken voluntarily if the agency determines this action to be in the public
interest or the interest of USDA.
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§1.22 Authentication.
When a request is received for an authenticated copy of a document that the agency determines to make available to the requesting
party, the agency shall cause a correct copy to be prepared and sent to the Office of the General Counsel, which shall certify the same and
cause the seal of the Department to be affixed, except that the Hearing Clerk in the Office of Administrative Law Judges may authenticate
copies of documents in the records of the Hearing Clerk, the Director of the National Appeals Division may authenticate copies of
documents in the records of the National Appeals Division, and the Inspector General may authenticate copies of documents in the records
of the Office of Inspector General.

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§1.23 Records in formal adjudication proceedings.
Records in formal adjudication proceedings are on file in the Hearing Clerk's office, Office of Administrative Law Judges, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, and shall be made available to the public.
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§1.24 Preservation of records.
Agencies shall preserve all correspondence relating to the requests it receives under this subpart, and all records processed pursuant
to such requests, until such time as the destruction of such correspondence and records is authorized pursuant to Title 44 of the United
States Code, and appropriate records disposition authority granted by NARA. Under no circumstances shall records be sent to a Federal
Records Center, transferred to the permanent custody of NARA, or destroyed while they are the subject of a pending request, appeal, or
civil action under the FOIA.
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§1.25 Implementing regulations for the Office of the Secretary and the Office of Communications.
(a) For the Office of the Secretary and for the Office of Communications, the regulations required by §1.3 are as follows:
(1) Records available for public inspection and copying may be obtained in Room 536-A, Jamie L. Whitten Federal Building, USDA,
Washington, DC 20250 during the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. by prior appointment;
(2) Any indexes and supplements which are maintained in accordance with the requirements of 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2) and §1.5(b) will also
be available in Room 536-A, Jamie L. Whitten Federal Building, USDA, Washington, DC 20250 during the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
(3) The person authorized to receive Freedom of Information Act requests and to determine whether to grant or deny such requests is
the FOIA Officer, Office of Communications, USDA, Washington, DC 20250;
(4) The official authorized to receive appeals from denial of FOIA requests and to determine whether to grant or deny such appeals is
the Director of Communications, Office of Communications, USDA, Washington, DC 20250.
(b) The organization and functions of the Office of the Secretary and the Office of Communications is as follows:
(1) The Office of the Secretary provides the overall policy guidance and direction of the activities of the Department of Agriculture.
Department-wide policy statements and announcements are made from this office.
(2) The Office of the Secretary consists of the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Under Secretaries, Assistant Secretaries, and other staff
members.
(3) In the absence of the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary, responsibility for the operation of the Department of Agriculture is as
delegated at part 2, subpart A, of this title.
(4) The Office of Communications provides policy direction, review, and coordination of public information programs of the Department
of Agriculture. The Office of Communications has responsibility for maintaining the flow of information to the mass communications media,
various constituency groups, and the general public.
(5) The Office of Communications is headed by the Director of Communications. In the Director's absence, the Office of
Communications is headed by the Deputy Director.
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Appendix A to Subpart A of Part 1—Fee Schedule
Section 1. General.
This schedule sets forth fees to be charged for providing copies of records—including photographic reproductions, microfilm, maps and
mosaics, and related services—under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Records and related services are available at the locations
specified by agencies in their FOIA implementing regulations. The fees set forth in this schedule are applicable to all agencies of the
Department of Agriculture, and are based upon guidelines prescribed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued at 52 FR
10012 (March 27, 1987). No higher fees or charges in addition to those provided for in this schedule may be charged a party requesting
services under the Freedom of Information Act.
Section 2. Types of services for which fees may be charged.

Subject to the criteria set forth in section 5 of this appendix, fees may be assessed under the Freedom of Information Act on all
requests involving such services as record search, duplication, and review. Fees may also be charged in situations involving special service
to a request, such as certifying that records requested are true copies, or sending records by special methods such as express mail, etc.
For services not covered by the FOIA or by this appendix, agencies may set their own fees in accordance with applicable law, or costs
incurred will be assessed the requester at the actual cost to the Government. For example, where records are required to be shipped from
one office to another by commercial carrier in order to timely answer a request, the actual freight charge will be assessed the requester.
Section 3. Instances in which fees will not be charged.
(a) Except for requests seeking records for a commercial use (as specified in section 5 of this appendix), no charge shall be made for
either: (1) The first 100 pages of duplicated records (81⁄2 ″ × 14″ or smaller-size paper); or (2) The first two hours of manual search time, or
the equivalent value of computer search time as defined in section 4(e) of this appendix.
(b) No charge shall be made—even to commercial use requesters—if the cost of collecting a fee would be equal to or greater than the
fee itself. For USDA, this figure has been calculated to be $25.00.
(c) Fees may not be charged for time spent by an agency employee in resolving legal or policy issues, or in monitoring a requester's
inspection of agency records. No charge shall be made for normal postage costs.
(d) Records shall also be furnished without charge under the following conditions:
(1) When filling requests from other Departments or Government agencies for official use, provided quantities requested are
reasonable in number;
(2) When members of the public provide their own copying equipment, in which case no copying fee will be charged (although search
and review fees may still be assessed); or
(3) When any notices, decisions, orders, or other materials are required by law to be served on a party in any proceeding or matter
before any Department agency.
Section 4. Fees for records and related services.
(a) The fee for photocopies of pages 81⁄2 ″ × 14″ or smaller shall be $0.20 per page (per individual side of sheet).
(b) The fee for photocopies larger than 81⁄2 ″ × 14″ shall be $0.50 per linear foot of the longest side of the copy.
(c) The fee for other forms of duplicated records, such as microform, audio-visual materials, or machine-readable documentation (i.e.,
magnetic tape or disk), shall be the actual direct cost of producing the records.
(d) Manual searches shall be charged for in one of the two following manners in the given order:
(1) When feasible, at the salary rate of the employee conducting the search, plus 16 percent of the employee's basic pay; or
(2) Where a homogeneous class of personnel is used exclusively, at the rate of $10.00 per hour for clerical time, and $20.00 per hour
for supervisory or professional time. Charges should be computed to the nearest quarter hour required for the search. A homogeneous
class of personnel, for purposes of conducting manual searches and where more than one individual is involved, is a group of employees of
like rank, grade, pay or position. A heterogeneous class of personnel is a group of employees of unlike rank, grade, pay, or position. If a
heterogeneous class of personnel is involved in a search then the search shall be charged for at the salary rate of the individuals.
(e) Mainframe computer searches and services shall be charged for at the rates established in the Users Manual or Handbook
published by the computer center at which the work will be performed. Where the rate has not been established, the rate shall be $27.00
per minute. Searches using computers other than mainframes shall be charged for at the manual search rate.
(1) Other rates are published and may be examined at the following places:
Fort Collins Computer Center Users Manual
Fort Collins Computer Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 3825 East Mulberry Street (P.O. Box 1206), Fort Collins, Colo. 80521.
National Finance Center, Cost, Productivity & Analysis Section, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 13800 Old Gentilly Road, New Orleans, La.
70129.
Kansas City Computer Center Users Manual Kansas City Computer Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 8930 Ward Parkway (P.O. Box
205), Kansas City, MO. 64141.
Washington Computer Center Users Handbook: Washington Computer Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room S-100, South
Building, 12th Street and Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250.
St. Louis Computer Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1520 Market Street, St. Louis, MO. 63103.
(f) Charges for unsuccessful searches, or searches which fail to locate records or which locate records which are exempt from
disclosure, shall be assessed at the same fee rate as searches which result in disclosure of records.
(g) The fee for providing review services shall be the hourly salary rate (i.e., basic pay plus 16 percent) of the employee conducting the
review to determine whether any information is exempt from mandatory disclosure.

(h) The fee for Certifications shall be $5.00 each; Authentications under Department Seal (including aerial photographs), $10.00 each.
(i) All other costs incurred by USDA agencies will be assessed the requester at the actual cost to the Government.
(j) The fees specified in paragraphs (a) through (g) of this section apply to all requests for services under the FOIA, unless no fee is to
be charged, or the agency has determined to waive or reduce those fees pursuant to section 6 of this appendix. No higher fees or charges
in addition to those provided for in this appendix may be charged for services under the FOIA.
(k) The fees specified in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this section and in section 17 of this appendix apply to requests for services other
than those subject to the FOIA. The authority for establishment of these fees is at 31 U.S.C. 9701 and other applicable laws.
(l) Except as provided in section 11 of this appendix, for services not subject to the FOIA, and not covered by paragraph (h) of this
section, agencies may set their own fees in accordance with applicable law.
Section 5. Levels of fees for each category of requesters.
Under the FOIA, there are four categories of FOIA requesters: Commercial use requesters, educational and non-commercial scientific
institutions; representatives of the news media; and all other requesters. FOIA prescribes specific levels of fees for each category:
(a) Commercial use requesters—For commercial use requesters, agencies shall assess charges which recover the full direct costs of
searching for, reviewing for release, and duplicating the records sought. Commercial use requesters are not entitled to the free search time
or duplication referenced in section 3(a) of this appendix. Agencies may recover the cost of searching for and reviewing records for
commercial use requesters even if there is ultimately no disclosure of records.
(1) A commercial use requester is defined as one who seeks information for a use or purpose that furthers the commercial, trade, or
profit interests of the requester or the person on whose behalf the request is made.
(2) In determining whether a requester properly belongs in this category, agencies must determine whether the requester will put the
records to a commercial use. Where an agency has reasonable cause to doubt the use to which a requester will put the records sought, or
where that use is not clear from the request itself, the agency may seek additional clarification from the requester.
(b) Educational and non-commercial scientific institution requesters—Fees for this category of requesters shall be limited to the cost of
providing duplication service alone, minus the charge for the first 100 reproduced pages. No charge shall be made for search or review
services. To qualify for this category, requesters must show that the request is being made as authorized by and under the auspices of an
eligible institution and that the records are not sought for a commercial use, but are sought in furtherance of scholarly research (if the
request is from an educational institution) or scientific research (if the request is from a non-commercial scientific institution).
(1) The term educational institution refers to a preschool, a public or private elementary or secondary school, an institution of graduate
higher education, an institution of undergraduate higher education, an institution of professional education, and an institution of vocational
education, which operates a program or programs of scholarly research.
(2) The term non-commercial scientific institution refers to institution that is not operated on a “commercial” (see section 5(a)(1)) of this
appendix basis, and which is operated solely for the purpose of conducting scientific research the results of which are not intended to
promote any particular product or industry.
(c) Requesters who are representatives of the news media—Fees for this category of requesters shall also be limited to the cost of
providing duplication service alone, minus the charge for the first 100 reproduced pages. No charge shall be made for providing search or
review services. Requests in this category must not be made for a commercial use.
(1) The term representative of the news media refers to any person actively gathering news for an entity that is organized and operated
to publish or broadcast news to the public.
(2) The term news means information that is about current events or that would be of current interest to the public.
(3) Examples of news media entities include television or radio stations broadcasting to the public at large, and publishers of
periodicals which disseminate news and who make their products available for purchase or subscription by the general public.
(4) Freelance journalists may be regarded as working for a news organization if they can demonstrate a solid basis for expecting
publication through that organization, even though not actually employed by it.
(d) All other requesters—Fees for requesters who do not fit into the categories described in paragraphs (a), (b), or (c) of this section
shall be assessed for the full reasonable direct cost of searching for and duplicating records that are responsive to a request. No charge,
however, shall be made to requesters in this category for: (1) The first 100 duplicated pages; or (2) the first two hours of manual search
time, or the equivalent value of computer search time as defined in section 4(e) of this appendix.
Section 6. Fee waivers and reductions.
(a) Agencies shall waive or reduce fees on request for records if disclosure of the information in the records is deemed to be in the
public interest. A request is in the public interest if it is likely to contribute significantly to public understanding of the operations or activities
of the government, and is not primarily in the commercial interest of the requester.
(1) In determining when fees shall be waived or reduced, agencies should consider the following six factors:
(i) The subject of the request, i.e., whether the subject of the requested records concerns “the operations or activities of the
government”;

(ii) The informative value of the information to be disclosed, i.e., whether the disclosure is “likely to contribute” to an understanding of
government operations or activities;
(iii) The contribution to an understanding of the subject by the general public likely to result from disclosure, i.e., whether disclosure of
the requested information will contribute to “public understanding”;
(iv) The significance of the contribution to public understanding, i.e., whether the disclosure is likely to contribute “significantly” to public
understanding of government operations or activities;
(v) The existence and magnitude of a commercial interest, i.e., whether the requester has a commercial interest that would be
furthered by the requested disclosure; and,
(vi) The primary interest in disclosure, i.e., whether the magnitude of the identified commercial interest of the requester is sufficiently
large, in comparison with the public interest in disclosure, that disclosure is “primarily in the commercial interest of the requester.”
(2) An agency may, in its discretion, waive or reduce fees associated with a request for disclosure, regardless of whether a waiver or
reduction has been requested, if the agency determines that disclosure will primarily benefit the general public.
(3) Agencies may also waive or reduce fees under the following conditions:
(i) Where the furnishings of records or a service without charge or at a reduced rate is an appropriate courtesy to a foreign country or
international organization, or where comparable fees are set on a reciprocal basis with a foreign country or an international organization;
(ii) Where the requester is engaged in a nonprofit activity designed for the public safety, health, or welfare; or
(iii) Where it is determined that payment of the full fee by a State or local government or nonprofit group would not be in the interest of
the program involved.
(4) Fees shall be waived, however, without discretion in all circumstances where the amount of the fee is $25.00 or less.
Section 7. Restrictions regarding copies.
(a) Agencies may restrict numbers of photocopies and directives furnished the public to one copy of each page. Copies of forms
provided the public shall also be held to the minimum practical. Persons requiring any large quantities should be encouraged to take single
copies to commercial sources for further appropriate reproduction.
(b) Single or multiple copies of transcripts, provided to the Department under a reporting service contract, may be obtained by the
public from the contractor at a cost not to exceed the cost per page charged to the Department for extra copies. The contractor may add a
postage charge when mailing orders to the public, but no other charge may be added.
Section 8. Payments of fees and charges.
(a) Payments should be billed for to the fullest extent possible at the time the requested materials are furnished. Payments should be
made by requesters within 30 days of the date of the billing.
(b) Payments shall be made by check, draft, or money order made payable to the Treasury of the United States, although payments
may be made in cash, particularly where services are performed in response to a visit to a Department office. All payments should be sent
to the address indicated by the agency responding to the request.
(c) Where the estimated fees to be charged exceed $250.00, agencies may require an advance payment of an amount up to the full
estimated charges (but not less than 50 percent) from the requester before any of the requested materials are reproduced.
(d) In instances where a requester has previously failed to pay a fee, an agency may require the requester to pay the full amount owed,
plus any applicable interest as provided in section 9 of this appendix, as well as the full estimated fee associated with any new request
before the agency begins to process that new or subsequent request.
Section 9. Interest charges.
On requests that result in fees being assessed, agencies may begin levying interest charges on an upaid bill starting on the 31st day
following the day on which the billing was sent. Interest will be at the rate prescribed in 31 U.S.C. 3717, and will accrue from the date of the
billing.
Section 10. Effect of the Debt Collection Act on fees.
In attempting to collect fees levied under the FOIA, agencies shall abide by the provisions of 31 U.S.C. 3701, 3711-3720A, in disclosing
information to consumer reporting agencies and in the use of collection agencies, where appropriate, to encourage payment.
Section 11. Photographic and digital reproductions of microfilm, aerial imagery, and maps.
Microfilm, aerial imagery, and maps that have been obtained in connection with the authorized work of this Department may be sold at
the estimated cost of furnishing reproductions of these records, using photographic, digital, or other methods of reproduction as prescribed
in this appendix.
Section 12. Agencies which furnish photographic reproductions.
(a) Aerial Photographic reproductions. The following agency of the Department furnishes aerial photographic reproductions:

Farm Service Agency (FSA), Aerial Photography Field Office (APFO), USDA, 2222 West 2300 South, Salt Lake City, Utah 84119-2020.
(b) Other photographic reproductions. Other types of reproductions may be obtained from the following agency of the Department:
National Agricultural Library, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Office of the Deputy Director, Technical Information Systems, Room
200, NAL Building, Beltsville, MD 20705.
Section 13. Circumstances under which reproductions may be provided free.
Reproductions may be furnished free at the discretion of the agency, if it determines that furnishing free reproductions is in the public
interest, to:
(a) Representatives of the news media for dissemination to the general public.
(b) Agencies of State and local governments carrying on a function related to that of the Department when it will help to accomplish an
objective of the Department.
(c) Cooperators and others furthering agricultural programs. Generally, only one print of each photograph should be provided free.
Section 14. Loans.
Aerial photographic film negatives or reproductions may not be loaned outside the Federal Government.
Section 15. Sales of positive prints under government contracts.
The annual contract for furnishing single and double frame slide film negatives and positive prints to agencies of the Department,
County Extension Agents, and others cooperating with the Department, carries a stipulation that the successful bidder must agree to furnish
slide film positive prints to such persons, organizations, and associations as may be authorized by the Department to purchase them.
Section 16. Procedure for handling orders.
In order to expedite handling, all orders should contain adequate identifying information. Agencies furnishing aerial photographic
reproductions require that all such orders identify the photographs. Each agency has its own procedure and order forms.
Section 17. Reproduction prices.
The prices for reproductions listed in this section are for the most generally requested items.
(a) National Agricultural Library. The following prices are applicable to National Agricultural Library items only: Reproduction of
electrostatic, microfilm, and microfiche copy—$5.00 for the first 10 pages or fraction thereof, and $3.00 for each additional 10 pages or
fraction thereof. Duplication of NAL-owned microfilm—$10.00 per reel. Duplication of NAL-owned microfiche—$5.00 for the first fiche, and
$0.50 for each additional fiche. Charges for manual and automated data base searches for bibliographic or other research information will
be made in accordance with section 4, paragraphs (c)-(e) of this appendix. The contract rate charged by the commercial source to the
National Agricultrual Library for computer services is available at the National Agricultural Library, Agricultural Research Service, USDA,
Document Delivery Services Branch, 10301 Baltimore Boulevard, Beltsville, Maryland 20705-2351 (301-504-6503).
(b) General photographic reproductions. Minimum charge $1 per order. An extra charge may be necessary for excessive laboratory
time caused by any special instructions from the purchaser.

Class of work and unit
1. Black and white line negatives:
4 by 5 (each
8 by 10 (each)
11 by 14 (each)
2. Black and white continuous tone negatives:
4 by 5 (each)
8 by 10 (each)
3. Black and white enlargements: 8 by 10 and smaller (each)
11 by 14 (each)
Larger sizes and quantities
4. Black and white slides:
2 × 2 cardboard mounted (from copy negative) (each)
Blue ozalid slides (each)
5. Color slides: (2 × 2 cardboard mounted):
Duplicate color slides:
Display quality (each) (Display color slides are slides copied from 35mm color
slides only)
Repro quality (each)

Price
$6.00
8.50
11.00
8.50
11.00
6.50
11.00
(1)
4.00
5.00

.65
(1)

Original color slides (from flat copy) (each)
6. Color enlargements and transparencies: 4 by 5 and larger
7. Slide sets:
1 to 50 frames
51 to 60 frames
61 to 75 frames
76 to 95 frames
96 to 105 frames
106 to 130 frames (Prices include printed narrative guide)
8. Cassettes: (for the corresponding slide sets above)
1By

6.50
(1)
14.50
16.50
18.50
21.50
23.00
26.50
3.00

quotation.

(c) General aerial photographic reproductions. The prices for various types of aerial photographic reproductions are set forth in this
paragraph. Size measurements refer to the approximate size in inches of the paper required to produce the reproduction.

Size
Black and White Reproductions
10 × 10 Paper
10 × 10 Film Positive
10 × 10 Film Positive AT
10 × 10 Film Positive Scan
10 × 10 Film Duplicate Negative
10 × 10 Film Internegative
12 × 12 Paper
17 × 17 Paper
17 × 17 Film Positive
24 × 24 Paper
24 × 24 Film Positive
38 × 38 Paper
38 × 38 Film Positive
20 × 24 Paper Photo Index
Paper Line Index
Mylar Line Index
Microfilm (Photo Indexes): Aperture Cards
Microfilm (Photo Indexes): Microfiche
Color Negative Reproductions
10 × 10 Paper Quantities:
1-50
51-1000
1001 & Over
10 × 10 Film Positive
20 × 20 Paper
24 × 24 Paper
38 × 38 Paper
Color Infrared Positive Reproductions
10 × 10 Paper
10 × 10 Film Positive
10 × 10 Film Positive AT
10 × 10 Film Positive Scan
20 × 20 Paper
24 × 24 Paper
38 × 38 Paper

Price
$5.00
10.00
10.00
15.00
3.00
4.50
12.00
13.00
25.00
16.00
40.00
50.00
55.00
20.00
15.00
35.00
10.00
10.00

$7.00
5.00
2.50
33.00
40.00
55.00
70.00
$12.00
15.00
15.00
20.00
32.00
40.00
70.00

(d) [Reserved]
(e) Special needs. For special needs not covered elsewhere in this section, persons desiring aerial photographic reproductions should
contact the aerial photography coordinator, Farm Service Agency (FSA), Aerial Photography Field Office, USDA-FSA, 2222 West 2300

South, P.O. Box 30010, Salt Lake City, Utah 84125.
(f) Audio and videotape reproductions. For reproductions of audio-videotapes, requesters must supply their own recording tape, and
will be assessed a fee of $25.00 an hour for copying work requested. There is a one-hour minimum charge. Payment is required at the time
video or audiotapes are accepted by the requester.
[52 FR 49386, Dec. 31, 1987, as amended at 62 FR 33980, June 24, 1997; 64 FR 3395, Jan. 22, 1999]

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Subpart B—Departmental Proceedings
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§1.26 Representation before the Department of Agriculture.
(a) Applicability. This section applies to all hearings and other proceedings before the Department of Agriculture, except to the extent
that any other regulation of the Department may specifically make this section, or any part of this section, inapplicable as to particular
hearings or other proceedings.
(b) Administrative provisions. (1) In any hearing or other proceeding before the Department of Agriculture, the parties may appear in
person or by counsel or other representative. Persons who appear as counsel or in a representative capacity in any hearing or proceeding
must conform to the standards of ethical conduct required of practitioners before the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, and to
any applicable standards of ethical conduct established by statutes, executive orders and regulations.
(2) Whenever the Secretary finds, after notice and opportunity for hearing, that a person who is acting or has acted as counsel or
representative in any hearing or other proceeding before the Department has not conformed to any such standards of ethical conduct, the
Secretary may order that such person be precluded from acting as counsel or representative in any hearing or other proceeding before the
Department for such period of time as the Secretary deems warranted. Whenever the Secretary has probable cause to believe that any
person who is acting or has acted as counsel or representative in any such hearing or other proceeding has not conformed to any such
standards of ethical conduct, the Secretary may, by written notice to such person, suspend the person from acting as such a counsel or
representative pending completion of the procedures specified in the preceding sentence.
(3) No employee or former employee of the Department shall be permitted to represent any person before the Department in
connection with any particular matter as to which by reason of employment with the Department the employee or former employee acquired
personal knowledge of such a nature that it would be improper, unethical, or contrary to the public interest for the employee or former
employee so to act.
(4) This section shall not be construed to prevent an employee or former employee of the Department from appearing as a witness in
any hearing or other proceeding before the Department.
(18 U.S.C. 203, 205, 207)
[32 FR 5458, Apr. 1, 1967, as amended at 60 FR 66480, Dec. 22, 1995]

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§1.27 Rulemaking and other notice procedures.
(a) This section shall apply to:
(1) Notices of proposed rulemaking;
(2) Interim final rules;
(3) Advance notices of proposed rulemaking; and
(4) Any other published notice that solicits, or affords interested members of the public an opportunity to submit, written views with
respect to any proposed action relating to any program administered in the Department regardless of the fact that the issuance of a rule
may not be contemplated.
(b) Each notice identified in paragraph (a) of this section shall indicate the procedure to be followed with respect to the notice, unless
the procedure is prescribed by statute or by published rule of the Department. Each notice shall contain a statement that advises the public
of the policy regarding the availability of written submissions by indicating whether paragraph (c), (d), or (e) of this section is applicable to
written submissions made pursuant to the notice.
(c) All written submissions made pursuant to the notice shall be made available for public inspection at times and places and in a
manner convenient to the public business.
(d)(1) Any written submission, pursuant to a notice, may be held confidential if the person making the submission requests that the
submission be held confidential, the person making the submission has shown that the written submission may be withheld under the
Freedom of Information Act, and the Department official authorized to issue the notice determines that the submission may be withheld
under the Freedom of Information Act.

(2) If a request is made in accordance with paragraph (d)(1) of this section for confidential treatment of a written submission, the
person making the request shall be informed promptly in the event the request is denied and afforded an opportunity to withdraw the
submission.
(3) If a determination is made to grant a request for confidential treatment under paragraph (d)(1) of this section, a statement of the
specific basis for the determination that will not be susceptible of identifying the person making the request will be made available for public
inspection.
(e) If the subject of the notice is such that meaningful submissions cannot be expected unless they disclose information that may be
withheld under the Freedom of Information Act, the notice shall so indicate and contain a statement that written submissions pursuant to the
notice will be treated as confidential and withheld under the Freedom of Information Act. Provided, That the policy regarding availability of
written submissions set forth in this paragraph may only be used with the prior approval of the Secretary, or the Under Secretary or
Assistant Secretary that administers the program that is the subject of the notice.
[60 FR 66480, Dec. 22, 1995]

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§1.28 Petitions.
Petitions by interested persons in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(e) for the issuance, amendment or repeal of a rule may be filed with
the official that issued or is authorized to issue the rule. All such petitions will be given prompt consideration and petitioners will be notified
promptly of the disposition made of their petitions.
[11 FR 177A, Sept. 11, 1946. Redesignated at 13 FR 6703, Nov. 16, 1948, as amended at 60 FR 66481, Dec. 22, 1995]

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§1.29 Subpoenas relating to investigations under statutes administered by the Secretary of Agriculture.
(a) Issuance of subpoena. (1) When the Secretary is authorized by statute to issue a subpoena in connection with an investigation
being conducted by the Department, the attendance of a witness and the production of evidence relating to the investigation may be
required by subpoena at any designated place, including the witness' place of business. Upon request of any representative of the
Secretary involved in connection with the investigation, the subpoena may be issued by the Secretary, the Inspector General, or any
Department official authorized pursuant to part 2 of this title to administer the program to which the subpoena relates, if the official who is to
issue the subpoena is satisfied as to the reasonableness of the grounds, necessity, and scope of the subpoena. Except as provided in
paragraph (a)(2) of this section, the authority to issue subpoenas may not be delegated or redelegated by the head of an agency.
(2) The Administrator, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, may delegate the authority to issue subpoenas in
connection with investigations being conducted under the Packers and Stockyards Act (7 U.S.C. 181-229), to the Deputy Administrator,
Packers and Stockyards Programs.
(3) In the case of a subpoena issued under the Animal Health Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 8301-8317), Plant Protection Act (7 U.S.C.
7701-7772), or Title V of the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 (7 U.S.C. 2279e-2279f), the subpoena will be reviewed for legal
sufficiency by the Office of the General Counsel, USDA.
(b) Service of subpoena. (1) A subpoena issued pursuant to this section may be served by:
(i) A U.S. Marshal or Deputy Marshal,
(ii) Any other person who is not less than 18 years of age, or
(iii) Certified or registered mailing of a copy of the subpoena addressed to the person to be served at his, her, or its last known
residence or principal place of business or residence.
(2) Proof of service may be made by the return of service on the subpoena by the U.S. Marshal, or Deputy Marshal; or, if served by an
individual other than a U.S. Marshal or Deputy Marshal, by an affidavit or certification of such person stating that he or she personally
served a copy of the subpoena upon the person named in the subpoena; or, if service was by certified or registered mail, by the signed
Postal Service receipt.
(3) In making personal service, the person making service shall leave a copy of the subpoena with the person subpoenaed; and the
original, bearing or accompanied by the required proof of service, shall be returned to the official who issued the subpoena.
[39 FR 15277, May 2, 1974, as amended at 40 FR 58281, Dec. 16, 1975; 42 FR 65131, Dec. 30, 1977; 43 FR 12673, Mar. 27, 1978; 60 FR 66481, Dec. 22, 1995;
66 FR 36907, July 16, 2001; 67 FR 70674, Nov. 26, 2002]

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Subpart C—Judicial Proceedings
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§1.41 Service of process.

Process in any suit brought in Washington, District of Columbia, against the United States or any officer of the U.S. Department of
Agriculture in any matter involving the activities of this Department, shall be served on the General Counsel of the Department. A U.S.
Marshal or other process server attempting to serve process in such a suit on any officer of the Department shall be referred to the Office of
the General Counsel, in order that service of process may be made. In the event an officer of the Department of Agriculture is served with
process in such a suit, the officer shall immediately notify the General Counsel. Any subpoena, summons, or other compulsory process
requiring an officer or employee to give testimony, or to produce or disclose any record or material of the U.S. Department of Agriculture,
shall be served on the officer or employee of the U.S. Department of Agriculture named in the subpoena, summons, or other compulsory
process.
[19 FR 4052, July 3, 1954, as amended at 33 FR 10273, July 18, 1968; 43 FR 6202, Feb. 14, 1978; 60 FR 66481, Dec. 22, 1995]

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Subpart D—Claims
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§1.51 Claims based on negligence, wrongful act or omission.
(a) Authority of the Department. Under the provisions of the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), as amended, 28 U.S.C. 2671-2680, and
the regulations issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ) contained in 28 CFR part 14, the United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA) may, subject to the provisions of the FTCA and DOJ regulations, consider, ascertain, adjust, determine, compromise, and settle
claims for money damages against the United States for personal injury, death, or property loss or damage caused by the negligent or
wrongful act or omission of any employee of USDA while acting within the scope of his or her office or employment, under circumstances
where the United States, if it were a private person, would be liable, in accordance with the law of the place where the act or omission
occurred.
(b) Procedure for filing claims. Claims must be presented by the claimant, or by his or her duly authorized agent or legal representative
as specified in 28 CFR 14.3. Standard Form 95, Claim for Damage or Injury, may be obtained from the agency within USDA that employs
the employee who allegedly committed the negligent or wrongful act or omission. The completed claim form, together with appropriate
evidence and information, as specified in 28 CFR 14.4, shall be filed with the agency from which it was obtained.
(c) Determination of claims—(1) Delegation of authority to determine claims. The General Counsel, and such employees of the Office
of the General Counsel as may be designated by the General Counsel, are hereby authorized to consider, ascertain, adjust, determine,
compromise, and settle claims pursuant to the FTCA, as amended, and the regulations contained in 28 CFR part 14 and in this section.
(2) Disallowance of claims. If a claim is denied, the General Counsel, or his or her designee, shall notify the claimant, or his or her duly
authorized agent or legal representative.
[61 FR 57577, Nov. 7, 1996]

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Subpart E—Cooperative Production of Television Films
S

: 22 FR 2904, Apr. 25, 1957, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.71 Purpose.
This subpart establishes procedures for developing special working relationships with the Department of Agriculture requested by
producers of films for television use. These procedures are designed to guide Department employees and producers of commercial
television pictures in entering into such arrangements.
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§1.72 Policy.
(a) General. It is a basic policy of the Department of Agriculture to make information freely available to the public.
(b) Cooperation with television film producers. The Department recognizes that its people and programs constitute a rich source of
materials on public services, often dramatic and interesting for their human values, which are suitable for production of films for television
showings. The Department welcomes the interest of television film producers in its activities and maintains an “open door” policy with
respect to the availability of factual information to such producers, as it does to representatives of other media. As its resources will permit,
the Department will work with producers at their request, to assure technical accuracy of scripts and story treatments.
(c) Special working relationships. In those instances where a producer of films for television seeks special Department participation
such as the use of official insignia of the Department, or who request special assistance such as the services of technical advisors, use of
Government equipment and similar aids which require a material expenditure of public funds, and where the proposed film will further the
public service of the Department, the Department will consider entering into a special working relationship with such producer.
(d) News film reporting exempted. Television and news film reporting of Department activities is not covered by this subpart.

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§1.73 Responsibility.
The Director of Information or his designee will be the authority for the approval of special working relationships on the part of the
Department of Agriculture and its agencies. The Director or his designee shall not commit the Department to such special arrangements
without proper concurrence and coordination with interested agencies and approval by the appropriate Assistant Secretary or Group
Director.
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§1.74 Basis for special working relationships.
The Department and its agencies may lend special assistance on television films when it is clearly evident that public interests are
served. Where special assistance is sought, an individual cooperative agreement will be drawn up between the Department with the
Director of Information as its agent, and the producer. Details on such assistance as reviewing stories and scripts, loan of material,
arrangements for locations, use of official motion picture footage, assignment of technical advisors and similar aids will be covered in the
agreement, which shall delineate the general stipulations listed in §1.75.
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§1.75 General stipulations.
In requesting special working arrangements the producer must agree to the following stipulations:
(a) The producer must show that he has legal authority to the literary property concerned.
(b) The producer must show access to a distribution channel recognized by the motion picture or television industry. In lieu of complete
distribution plans for a television series, a producer must produce satisfactory evidence of financial responsibility (showing financial
resources adequate for the defrayment of costs for the proposed undertaking).
(c) The commercial advertising of any show produced, using oral or written rights granted to the producer, shall not indicate any
endorsement, either direct or implied, by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or its agencies, of the sponsor's product.
(d) Commercial sponsorship shall be only by a person, firm, or corporation acceptable under the terms of the 1954 Television Code of
the National Association of Radio and Television Broadcasters, and all subsequent amendments thereto. Political sponsorship shall not be
permitted.
(e) That no production costs shall be chargeable to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
(f) That such cooperation will not interfere with the conduct of Department programs.
(g) All damages, losses and personal liability incurred by producer will be his responsibility.
(h) That mutual understanding and agreement will be reached upon story, script and film treatment with the Department before film
production is begun.
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§1.76 Department cooperation.
When the producer agrees to meet the above stipulations to the satisfaction of the Director of Information, the U.S. Department of
Agriculture and its agencies will be available for consultation on story ideas and give guidance through the services of a technical advisor to
insure technical authenticity. Equipment, locations, and personnel will be available to the extent that such availability is concurrent with
normal and usual conduct of the operations of the Department. The Department will check and work with the cooperators to arrange
shooting schedules in order to avoid interferences with working schedules.
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§1.77 Assignment of priorities.
(a) Authority. (1) The Director of Information or his designee will make assignment of priorities for the U.S. Department of Agriculture for
a television film company's and/or individual producer's story treatment of the subject matter, but no such priority shall limit use of the
subject matter itself.
(2) A priority will be given in writing upon acceptance in writing by the producer of the stipulations in §1.75(b). The U.S. Department of
Agriculture will hold the producer's treatment of the story material in confidence until the producer has made a public release pertaining to
the subject.
(b) Time and scope. A priority will be given on the producer's story treatment for an agreed upon period of time. Requests for
cooperation with similar or conflicting ideas and backgrounds will be considered only after holder of the first priority has used the agreed
upon time to develop the materials.
(1) Details on priorities will be written into the agreements.

(2) The Director of Information will retain the right to cancel priorities when the producer at any stage violates the provisions of the
regulations or of a particular agreement, or when public interest is no longer served.
(3) No priority will be canceled until the producer has had an opportunity to appear before the Secretary of Agriculture or his designee.
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§1.78 Development of special working relationships.
(a) Preliminary. Prior to the submittal of a script or the rendering of an agreement, assistance may be given by the Department or one
of its agencies in outlining story plans, visits to field points, and other incidentals that will assist the producer in determining his course of
action.
(b) Request for special working arrangements. Once the decision is made to go ahead with an agreement, either the interested agency
or the producer will make a written submission to the Director of Information, requesting that special working arrangements be established.
(1) In submitting scripts prior or subsequent to executing a written agreement under a special working relationship four (4) copies of the
completed script shall be submitted to the Director of Information or his designee, along with a statement of specific requirements and the
anticipated production schedule.
(2) No script will be used under a special working relationship without the specific approval of the Director of Information.
(3) Upon approval of the script, the agency of the Department concerned with subject matter will endeavor to arrange for the desired
assistance with the stipulations of this policy.
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§1.79 Credits.
On films on which the Department or one of its agencies provides special assistance it shall be mutually agreed by the producer and
the Director of Information what credits shall be given to the Department, and the form these credits will take.
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Subpart G—Privacy Act Regulations
A
S

: 5 U.S.C. 301 and 552a; 31 U.S.C. 9701.
: 40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.110 Purpose and scope.
This subpart contains the regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) implementing the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C.
552a). This subpart sets forth the basic responsibilities of each agency of USDA with regard to USDA's compliance with the requirements of
the Privacy Act, and offers guidance to members of the public who wish to exercise any of the rights established by the Privacy Act with
regard to records maintained by an agency of USDA.
[40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33981, June 24, 1997]

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§1.111 Definitions.
For purposes of this subpart the terms individual, maintain, record, system of records, statistical record, and routine use shall have the
meanings set forth in 5 U.S.C. 552a(a). The term agency shall mean an agency of USDA, unless otherwise indicated.
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§1.112 Procedures for requests pertaining to individual records in a record system.
(a) Any individual who wishes to be notified if a system of records maintained by an agency contains any record pertaining to him or
her, or to request access to such records, shall submit a written request in accordance with the instructions set forth in the system notice for
that system of records. This request shall include:
(1) The name of the individual making the request;
(2) The name of the system of records (as set forth in the system notice to which the request relates);
(3) Any other information specified in the system notice; and
(4) When the request is one for access, a statement as to whether the requester desires to make a personal inspection of the records,
or be supplied with copies by mail.

(b) Any individual whose request under paragraph (a) of this section is denied may appeal that denial to the head of the agency which
maintains the system of records to which the request relates.
(c) In the event that an appeal under paragraph (b) of this section is denied, the requester may bring a civil action in federal district
court to seek review of the denial.
[40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33981, June 24, 1997]

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§1.113 Times, places, and requirements for identification of individuals making requests.
(a) If an individual submitting a request for access under §1.112 has asked that an agency authorize a personal inspection of records
pertaining to him or her, and the agency has granted that request, the requester shall present himself or herself at the time and place
specified in the agency's response or arrange another, mutually convenient, time with the appropriate agency official.
(b) Prior to inspection of the records, the requester shall present sufficient identification (e.g., driver's license, employee identification
card, social security card, credit cards) to establish that the requester is the individual to whom the records pertain. If the requester is
unable to provide such identification, the requester shall complete and sign in the presence of an agency official a signed statement
asserting the requester's identity and stipulating that the requester understands that knowingly or willfully seeking or obtaining access to
records about another individual under false pretenses is a misdemeanor punishable by fine up to $5,000. No identification shall be
required, however, if the records are required by 5 U.S.C. 552 to be released.
(c) Any individual who has requested access to records about himself or herself by personal inspection, and who wishes to have
another person or persons accompany the requester during this inspection, shall submit a written statement authorizing disclosure of the
record in the presence of such other person or persons.
(d) Any individual having made a personal inspection of records pertaining to the requester may request the agency to provide the
requester copies of those records or any portion of those records. Each agency shall grant such requests but may charge fees in
accordance with §1.120.
(e) If an individual submitting a request for access under §1.112 wishes to be supplied with copies of the records by mail, the requester
shall include with his or her request sufficient data for the agency to verify the requester's identity. If the sensitivity of the records warrant it,
however, the agency to which the request is directed may require the requester to submit a signed, notarized statement indicating that the
requester is the individual to whom the records pertain and stipulating the requester understands that knowingly or willfully seeking or
obtaining access to records about another individual under false pretenses is a misdemeanor punishable by fine up to $5,000. No
identification shall be required, however, if the records are required by 5 U.S.C. 552 to be released. If the agency to which this request is
directed determines to grant the requested access, it may charge fees in accordance with §1.120 before making the necessary copies.
[40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33981, June 24, 1997]

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§1.114 Disclosure of requested information to individuals.
(a) Any agency which receives a request or appeal under §1.112 should acknowledge the request or appeal within 10 days of its
receipt (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays). Wherever practicable, the acknowledgment should indicate whether or
not access will be granted and, if so, when and where. When access is to be granted, the agency should provide the access within 30 days
of receipt of the request or appeal (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal public holidays) unless, for good cause shown, it is unable to
do so. If the agency is unable to meet this deadline, it shall inform the requester of this fact, the reasons for its inability to do so, and an
estimate of the date on which access will be granted.
(b) Nothing in 5 U.S.C. 552a or this subpart shall be interpreted to require that an individual making a request under §1.112 be granted
access to the physical record itself. The form in which a record is kept (e.g., on magnetic tape), or the content of the record (e.g., a record
indexed under the name of the requester may contain records which are not about the requester) may require that the record be edited or
translated in some manner. Neither of these procedures may be utilized, however, to withhold information in a record about the requester.
(c) No agency shall deny any request under §1.112 for information concerning the existence of records about the requester in any
system of records it maintains, or deny any request for access to records about the requester in any system of records it maintains, unless
that system is exempted from the requirements of 5 U.S.C. 552a(d) in §1.123.
(d) If any agency receives a request pursuant to §1.112(a) for access to records in a system of records it maintains which is so
exempted, the system manager shall determine if the exemption is to be asserted. If the system manager determines to deny the request,
the system manager shall inform the requester of that determination, the reason for the determination, and the title and address of the
agency head to whom the denial can be appealed.
(e) If the head of an agency determines that an appeal pursuant to §1.112(b) is to be denied, the head of the agency shall inform the
requester of that determination, the reason for the determination, and the requester's right under 5 U.S.C. 552a(g) to seek judicial review of
the denial in Federal district court.
(f) Nothing in 5 U.S.C. 552a or this subpart shall allow an individual access to any information compiled in reasonable anticipation of a
civil action or proceeding.
[40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33981, June 24, 1997]

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§1.115 Special procedures: Medical records.
In the event an agency receives a request pursuant to §1.112 for access to medical records (including psychological records) whose
disclosure it determines would be harmful to the individual to whom they relate, it may refuse to disclose the records directly to the
requester but shall transmit them to a doctor designated by that individual.
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§1.116 Request for correction or amendment to record.
(a) Any individual who wishes to request correction or amendment of any record pertaining to him or her contained in a system of
records maintained by an agency shall submit that request in writing in accordance with the instructions set forth in the system notice for
that system of records. This request shall include:
(1) The name of the individual making the request;
(2) The name of the system of records (as set forth in the system notice to which the request relates);
(3) A description of the nature (e.g., modification, addition or deletion) and substance of the correction or amendment requested; and
(4) Any other information specified in the system notice.
(b) Any individual submitting a request pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section shall include sufficient information in support of that
request to allow the agency to which it is addressed to apply the standards set forth in 5 U.S.C. 552a(e) (1) and (5).
(c) Any individual whose request under paragraph (a) of this section is denied may appeal that denial to the head of the agency which
maintains the system of records to which the request relates.
(d) In the event that an appeal under paragraph (c) of this section is denied, the requester may bring a civil action in federal district
court to seek review of the denial.
[40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33981, June 24, 1997]

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§1.117 Agency review of request for correction or amendment of record.
(a) Any agency which receives a request for amendment or correction under §1.116 shall acknowledge that request within 10 days of
its receipt (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal public holidays). The agency shall also promptly, either:
(1) Make any correction, deletion or addition with regard to any portion of a record which the requester believes is not accurate,
relevant, timely or complete; or
(2) Inform the requester of its refusal to amend the record in accordance with the request; the reason for the refusal; the procedures
whereby the requester can appeal the refusal to the head of the agency; and the title and business address of that official. If the agency
informs the requester of its determination within the 10-day deadline, a separate acknowledgement is not required.
(b) If an agency is unable to comply with either paragraphs (a)(1) or (2) of this section within 30 days of its receipt of a request for
correction or amendment, (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal public holidays), it should inform the requester of that fact, the reasons
for the inability to comply with paragraphs (a)(1) or (a)(2) of this section within 30 days, and the approximate date on which a determination
will be reached.
(c) In conducting its review of a request for correction or amendment, each agency shall be guided by the requirements of 5 U.S.C.
552a(e)(1) and (5).
(d) If an agency determines to grant all or any portion of a request for correction or amendment, it shall:
(1) Advise the individual of that determination;
(2) Make the requested correction or amendment; and
(3) Inform any person or agency outside USDA to whom the record has been disclosed, if an accounting of that disclosure is
maintained in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552a(c), of the occurrence and substance of the correction or amendments.
(e) If an agency determines not to grant all or any portion of a request for correction or amendment, it shall:
(1) Comply with paragraph (d) of this section with regard to any correction or amendment which is made;
(2) Advise the requester of its determination and the reasons for the determination not to grant all or a portion of the request for a
correction or amendment;
(3) Inform the requester that he or she may appeal this determination to the head of the agency which maintains the system of records;
and

(4) Describe the procedures for making such an appeal, including the title and business address of the official to whom the appeal is to
be addressed.
(f) In the event that an agency receives a notice of correction or amendment to information in a record contained in a system of records
which it maintains, it shall comply with paragraphs (d)(2) and (3) of this section in the same manner as if it had made the correction or
amendment itself.
[40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33981, June 24, 1997]

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§1.118 Appeal of initial adverse agency determination on correction or amendment.
(a) Any individual whose request for correction or amendment under §1.116 is denied, and who wishes to appeal that denial, shall
address such appeal to the head of the agency which maintains the system of records to which the request relates, in accordance with the
procedures set forth in the agency's initial denial of the request.
(b) The head of each agency shall make a final determination with regard to an appeal submitted under paragraph (a) of this section
not later than 30 days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays) from the date on which the individual requests a review,
unless, for good cause shown, the head of the agency extends this 30-day period and so notifies the requester, together with an estimate of
the date on which a final determination will be made. Such extension should be utilized only in exceptional circumstances and should not
normally exceed 30 days. The delegation of authority set forth in this paragraph may not be redelegated.
(c) In conducting a review of an appeal submitted under paragraph (a) of this section, the head of an agency shall be guided by the
requirements of 5 U.S.C. 552a(e)(1) and (5).
(d) If the head of an agency determines to grant all or any portion of an appeal submitted under paragraph (a) of this section, the head
of the agency shall inform the requester and the agency shall comply with the procedures set forth in §1.117(d)(2) and (d)(3).
(e) If the head of an agency determines in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section not to grant all or any portion of an appeal
submitted under paragraph (a) of this section, the head of the agency shall inform the requester:
(1) Of this determination and the reasons for the determination;
(2) Of the requester's right to file a concise statement of the requester's reasons for disagreeing with the agency's decision;
(3) Of the procedures for filing such a statement of disagreement;
(4) That such statements of disagreements will be made available to anyone to whom the record is subsequently disclosed, together
with (if the agency deems it appropriate) a brief statement by the agency summarizing its reasons for refusing to amend the record;
(5) That prior recipients of the disputed record will be provided with a copy of the statement of disagreement, together with (if the
agency deems it appropriate) a brief statement of the agency's reasons for refusing to amend the record, to the extent that an accounting of
disclosures is maintained under 5 U.S.C. 552a(c); and
(6) Of the requester's right to seek judicial review of the agency's determination in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552a(g). The agency shall
insure that any statements of disagreement submitted by a requester are handled in accordance with paragraphs (e)(4) and (5) of this
section.
[40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33981, June 24, 1997]

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§1.119 Disclosure of record to person other than the individual to whom it pertains.
No agency shall disclose any record which is contained in a system of records it maintains, by any means of communication to any
person, or to another agency outside USDA, except pursuant to a written request by, or with the prior written consent of, the individual to
whom the record pertains, unless the disclosure is authorized by one or more provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a(b).
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§1.120 Fees.
Any agency which provides copies of records pursuant to a request under this subpart may charge fees for the direct costs of
producing such copies in accordance with appendix A to subpart A of this part. No agency, however, shall charge any fee for searches
necessary to locate records. Nor shall an agency charge any fees for copies or searches, when the requester sought to make a personal
inspection but was provided copies instead at the discretion of the agency.
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§1.121 Penalties.
The criminal penalties which have been established for violations of the Privacy Act of 1974 are set forth in 5 U.S.C. 552a(i). These
penalties are applicable to any officer or employee of an agency who commits any of the acts enumerated in 5 U.S.C. 552a(i). These

penalties also apply to contractors and employees of such contractors who enter into contracts with an agency of USDA and who are
considered to be employees of the agency within the meaning of 5 U.S.C. 552a(m)(1).
[40 FR 39519, Aug. 28, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33982, June 24, 1997]

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§1.122 General exemptions.
Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j), and for the reasons set forth in 54 FR 11204-11206 (March 17, 1989), the systems of records (or portions
of systems of records) maintained by agencies of USDA identified in this section are exempted from the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a, except
subsections (b), (c)(1) and (2), (e)(4)(A) through (F), (e)(6), (7), (9), (10), and (11), and (i).
Office of Inspector General
Informant and Undercover Agent Records, USDA/OIG-2.
Investigative Files and Automated Investigative Indices System, USDA/OIG-3.
OIG Hotline Complaint Records, USDA/OIG-4.
Consolidated Assignments, Personnel Tracking, and Administrative Information Network (CAPTAIN), USDA/OIG-5.
[54 FR 39517, Sept. 27, 1989, as amended at 62 FR 33982, June 24, 1997; 62 FR 61209, Nov. 17, 1997]

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§1.123 Specific exemptions.
Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k), the systems of records (or portions thereof) maintained by agencies of USDA identified below are
exempted from the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a (c)(3), (d), (e)(1), (e)(4)(G), (H) and (I), and (f). The reasons for exempting each system are
set out in the notice for that system published in the F
R
.
A

M

S

AMS Office of Compliance Review Cases, USDA/AMS-11.

A

S

C

S

EEO Complaints and Discrimination Investigation Reports, USDA/ASCS-12.
Investigation and Audit Reports, USDA/ASCS-18.
Producer Appeals, USDA/ASCS-21.

A

P

H

I

S

Plant Protection and Quarantine Program—Regulatory Actions, USDA/APHIS-1.
Veterinary Services Programs—Records of Accredited Veterinarians, USDA/APHIS-2.
Veterinary Services Programs—Animal Quarantine Regulatory Actions, USDA/APHIS-3.
Veterinary Services Programs—Animal Welfare and Horse Protection Regulatory Actions, USDA/APHIS-4.

F

H

A

Credit Report File, USDA/FmHA-3.

F

C

I

C

FCIC Compliance Review Cases, USDA/FCIC-2.

F

G

I

S

Investigations Undertaken by the Government Pursuant to the United States Grain Standards Act of 1976, as amended, or the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946,
as amended, USDA/FGIS-2.

F

N

S

Civil Rights Complaints and Investigations, USDA/FNS-1.
Claims Against Food Stamp Recipients, USDA/FNS-3.
Investigations of Fraud, Theft, or Other Unlawful Activities of Individuals Involving Food Stamps, USDA/FNS-5.

F

S

I

S

Meat and Poultry Inspection Program—Slaughter, Processing and Allied Industries Compliance Records System, USDA/FSIS-1.

F

S

Law Enforcement Investigation Records, USDA/FS-33.

O

G

C

Regulatory Division
Cases by the Department under the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Products Inspection Act, and the voluntary inspection and certification provisions of
the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, USDA/OGC-6.
Cases by the Department under the Humane Methods of Livestock Slaughter Law (i.e., the Act of August 27, 1958), USDA/OGC-7.
Cases by the Department under the 28 Hour Law, as amended, USDA/OGC-8.
Cases by the Department under the various Animal Quarantine and related laws, USDA/OGC-9.
Cases by the Department under the various Plant Protection Quarantine and related laws, USDA/OGC-10.
Cases by the Department under Horse Protection Act of 1970, USDA/OGC-41.
Cases by the Department under the Laboratory Animal Welfare Act, USDA/OGC-42.

Community Development Division
Community Development Division Litigation, USDA/OGC-11.
Farmers Home Administration (FmHA) General Case Files, USDA/OGC-12.

Food and Nutrition Division
Claims by and against USDA under the Food Assistance Legislation, USDA/OGC-13.
Perishable Agricultural Commodities, USDA/OGC-14.

Foreign Agriculture and Commodity Stabilization Division
Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS), Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), and Commodity Credit Corporation Cases, USDA/OGC-15.
Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) Cases, USDA/OGC-16.
Administrative proceedings brought by the Department, court cases in which the government is plaintiff and court cases in which the government is a defendant
brought pursuant to the United States Warehouse Act, USDA/OGC-43.

Marketing Division
Administrative proceedings brought by the Department pursuant to the Plant Variety Protection Act, the Federal Seed Act, or the Agricultural Marketing Act of
1946, USDA/OGC-18.
Cases brought by the Government pursuant to the Cotton Futures provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, USDA/OGC-22.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 or the Tobacco Inspection Act, USDA/OGC-24.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937, as amended, or the Anti-Hog-Cholera Serum and
Hog Cholera Virus Act, USDA/OGC-25.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Cotton Research and Promotion Act, Potato Research and Promotion Act, the Egg Research and
Consumer Information Act, USDA/OGC-26.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Export Apple and Pear Act or the Export Grape and Plum Act, USDA/OGC-27.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Cotton Statistics and Estimates Act of 1927 or the United States Cotton Standards Act,
USDA/OGC-28.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Naval Stores Act, or the Tobacco Seed and Plant Exportation Act, USDA/OGC-29.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Peanut Statistics Act or the Tobacco Statistics Act, USDA/OGC-30.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Plant Variety Protection Act or the Egg Products Inspection Act, USDA/OGC-31.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the Produce Agency Act, or the Process of Renovated Butter Provisions of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1954, USDA/OGC-32.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to either the United States Grain Standards Act or the Federal Seed Act, USDA/OGC-33.
Court cases brought by the Government pursuant to the Agricultural Fair Practices Act, USDA/OGC-34.
Cases by and against the Department under the Virus-Serum Toxin Act, USDA/OGC-44.

Office of Inspector General
Informant and Undercover Agent Records, USDA/OIG-2.
Investigative Files and Automated Investigative Indices System, USDA/OIG-3.
OIG Hotline Complaint Records, USDA/OIG-4.

Consolidated Assignments, Personnel Tracking, and Administrative Information Network (CAPTAIN), USDA/OIG-5.

Packers and Stockyards Division
Packers and Stockyards Act, Administrative Cases, USDA/OGC-69.
Packers and Stockyards Act, Civil and Criminal Cases, USDA/OGC-70.

Research and Operations Division
Personnel Irregularities, USDA/OGC-75.

Office of the Secretary
Non-Career Applicant File, USDA/SEC-1.
[40 FR 45103, Sept. 30, 1975, as amended at 41 FR 22333, June 3, 1976; 53 FR 5969, Feb. 29, 1988; 54 FR 5073, Feb. 1, 1989; 55 FR 41179, Oct. 10, 1990; 62
FR 61209, Nov. 17, 1997]

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Appendix A to Subpart G of Part 1—Internal Directives
S
1. General requirements. Each agency that maintains a system of records subject to 5 U.S.C. 552a and the regulations of this
subpart shall:
(a) Maintain in its records only such information about an individual as is relevant and necessary to accomplish a purpose of the
agency required to be accomplished by statute or by executive order of the President;
(b) Collect information to the greatest extent practicable directly from the subject individual when the information may result in adverse
determinations about an individual's rights, benefits, and privileges under Federal programs;
(c) Inform each individual whom it asks to supply information, on the form which it uses to collect the information, or on a separate form
that can be retained by the individual, of:
(1) The authority (whether granted by statute, or by executive order of the President) which authorizes the solicitation of the information
and whether disclosure of such information is mandatory or voluntary;
(2) The principal purpose or purposes for which the information is intended to be used;
(3) The routine uses which may be made of the information, as published pursuant to paragraph (d)(4) of this section; and
(4) The effects on the individual, if any, of not providing all or any part of the requested information;
(d) Subject to the provisions of section 2 of this appendix, prepare for publication in the F
the existence and character of each system it maintains, which notice shall include:

R

at least annually a notice of

(1) The name and location(s) of the system;
(2) The categories of individuals on whom records are maintained in the system;
(3) The categories of records maintained in the system;
(4) Each routine use of the records contained in the system, including the categories of uses and the purpose of such use;
(5) The policies and practices of the agency regarding storage, retrievability, access controls, retention, and disposal of the records;
(6) The title and business address of the agency official who is responsible for the system of records;
(7) The agency procedures whereby an individual can be notified at his or her request if the system of records contains a record
pertaining to the individual;
(8) The agency procedures whereby an individual can be notified at his or her request how the individual can gain access to any record
pertaining to him or her contained in the system of records, and how he can contest its content; and
(9) The categories of sources of records in the system;
(e) Maintain all records which are used by the agency in making any determination about any individual with such accuracy, relevance,
timeliness, and completeness as is reasonably necessary to assure fairness to the individual in the determination;
(f) Prior to disseminating any record about an individual to any person other than an agency, unless the dissemination is made
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(b)(2), make reasonable efforts to assure that such records are accurate, complete, timely, and relevant for
agency purposes;
(g) Maintain no record describing how any individual exercises rights guaranteed by the First Amendment unless expressly authorized
by statute or by the individual about whom the record is maintained, or unless pertinent to and within the scope of an authorized law
enforcement activity;

(h) Make reasonable efforts to serve notice on an individual when any record on such individual is made available to any person under
compulsory legal process when such process becomes a matter of public record;
(i) Establish rules of conduct for persons involved in the design, development, operation, or maintenance of any system of records, or
in maintaining any record, and instruct each such person with respect to such rules and the requirements of this section, including any other
rules and procedures adopted pursuant to this section and the penalties for noncompliance;
(j) Establish appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to insure the security and confidentiality of records and to
protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to their security or integrity which could result in substantial harm, embarrassment,
inconvenience, or unfairness to any individual on whom information is maintained.
S

. 2. Amendment of routine uses for an existing system of records, or establishment of a new system of records.

(a) Any agency which intends to add a routine use, or amend an existing one, in a system of records it maintains, shall, in accordance
with 5 U.S.C. 552a(e)(11), ensure that at least 30 days advance notice of such action is given by publication in the F
R
and
an opportunity provided for interested persons to submit written data, views or arguments to the agency.
(b) Any agency which intends to establish a new system of records, or to alter any existing system of records, shall insure that
adequate advance notice is provided to Congress and the Office of Management and Budget to permit an evaluation of the probable or
potential effect of such action on the privacy and other personal or property rights of individuals or the disclosure of information relating to
such individuals, and its effect on the preservation of the constitutional principles of federalism and separation of powers. Such notice is
required for any new system of records and for any alteration in an existing one which will:
(1) Increase the number or types of individuals on whom records are maintained;
(2) Expand the type or amount of information maintained;
(3) Increase the number or categories of agencies or other persons who may have access to those records;
(4) Alter the manner in which the records are organized so as to change the nature or scope of those records (e.g., the combining of
two or more existing systems);
(5) Modify the way the system operates at its location(s) in such a manner as to alter the procedures by which individuals can exercise
their rights under this subpart; or
(6) Change the equipment configuration on which the system is operated so as to create the potential for greater access (e.g., adding a
telecommunications capability).
S

. 3. Accounting of certain disclosures. Each agency, with respect to each system of records under its control, shall:

(a) Except for disclosures made under 5 U.S.C. 552a(b)(1) and (2), keep an accurate account of:
(1) The date, nature, and purpose of each disclosure of a record to any person or agency outside the Department; and
(2) The name and address of the person or agency to whom the disclosure is made;
(b) Retain the accounting made under paragraph (a) of this section for the longer of a period of five years, after the date of the
disclosure for which the accounting is made, or the life of the record disclosed;
(c) Except for disclosures made under 5 U.S.C. 552a(b)(7), make the accounting required under paragraph (a) of this section available
to the individual named in the record at his or her request.
S . 4. Government contractors. When an agency within the Department provides by a contract for the operation by or on behalf of the
agency of a system of records to accomplish an agency function, the agency shall, consistent with its authority, cause the requirements of
this subpart to be applied to such system. For purposes of 5 U.S.C. 552a(i) any such contractor or any employee of such contractor shall be
considered to be an employee of an agency and therefore subject to the criminal penalties set forth in 5 U.S.C. 552a(i).
S . 5. Mailing lists. No agency within the Department shall sell or rent any individual's name and address unless such action is
specifically authorized by law. This section shall not be construed to require, or to authorize, the withholding of names and addresses
whose disclosure is required by 5 U.S.C. 552.
S . 6. Social security account numbers. (a) No agency shall deny, or permit any State or local government with whom it is involved in
a cooperative venture to deny, to any individual any right, benefit, or privilege provided by law because of such individual's refusal to
disclose his or her social security account number.
(b) Paragraph (a) of this section shall not apply with respect to:
(1) Any disclosure required by Federal statute; or
(2) Any disclosure to any agency relating to a system of records it maintained prior to January 1, 1975, if such disclosure was required
under statute or regulation adopted prior to that date, to verify the identity of an individual.
(c) Any agency in the Department which requests an individual to disclose his or her social security account number shall inform that
individual whether the disclosure is mandatory or voluntary, by what statutory or other authority the number is solicited, and what uses will

be made of it. The agency shall also insure that this information is provided by a State or local government with whom it is involved in a
cooperative agreement.
S . 7. Annual report. Each agency in the Department shall submit to the Office of the General Counsel prior to March 30 of each year
a report containing the following information related to implementation of 5 U.S.C. 552a:
(a) A summary of major accomplishments;
(b) A summary of major plans for activities in the upcoming year;
(c) A list of the systems which were exempted during the year from any of the operative provisions of this subpart pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
552a (j) and (k), whether or not the exemption was effected during that year, the number of instances with respect to each system
exempted in which the exemption was invoked to deny access, and the reasons for invoking the exemption;
(d) A brief summary of changes to the total inventory of personal data system subject to this subpart including reasons for major
changes; and
(e) A general description of operational experiences including estimates of the number of individuals (in relation to the total number of
records in the system):
(1) Requesting information on the existence of records pertaining to them;
(2) Refusing to provide information;
(3) Requesting access to their records;
(4) Appealing initial refusals to amend records; and
(5) Seeking redress through the courts.
S . 8. Effect of 5 U.S.C. 552. No agency in the Department shall rely on any exemption in 5 U.S.C. 552 to withhold from an individual
any record which is otherwise accessible to such individual under 5 U.S.C. 552a and this subpart.
[40 FR 44480, Sept. 26, 1975, as amended at 62 FR 33982, June 24, 1997]

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Subpart H—Rules of Practice Governing Formal Adjudicatory Proceedings Instituted by the
Secretary Under Various Statutes
A
: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C 61, 87e, 228, 268, 499o, 608c(14), 1592, 1624(b), 1636b, 1638b, 2151, 2279e, 2621, 2714, 2908, 3812, 4610, 4815, 4910,
6009, 6107, 6207, 6307, 6411, 6519, 6520, 6808, 7107, 7734, 8313; 15 U.S.C. 1828; 16 U.S.C. 620d, 1540(f), 3373; 21 U.S.C. 104, 111, 117, 120, 122, 127, 134e,
134f, 135a, 154, 463(b), 621, 1043; 30 U.S.C. 185(o)(1); 43 U.S.C. 1740; 7 CFR 2.27, 2.35.
S

: 42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.130 Meaning of words.
As used in this subpart, words in the singular form shall be deemed to import the plural, and vice versa, as the case may require.
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§1.131 Scope and applicability of this subpart.
(a) The rules of practice in this subpart shall be applicable to all adjudicatory proceedings under the statutory provisions listed below as
those provisions have been or may be amended from time to time,1 except that those rules shall not be applicable to reparation
proceedings under section 6(c) of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act, 1930. Section 1.26 shall be inapplicable to the proceedings
covered by this subpart.
1

See also the regulations promulgated under these statutes for any supplemental rules relating to particular circumstances arising thereunder.

Agricultural Bioterrorism Protection Act of 2002, section 212(i) (7 U.S.C. 8401(i)).
Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, as amended, section 253 (7 U.S.C. 1636b) and section 283 (7 U.S.C. 1638b).
Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937, as amended, section 8c(14), 7 U.S.C. 608c(14).
Animal Health Protection Act, section 10414 (7 U.S.C. 8313).
Animal Welfare Act, section 19 (7 U.S.C. 2149).
Beef Promotion and Research Act of 1985, section 9 (7 U.S.C. 2908).
Egg Products Inspection Act, section 18 (21 U.S.C. 1047).

Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, section 11(a) (16 U.S.C. 1540(a)).
Egg Research and Consumer Information Act, as amended, 7 U.S.C. 2714, Pub. L. 96-276, 94 Stat. 541.
Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, section 506 (43 U.S.C. 1766).
Federal Meat Inspection Act, sections 4, 6, 7(e), 8, and 401 (21 U.S.C. 604, 606, 607(e), 608, 671).
Federal Seed Act, section 409 (7 U.S.C. 1599).
Fluid Milk Promotion Act of 1990, section 1999L [7 U.S.C. 6411].
Forest Resources Conversation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990, section 492 (16 U.S.C. 620d)
Fresh Cut Flowers and Fresh Cut Greens Promotion and Consumer Information Act of 1993, section 9 [7 U.S.C. 6808].
Honey Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Act, section 11 (7 U.S.C. 4610).
Horse Protection Act of 1970, sections 4(c) and 6 (15 U.S.C. 1823(c), 1825).
Lacey Act Amendments of 1981, section 4 (a) and (b) (16 U.S.C. 3373 (a) and (b)).
Lime Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Act of 1990, as amended, section 1958 [7 U.S.C. 6207]
Mineral Leasing Act, section 28(o)(1) (30 U.S.C. 185(o)(1)).
Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act of 1990, section 1928 [7 U.S.C. 6107]
Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, sections 2119 and 2120 (7 U.S.C. 6519, 6520).
Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, as supplemented, sections 203, 312, and 401 of the Act, and section 1, 57 Stat. 422, as amended by section 4, 90 Stat. 1249
(7 U.S.C. 193, 204, 213, 221)
Pecan Promotion and Research Act of 1990, section 1914 [7 U.S.C. 6009]
Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act, 1930, sections 1(b)(9), 3(c), 4(d), 6(c), 8(a), 8(b), 8(c), 8(e), 9, and 13(a) (7 U.S.C. 499a(b)(9), 499c(c), 499d(d), 499f(c),
499h(a), 499h(b), 499h(c), 499h(e), 499i, 499m(a))
Plant Protection Act, section 424 (7 U.S.C. 7734).
Pork Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act of 1985, section 1626 (7 U.S.C. 4815).
Potato Research and Promotion Act, as amended, 7 U.S.C. 2621, Pub. L. 97-244, 96 Stat. 310.
Poultry Products Inspection Act, sections 6, 7, 8(d), and 18 (21 U.S.C. 455, 456, 457(d), 467).
Sheep Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1994 [7 U.S.C. 7107].
Soybean Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act, section 1972 [7 U.S.C. 6307].
Swine Health Protection Act, sections 5 and 6 (7 U.S.C. 3804, 3805).
Title V of the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000, section 501(a) (7 U.S.C. 2279e).
United States Cotton Standards Act, as supplemented, section 3 of the Act and section 2 of 47 Stat. 1621 (7 U.S.C. 51b, 53).
United States Grain Standards Act, sections 7(g)(3), 9, 10, and 17A(d) (7 U.S.C. 79(g)(3), 85, 86, 87f-1(d)).
United States Warehouse Act, sections 12 and 25 (7 U.S.C. 246, 253).
Virus-Serum-Toxin Act (21 U.S.C. 156).
Watermelon Research and Promotion Act, section 1651 (7 U.S.C. 4910).

(b) These rules of practice shall also be applicable to:
(1) Adjudicatory proceedings under the regulations promulgated under the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1621 et seq.)
for the denial or withdrawal of inspection, certification, or grading service;1
(2) Adjudicatory proceedings under the regulations promulgated under the Animal Health Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 8301 et seq.) for the
suspension or revocation of accreditation of veterinarians (9 CFR parts 160, 161);
(3) Proceedings for debarment of counsel under §1.141(d) of this subpart;
(4) Adjudicatory proceedings under the regulations promulgated under the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. 2131 et seq.) for the denial of
an initial license application (9 CFR 2.11) or the termination of a license during the license renewal process or at any other time (9 CFR
2.12);
(5) Adjudicatory proceedings under the regulations promulgated under sections 901-905 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and
Reform Act of 1996 (7 U.S.C. 1901 note) pertaining to the commercial transportation of equines to slaughtering facilities (9 CFR part 88);
and

(6) Other adjudicatory proceedings in which the complaint instituting the proceeding so provides with the concurrence of the Assistant
Secretary for Administration.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977]
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: For F
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printed volume and at www.fdsys.gov.

citations affecting §1.131, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the

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§1.132 Definitions.
As used in this subpart, the terms as defined in the statute under which the proceeding is conducted and in the regulations, standards,
instructions, or orders issued thereunder, shall apply with equal force and effect. In addition and except as may be provided otherwise in
this subpart:
Administrator means the Administrator of the Agency administering the statute involved, or any officer or employee of the Agency to
whom authority has heretofore been delegated, or to whom authority may hereafter be delegated, to act for the Administrator.
Complainant means the party instituting the proceeding.
Complaint means the formal complaint, order to show cause, or other document by virtue of which a proceeding is instituted.
Decision means: (1) The Judge's initial decision made in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 556 and 557, and includes the
Judge's (i) findings and conclusions and the reasons or basis therefor on all material issues of fact, law or discretion, (ii) order, and (iii)
rulings on proposed findings, conclusions and orders submitted by the parties; and
(2) The decision and order by the Judicial Officer upon appeal of the Judge's decision.
Hearing means that part of the proceeding which involves the submission of evidence before the Judge for the record in the
proceeding.
Hearing Clerk means the Hearing Clerk, United States Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250.
Judge means any Administrative Law Judge appointed pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3105 and assigned to the proceeding involved.
Judicial Officer means an official of the United States Department of Agriculture delegated authority by the Secretary of Agriculture,
pursuant to the Act of April 4, 1940 (7 U.S.C. 450c-450g) and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. App. (1988)), to perform the
function involved (§2.35(a) of this chapter), or the Secretary of Agriculture if the authority so delegated is exercised by the Secretary.
Mail means to deposit an item in the United States Mail with postage affixed and addressed as necessary to cause it to be delivered to
the address shown by ordinary mail, or by certified or registered mail if specified.
Petitioner means an individual who has filed a petition for review of a determination that the individual is responsibly connected to a
licensee within the meaning of 7 U.S.C. 499a(b)(9).
Re-mail means to mail by ordinary mail to an address an item that has been returned after being sent to the same address by certified
or registered mail.
Respondent means the party proceeded against.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 55 FR 30673, July 27, 1990; 60 FR 8455, Feb. 14, 1995; 61 FR 11503, Mar. 21, 1996; 68 FR 6340, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.133 Institution of proceedings.
(a) Submission of information concerning apparent violations. (1) Any interested person desiring to submit information regarding an
apparent violation of any provision of a statute listed in §1.131 or of any regulation, standard, instruction, or order issued pursuant thereto,
may file the information with the Administrator of the agency administering the statute involved in accordance with this section and any
applicable statutory or regulation provisions. Such information may be made the basis of any appropriate proceeding covered by the rules
in this subpart, or any other appropriate proceeding authorized by the particular statute or the regulations promulgated thereunder.
(2) The information may be submitted by telegram, by letter, or by a preliminary statement of facts, setting forth the essential details of
the transaction complained of. So far as practicable, the information shall include such of the following items as may be applicable:
(i) The name and address of each person and of the agent, if any, representing such person in the transaction involved;
(ii) Place where the alleged violation occurred;
(iii) Quantity and quality or grade of each kind of product or article involved;
(iv) Date of alleged violation;
(v) Car initial and number, if carlot;

(vi) Shipping and destination points;
(vii) If a sale, the date, sale price, and amount actually received;
(viii) If a consignment, the date, reported proceeds, gross, net;
(ix) Amount of damage claimed, if any;
(x) Statement of other material facts, including terms of contract; and
(xi) So far as practicable, true copies of all available papers relating to the transaction complained about, including shipping
documents, letters, telegrams, invoices, manifests, inspection certificates, accounts of sales and any special contracts or agreements.
(3) Upon receipt of the information and supporting evidence, the Administrator shall cause such investigation to be made as, in the
opinion of the Administrator, is justified by the facts. If such investigation discloses that no violation of the Act or of the regulations,
standards, instructions, or orders issued pursuant thereto, has occurred, no further action shall be taken and the person submitting the
information shall be so informed.
(4) The person submitting the information shall not be a party to any proceeding which may be instituted as a result thereof and such
person shall have no legal status in the proceeding, except as a subpoenaed witness or as a deponent in a deposition taken without
expense to such person.
(b) Filing of complaint or petition for review. (1) If there is reason to believe that a person has violated or is violating any provision of a
statute listed in §1.131 or of any regulation, standard, instruction or order issued pursuant thereto, whether based upon information
furnished under paragraph (a) of this section or other information, a complaint may be filed with the Hearing Clerk pursuant to these rules.
(2) Any person determined by the Chief, PACA Branch, pursuant to §§47.47-47.49 of this title to have been responsibly connected
within the meaning of 7 U.S.C. 499a(b)(9) to a licensee who is subject or potentially subject to license suspension or revocation as the
result of an alleged violation of 7 U.S.C. 499b or 499h(b) or as provided in 7 U.S.C. 499g(d) shall be entitled to institute a proceeding under
this section and to have determined the facts with respect to such responsibly connected status by filing with the Hearing Clerk a petition for
review of such determination.
(3) As provided in 5 U.S.C. 558, in any case, except one of willfulness or one in which public health, interest, or safety otherwise
requires, prior to the institution of a formal proceeding which may result in the withdrawal, suspension, or revocation of a “license” as that
term is defined in 5 U.S.C. 551(8), the Administrator, in an effort to effect an amicable or informal settlement of the matter, shall give written
notice to the person involved of the facts or conduct concerned and shall afford such person an opportunity, within a reasonable time fixed
by the Administrator, to demonstrate or achieve compliance with the applicable requirements of the statute, or the regulation, standard,
instruction or order promulgated thereunder.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 60 FR 8455, Feb. 14, 1995; 61 FR 11503, Mar. 21, 1996; 68 FR 6340, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.134 Docket number.
Each proceeding, immediately following its institution, shall be assigned a docket number by the Hearing Clerk, and thereafter the
proceeding shall be referred to by such number.
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§1.135 Contents of complaint or petition for review.
(a) Complaint. A complaint filed pursuant to §1.133(b) shall state briefly and clearly the nature of the proceeding, the identification of
the complainant and the respondent, the legal authority and jurisdiction under which the proceeding is instituted, the allegations of fact and
provisions of law which constitute a basis for the proceeding, and the nature of the relief sought.
(b) Petition for review. The Petition for Review of responsibly connected status shall describe briefly and clearly the determination
sought to be reviewed and shall include a brief statement of the factual and legal matters that the petitioner believes warrant the reversal of
the determination.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 61 FR 11503, Mar. 21, 1996]

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§1.136 Answer.
(a) Filing and service. Within 20 days after the service of the complaint (within 10 days in a proceeding under section 4(d) of the
Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act, 1930), or such other time as may be specified therein, the respondent shall file with the Hearing
Clerk an answer signed by the respondent or the attorney of record in the proceeding. The attorney may file an appearance of record prior
to or simultaneously with the filing of the answer. The answer shall be served upon the complainant, and any other party of record, by the
Hearing Clerk. As response to a petition for review of responsibly connected status, the Chief, PACA Branch, shall within ten days after
being served by the Hearing Clerk with a petition for review, file with the Hearing Clerk a certified copy of the agency record upon which the
Chief, PACA Branch, made the determination that the individual was responsibly connected to a licensee under the Perishable Agricultural
Commodities Act, 7 U.S.C. 499a et seq., and such agency record shall become part of the record in the review proceeding.

(b) Contents. The answer shall:
(1) Clearly admit, deny, or explain each of the allegations of the Complaint and shall clearly set forth any defense asserted by the
respondent; or
(2) State that the respondent admits all the facts alleged in the complaint; or
(3) State that the respondent admits the jurisdictional allegations of the complaint and neither admits nor denies the remaining
allegations and consents to the issuance of an order without further procedure.
(c) Default. Failure to file an answer within the time provided under paragraph (a) of this section shall be deemed, for purposes of the
proceeding, an admission of the allegations in the Complaint, and failure to deny or otherwise respond to an allegation of the Complaint
shall be deemed, for purposes of the proceeding, an admission of said allegation, unless the parties have agreed to a consent decision
pursuant to §1.138.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 61 FR 11504, Mar. 21, 1996; 68 FR 6340, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.137 Amendment of complaint, petition for review, or answer; joinder of related matters.
(a) Amendment. At any time prior to the filing of a motion for a hearing, the complaint, petition for review, answer, or response to
petition for review may be amended. Thereafter, such an amendment may be made with consent of the parties, or as authorized by the
Judge upon a showing of good cause.
(b) Joinder. The Judge shall consolidate for hearing with any proceeding alleging a violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities
Act, 7 U.S.C. 499a et seq., any petitions for review of determination of status by the Chief, PACA Branch, that individuals are responsibly
connected, within the meaning of 7 U.S.C. 499a(b)(9), to the licensee during the period of the alleged violations. In any case in which there
is no pending proceeding alleging a violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act, 7 U.S.C. 499a et seq., but there have been
filed more than one petition for review of determination of responsible connection to the same licensee, such petitions for review shall be
consolidated for hearing.
[61 FR 11504, Mar. 21, 1996, as amended at 68 FR 6340, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.138 Consent decision.
At any time before the Judge files the decision, the parties may agree to the entry of a consent decision. Such agreement shall be filed
with the Hearing Clerk in the form of a decision signed by the parties with appropriate space for signature by the Judge, and shall contain
an admission of at least the jurisdictional facts, consent to the issuance of the agreed decision without further procedure and such other
admissions or statements as may be agreed between the parties. The Judge shall enter such decision without further procedure, unless an
error is apparent on the face of the document. Such decision shall have the same force and effect as a decision issued after full hearing,
and shall become final upon issuance to become effective in accordance with the terms of the decision.
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§1.139 Procedure upon failure to file an answer or admission of facts.
The failure to file an answer, or the admission by the answer of all the material allegations of fact contained in the complaint, shall
constitute a waiver of hearing. Upon such admission or failure to file, complainant shall file a proposed decision, along with a motion for the
adoption thereof, both of which shall be served upon the respondent by the Hearing Clerk. Within 20 days after service of such motion and
proposed decision, the respondent may file with the Hearing Clerk objections thereto. If the Judge finds that meritorious objections have
been filed, complainant's Motion shall be denied with supporting reasons. If meritorious objections are not filed, the Judge shall issue a
decision without further procedure or hearing. Copies of the decision or denial of complainant's Motion shall be served by the Hearing Clerk
upon each of the parties and may be appealed pursuant to §1.145. Where the decision as proposed by complainant is entered, such
decision shall become final and effective without further proceedings 35 days after the date of service thereof upon the respondent, unless
there is an appeal to the Judicial Officer by a party to the proceeding pursuant to §1.145: Provided, however, That no decision shall be final
for purposes of judicial review except a final decision of the Judicial Officer upon appeal.
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§1.140 Conferences and procedure.
(a) Purpose and scope. (1) Upon motion of a party or upon the Judge's own motion, the Judge may direct the parties or their counsel to
attend a conference at any reasonable time, prior to or during the course of the hearing, when the Judge finds that the proceeding would be
expedited by a conference. Reasonable notice of the time, place, and manner of the conference shall be given. The Judge may order each
of the parties to furnish at or subsequent to the conference any or all of the following:
(i) An outline of the case or defense;
(ii) The legal theories upon which the party will rely;
(iii) Copies of or a list of documents which the party anticipates introducing at the hearing; and

(iv) A list of anticipated witnesses who will testify on behalf of the party. At the discretion of the party furnishing such list of witnesses,
the names of the witnesses need not be furnished if they are otherwise identified in some meaningful way such as a short statement of the
type of evidence they will offer.
(2) The Judge shall not order any of the foregoing procedures that a party can show is inappropriate or unwarranted under the
circumstances of the particular case.
(3) At the conference, the following matters shall be considered:
(i) The simplification of issues;
(ii) The necessity of amendments to pleadings;
(iii) The possibility of obtaining stipulations of facts and of the authenticity, accuracy, and admissibility of documents, which will avoid
unnecessary proof;
(iv) The limitation of the number of expert or other witnesses;
(v) Negotiation, compromise, or settlement of issues;
(vi) The exchange of copies of proposed exhibits;
(vii) The identification of documents or matters of which official notice may be requested;
(viii) A schedule to be followed by the parties for completion of the actions decided at the conference; and
(ix) Such other matters as may expedite and aid in the disposition of the proceeding.
(b) Reporting. A conference will not be stenographically reported unless so directed by the Judge.
(c) Manner of Conference. (1) The conference shall be conducted by telephone or correspondence unless the Judge determines that
conducting the conference by audio-visual telecommunication:
(i) Is necessary to prevent prejudice to a party;
(ii) Is necessary because of a disability of any individual expected to participate in the conference; or
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the conference by telephone or correspondence. If the Judge determines that a conference
conducted by audio-visual telecommunication would measurably increase the United States Department of Agriculture's cost of conducting
the conference, the conference shall be conducted by personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the
conference, by telephone, or by correspondence.
(2) If the conference is not conducted by telephone or correspondence, the conference shall be conducted by audio-visual
telecommunication unless the Judge determines that conducting the conference by personal attendance of any individual who is expected
to participate in the conference:
(i) Is necessary to prevent prejudice to a party;
(ii) Is necessary because of a disability of any individual expected to participate in the conference; or
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the conference by audio-visual telecommunication.
(d) Order. Actions taken as a result of a conference shall be reduced to a written appropriate order, unless the Judge concludes that a
stenographic report shall suffice, or, if the conference takes place within 7 days of the beginning of the hearing, the Judge elects to make a
statement on the record at the hearing summarizing the actions taken.
(e) Related matters. Upon motion of a respondent, the Judge may order the attorney for the complainant to produce and permit the
respondent to inspect and copy or photograph any relevant written or recorded statements or confessions made by such respondent within
the possession, custody or control of the complainant.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 60 FR 8455, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.141 Procedure for hearing.
(a) Request for hearing. Any party may request a hearing on the facts by including such request in the complaint or answer, or by a
separate request, in writing, filed with the Hearing Clerk within the time in which an answer may be filed. A petition for review shall be
deemed a request for a hearing. Failure to request a hearing within the time allowed for the filing of the answer shall constitute a waiver of
such hearing. Waiver of hearing shall not be deemed to be a waiver of the right to request oral argument before the Judicial Officer upon
appeal of the Judge's decision. In the event the respondent denies any material fact and fails to file a timely request for a hearing, the
matter may be set down for hearing on motion of the complainant or upon the Judge's own motion.
(b) Time, place, and manner. (1) If any material issue of fact is joined by the pleadings, the Judge, upon motion of any party stating that
the matter is at issue and is ready for hearing, shall set a time, place, and manner for hearing as soon as feasible after the motion is filed,
with due regard for the public interest and the convenience and necessity of the parties. The Judge shall file with the Hearing Clerk a notice

stating the time and place of the hearing.2 This notice shall state whether the hearing will be conducted by telephone, audio-visual
telecommunication, or personal attendance of any individual expected to participate in the hearing. The Judge's determination regarding the
manner of the hearing shall be made in accordance with paragraphs (b)(3) and (b)(4) of this section. If any change in the time, place, or
manner of the hearing is made, the Judge shall file with the Hearing Clerk a notice of such change, which notice shall be served upon the
parties, unless it is made during the course of an oral hearing and made part of the transcript or recording, or actual notice is given to the
parties.
2
The place of hearing in a proceeding under the Packers and Stockyards Act shall be set in accordance with the Packers and Stockyards Act (7 U.S.C. 228(e)
and (f)). In essence, if there is only one respondent, the hearing is to be held as near as possible to the respondent's place of business or residence depending on
the availability of an appropriate location for conducting the hearing. If there is more than one respondent and they have their places of business or residence
within a single unit of local government, a single geographical area within a State, or a single State, the hearing is to be held as near as possible to their places of
business or residence depending on the availability of an appropriate location for conducting the hearing. If there is more than one respondent, and they have their
places of business or residence distant from each other, 7 U.S.C. 228(e) and (f) have no applicability.

(2)(i) If any material issue of fact is joined by the pleadings and the matter is at issue and is ready for hearing, any party may move that
the hearing be conducted by telephone or personal attendance of any individual expected to attend the hearing rather than by audio-visual
telecommunication. Any motion that the hearing be conducted by telephone or personal attendance of any individual expected to attend the
hearing must be accompanied by a memorandum in support of the motion stating the basis for the motion and the circumstances that
require the hearing to be conducted other than by audio-visual telecommunication.
(ii) Within 10 days after the Judge issues a notice stating the manner in which the hearing is to be conducted, any party may move that
the Judge reconsider the manner in which the hearing is to be conducted. Any motion for reconsideration must be accompanied by a
memorandum in support of the motion stating the basis for the motion and the circumstances that require the hearing to be conducted other
than in accordance with the Judges's notice.
(3) The hearing shall be conducted by audio-visual telecommunication unless the Judge determines that conducting the hearing by
personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the hearing:
(i) Is necessary to prevent prejudice to a party;
(ii) Is necessary because of a disability of any individual expected to participate in the hearing; or
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the hearing by audio-visual telecommunication. If the Judge determines that a hearing conducted
by audio-visual telecommunication would measurably increase the United States Department of Agriculture's cost of conducting the
hearing, the hearing shall be conducted by personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the hearing or by
telephone.
(4) The Judge may, in his or her sole discretion or in response to a motion by a party to the proceeding, conduct the hearing by
telephone if the Judge finds that a hearing conducted by telephone:
(i) Would provide a full and fair evidentiary hearing;
(ii) Would not prejudice any party; and
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the hearing by audio-visual telecommunication or personal attendance of any individual who is
expected to participate in the hearing.
(c) Appearances. The parties may appear in person or by attorney of record in the proceeding. Any person who appears as attorney
must conform to the standards of ethical conduct required of practitioners before the courts of the United States.
(d) Debarment of attorney. (1) Whenever a Judge finds that a person acting as attorney for any party to the proceeding is guilty of
unethical or contumacious conduct, in or in connection with a proceeding , the Judge may order that such person be precluded from further
acting as attorney in the proceeding. An appeal to the Judicial Officer may be taken from any such order, but no proceeding shall be
delayed or suspended pending disposition of the appeal: Provided, That the Judge shall suspend the proceeding for a reasonable time for
the purpose of enabling the party to obtain another attorney.
(2) Whenever it is found, after notice and opportunity for hearing, that a person, who is acting or has acted as attorney for another
person in any proceeding before the United States Department of Agriculture, is unfit to act as such counsel because of such unethical or
contumacious conduct, such person will be precluded from acting as counsel in any or all proceedings before the Department as found to
be appropriate.
(e) Failure to appear. (1) A respondent who, after being duly notified, fails to appear at the hearing without good cause, shall be
deemed to have waived the right to an oral hearing in the proceeding and to have admitted any facts which may be presented at the
hearing. Such failure by the respondent shall also constitute an admission of all the material allegations of fact contained in the complaint.
Complainant shall have an election whether to follow the procedure set forth in §1.139 or whether to present evidence, in whole or in part,
in the form of affidavits or by oral testimony before the Judge. Failure to appear at a hearing shall not be deemed to be a waiver of the right
to be served with a copy of the Judge's decision and to appeal and request oral argument before the Judicial Officer with respect thereto in
the manner provided in §1.145.
(2) If the petitioner in the case of a Petition for Review of a determination of responsibly connected status within the meaning of 7
U.S.C. 499a(b)(9), having been duly notified, fails to appear at the hearing without good cause, such petitioner shall be deemed to have
waived the right to a hearing and to have voluntarily withdrawn the petition for review.
(f) Order of proceeding. Except as may be determined otherwise by the Judge, the complainant shall proceed first at the hearing.

(g) Written statements of direct testimony. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (g)(2) of this section, each party must exchange with all
other parties a written narrative verified statement of the oral direct testimony that the party will provide at any hearing to be conducted by
telephone; the direct testimony of each employee or agent of the party that the party will call to provide oral direct testimony at any hearing
to be conducted by telephone; and the direct testimony of each expert witness that the party will call to provide oral direct testimony at any
hearing to be conducted by telephone. The written direct testimony of witnesses shall be exchanged by the parties at least 10 days prior to
the hearing. The oral direct testimony provided by a witness at a hearing conducted by telephone will be limited to the presentation of the
written direct testimony, unless the Judge finds that oral direct testimony which is supplemental to the written direct testimony would further
the public interest and would not constitute surprise.
(2) The parties shall not be required to exchange testimony in accordance with this paragraph if the hearing is scheduled to begin less
than 20 days after the Judge's notice stating the time of the hearing.
(h) Evidence—(1) In general. (i) The testimony of witnesses at a hearing shall be on oath or affirmation and subject to crossexamination.
(ii) Upon a finding of good cause, the Judge may order that any witness be examined separately and apart from all other witnesses
except those who may be parties to the proceeding.
(iii) After a witness called by the complainant has testified on direct examination, any other party may request and obtain the production
of any statement, or part thereof, of such witness in the possession of the complainant which relates to the subject matter as to which the
witness has testified. Such production shall be made according to the procedures and subject to the definitions and limitations prescribed in
the Jencks Act (18 U.S.C. 3500).
(iv) Evidence which is immaterial, irrelevant, or unduly repetitious, or which is not of the sort upon which responsible persons are
accustomed to rely, shall be excluded insofar as practicable.
(2) Objections. (i) If a party objects to the admission of any evidence or to the limitation of the scope of any examination or crossexamination or to any other ruling of the Judge, the party shall state briefly the grounds of such objection, whereupon an automatic
exception will follow if the objection is overruled by the Judge.
(ii) Only objections made before the Judge may subsequently be relied upon in the proceeding.
(3) Depositions. The deposition of any witness shall be admitted in the manner provided in and subject to the provisions of §1.148.
(4) Exhibits. Unless the Judge finds that the furnishing of copies is impracticable, four copies of each exhibit shall be filed with the
Judge: Provided, That, where there are more than two parties in the proceeding, an additional copy shall be filed for each additional party. A
true copy of an exhibit may be substituted for the original.
(5) Official records or documents. An official government record or document or entry therein, if admissible for any purpose, shall be
admissible in evidence without the production of the person who made or prepared the same, and shall be prima facie evidence of the
relevant facts stated therein. Such record or document shall be evidenced by an official publication thereof or by a copy certified by a
person having legal authority to make such certification.
(6) Official notice. Official notice shall be taken of such matters as are judicially noticed by the courts of the United States and of any
other matter of technical, scientific, or commercial fact of established character: Provided, That the parties shall be given adequate notice of
matters so noticed, and shall be given adequate opportunity to show that such facts are erroneously noticed.
(7) Offer of proof. Whenever evidence is excluded by the Judge, the party offering such evidence may make an offer of proof, which
shall be included in the transcript or recording. The offer of proof shall consist of a brief statement describing the evidence excluded. If the
evidence consists of a brief oral statement, it shall be included in the transcript or recording in toto. If the evidence consists of an exhibit, it
shall be marked for identification and inserted in the hearing record. In either event, the evidence shall be considered a part of the transcript
or recording and hearing record if the Judicial Officer, upon appeal, decides the Judge's ruling excluding the evidence was erroneous and
prejudicial. If the Judicial Officer decides the Judge's ruling excluding the evidence was erroneous and prejudicial and that it would be
inappropriate to have such evidence considered a part of the hearing record, the Judicial Officer may direct that the hearing be reopened to
permit the taking of such evidence or for any other purpose in connection with the excluded evidence.
(i) Transcript or recording. (1) Hearings to be conducted by telephone shall be recorded verbatim by electronic recording device.
Hearings conducted by audio-visual telecommunication or the personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the
hearing shall be transcribed, unless the Judge finds that recording the hearing verbatim would expedite the proceeding and the Judge
orders the hearing to be recorded verbatim. The Judge shall certify that to the best of his or her knowledge and belief any recording made
pursuant to this paragraph with exhibits that were accepted into evidence is the record of the hearing.
(2) If a hearing is recorded verbatim, a party requests the transcript of a hearing or part of a hearing, and the Judge determines that the
disposition of the proceeding would be expedited by a transcript of the hearing or part of a hearing, the Judge shall order the verbatim
transcription of the recording as requested by the party.
(3) Recordings or transcripts of hearings shall be made available to any person at actual cost of duplication.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 60 FR 8455, Feb. 14, 1995; 61 FR 11504, Mar. 21, 1996; 68 FR 6340, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.142 Post-hearing procedure.

(a) Corrections to transcript or recording. (1) Within the period of time fixed by the Judge, any party may file a motion proposing
corrections to the transcript or recording.
(2) Unless a party files such a motion in the manner prescribed, the transcript or recording shall be presumed, except for obvious
typographical errors, to be a true, correct, and complete transcript or recording of the testimony given at the hearing and to contain an
accurate description or reference to all exhibits received in evidence and made part of the hearing record, and shall be deemed to be
certified without further action by the Judge.
(3) As soon as practicable after the close of the hearing and after consideration of any timely objections filed as to the transcript or
recording, the Judge shall issue an order making any corrections to the transcript or recording which the Judge finds are warranted, which
corrections shall be entered onto the original transcript or recording by the Hearing Clerk (without obscuring the original text).
(b) Proposed findings of fact, conclusions, orders, and briefs. Prior to the Judge's decision, each party shall be afforded a reasonable
opportunity to submit for consideration proposed findings of fact, conclusions, order, and brief in support thereof. A copy of each such
document filed by a party shall be served upon each of the other parties.
(c) Judge's decision. (1) The Judge may, upon motion of any party or in his or her own discretion, issue a decision orally at the close of
the hearing, or within a reasonable time after the closing of the hearing.
(2) If the decision is announced orally, a copy thereof, excerpted from the transcript or recording, shall be furnished to the parties by the
Hearing Clerk. Irrespective of the date such copy is mailed, the issuance date of the decision shall be the date the oral decision was
announced.
(3) If the decision is in writing, it shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk and served upon the parties as provided in §1.147.
(4) The Judge's decision shall become final and effective without further proceedings 35 days after the issuance of the decision, if
announced orally at the hearing, or if the decision is in writing, 35 days after the date of service thereof upon the respondent, unless there is
an appeal to the Judicial Officer by a party to the proceeding pursuant to §1.145; Provided, however, that no decision shall be final for
purposes of judicial review except a final decision of the Judicial Officer upon appeal.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 53 FR 7177, Mar. 7, 1988; 60 FR 8456, Feb. 14, 1995; 68 FR 6340, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.143 Motions and requests.
(a) General. All motions and requests shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk, and served upon all the parties, except (1) requests for
extensions of time pursuant to §1.147, (2) requests for subpoenas pursuant to §1.149, and (3) motions and requests made on the record
during the oral hearing. The Judge shall rule upon all motions and requests filed or made prior to the filing of an appeal of the Judge's
decision pursuant to §1.145, except motions directly relating to the appeal. Thereafter, the Judicial Officer will rule on any motions and
requests, as well as the motions directly relating to the appeal.
(b) Motions entertained. (1) Any motion will be entertained other than a motion to dismiss on the pleading.
(2) All motions and request concerning the complaint must be made within the time allowed for filing an answer.
(c) Contents. All written motions and requests shall state the particular order, ruling, or action desired and the grounds therefor.
(d) Response to motions and requests. Within 20 days after service of any written motion or request, or within such shorter or longer
period as may be fixed by the Judge or the Judicial Officer, an opposing party may file a response to the motion or request. The other party
shall have no right to reply to the response; however, the Judge or the Judicial Officer, in the Judge's or the Judicial Officer's discretion, may
order that a reply be filed.
(e) Certification to the judicial officer. The submission or certification of any motion, request, objection, or other question to the Judicial
Officer prior to the filing of an appeal pursuant to §1.145 shall be made by and in the discretion of the Judge. The Judge may either rule
upon or certify the motion, request, objection, or other question to the Judicial Officer, but not both.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 55 FR 30673, July 27, 1990; 68 FR 6340, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.144 Judges.
(a) Assignment. No Judge shall be assigned to serve in any proceeding who (1) has any pecuniary interest in any matter or business
involved in the proceeding, (2) is related within the third degree by blood or marriage to any party to the proceeding, or (3) has any conflict
of interest which might impair the Judge's objectivity in the proceeding.
(b) Disqualification of Judge. (1) Any party to the proceeding may, by motion made to the Judge, request that the Judge withdraw from
the proceeding because of an alleged disqualifying reason. Such motion shall set forth with particularity the grounds of alleged
disqualification. The Judge may then either rule upon or certify the motion to the Secretary, but not both.
(2) A Judge shall withdraw from any proceeding for any reason deemed by the Judge to be disqualifying.
(c) Powers. Subject to review as provided in this subpart, the Judge, in any assigned proceeding, shall have power to:

(1) Rule upon motions and requests;
(2) Set the time, place, and manner of a conference and the hearing, adjourn the hearing, and change the time, place, and manner of
the hearing;
(3) Administer oaths and affirmations;
(4) Issue subpoenas as authorized by the statute under which the proceeding is conducted, requiring the attendance and testimony of
witnesses and the production of books, contracts, papers, and other documentary evidence at the hearing;
(5) Summon and examine witnesses and receive evidence at the hearing;
(6) Take or order the taking of depositions as authorized under these rules;
(7) Admit or exclude evidence;
(8) Hear oral argument on facts or law;
(9) Require each party to provide all other parties and the Judge with a copy of any exhibit that the party intends to introduce into
evidence prior to any hearing to be conducted by telephone or audio-visual telecommunication;
(10) Require each party to provide all other parties with a copy of any document that the party intends to use to examine a deponent
prior to any deposition to be conducted by telephone or audio-visual telecommunication;
(11) Require that any hearing to be conducted by telephone or audio-visual telecommunication be conducted at locations at which the
parties and the Judge are able to transmit and receive documents during the hearing;
(12) Require that any deposition to be conducted by telephone or audio-visual telecommunication be conducted at locations at which
the parties are able to transmit and receive documents during the deposition;
(13) Do all acts and take all measures necessary for the maintenance of order, including the exclusion of contumacious counsel or
other persons; and
(14) Take all other actions authorized under these rules.
(d) Who may act in the absence of the Judge. In case of the absence of the Judge or the Judge's inability to act, the powers and duties
to be performed by the Judge under these rules of practice in connection with any assigned proceeding may, without abatement of the
proceeding unless otherwise directed by the Chief Judge, be assigned to any other Judge.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 60 FR 8456, Feb. 14, 1995; 68 FR 6340, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.145 Appeal to Judicial Officer.
(a) Filing of petition. Within 30 days after receiving service of the Judge's decision, if the decision is a written decision, or within 30 days
after issuance of the Judge's decision, if the decision is an oral decision, a party who disagrees with the decision, any part of the decision,
or any ruling by the Judge or who alleges any deprivation of rights, may appeal the decision to the Judicial Officer by filing an appeal
petition with the Hearing Clerk. As provided in §1.141(h)(2), objections regarding evidence or a limitation regarding examination or crossexamination or other ruling made before the Judge may be relied upon in an appeal. Each issue set forth in the appeal petition and the
arguments regarding each issue shall be separately numbered; shall be plainly and concisely stated; and shall contain detailed citations to
the record, statutes, regulations, or authorities being relied upon in support of each argument. A brief may be filed in support of the appeal
simultaneously with the appeal petition.
(b) Response to appeal petition. Within 20 days after the service of a copy of an appeal petition and any brief in support thereof, filed
by a party to the proceeding, any other party may file with the Hearing Clerk a response in support of or in opposition to the appeal and in
such response any relevant issue, not presented in the appeal petition, may be raised.
(c) Transmittal of record. Whenever an appeal of a Judge's decision is filed and a response thereto has been filed or time for filing a
response has expired, the Hearing Clerk shall transmit to the Judicial Officer the record of the proceeding. Such record shall include: the
pleadings; motions and requests filed and rulings thereon; the transcript or recording of the testimony taken at the hearing, together with the
exhibits filed in connection therewith; any documents or papers filed in connection with a prehearing conference; such proposed findings of
fact, conclusions, and orders, and briefs in support thereof, as may have been filed in connection with the proceeding; the Judge's decision;
such exceptions, statements of objections and briefs in support thereof as may have been filed in the proceeding; and the appeal petition,
and such briefs in support thereof and responses thereto as may have been filed in the proceeding.
(d) Oral argument. A party bringing an appeal may request, within the prescribed time for filing such appeal, an opportunity for oral
argument before the Judicial Officer. Within the time allowed for filing a response, appellee may file a request in writing for opportunity for
such an oral argument. Failure to make such request in writing, within the prescribed time period, shall be deemed a waiver of oral
argument. The Judicial Officer may grant, refuse, or limit any request for oral argument. Oral argument shall not be transcribed unless so
ordered in advance by the Judicial Officer for good cause shown upon request of a party or upon the Judicial Officer's own motion.
(e) Scope of argument. Argument to be heard on appeal, whether oral or on brief, shall be limited to the issues raised in the appeal or
in the response to the appeal, except that if the Judicial Officer determines that additional issues should be argued, the parties shall be
given reasonable notice of such determination, so as to permit preparation of adequate arguments on all issues to be argued.

(f) Notice of argument; postponement. The Hearing Clerk shall advise all parties of the time and place at which oral argument will be
heard. A request for postponement of the argument must be made by motion filed a reasonable amount of time in advance of the date fixed
for argument.
(g) Order of argument. The appellant is entitled to open and conclude the argument.
(h) Submission on briefs. By agreement of the parties, an appeal may be submitted for decision on the briefs, but the Judicial Officer
may direct that the appeal be argued orally.
(i) Decision of the judicial officer on appeal. As soon as practicable after the receipt of the record from the Hearing Clerk, or, in case
oral argument was had, as soon as practicable thereafter, the Judicial Officer, upon the basis of and after due consideration of the record
and any matter of which official notice is taken, shall rule on the appeal. If the Judicial Officer decides that no change or modification of the
Judge's decision is warranted, the Judicial Officer may adopt the Judge's decision as the final order in the proceeding, preserving any right
of the party bringing the appeal to seek judicial review of such decision in the proper forum. A final order issued by the Judicial Officer shall
be filed with the Hearing Clerk. Such order may be regarded by the respondent as final for purposes of judicial review without filing a
petition for rehearing, reargument, or reconsideration of the decision of the Judicial Officer.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 60 FR 8456, Feb. 14, 1995; 68 FR 6341, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.146 Petitions for reopening hearing; for rehearing or reargument of proceeding; or for reconsideration of the decision of the
Judicial Officer.
(a) Petition requisite—(1) Filing; service; ruling. A petition for reopening the hearing to take further evidence, or for rehearing or
reargument of the proceeding, or for reconsideration of the decision of the Judicial Officer, must be made by petition filed with the Hearing
Clerk. Every such petition must state specifically the grounds relied upon. Any such petition filed prior to the filing of an appeal of the
Judge's decision pursuant to §1.145 shall be ruled upon by the Judge, and any such petition filed thereafter shall be ruled upon by the
Judicial Officer.
(2) Petition to reopen hearing. A petition to reopen a hearing to take further evidence may be filed at any time prior to the issuance of
the decision of the Judicial Officer. Every such petition shall state briefly the nature and purpose of the evidence to be adduced, shall show
that such evidence is not merely cumulative, and shall set forth a good reason why such evidence was not adduced at the hearing.
(3) Petition to rehear or reargue proceeding, or to reconsider the decision of the Judicial Officer. A petition to rehear or reargue the
proceeding or to reconsider the decision of the Judicial Officer shall be filed within 10 days after the date of service of such decision upon
the party filing the petition. Every petition must state specifically the matters claimed to have been erroneously decided and alleged errors
must be briefly stated.
(b) Procedure for disposition of petitions. Within 20 days following the service of any petition provided for in this section, any party to
the proceeding may file with the Hearing Clerk a reply thereto. As soon as practicable thereafter, the Judge or the Judicial Officer, as the
case may be, shall announce the determination whether to grant or deny the petition. The decision of the Judicial Officer shall automatically
be stayed pending the determination to grant or deny a timely petition. Such decision shall not be final for purposes of judicial review until
the petition is denied or the decision is affirmed or modified pursuant to the petition and the time for judicial review shall begin to run upon
the filing of such final action on the petition. In the event that any such petition is granted, the applicable rules of practice, as set out
elsewhere herein, shall be followed. A person filing a petition under this section shall be regarded as the moving party, although such
person shall be referred to as the complainant or respondent, depending upon the designation in the original proceeding.
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§1.147 Filing; service; extensions of time; and computation of time.
(a) Filing; number of copies. Except as otherwise provided in this section, all documents or papers required or authorized by the rules
in this part to be filed with the Hearing Clerk shall be filed in quadruplicate: Provided,That where there are more than two parties in the
proceeding, an additional copy shall be filed for each additional party. Any document or paper required or authorized under the rules in this
part to be filed with the Hearing Clerk shall, during the course of an oral hearing, be filed with the Judge.
(b) Who shall make service. Copies of all such documents or papers required or authorized by the rules in this part to be filed with the
Hearing Clerk shall be served upon the parties by the Hearing Clerk, or by some other employee of the Department, or by a U.S. Marshal or
deputy marshal.
(c) Service on party other than the Secretary. (1) Any complaint or other document initially served on a person to make that person a
party respondent in a proceeding, proposed decision and motion for adoption thereof upon failure to file an answer or other admission of all
material allegations of fact contained in a complaint, initial decision, final decision, appeal petition filed by the Department, or other
document specifically ordered by the Judge to be served by certified or registered mail, shall be deemed to be received by any party to a
proceeding, other than the Secretary or agent thereof, on the date of delivery by certified or registered mail to the last known principal place
of business of such party, last known principal place of business of the attorney or representative of record of such party, or last known
residence of such party if an individual, Provided that, if any such document or paper is sent by certified or registered mail but is returned
marked by the postal service as unclaimed or refused, it shall be deemed to be received by such party on the date of remailing by ordinary
mail to the same address.
(2) Any document or paper, other than one specified in paragraph (c)(1) of this section or written questions for a deposition as provided
in §1.148(d)(2), shall be deemed to be received by any party to a proceeding, other than the Secretary or agent thereof, on the date of

mailing by ordinary mail to the last known principal place of business of such party, last known principal place of business of the attorney or
representative of record of such party, or last known residence of such party if an individual.
(3) Any document or paper served other than by mail, on any party to a proceeding, other than the Secretary or agent thereof, shall be
deemed to be received by such party on the date of:
(i) Delivery to any responsible individual at, or leaving in a conspicuous place at, the last known principal place of business of such
party, last known principal place of business of the attorney or representative of record of such party, or last known residence of such party
if an individual, or
(ii) Delivery to such party if an individual, to an officer or director of such party if a corporation, or to a member of such party if a
partnership, at any location.
(d) Service on another. Any subpoena, written questions for a deposition under §1.148(d)(2), or other document or paper, served on
any person other than a party to a proceeding, the Secretary or agent thereof, shall be deemed to be received by such person on the date
of:
(1) Delivery by certified mail or registered mail to the last known principal place of business of such person, last known principal place
of business of the attorney or representative of record of such person, or last known residence of such person if an individual;
(2) Delivery other than by mail to any responsible individual at, or leaving in a conspicuous place at, any such location; or
(3) Delivery to such party if an individual, to an officer or director of such party if a corporation, or to a member of such party if a
partnership, at any location.
(e) Proof of service. Any of the following, in the possession of the Department, showing such service, shall be deemed to be accurate:
(1) A certified or registered mail receipt returned by the postal service with a signature;
(2) An official record of the postal service;
(3) An entry on a docket record or a copy placed in a docket file by the Hearing Clerk of the Department or by an employee of the
Hearing Clerk in the ordinary course of business;
(4) A certificate of service, which need not be separate from and may be incorporated in the document or paper of which it certifies
service, showing the method, place and date of service in writing and signed by an individual with personal knowledge
thereof, Provided that such certificate must be verified by oath or declaration under penalty of perjury if the individual certifying service is
not a party to the proceeding in which such document or paper is served, an attorney or representative of record for such a party, or an
official or employee of the United States or of a State or political subdivision thereof.
(f) Extensions of time. The time for the filing of any document or paper required or authorized under the rules in this part to be filed may
be extended by the Judge or the Judicial Officer as provided in §1.143, if, in the judgment of the Judge or the Judicial Officer, as the case
may be, there is good reason for the extension. In all instances in which time permits, notice of the request for extension of the time shall be
given to the other party with opportunity to submit views concerning the request.
(g) Effective date of filing. Any document or paper required or authorized under the rules in this part to be filed shall be deemed to be
filed at the time when it reaches the Hearing Clerk; or, if authorized to be filed with another officer or employee of the Department it shall be
deemed to be filed at the time when it reaches such officer or employee.
(h) Computation of time. Saturdays, Sundays and Federal holidays shall be included in computing the time allowed for the filing of any
document or paper: Provided, That, when such time expires on a Saturday, Sunday, or Federal holiday, such period shall be extended to
include the next following business day.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 55 FR 30674, July 27, 1990; 60 FR 8456, Feb. 14, 1995; 68 FR 6341, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.148 Depositions.
(a) Motion for taking deposition. Upon the motion of a party to the proceeding, the Judge may, at any time after the filing of the
complaint, order the taking of testimony by deposition. The Motion shall be in writing, shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk, and shall set
forth:
(1) The name and address of the proposed deponent;
(2) The name and address of the person (referred to hereafter in this section as the “officer”) qualified under the regulations in this part
to take depositions, before whom the proposed examination is to be made;
(3) The proposed time and place of the examination, which shall be at least 15 days after the date of the mailing of the motion; and
(4) The reasons why such deposition should be taken, which shall be solely for the purpose of eliciting testimony which otherwise might
not be available at the time of hearing, for uses as provided in paragraph (g) of this section.
(b) Judge's order for taking deposition. (1) If the Judge finds that the testimony may not be otherwise available at the hearing, the
taking of the deposition may be ordered. The order shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk and shall state:

(i) The time of the deposition;
(ii) The place of the deposition;
(iii) The manner of the deposition (telephone, audio-visual telecommunication, or personal attendance of those who are to participate in
the deposition);
(iv) The name of the officer before whom the deposition is to be made; and
(v) The name of the deponent. The officer and the time, place, and manner need not be the same as those suggested in the motion for
the deposition.
(2) The deposition shall be conducted by telephone unless the Judge determines that conducting the deposition by audio-visual
telecommunication:
(i) Is necessary to prevent prejudice to a party;
(ii) Is necessary because of a disability of any individual expected to participate in the deposition; or
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the deposition by telephone. If the Judge determines that a deposition conducted by audio-visual
telecommunication would measurably increase the United States Department of Agriculture's cost of conducting the deposition, the
deposition shall be conducted by personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the deposition or by telephone.
(3) If the deposition is not conducted by telephone, the deposition shall be conducted by audio-visual telecommunication unless the
Judge determines that conducting the deposition by personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the deposition:
(i) Is necessary to prevent prejudice to a party;
(ii) Is necessary because of a disability of any individual expected to participate in the deposition; or
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the deposition by telephone or audio-visual telecommunication.
(c) Qualifications of officer. The deposition shall be made before the Judge or before an officer authorized by the law of the United
States or by the law of the place of the examination to administer oaths, or before an officer authorized by the Secretary to administer
oaths.
(d) Procedure on examination. (1) The deponent shall be examined under oath or affirmation and shall be subject to crossexamination. Objections to questions or documents shall be in short form, stating the grounds of objections relied upon. The questions
proponded, together with all objections made (but not including argument or debate), shall be recorded verbatim. In lieu of oral examination,
parties may transmit written questions to the officer prior to the examination and the officer shall propound such questions to the deponent.
(2) The applicant shall arrange for the examination of the witness either by oral examination, or by written questions upon agreement of
the parties or as directed by the Judge. If the examination is conducted by means of written questions, copies of the applicant's questions
must be received by the other party to the proceeding and the officer at least 10 days prior to the date set for the examination unless
otherwise agreed, and any cross questions of a party other than the applicant must be received by the applicant and the officer at any time
prior to the time of the examination.
(e) Certification by officer. The officer shall certify on the deposition that the deponent was duly sworn and that the deposition is a true
record of the deponent's testimony. The officer shall then securely seal the deposition, together with one copy thereof (unless there are
more than two parties in the proceeding, in which case there should be another copy for each additional party), in an envelope and mail the
same by registered or certified mail to the Hearing Clerk.
(f) Corrections to the transcript or recording. (1) At any time prior to the hearing, any party may file a motion proposing corrections to
the transcript or recording of the deposition.
(2) Unless a party files such a motion in the manner prescribed, the transcript or recording shall be presumed, except for obvious
typographical errors, to be a true, correct, and complete transcript or recording of the testimony given in the deposition proceeding and to
contain an accurate description or reference to all exhibits in connection therewith, and shall be deemed to be certified correct without
further procedure.
(3) At any time prior to use of the deposition in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section and after consideration of any objections
filed thereto, the Judge may issue an order making any corrections in the transcript or recording which the Judge finds are warranted, which
corrections shall be entered onto the original transcript or recording by the Hearing Clerk (without obscuring the original text).
(g) Use of deposition. A deposition ordered and taken in accordance with the provisions of this section may be used in a proceeding
under these rules if the Judge finds that the evidence is otherwise admissible and (1) that the witness is dead; (2) that the witness is unable
to attend or testify because of age, sickness, infirmity, or imprisonment; (3) that the party offering the deposition has endeavored to procure
the attendance of the witness by subpoena, but has been unable to do so; or (4) that such exceptional circumstances exist as to make it
desirable, in the interests of justice, to allow the deposition to be used. If the party upon whose motion the deposition was taken refuses to
offer it in evidence, any other party may offer the deposition or any part thereof in evidence. If only part of a deposition is offered in evidence
by a party, an adverse party may require the introduction of any other part which ought in fairness to be considered with the part introduced,
and any party may introduce any other parts.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 55 FR 30674, July 27, 1990; 60 FR 8456, Feb. 14, 1995; 68 FR 6341, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.149 Subpoenas.3
3

This section relates only to subpoenas for the stated purpose and has no relevance with respect to investigatory subpoenas.

(a) Issuance of subpoenas. The attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of documentary evidence from any place in
the United States on behalf of any party to the proceeding may be required by subpoena at any designated place of hearing if authorized by
the statute under which the proceeding is conducted. Subpoenas shall be issued by the Judge upon a reasonable showing by the applicant
of the grounds and necessity thereof; and with respect to subpoenas for the production of documents, the request shall also show their
competency, relevancy, and materiality. All requests for subpoenas shall be in writing, unless waived by the Judge for good cause shown.
Except for good cause shown, requests for subpoenas shall be received by the Judge at least 10 days prior to the date set for the hearing.
(b) Service of subpoenas. Subpoenas may be served by any person not less than 18 years of age. The party at whose instance a
subpoena is issued shall be responsible for service thereof. Subpoenas shall be served as provided in §1.147.
[42 FR 743, Jan. 4, 1977, as amended at 55 FR 30674, July 27, 1990; 60 FR 8457, Feb. 14, 1995; 68 FR 6341, Feb. 7, 2003]

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§1.150 Fees of witnesses.
Witnesses summoned under these rules of practice shall be paid the same fees and mileage that are paid witnesses in the courts of
the United States, and witnesses whose depositions are taken, and the officer taking the same, shall be entitled to the same fees as are
paid for like services in the courts of the United States. Fees shall be paid by the party at whose instance the witness appears or the
deposition is taken.
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§1.151 Ex parte communications.
(a) At no stage of the proceeding between its institution and the issuance of the final decision shall the Judge or Judicial Officer
discuss ex parte the merits of the proceeding with any person who is connected with the proceeding in an advocative or in an investigative
capacity, or with any representative of such person: Provided,That procedural matters shall not be included within this limitation;
and Provided further, That the Judge or Judicial Officer may discuss the merits of the case with such a person if all parties to the
proceeding, or their attorneys have been given notice and an opportunity to participate. A memorandum of any such discussion shall be
included in the record.
(b) No interested person shall make or knowingly cause to be made to the Judge or Judicial Officer an ex parte communication
relevant to the merits of the proceeding.
(c) If the Judge or the Judicial Officer receives an ex parte communication in violation of this section, the one who receives the
communication shall place in the public record of the proceeding:
(1) All such written communications;
(2) Memoranda stating the substance of all such oral communications; and
(3) All written responses, and memoranda stating the substance of all oral responses thereto.
(d) Upon receipt of a communication knowingly made or knowingly caused to be made by a party in violation of this section, the Judge
or Judicial Officer may, to the extent consistent with the interests of justice and the policy of the underlying statute, require the party to show
cause why his claim or interest in the proceeding should not be dismissed, denied, disregarded, or otherwise adversely affected on account
of such violation.
(e) To the extent consistent with the interests of justice and the policy of the underlying statute, a violation of this section shall be
sufficient grounds for a decision adverse to the party who knowingly commits a violation of this section or who knowingly causes such a
violation to occur.
(f) For purposes of this section ex parte communication means an oral or written communication not on the public record with respect
to which reasonable prior notice to all parties is not given, but it shall not include requests for status reports on any matter or the
proceeding.
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Subpart I—Rules of Practice Governing Cease and Desist Proceedings Under Section 2 of the
Capper-Volstead Act
A
S

: 7 U.S.C. 291, 292; 7 CFR 2.35, 2.41.
: 45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.160 Scope and applicability of rules in this part.

The rules of practice in this part shall be applicable to cease and desist proceedings, initiated upon complaint by the Secretary of
Agriculture, pursuant to section 2 of the Capper-Volstead Act.
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§1.161 Definitions.
As used in this part, words in the single form shall be deemed to import the plural, and vice versa, as the case may require. The
following terms shall be construed, respectively, to mean:
Act means the Capper-Volstead Act, approved February 18, 1922, 42 Stat. 388, 7 U.S.C. 291, 292.
Association means a cooperative association, a federation of cooperatives, or other association of agricultural producers, as defined in
section 1 of the Act.
Complainant or Secretary means the Secretary of Agriculture, United States Department of Agriculture, or any officer(s) or employee(s)
to whom authority has heretofore been delegated, or whom authority may hereafter be delegated, to act in his or her stead.
Complaint means a formal complaint instituted by the Secretary of Agriculture requiring respondent to show cause why an order should
not be made directing it to cease and desist from acts of monopolization or restraint of trade, which result in undue price enhancement.
Decision means: (1) the Judge's decision, and includes (i) findings and conclusions and the reasons or basis therefor on all material
issues of fact, law, or discretion, (ii) order, and (iii) rulings on proposed findings, conclusions and order submitted by the parties, and (2) the
decision and order by the Judicial Officer upon an appeal of the Judge's decision.
Hearing means that part of the proceeding which involves the submission of evidence before the Judge for the record in the
proceeding.
Hearing Clerk means the Hearing Clerk, United States Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250.
Judge means any Administrative Law Judge appointed pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3105 (the Administrative Procedure Act) and assigned to
the proceeding involved.
Judicial Officer means an official of the United States Department of Agriculture delegated authority by the Secretary, pursuant to the
Act of April 4, 1940 (7 U.S.C. 450c-450g) and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. App. (1988)), to perform the function involved
(§2.35(a) of this chapter), or the Secretary if he or she exercises the authority so delegated.
Respondent means the cooperative associations, or association, against whom a complaint has been issued.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8457, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.162 Institution of proceedings.
(a) Filing of information. Any person having information that any agricultural association, as defined in the Capper-Volstead Act, is
engaged in any practice which monopolizes or restrains trade in interstate or foreign commerce to such an extent that the price of any
agricultural product is unduly enhanced by reason thereof, may submit such information to the Secretary. Such information shall be in
writing and shall contain a complete statement of facts detailing the price enhancement and the practices alleged.
(b) Consideration of information. The Secretary shall consider all information filed under paragraph (a) of this section, and any other
information which the Secretary may obtain relating to a violation of section 2 of the Act. If the Secretary finds that there is reason to believe
that any association monopolizes or restrains trade in interstate or foreign commerce to such an extent that the price of any agricultural
product is unduly enhanced thereby the Secretary shall cause a complaint to be filed, requiring the association to show cause why an order
should not be made directing the association to cease and desist from such monopolization or restraint of trade. The complaint shall be filed
with the Hearing Clerk, who shall assign to the proceeding a docket number and effect service upon respondent.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8457, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.163 The complaint.
The complaint shall state briefly all allegations of fact which constitute a basis for the proceeding, and shall designate a time and place
for the hearing in the matter, which shall be at least 30 days after the service of the complaint upon the respondent.
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§1.164 Answer.
(a) Filing and service. Within 20 days after service of the complaint, or such other time as may be specified therein, the respondent
shall file with the Hearing Clerk, an answer, signed by the respondent or the respondent's attorney. The answer shall be served upon the
complainant by the Hearing Clerk.

(b) Contents. The answer shall clearly admit, deny, or offer an explanation in response to each of the allegations of the complaint, and
shall clearly set forth any affirmative defense.
(c) Default. Failure to file an answer shall constitute an admission of the allegations in the complaint, and may be the basis for a
decision upon the presentation of a prima facie case by the complainant.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8457, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.165 Amendments.
Amendments to the complaint may be made prior to the filing of an answer in which case the time for filing the answer shall be
extended 20 days or for other time agreed to by the parties. After the answer is filed, amendments to the complaint, or to the answer or
other pleading, may be made by agreement of the parties or allowed at the discretion of the Judge. In case of an amendment which
significantly changes the issues, the hearing shall, on the request of a party, be postponed or adjourned for a reasonable period, if the
Judge determines that such action is necessary to avoid prejudice to the party.
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§1.166 Consent order.
At any time, complainant and respondent may agree to the entry of a consent order. Such order shall be entered by the Judge (prior to
a decision) or the Judicial Officer (after a decision by the Judge), and become effective on the date specified therein.
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§1.167 Conference.
(a) Purpose. Upon motion of a party or upon the Judge's own motion, the Judge may direct the parties to attend a conference when the
Judge finds that the proceeding would be expedited by discussions on matters of procedure and/or possible stipulations. The conference
may include discussions regarding:
(1) Simplification of the issues;
(2) Limitation of expert or other witnesses;
(3) The orderly presentation of evidence; and
(4) Any other matters that may expedite and aid in the disposition of the proceeding.
(b) Manner of the Conference. (1) The conference shall be conducted by telephone or correspondence unless the Judge determines
that conducting the conference by audio-visual telecommunication:
(i) Is necessary to prevent prejudice to a party;
(ii) Is necessary because of a disability of any individual expected to participate in the conference; or
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the conference by telephone or correspondence. If the Judge determines that a conference
conducted by audio-visual telecommunication would measurably increase the United States Department of Agriculture's cost of conducting
the conference, the conference shall be conducted by personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the
conference, by telephone, or by correspondence.
(2) If the conference is not conducted by telephone or correspondence, the conference shall be conducted by audio-visual
telecommunication unless the Judge determines that conducting the conference by personal attendance of any individual who is expected
to participate in the conference:
(i) Is necessary to prevent prejudice to a party;
(ii) Is necessary because of a disability of any individual expected to participate in the conference; or
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the conference by audio-visual telecommunication.
[60 FR 8457, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.168 Procedure for hearing.
(a) Time and place. The oral hearing shall be held at such time and place as specified in the complaint, and not less than 30 days after
service thereof. The time and place of the hearing may be changed for good cause, by the Judge, upon motion of either complainant or
respondent.
(b) Manner of hearing. (1) The Judge shall file with the Hearing Clerk a notice stating whether the hearing will be conducted by
telephone, audio-visual telecommunication, or personal attendance of any individual expected to attend the hearing and the Judge's

determination regarding the manner of hearing shall be made in accordance with paragraphs (b)(3) and (b)(4) of this section. If any change
in the manner of the hearing is made, the Judge shall file with the Hearing Clerk a notice of the change, which notice shall be served on the
parties, unless it is made during the course of an oral hearing and made part of the transcript or recording, or actual notice is given to the
parties.
(2)(i) Any party may move that the hearing be conducted by telephone or personal attendance of any individual expected to attend the
hearing rather than by audio-visual telecommunication. Any motion that the hearing be conducted by telephone or personal attendance of
any individual expected to attend the hearing must be accompanied by a memorandum in support of the motion stating the basis for the
motion and the circumstances that require the hearing to be conducted other than by audio-visual telecommunication.
(ii) Within 10 days after the Judge issues a notice stating the manner in which the hearing is to be conducted, any party may move that
the Judge reconsider the manner in which the hearing is to be conducted. Any motion for reconsideration must be accompanied by a
memorandum in support of the motion stating the basis for the motion and the circumstances that require the hearing to be conducted other
than in accordance with the Judges's notice.
(3) The hearing shall be conducted by audio-visual telecommunication unless the Judge determines that conducting the hearing by
personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the hearing:
(i) Is necessary to prevent prejudice to a party;
(ii) Is necessary because of a disability of any individual expected to participate in the hearing; or
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the hearing by audio-visual telecommunication. If the Judge determines that a hearing conducted
by audio-visual telecommunication would measurably increase the United States Department of Agriculture's cost of conducting the
hearing, the hearing shall be conducted by personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the hearing or by
telephone.
(4) The Judge may, in his or her sole discretion or in response to a motion by a party to the proceeding, conduct the hearing by
telephone if the Judge finds that a hearing conducted by telephone:
(i) Would provide a full and fair evidentiary hearing;
(ii) Would not prejudice any party; and
(iii) Would cost less than conducting the hearing by audio-visual telecommunication or personal attendance of any individual who is
expected to participate in the hearing.
(c) Appearances. The parties may appear in person or by counsel or by other representative. Persons who appear as counsel or in a
representative capacity must conform to the standards of ethical conduct required of practitioners before the courts of the United States.
(d) Order of proceeding. Except as otherwise may be agreed by the parties and approved by the Judge, the complainant shall proceed
first at the hearing.
(e) Failure to appear. If respondent, after being duly notified, fails to appear at the hearing, and no good cause for such failure is
established, complainant shall present a prime facie case on the matters denied in the answer.
(f) Written statements of direct testimony. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (f)(2) of this section, each party must exchange with all
other parties a written narrative verified statement of the oral direct testimony that the party will provide at any hearing to be conducted by
telephone; the direct testimony of each employee or agent of the party that the party will call to provide oral direct testimony at any hearing
to be conducted by telephone; and the direct testimony of each expert witness that the party will call to provide oral direct testimony at any
hearing to be conducted by telephone. The written direct testimony of witnesses shall be exchanged by the parties at least 10 days prior to
the hearing. The oral direct testimony provided by a witness at a hearing conducted by telephone will be limited to the presentation of the
written direct testimony, unless the Judge finds that oral direct testimony which is supplemental to the written direct testimony would further
the public interest and would not constitute surprise.
(2) The parties shall not be required to exchange testimony in accordance with this paragraph if the hearing is scheduled to begin less
than 20 days after the Judge's notice stating the time of the hearing.
(g) Evidence. (1) The testimony of witnesses at the hearing shall be upon oath or affirmation, transcribed or recorded verbatim, and
subject to cross-examination. Evidence which is immaterial, irrelevant, or unduly repetitious, or which is not of the sort upon which
responsible persons are accustomed to rely, shall be excluded insofar as practicable.
(2) Objections. If a party objects to the admission of any evidence or to the limitation of the scope of any examination or crossexamination, the party shall briefly state the grounds of such objections, whereupon an automatic exception will follow if the objection is
overruled by the Judge. The ruling of the Judge on any objection shall be part of the transcript or recording. Only objections made before
the Judge may subsequently be relied upon in the proceeding.
(3) Official records or documents. An official record or document, if admissible for any purpose, shall be admissible in evidence without
the production of the person who made or prepared the same, and shall be prima facie evidence of the relevant facts stated therein. Such
record or document shall be evidenced by an official publication thereof, or by a copy certified by a person having legal authority to make
such certification.
(4) Exhibits. Unless the Judge finds that the furnishing of multiple copies is impracticable, four copies of each exhibit shall be filed with
the Judge unless the Judge finds that a greater or lesser number is desirable. A true copy of an exhibit may be substituted for the original.

(5) Official notice. Official notice shall be taken of such matters as are judicially noticed by the courts of the United States and of any
other matter of technical, scientific, or commercial fact of established character: Provided, That the opposing party shall be given adequate
opportunity to show that such facts are erroneously noticed.
(6) Offer of proof. Whenever evidence is deleted from the record, the party offering such evidence may make an offer of proof, which
shall be included in the transcript or recording. The offer of proof shall consist of a brief statement describing the evidence excluded. If the
evidence consists of a brief oral statement or of an exhibit, it shall be inserted into the transcript or recording in toto. In such event, it shall
be considered a part of the transcript or recording and record if the Judicial Officer decides that the Judge's ruling in excluding the evidence
was erroneous and prejudicial. The Judge shall not allow the insertion of such excluded evidence in toto if the taking of such evidence will
consume considerable time at the hearing. In the latter event, if the Judicial Officer decides that the Judge's ruling excluding the evidence
was both prejudicial and erroneous, the hearing may be reopened to permit the taking of such evidence.
(7) Affidavits. Affidavits may be submitted into evidence, in lieu of witness testimony, only to the extent, and in the manner agreed upon
by the parties.
(h) Transcript or recording. (1) Hearings to be conducted by telephone shall be recorded verbatim by electronic recording device.
Hearings conducted by audio-visual telecommunication or the personal attendance of any individual who is expected to participate in the
hearing shall be transcribed, unless the Judge finds that recording the hearing verbatim would expedite the proceeding and the Judge
orders the hearing to be recorded verbatim. The Judge shall certify that to the best of his or her knowledge and belief any recording made
pursuant to this paragraph with exhibits that were accepted into evidence is the record of the hearing.
(2) If a hearing is recorded verbatim, a party requests the transcript of a hearing or part of a hearing, and the Judge determines that the
disposition of the proceeding would be expedited by a transcript of the hearing or part of a hearing, the Judge shall order the verbatim
transcription of the recording as requested by the party.
(3) Recordings or transcripts of hearings shall be made available to any person at actual cost of duplication.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8457, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.169 Post-hearing procedure and decision.
(a) Corrections to transcript or recording. (1) At any time, but not later than the time fixed for filing proposed findings of fact,
conclusions and order, or briefs, as the case may be, any party may file a motion proposing corrections to the transcript or recording.
(2) Unless a party files such a motion in the manner prescribed, the transcript or recording shall be presumed, except for obvious
typographical errors, to be a true, correct, and complete transcript or recording of the testimony given at the hearing and to contain an
accurate description or reference to all exhibits received in evidence and made part of the hearing record.
(3) At any time prior to the filing of the Judge's decision and after consideration of any objections filed as to the transcript or recording,
the Judge may issue an order making any corrections in the transcript or recording which the Judge finds are warranted, which corrections
shall be entered onto the original transcript or recording by the Hearing Clerk (without obscurring the original text).
(b) Proposed findings of fact, conclusions, order and briefs. The parties may file with the Hearing Clerk proposed findings of fact,
conclusions and orders based solely upon the record and on matters subject to official notice, and briefs in support thereof. The Judge shall
announce at the hearing a definite period of time within which these documents may be filed.
(c) Judge's decision. The Judge, within a reasonable time after the termination of the period allowed for the filing of proposed findings
of fact, conclusions and order, and briefs in support thereof, shall prepare, upon the basis of the record and matters officially noticed, and
shall file with the Hearing Clerk, the Judge's decision, a copy of which shall be served by the Hearing Clerk upon each of the parties. Such
decision shall become final and effective without further proceedings 35 days after the date of service thereof upon the respondent, unless
there is an appeal to the Judicial Officer by a party to the proceeding pursuant to §1.170: Provided, That no decision shall be final for
purposes of a request for Judicial Review, as provided in §1.175(a), except a final decision of the Judicial Officer on appeal.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8458, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.170 Appeal to the Judicial Officer.
(a) Filing of petition. Within 30 days after receiving service of the Judge's decision, a party who disagrees with the decision, or any part
thereof, or any ruling by the Judge or any alleged deprivation of rights, may appeal such decision to the Judicial Officer by filing an appeal
petition with the Hearing Clerk. As provided in §1.168(g)(2), objections regarding evidence or a limitation regarding examination or crossexamination or other ruling made before the Judge may be relied upon in an appeal. Each issue set forth in the petition, and the arguments
thereon, shall be separately numbered; shall be plainly and concisely stated; and shall contain detailed citations to the record, statutes,
regulations or authorities being relied upon in support thereof. A brief may be filed in support of the appeal simultaneously with the petition.
(b) Response to appeal petition. Within 20 days after the service of a copy of an appeal petition and any brief in support thereof, filed
by a party to the proceeding, any other party may file with the Hearing Clerk a response in support of or in opposition to the appeal and in
such response any relevant issue, not presented in the appeal petition, may be raised.
(c) Transmittal of record. Whenever an appeal of a Judge's decision is filed and a response thereto has been filed or time for filing a
response has expired, the Hearing Clerk shall transmit to the Judicial Officer the record of the proceeding. Such record shall include: the
pleadings; motions and requests filed and rulings thereon; the transcript or recording of the testimony taken at the hearing, together with the

exhibits filed in connection therewith; any documents or papers filed in connection with a prehearing conference; such proposed findings of
fact, conclusions, and orders, and briefs in support thereof, as may have been filed in connection with the proceeding; the Judge's decision;
such exceptions, statements of objections and briefs in support thereof as may have been filed in the proceeding; and the appeal petition,
and such briefs in support thereof and responses thereto as may have been filed in the proceeding.
(d) Oral argument. A party bringing an appeal may request, within the prescribed time for filing such appeal, an opportunity for oral
arguments before the Judicial Officer. Within the time allowed for filing a response, appellee may file a request in writing for opportunity for
such an oral argument. Failure to make such request in writing, within the prescribed time period, shall be deemed a waiver of oral
argument. The Judicial Officer may grant, refuse, or limit any request for oral argument. Oral argument shall not be transcribed unless so
ordered in advance by the Judicial Officer for good cause shown upon request of a party or upon the Judicial Officer's own motion.
(e) Scope of argument. Argument to be heard on appeal, whether oral or on brief, shall be limited to the issues raised in the appeal or
in the response to the appeal, except that if the Judicial Officer determines that additional issues should be argued, the parties shall be
given reasonable notice of such determination, so as to permit preparation of adequate arguments on all issues to be argued.
(f) Notice of argument; Postponement. The Hearing Clerk shall advise all parties of the time and place at which oral argument will be
heard. A request for postponement of the argument must be made by motion filed a reasonable amount of time in advance of the date fixed
for argument.
(g) Order of argument. The appellant is entitled to open and conclude the argument.
(h) Submission on briefs. By agreement of the parties, an appeal may be submitted for decision on the briefs, but the Judicial Officer
may direct that the appeal be argued orally.
(i) Decision of the judicial officer on appeal. As soon as practicable after the receipt of the record from the Hearing Clerk, or, in case
oral argument was had, as soon as practicable thereafter, the Judicial Officer, upon the basis of and after due consideration of the record
and any matter of which official notice is taken, shall rule on the appeal. If the Judicial Officer decides that no change or modification of the
Judge's decision is warranted, the Judicial Officer may adopt the Judge's decision as the final order in the proceeding, preserving any right
of the party bringing the appeal to seek judicial review of such decision in the proper forum. A final order issued by the Judicial Officer shall
be filed with the Hearing Clerk. Such order may be regarded by the respondent as final for purposes of a request for judicial review as
provided in §1.175(a).
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8458, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.171 Intervention.
Intervention under these rules shall not be allowed, except that, in the discretion of the Judicial Officer, or the Judge, any person
showing a substantial interest in the outcome of the proceeding shall be permitted to participate in oral or written argument pursuant to
§§1.169 and 1.170.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8458, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.172 Motions and requests.
(a) General. All motions and requests shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk, and shall be served upon the parties, except those made on
record during the oral hearing. The Judge shall rule upon all motions and requests filed or made prior to the filing of the certification of the
transcript or recording. Thereafter, the Judicial Officer will rule on any motions or requests.
(b) Motions entertained. Any motion will be entertained except a motion to dismiss on the pleadings. All motions and requests
concerning the complaint must be made within the time allowed for filing an answer.
(c) Contents. All written motions and requests shall state the particular order, ruling, or action desired and the grounds therefor.
(d) Response to motions in request. Within ten days after service of any written motion or request, or within such shorter or longer
period as may be fixed by the Judge or the Judicial Officer the opposing party may file a response to the motion or request.
(e) Certification to the judicial officer. The submission or certification of any motion, request, objection, or other question to the Judicial
Officer prior to the time when the Judge's certification of the transcript is filed with the Hearing Clerk, shall be made by and in the discretion
of the Judge. The Judge may either rule upon or certify the motion, request, objection, or other question to the Judicial Officer, but not both.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8458, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.173 Judges.
(a) Assignment. No Judge shall be assigned to serve in any proceeding who (1) has any pecuniary interest in any matter or business
involved in the proceeding, (2) is related within the third degree by blood or marriage to any party to the proceeding, or (3) has participated
in the investigation preceding the institution of the proceeding or in determination that it should be instituted or in the preparation of the
moving paper or in the development of the evidence to be introduced therein.

(b) Disqualification of Judge. (1) Any party to the proceeding may, by motion made to the Judge, request that the Judge disqualify
himself or herself and withdraw from the proceeding. Such motion shall set forth with particularity the alleged disqualification. The Judge
may then either rule upon or certify the motion to the Judicial Officer, but not both.
(2) A Judge will withdraw from any proceeding in which the Judge deems himself or herself disqualified for any reason.
(c) Conduct. At no stage of the proceeding between its institution and the issuance of the final decision shall the Judicial Officer or the
Judge discuss ex parte the merits of the proceeding with any person who is connected with the proceeding as an advocate or in an
investigative capacity, or with any representative of such person: Provided, That procedural matters shall not be included within the
limitation: and Provided further, That the Judicial Officer of Judge may discuss the merits of the case with such a person if all parties to the
proceeding, or their representatives, have been given an opportunity to be present. Any memorandum or other communication addressed
to the Judicial Officer or a Judge, during the pendency of the proceeding, and relating to the merits thereof, by or on behalf of any party or
any interested person, shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk. A copy thereof shall be served upon the parties to the proceeding, and, in the
discretion of the Judge or the Judicial Officer, opportunity may be given to file a reply thereto within a specified period.
(d) Powers. Subject to review by the Judicial Officer as provided elsewhere in this part, the Judge, in any proceeding assigned to him
or her shall have power to:
(1) Rule upon motions and requests;
(2) Set the time, place, and manner of any conference, set the manner of the hearing, adjourn the hearing, and change the time, place,
and manner of the hearing;
(3) Administer oaths and affirmations;
(4) Examine witnesses and receive relevant evidence;
(5) Admit or exclude evidence;
(6) Hear oral argument on facts or law;
(7) Require each party to provide all other parties and the Judge with a copy of any exhibit that the party intends to introduce into
evidence prior to any hearing to be conducted by telephone or audio-visual telecommunication;
(8) Require that any hearing to be conducted by telephone or audio-visual telecommunication be conducted at locations at which the
parties and the Judge are able to transmit and receive documents during the hearing;
(9) Do all acts and take all measures necessary for the orderly presentation of evidence, maintenance of order, and the efficient
conduct of the proceeding.
(e) Who may act in the absence of the Judge. In case of the absence of the Judge or upon the Judge's inability to act, the powers and
duties to be performed by the Judge under these Rules of Practice in connection with a proceeding assigned to the Judge may, without
abatement of the proceeding, be assigned to any other Judge.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8458, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.174 Filing; service; extensions of time; and computation of time.
(a) Filing; Number of Copies. Except as otherwise provided by the Judge or the Secretary, all documents or papers required or
authorized by the rules in this part to be filed with the Hearing Clerk shall be filed in quadruplicate: Provided, That, where there are parties
to the proceeding in addition to complainant and respondent, an additional copy shall be filed for each such additional party. Any document
or paper, required or authorized under the rules in this part to be filed with the Hearing Clerk, shall, during the course of an oral hearing, be
filed with the Judge.
(b) Service; proof of service. Copies of all such documents or papers required or authorized by the rules in this part to be filed with the
Hearing Clerk, shall be served upon the parties by the Hearing Clerk, or by some other employee of the Department, or by a U.S. Marshal
or his Deputy. Service shall be made either (1) by delivering a copy of the document or paper to the individual to be served or to a member
of the partnership to be served, or to the president, secretary, or other executive officer or any director of the corporation or association to
be served, or to the attorney or agent of record of such individual, partnership, corporation, organization, or association; or (2) by leaving a
copy of the document or paper at the principal office or place of business or residence of such individual, partnership, corporation,
organization, or association, or of his or its attorney or agent of record and mailing by regular mail another copy to each person at such
address; or (3) by registering or certifying and mailing a copy of the document or paper, addressed to such individual, partnership,
corporation, organization, or association, or to his or its attorney or agent of record, at his or its last known residence or principal office or
place of business: Provided, That if the registered or certified document or paper is returned undelivered because the addressee refused or
failed to accept delivery, the document or paper shall be served by remailing it by regular mail. Proof of service hereunder shall be made by
the certification of the person who actually made the service: Provided, That if the service be made by mail, as outlined in paragraph (b)(3)
of this section proof of service shall be made by the return post office receipt, in the case of registered or certified mail, or by the certificate
of the person who mailed the matter by regular mail. The certificate and post office receipt contemplated herein shall be filed with the
Hearing Clerk, and the fact of filing thereof shall be noted in the record of the proceeding.
(c) Extension of time. The time for the filing of any document or paper required or authorized under the rules in this part to be filed may
be extended by the Judge prior to the filing of the certification of the transcript or recording if there is good reason for the extension. In all

instances in which time permits, notice of the request for extension of the time shall be given to the other party with opportunity to submit
views concerning the request.
(d) Effective date of filing. Any document or paper required or authorized under the rules in this part to be filed shall be deemed to be
filed at the time when it reaches the Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C.; or, if authorized to be filed with an officer or employee
of the Department at any place outside the District of Columbia, it shall be deemed to be filed at the time when it reaches the office of such
officer or employee.
(e) Computation of time. Saturdays, Sundays and Federal holidays shall be included in computing the time allowed for the filing of any
document or paper: Provided, That when such time expires on a Saturday, Sunday or Federal holiday, such period shall be extended to
include the next following business day.
[45 FR 6587, Jan. 29, 1980, as amended at 60 FR 8459, Feb. 14, 1995]

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§1.175 Procedure following entry of cease and desist order.
(a) Request for judicial review. An association subject to a cease and desist order may, within thirty days following the date of the order,
request the Secretary to institute proceedings for judicial review of the order. Such request shall, to the extent practicable, identify findings
of fact, conclusions of law, and any part of the order which the association claims are in error. The Secretary shall, thereupon, file in the
district in the judicial district in which such association has its principal place of business, a certified copy of the order and of all records in
the proceeding, including the request of the association, together with a petition asking that the order be affirmed and enforced.
(b) Enforcement. If an association subject to a cease and desist order fails or neglects, within thirty days of the date of the order, or at
any time thereafter, to obey such order, and has not made a request for judicial review as provided above, the Secretary shall file in the
district court in the judicial district in which such association has its principal place of business a certified copy of the order and of all records
in the proceeding, together with a petition asking that the order be enforced.
(c) Notice. The Secretary shall give notice of the filing of a petition for enforcement or review to the Attorney General, and to the
association, by service of a copy of the petition.
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Subpart J—Procedures Relating to Awards Under the Equal Access to Justice Act in Proceedings
Before the Department
S

: 67 FR 63237, Oct. 11, 2002, unless otherwise noted.

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G

P
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§1.180 Definitions.
(a) The definitions contained in §1.132 of this part are incorporated into and made applicable to this subpart.
(b) Adjudicative Officer means an administrative law judge, administrative judge, or other person assigned to conduct a proceeding
covered by EAJA.
(c) Agency means an organizational unit of the Department whose head reports to an official in the Office of the Secretary.
(d) Agency counsel means the attorney from the Office of the General Counsel representing the agency of the Department
administering the statute involved in the proceeding.
(e) Days means calendar days.
(f) Department means the United States Department of Agriculture.
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§1.181 Purpose of these rules.
The Equal Access to Justice Act, 5 U.S.C. 504 (called “EAJA” in this subpart), provides for the award of attorney fees and other
expenses to eligible individuals and entities who are parties to certain administrative proceedings (called “adversary adjudications”) before
the Department. An eligible party may receive an award when it prevails over the Department unless the position of the Department was
substantially justified or special circumstances make an award unjust. Alternatively, an eligible party may receive an award in connection
with an adversary adjudication arising from an agency action to enforce the party's compliance with a statutory or regulatory requirement
where the demand by the agency is substantially in excess of the decision of the adjudicative officer and is unreasonable when compared
with such decision under the facts and circumstances of the case. The rules in this subpart describe the parties eligible for awards and the
proceedings that are covered. They also explain how to apply for awards, and the procedures and standards that the Department will use to
make awards.

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§1.182 When EAJA applies.
EAJA applies to any adversary adjudication pending or commenced before the Department on or after August 5, 1985, except with
respect to a proceeding covered under §1.183(a)(1)(iii) of this part, which is effective on or after October 21, 1986. In addition, the
provisions of §1.185(b) relating to award for excessive demand apply only to adversary adjudications commenced on or after March 29,
1996. Changes in maximum rates for attorney fees are effective as of October 11, 2002.
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§1.183 Proceedings covered.
(a)(1) The rules in this subpart apply to adversary adjudications. These are:
(i) Adjudications required by statute to be conducted by the Department under 5 U.S.C. 554 in which the position of the Department or
any other agency of the United States, or any component of an agency, is presented by an attorney or other representative who enters an
appearance and participates in the proceeding,
(ii) Appeals of decisions of contracting officers made pursuant to section 6 of the Contract Disputes Act of 1978 (41 U.S.C. 605) before
the Agriculture Board of Contract Appeals as provided in section 8 of that Act (41 U.S.C. 607), and
(iii) Any hearing conducted under chapter 38 of title 31, United States Code.
(2) Any proceeding in which the Department may prescribe a lawful present or future rate is not covered by EAJA. Proceedings to grant
or renew licenses also are excluded, but proceedings to modify, suspend, or revoke licenses are covered if they are otherwise “adversary
adjudications.” The proceedings covered include adversary adjudications under the following statutory provisions.
Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937 (7 U.S.C. 608c(15)(A))
Animal Health Protection Act, sections 10414 and 10415 (7 U.S.C. 8313 and 8314).
Animal Quarantine Laws (21 U.S.C. 104, 117, 122, 127, 134e, and 135a)
Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. 2149)
Archaeological Resources Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 470ff)
Beef Research and Information Act (7 U.S.C. 2912)
Capper-Volstead Act (7 U.S.C. 292)
Cotton Research and Promotion Act (7 U.S.C. 2111)
Egg Products Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. 1047)
Egg Research and Consumer Information Act (7 U.S.C. 2713, 2714(b))
Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1540(a))
Federal Land Policy and Management Act (43 U.S.C. 1766)
Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. 604, 606, 607(e), 608, 671)
Federal Seed Act (7 U.S.C. 1599)
Horse Protection Act (15 U.S.C. 1823(c), 1825)
Packers and Stockyards Act (7 U.S.C. 193, 204, 213, 218d, 221)
Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (7 U.S.C. 499c(c), 499d(d), 499f(c), 499h(a), 499h(b), 499h(c), 499i, 499m(a))
Plant Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 7734, 7735, and 7736)
Potato Research and Promotion Act (7 U.S.C. 2620)
Poultry Products Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. 455, 456, 457(d), 467)
Swine Health Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 3804(b), 3805(a))
Title V of the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000, section 501(a) (7 U.S.C. 2279e).
U.S. Cotton Standards Act (7 U.S.C. 51b, 53)
U.S. Grain Standards Act (7 U.S.C. 79(g)(3), 85, 86)
U.S. Warehouse Act (7 U.S.C. 246, 253)
Virus-Serum-Toxin Act (21 U.S.C. 156)
Wheat and Wheat Foods Research and Nutrition Education Act (7 U.S.C. 3409)

(b) The failure of the Department to identify a type of proceeding as an adversary adjudication shall not preclude the filing of an
application by a party who believes the proceeding is covered by EAJA; whether the proceeding is covered will then be an issue for
resolution in proceedings on the application.
(c) If a proceeding includes both matters covered by EAJA and matters specifically excluded from coverage, any award made will
include only fees and expenses related to covered issues.
[67 FR 63237, Oct. 11, 2002, as amended at 67 FR 70674, Nov. 26, 2002]

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§1.184 Eligibility of applicants.
(a) To be eligible for an award of attorney fees and other expenses under EAJA, the applicant must meet one of the following
conditions:
(1) The applicant must be a prevailing party to the adversary adjudication for which it seeks an award; or
(2) The applicant must be a party to an adversary adjudication arising from an agency action to enforce the party's compliance with a
statutory or regulatory requirement in which the demand by the agency was substantially in excess of the decision of the adjudicative officer
and the demand is unreasonable when compared with such decision under the facts and circumstances of the case.
(b) In addition to the criteria set out in paragraph (a) of this section, a party seeking an award must be one of the following:
(1) An individual with a net worth of not more than $2 million;
(2) The sole owner of an unincorporated business who has a net worth of not more than $7 million, including both personal and
business interests, and not more than 500 employees;
(3) A charitable or other tax-exempt organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3))
with not more than 500 employees;
(4) A cooperative association as defined in section 15(a) of the Agricultural Marketing Act (2 U.S.C. 1141j(a)) with not more than 500
employees;
(5) Any other partnership, corporation, association, unit of local government, or organization with a net worth of not more than $7
million and nor more than 500 employees;
(6) For purposes only of paragraph (a)(2) of this section, a small entity as defined in 5 U.S.C. 601.
(c) For the purpose of eligibility, the net worth and number of employees of an applicant shall be determined as of the date the
adversary adjudication was initiated: Provided, that for purposes of eligibility in proceedings covered by §1.183(a)(1)(ii) of this part, the net
worth and number of employees of an applicant shall be determined as of the date the applicant filed its appeal under 41 U.S.C. 606.
(d) In interpreting the criteria set forth in paragraph (b) of this section, the following apply:
(1) An applicant who owns an unincorporated business will be considered as an “individual” rather than a “sole owner of an
unincorporated business” if the issues on which the applicant prevails are related primarily to personal interests rather than to business
interests.
(2) The employees of an applicant include all persons who regularly perform services for remuneration for the applicant, under the
applicant's direction and control. Part-time employees shall be included on a proportional basis.
(3) The net worth and number of employees of the applicant and all of its affiliates shall be aggregated to determine eligibility. Any
individual, corporation, or other entity that directly or indirectly controls or owns a majority of the voting shares or other interest of the
applicant, or any corporation or other entity of which the applicant directly or indirectly owns or controls a majority of the voting shares or
other interest, will be considered an affiliate for purposes of this subpart, unless the adjudicative officer determines such treatment would be
unjust and contrary to the purposes of EAJA in light of the actual relationship between the affiliated entities. In addition, the adjudicative
officer may determine that financial relationships of the applicant other than those described in this paragraph constitute special
circumstances that would make an award unjust.
(4) An applicant that participates in a proceeding primarily on behalf of one or more other person or entity that would be ineligible is not
itself eligible for an award.
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§1.185 Standards for awards.
(a) Prevailing party. (1) A prevailing applicant may receive an award for fees and expenses incurred in connection with a proceeding, or
in a significant and discrete substantive portion of the proceeding, unless the position of the Department was substantially justified. The
position of the Department includes, in addition to the position taken by the Department in the adversary adjudication, the action or failure to
act by the Department upon which the adversary adjudication is based. The burden of proof that an award should not be made to an eligible
prevailing applicant because the position of the Department was substantially justified is on the agency.

(2) An award to a prevailing applicant will be reduced or denied if the applicant has unduly or unreasonably protracted the proceeding
or if special circumstances make the award sought unjust.
(b) Excessive demand. (1) If, in an adversary adjudication arising from an agency action to enforce a party's compliance with a
statutory or regulatory requirement, the demand by the agency is substantially in excess of the decision of the adjudicative officer and is
unreasonable when compared with such decision under the facts and circumstances of the case, the adjudicative officer shall award to the
party the fees and other expenses related to defending against the excessive demand, unless the party has committed a willful violation of
law or otherwise acted in bad faith, or special circumstances make an award unjust. Fees and expenses awarded under this paragraph
shall be paid only as a consequence of appropriations provided in advance.
(2) “Demand” means the express demand of the agency which led to the adversary adjudication, but does not include a recitation by
the agency of the maximum statutory penalty:
(i) In the administrative complaint, or
(ii) Elsewhere when accompanied by an express demand for a lesser amount.
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§1.186 Allowable fees and expenses.
(a) Awards will be based on rates customarily charged by persons engaged in the business of acting as attorneys, agents, and expert
witnesses, even if the services were made available without charge or at reduced rate to the applicant.
(b) In proceedings commenced on or after the effective date of this paragraph, no award for the fee of an attorney or agent under the
rules in this subpart may exceed $150 per hour. No award to compensate an expert witness may exceed the highest rate at which the
Department pays expert witnesses, which is set out at §1.150 of this part. However, an award also may include the reasonable expenses of
the attorney, agent, or witness as a separate item, if the attorney, agent, or witness ordinarily charges clients separately for such expenses.
(c) In determining the reasonableness of the fee sought for an attorney, agent, or expert witness, the adjudicative officer shall consider
the following:
(1) If the attorney, agent or witness is in private practice, his or her customary fee for similar services, or if an employee of the
applicant, the fully allocated cost of the services;
(2) The prevailing rate for similar services in the community in which the attorney, agent, or witness ordinarily performs services;
(3) The time actually spent in the representation of the applicant;
(4) The time reasonably spent in light of the difficulty or complexity of the issues in the proceeding; and
(5) Such other factors as may bear on the value of the services provided.
(d) The reasonable cost of any study, analysis, engineering report, test, project or similar matter prepared on behalf of a party may be
awarded, to the extent that the charge for the service does not exceed the prevailing rate for similar services, and the study or other matter
was necessary for preparation of the applicant's case.
[67 FR 63237, Oct. 11, 2002, as amended at 76 FR 11668, Mar. 3, 2011]

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§1.187 Rulemaking on maximum rates for attorney fees.
(a) If warranted by an increase in the cost of living or by special circumstances (such as limited availability of attorneys qualified to
handle certain types of proceedings), the Department may adopt regulations providing that attorney fees may be awarded at a rate higher
than $150 per hour in some or all of the types of proceedings covered by this part. The Department will conduct any rulemaking
proceedings for this purpose under the informal rulemaking procedures of the Administrative Procedure Act.
(b) Any person may file with the Department a petition for rulemaking to increase the maximum rate for attorney fees in accordance
with §1.28 of this part. The petition should identify the rate the petitioner believes the Department should establish and the types of
proceedings in which the rate should be used. It also should explain fully the reasons why the higher rate is warranted. The Department will
respond to the petition within 60 days after it is filed, by initiating a rulemaking proceeding, denying the petition, or taking other appropriate
action.
[67 FR 63237, Oct. 11, 2002, as amended at 76 FR 11668, Mar. 3, 2011]

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§1.188 Awards against other agencies.
If an applicant is entitled to an award because it prevails over another agency of the United States that participates in a proceeding
before the Department and takes a position that is not substantially justified, the award or an appropriate portion of the award shall be made
against that agency.
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§1.189 Delegations of authority.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the Secretary of Agriculture delegates to the Judicial Officer authority to take
final action on matters pertaining to the Act in proceedings covered by these rules. The Secretary by order may delegate authority to take
final action on matters pertaining to the Act in particular cases to other subordinate officials or bodies.
(b)(1) The Secretary of Agriculture delegates to the Director of the National Appeals Division authority to take final actions on matters
pertaining to the Act for proceedings under 7 CFR part 11.
(2) With respect to proceedings covered under §1.183(b)(1)(ii) of this part, the Board of Contract Appeals is authorized by statute (41
U.S.C. 607) to take final action.
[68 FR 27435, May 20, 2003]

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§1.190 Contents of application.
(a) An application for an award of fees and expenses under EAJA shall identify the applicant and the proceeding for which an award is
sought. Unless the applicant is an individual, the application shall state the number of employees of the applicant and describe briefly the
type and purpose of its organization or business. The application shall also:
(1) Show that the applicant has prevailed and identify the position of the Department that the applicant alleges was not substantially
justified and shall briefly state the basis for such allegation; or
(2) Show that the demand by the Department in the proceeding was substantially in excess of, and was unreasonable when compared
with, the decision in the proceeding.
(b) The application also shall, as appropriate, include a declaration that the applicant is a small entity as defined in 5 U.S.C. 601 or a
statement that the applicant's net worth does not exceed $2 million (if an individual) or $7 million (for all other applicants, including their
affiliates). However, an applicant may omit this statement if:
(1) It attaches a copy of a ruling by the Internal Revenue Service that it qualifies as an organization described in section 501(c)(3) of
the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3)) or, in the case of a tax-exempt organization not required to obtain a ruling from the
Internal Revenue Service on its exempt status, a statement that describes the basis for the applicant's belief that it qualifies under such
section; or
(2) It states that it is a cooperative association as defined in section 15(a) of the Agricultural Marketing Act (12 U.S.C. 114j(a)).
(c) The application shall state the amount of fees and expenses for which an award is sought.
(d) The application also may include any other matters that the applicant wishes the Department to consider in determining whether,
and in what amount, an award should be made.
(e) The application shall be signed by the applicant or an authorized officer or attorney of the applicant. It also shall contain or be
accompanied by a written verification under oath or affirmation under penalty of perjury that the information provided in the application and
all accompanying material is true and complete to the best of the signer's information and belief.
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§1.191 Net worth exhibit.
(a) An applicant, except a qualified tax-exempt organization or cooperative association, must provide with its application a detailed
exhibit showing the net worth of the applicant and any affiliates (as defined in §1.184 of this part) when the proceeding was initiated. The
exhibit may be in any form convenient to the applicant that provides full disclosure of the applicant's and its affiliates' assets and liabilities
and is sufficient to determine whether the applicant qualifies under the standards in this subpart. The adjudicative officer may require an
applicant to file additional information to determine its eligibility for an award.
(b) Ordinarily, the net worth exhibit will be included in the public record of the proceeding. However, an applicant that objects to public
disclosure of information in any portion of the exhibit and believes there are legal grounds for withholding it from disclosure may submit that
portion of the exhibit directly to the adjudicative officer in a sealed envelope labeled “Confidential Financial Information,” accompanied by a
motion to withhold the information from public disclosure. The motion shall describe the information sought to be withheld and explain, in
detail, why it falls within one or more of the specific exemptions from mandatory disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C.
552(b) (1) through (9). The material in question shall be served on counsel representing the agency against which the applicant seeks an
award, but need not be served on any other party to the proceeding. If the adjudicative officer finds that the information should not be
withheld from disclosure, it shall be placed in the public record of the proceeding. Otherwise, any request to inspect or copy the exhibit shall
be disposed of in accordance with the established procedures of the Department under the Freedom of Information Act (§§1.1 through 1.23
of this part).
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§1.192 Documentation of fees and expenses.
(a) The application shall be accompanied by full documentation of the fees and expenses, including the cost of any study, analysis,
engineering report, test, project, or similar matter, for which an award is sought.
(b) The documentation shall include an affidavit from any attorney, agent, or expert witness representing or appearing on behalf of the
party, stating the actual time expended and the rate at which fees and other expenses were computed and describing the specific services
performed.
(1) The affidavit shall state the services performed. In order to establish the hourly rate, the affidavit shall state the hourly rate which is
billed and paid by the majority of clients during the relevant time periods.
(2) If no hourly rate is paid by the majority of clients because, for instance, the attorney or agent represents most clients on a
contingency basis, the attorney or agent shall provide information about two attorneys or agents with similar experience, who perform
similar work, stating their hourly rate.
(c) The documentation also shall include a description of any expenses for which reimbursement is sought and a statement of the
amounts paid and payable by the applicant or by any other person or entity for the services provided.
(d) The adjudicative officer may require the applicant to provide vouchers, receipts, or other substantiation for any fees or expenses
claimed, pursuant to §1.199 of this part.
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§1.193 Time for filing application.
(a) An application may be filed whenever the applicant has prevailed in the proceeding or in a significant and discrete substantive
portion of the proceeding, but in no case later than 30 days after final disposition of the proceeding by the Department.
(b) For the purposes of this subpart, final disposition means the date on which a decision or order disposing of the merits of the
proceeding or any other complete resolution of the proceeding, such as a settlement or voluntary dismissal, become final and
unappealable, both within the Department and to the courts.
(c) If review or reconsideration is sought or taken of a decision as to which an applicant believes it has prevailed, proceedings for the
award of fees shall be stayed pending final disposition of the underlying controversy. When the United States appeals the underlying merits
of an adversary adjudication to a court, no decision on an application for fees and other expenses in connection with that adversary
adjudication shall be made until a final and unreviewable decision is rendered by the court on the appeal or until the underlying merits of the
case have been finally determined pursuant to the appeal.
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§1.194 Filing and service of documents.
Any application for an award or other pleading or document related to an application shall be filed and served on all parties to the
proceeding in the same manner as other pleadings in the proceeding except as provided in §1.191 of this part for confidential financial
information. The provisions relating to filing, service, extensions of time, and computation of time contained in §1.147 of this part are
incorporated into and made applicable to this subpart, except that the statutory 30 day time limit on filing the application as set out in §1.193
of this part may not be extended.
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§1.195 Answer to application.
(a) Within 30 days after service of an application, agency counsel may file an answer. If agency counsel fails to timely answer or settle
the application, the adjudicative officer, upon a satisfactory showing of entitlement by the applicant, may make an award for the applicant's
allowable fees and expenses.
(b) If agency counsel and the applicant believe that the issues in the fee application can be settled, they may jointly file a statement of
intent to negotiate a settlement. The filing of this statement shall extend the time for filing an answer for an additional 30 days, and further
extensions may be granted by the adjudicative officer upon request by agency counsel and the applicant.
(c) The answer shall explain in detail any objections to the award requested and identify the facts relied on in support of agency
counsel's position. If the answer is based on any alleged facts not already in the record of the proceeding, agency counsel shall include with
the answer either supporting affidavits or a request for further proceedings under §1.199 of this part.
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§1.196 Reply.

Within 15 days after service of an answer, the applicant may file a reply. If the reply is based on any alleged facts not already in the
record of the proceeding, the applicant shall include with the reply either supporting affidavits or a request for further proceedings under
§1.199 of this part.
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§1.197 Comments by other parties.
Any party to a proceeding other than the applicant and agency counsel may file comments on an application within 30 days after it is
served or on an answer within 15 days after it is served. A commenting party may not participate further in proceedings on the application,
unless the adjudicative officer determines that the public interest requires such participation in order to permit full exploration of matters
raised in the comments.
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§1.198 Settlement.
The applicant and agency counsel may agree on a proposed settlement of the award before final action on the application, either in
connection with a settlement of the underlying proceeding, or after the underlying proceeding has been concluded. If a prevailing party and
agency counsel agree on a proposed settlement of an award before an application has been filed, the application shall be filed with the
proposed settlement.
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§1.199 Further proceedings.
(a) Ordinarily, the determination of an award will be made on the basis of the written record. However, on request of either the applicant
or agency counsel, or on his or her own initiative, the adjudicative officer may order further proceedings, such as an informal conference,
oral argument, additional written submissions or, as to issues other than substantial justification (such as the applicant's eligibility or
substantiation of fees and expenses), pertinent discovery or an evidentiary hearing. Such further proceedings shall be held only when
necessary for full and fair resolution of the issues arising from the application, and shall be conducted as promptly as possible. Whether the
position of the Department was substantially justified shall be determined on the basis of the administrative record, as a whole, which is
made in the adversary adjudication for which fees and other expenses are sought.
(b) A request that the adjudicative officer order further proceedings under this section shall identify specifically the information sought
or the disputed issues, and shall explain specifically why the additional proceedings are necessary to resolve the issues.
(c) In the event that an evidentiary hearing is held, it shall be conducted pursuant to §§1.130 through 1.151 of this part, except that any
hearing in a proceeding covered by §1.183(a)(1)(ii) of this part shall be conducted pursuant to Rules 17 through 25 of the Board of Contract
Appeals contained in §24.21 of this title.
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§1.200 Decision.
The adjudicative officer or Board of Contract Appeals shall issue an initial decision on the application as expeditiously as possible after
completion of proceedings on the application. Whenever possible, the decision shall be made by the same administrative judge or panel
that decided the contract appeal for which fees are sought. The decision shall include written findings and conclusions on the applicant's
eligibility and status as a prevailing party, and an explanation of the reasons for any difference between the amount requested and the
amount awarded. This decision also shall include, if at issue, findings on whether the position of the Department was substantially justified,
whether the applicant unduly protracted the proceedings, or whether special circumstances make an award unjust. If the applicant has
sought an award against more than one agency, the decision shall allocate responsibility for payment of any award made among the
agencies, and shall explain the reasons for the allocation made.
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§1.201 Department review.
(a) Except with respect to a proceeding covered by §1.183(a)(1)(ii) of this part either the applicant or agency counsel may seek review
of the initial decision on the fee application, in accordance with the provisions of §§1.145(a) and 1.146(a) of this part or in accordance with
any delegation made pursuant to §1.189 of this part. If neither the applicant nor agency counsel seeks review, the initial decision on the fee
application shall become a final decision of the Department 35 days after it is served upon the applicant. If review is taken, it will be in
accord with the provisions of §§1.145(b) through (i) and 1.146(b) of this part, or
(b) With respect to a proceeding covered by §1.183(a)(1)(ii) of this part, either party may seek reconsideration of the decision on the
fee application in accordance with Rule 29 of the Board of Contract Appeals contained in §24.21 of this title. In addition, either party may
appeal a decision of the Board of Contract Appeals to the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in accordance with 41 U.S.C. 607.
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§1.202 Judicial review.
Judicial review of final agency decisions on awards may be sought as provided in 5 U.S.C. 504(c)(2).

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§1.203 Payment of award.
An applicant seeking payment of an award shall submit to the head of the agency administering the statute involved in the proceeding
a copy of the final decision of the Department granting the award, accompanied by a statement that the applicant will not seek review of the
decision in the United States courts. The agency will pay the amount awarded to the applicant within 60 days, unless judicial review of the
award or of the underlying decision of the adversary adjudication has been sought by the applicant or any other party to the proceeding.
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Subpart K—Appearance of USDA Employees as Witnesses in Judicial or Administrative Proceedings
S

: 55 FR 42347, Oct. 19, 1990, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.210 Purpose.
This subpart sets forth procedures governing the appearance of USDA employees as witnesses in order to testify or produce official
documents in judicial or administrative proceedings when such appearance is in their official capacity or arises out of or is related to their
employment with USDA. These regulations do not apply to appearances by USDA employees as witnesses in judicial or administrative
proceedings which are purely personal or do not arise out of or relate to their employment with USDA. This subpart also does not apply to
Congressional requests or subpoenas for testimony or documents.
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§1.211 Definitions.
(a) Administrative proceeding means any proceeding pending before any federal, state, or local agency and undertaken for the
purpose of the issuance of any regulations, orders, licenses, permits, or other rulings, or the adjudication of any matter, dispute, or
controversy.
(b) Appearance means testimony or production of documents the request for which arises out of an employee's official duties with
USDA or relates to his or her employment with USDA. For the purpose of this subpart, an appearance also includes an affidavit, deposition,
interrogatory, or other required written submission.
(c) Judicial proceeding means any case or controversy pending before any federal, state, or local court.
(d) Travel expenses means the amount of money paid to a witness for reimbursement for transportation, lodging, meals, and other
miscellaneous expenses in connection with attendance at a judicial or administrative proceeding.
(e) USDA means the United States Department of Agriculture.
(f) USDA agency means an organizational unit of USDA whose head reports to an official within the Office of the Secretary of
Agriculture.
(g) Valid summons, subpoena, or other compulsory process means an order that is served properly and within the legal authority and
the jurisdictional boundaries of the court or administrative agency or official that has issued it.
(h) Witness fees means the amount of money paid to a witness as compensation for attendance at a judicial or administrative
proceeding.
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§1.212 General.
No USDA employee may provide testimony or produce documents in a judicial or administrative proceeding unless authorized in
accordance with this subpart.
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§1.213 Appearance as a witness on behalf of the United States.
An employee of USDA may appear as a witness on behalf of the United States in any judicial or administrative proceeding without the
issuance of a summons, subpoena, or other compulsory process. Employees should obtain permission for such an appearance from their
immediate supervisor unless the USDA agency or General Counsel has issued instructions providing otherwise.
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§1.214 Appearance as a witness on behalf of a party other than the United States where the United States is not a party.
(a) An employee of USDA served with a valid summons, subpoena, or other compulsory process demanding his or her appearance, or
otherwise requested to appear on behalf of a party other than the United States in a judicial or administrative proceeding in which the

United States is not a party, shall promptly notify the head of his or her USDA agency of the existence and nature of the order compelling
his or her appearance, or of the document requesting his or her attendance. He or she shall also specify, if that is known, the nature of the
judicial or administrative proceeding and the nature of the testimony or documents requested.
(b)(1) An employee of USDA served with a valid summons, subpoena, or other compulsory process, or requested to appear as a
witness on behalf of a party other than the United States in a judicial or administrative proceeding in which the United States is not a party,
may appear only if such appearance has been authorized by the head of his or her USDA agency, with the concurrence of the General
Counsel, based upon a determination that such an appearance is in the interest of USDA.
(2) An employee of USDA requested to appear as a witness on behalf of a party other than the United States in a judicial or
administrative proceeding in which the United States is not a party, without the service of a valid summons, subpoena, or other compulsory
process, may appear only if such appearance has been authorized by the head of his or her USDA agency and approved by the
appropriate Assistant Secretary, Under Secretary or other general officer, and by the General Counsel, based upon a determination that
such an appearance is in the interest of USDA.
(c) Unless an appearance is authorized as provided in paragraphs (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section, the employee shall appear at the
stated time and place (unless advised by the General Counsel or his or her designee that the summons, subpoena, or other process was
not validly issued or served), produce a copy of these regulations and respectfully decline to provide any testimony. As appropriate, the
General Counsel or his or her designee will request the assistance of the Department of Justice or of a United States Attorney, in the case
of a judicial proceeding; or of the official or attorney representing the United States, in the case of an administrative proceeding, to
represent the interests of the employee and USDA.
(d) If there is any question regarding the validity of a summons, subpoena, or other compulsory process, an employee shall contact the
Office of the General Counsel for advice.
(e)(1) In determining whether the employee's appearance is in the interest of USDA, authorizing officials should consider the following:
(i) what interest of USDA would be promoted by the employee's testimony;
(ii) whether an appearance would result in an unnecessary interference with the duties of the USDA employee;
(iii) whether an employee's testimony would result in the appearance of improperly favoring one litigant over another.
(2) The considerations listed in paragraph (e)(1) of this section are illustrative and not exhaustive.
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§1.215 Subpoenas duces tecum for USDA records in judicial or administrative proceedings in which the United States is not a
party.
(a) Subpoenas duces tecum for USDA records in judicial or administrative proceedings in which the United States is not a party shall
be deemed to be requests for records under the Freedom of Information Act and shall be handled pursuant to the rules governing public
disclosure under subpart A of this part.
(b) Whenever a subpoena duces tecum compelling the production of records is served on a USDA employee in a judicial or
administrative proceeding in which the United States is not a party, the employee, after consultation with the General Counsel or his or her
designee, shall appear in response thereto, respectfully decline to produce the records on the grounds that it is prohibited by this section
and state that the production of the records involved will be handled in accordance with subpart A of this part.
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§1.216 Appearance as a witness or production of documents on behalf of a party other than the United States where the United
States is a party.
(a) An employee of USDA served with a valid summons, subpoena, or other compulsory process demanding his or her appearance, or
otherwise requested to appear or produce documents on behalf of a party other than the United States in a judicial or administrative
proceeding in which the United States is a party, shall promptly notify the head of his or her USDA agency and the General Counsel or his
or her designee of the existence and nature of the order compelling his or her appearance, or of the document requesting his or her
appearance. He or she shall also specify, if that is known, the nature of the judicial or administrative proceeding and the nature of the
testimony or documents requested.
(b)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, an employee of USDA only may appear as a witness or produce records
on behalf of a party other than the United States in a judicial or administrative proceeding in which the United States is a party if such
appearance or production has been ordered by the service on the employee of a valid summons, subpoena, or other compulsory process
issued by a court, administrative agency, or other official authorized to compel his or her appearance.
(2) An employee requested to appear as a witness or produce records on behalf of a party other than the United States in a judicial or
administrative proceeding in which the United States is a party, without being served a valid summons, subpoena, or other compulsory
process, may appear or produce records only if such appearance or production has been authorized by a representative of the Department
of Justice, the United States Attorney, or other counsel who is representing the United States in the case of a judicial proceeding; or by the
official or attorney representing the United States, in the case of an administrative proceeding.
(c) The head of the USDA agency shall consult with the General Counsel or his or her designee as to whether there are grounds to
oppose the employee's attendance or production of documents and, if so, whether to seek to quash the summons, subpoena, compulsory

process, or to deny authorization under paragraph (b)(2) of this section.
(d) As appropriate, the General Counsel or his or her designee will request the assistance of the Department of Justice, a United
States Attorney, or other counsel representing the United States, in the case of a judicial proceeding; or of the official or attorney
representing the United States, in the case of an administrative proceeding, to represent the interest of the employee and USDA.
(e) If there is any question regarding the validity of a summons, subpoena, or other compulsory process, an employee shall contact the
Office of the General Counsel for advice.
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§1.217 Witness fees and travel expenses.
(a) Any employee of USDA who attends a judicial or administrative proceeding as a witness in order to testify or produce official
documents on behalf of the United States is entitled to travel expenses in connection with such appearance in accordance with the
Agriculture Travel Regulations.
(b) An employee of USDA who attends a judicial or administrative proceeding on behalf of the United States is not entitled to receive
fees for such attendance.
(c) An employee of USDA who attends a judicial or administrative proceeding on behalf of a party other than the United States when
such appearance is in his or her official capacity or arises out of or relates to his or her employment with USDA is entitled to travel
expenses in accordance with the Agriculture Travel Regulations to the extent that such expenses are not paid for by the court, agency, or
official compelling his or her appearance or by the party on whose behalf he or she appears.
(d) An employee of USDA who attends a judicial or administrative proceeding on behalf of a party other than the United States when
such appearance is in his or her official capacity or arises out of or relates to his or her employment with USDA is required to collect the
authorized fees for such service and remit such fees to his or her USDA agency.
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§1.218 Penalty.
An employee who testifies or produces records in a judicial or administrative proceeding in violation of the provisions of this regulation
shall be subject to disciplinary action.
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§1.219 Delegations.
(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b), (c), or (d) of this section, the head of a USDA agency may delegate his or her responsibilities
under this subpart, including the requirement to be notified of the receipt of a subpoena as provided in §§1.214(a) and 1.216(a) of this part,
to employees of his or her agency as follows:
(1) In the National office of the agency, to a level no lower than two levels below the agency head;
(2) In a field component of an agency, to a level no lower than the official who heads a state office.
(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this section, the Chief of the Forest Service may delegate his responsibilities under this subpart as
follows:
(1) In the National office of the Forest Service, to a level no lower than a Deputy Chief of the Forest Service;
(2) In a field component of the Forest Service, to a level no lower than a Regional Forester or Station Director.
(c) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this section, the General Counsel may delegate his responsibilities under this subpart as follows:
(1) In the National office of the Office of the General Counsel, to a level no lower than an Assistant General Counsel;
(2) In the field component of the Office of the General Counsel, to Regional Attorneys who may redelegate their responsibilities to
Associate Regional Attorneys and Assistant Regional Attorneys who report to them.
(d) The responsibilities assigned to heads of agencies and to Assistant and Under Secretaries in §1.214(b)(2) of this part may not be
redelegated.
[58 FR 62495, Nov. 29, 1993; 58 FR 64353, Dec. 6, 1993]

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Subpart L—Procedures Related to Administrative Hearings Under the Program Fraud Civil Remedies
Act of 1986
A
S

: 31 U.S.C. 3801-3812.
: 56 FR 9582, Mar. 7, 1991, unless otherwise noted. Correctly designated at 57 FR 3909, Feb. 3, 1992.

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§1.301 Basis, purpose and scope.
(a) Basis. This subpart implements the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act of 1986, Public Law No. 99-509, Sections 6101-6104, 100
Stat. 1874 (1986). This statute added 31 U.S.C. 3801-3812. Section 3809 of Title 31, United States Code, requires the Secretary to
promulgate regulations necessary to implement the provisions of the statute.
(b) Purpose. This subpart—
(1) Establishes administrative procedures for imposing civil penalties and assessments against persons who make, submit, or present,
or cause to be made, submitted, or presented, false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims or written statements to authorities or to their agents,
and
(2) Specifies the hearing and appeal rights of persons subject to allegations of liability for such penalties and assessments.
(c) Scope. The procedures for imposing civil penalties and assessments established by this subpart are intended to enhance existing
administrative enforcement efforts against fraud and to provide an additional remedy against false, fictitious, and fraudulent claims and
statements in the programs administered by this Department.
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§1.302 Definitions.
(a) Agency means a constituent organizational unit of the USDA.
(b) Agency Fraud Claims Officer—(AFCO) means an officer or employee of an agency who is designated by the head of that agency to
receive the reports of the investigating official, evaluate evidence, and make a recommendation to the reviewing official with respect to the
determination required under §1.305 of this part.
(c) ALJ means an Administrative Law Judge in USDA appointed pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3105 or detailed to the USDA pursuant to 5
U.S.C. 3344.
(d) Authority means the USDA.
(e) Benefits means, except as otherwise defined in this subpart, anything of value, including but not limited to any advantage,
preference, privilege, license, permit, favorable decision, ruling, status, or loan guarantee.
(f) Claim means any request, demand, or submission—
(1) Made to USDA for property, services, or money (including money representing grants, loans, insurance, or benefits);
(2) Made to a recipient of property, services, or money from USDA or to a party to a contract with USDA—
(i) For property or services if the United States—
(A) Provided such property or services; or
(B) Provided any portion of the funds for the purchase of such property or services; or
(C) Will reimburse such recipient or party for the purchase of such property or services; or
(ii) For the payment of money (including money representing grants, loans, insurance, or benefits) if the United States—
(A) Provided any portion of the money requested or demanded; or
(B) Will reimburse such recipient or party for any portion of the money paid on such request or demand; or
(3) Made to USDA which has the effect of decreasing an obligation to pay or account for property, services, or money.
(g) Complaint means the written notice served by the reviewing official on the respondent under §1.307 of this part.
(h) Days means business days for all periods referred to in these regulations of 10 days or less and calendar days for all periods
referred to in these regulations in excess of 10 days.
(i) Family means the individual's parents, spouse, siblings, children, and grandchildren with respect to an individual making a claim or
statement for benefits.
(j) Government means the United States Government.
(k) Household means a family or one or more individuals occupying a single residence.
(l) Individual means a natural person.
(m) Investigating official means the Inspector General of USDA or an officer or employee of the Office of Inspector General designated
by the Inspector General and serving in a position for which the rate of basic pay is not less than the minimum rate of basic pay for grade

GS-16 under the General Schedule.
(n) Judicial officer means an official of USDA delegated authority by the Secretary, pursuant to the Act of April 4, 1940 (7 U.S.C. 450c450g) and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953, 67 Stat. 633, as amended by Public Law No. 97-325 (7 U.S.C. 2201n.), to perform the
adjudicating function for the Department under §2.35 of this title, or the Secretary if he exercises the authority so delegated.
(o) Knows or has reason to know means that a person, with respect to a claim or statement—
(1)(i) Has actual knowledge that the claim or statement is false, fictitious, or fraudulent;
(ii) Acts in deliberate ignorance of the truth or falsity of the claim or statement; or
(iii) Acts in reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the claim or statement; and
(2) No proof of specific intent to defraud is required.
(p) Makes means presents, submits, or causes to be made, presented, or submitted. As the context requires, “making” or “made” shall
likewise include the corresponding forms of such terms.
(q) Person means any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or private organization, and includes the plural of that term.
(r) Representative means an attorney who is a member in good standing of the bar of any State, Territory, or possession of the United
States or of the District of Columbia or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. This definition is not intended to foreclose pro se appearances.
An individual may appear for himself or herself, and a corporation or other entity may appear by an owner, officer, or employee of the
corporation or entity.
(s) Respondent means any person alleged in a complaint issued under §1.308 of this part to be liable for a civil penalty or assessment
under §1.303 of this part.
(t) Reviewing official means an officer or employee of USDA—
(1) Who is designated by the Secretary to make the determination required under §1.305 of this part;
(2) Who is serving in a position for which the rate of basic pay is not less than the minimum rate of basic pay for grade GS-16 under the
General Schedule; and
(3) Who is—
(i) Not subject to supervision by, or required to report to, the investigating official; and
(ii) Not employed in the organizational unit of USDA in which the investigating official is employed.
(u) Secretary means the Secretary of Agriculture.
(v) Statement means any representation, certification, affirmation, document, record, or accounting or bookkeeping entry made—
(1) With respect to a claim or to obtain the approval or payment of a claim (including relating to eligibility to make a claim); or
(2) With respect to (including relating to eligibility for)—
(i) A contract with, or a bid or proposal for a contract with; or
(ii) A grant, loan, or benefit from, USDA, or any State, political subdivision of a State, or other party, if the United States Government
provides any portion of the money or property under such contract or for such grant, loan, or benefit, or if the Government will reimburse
such State, political subdivision, or party for any portion of the money or property under such contract or for such grant, loan, or benefit.
(w) USDA means the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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§1.303 Basis for civil penalties and assessments.
(a) Claims. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, any person who makes a claim that the person knows or has reason
to know—
(i) Is false, fictitious, or fraudulent;
(ii) Includes or is supported by any written statement which asserts a material fact which is false, fictitious, or fraudulent;
(iii) Includes or is supported by any written statement that—
(A) Omits a material fact;
(B) Is false, fictitious, or fraudulent as a result of such omission; and
(C) Is a statement in which the person making such statement has a duty to include such material fact; or

(iv) Is for payment for the provision of property or services which the person has not provided as claimed,shall be subject, in addition to
any other remedy that may be prescribed by law, to a civil penalty of not more than the amount specified at §3.91(b)(11)(i) of this title for
each such claim.
(2) Each voucher, invoice, claim form, or other individual request or demand for property, services, food coupons, or money constitutes
a separate claim.
(3) A claim shall be considered made to the USDA, recipient, or party when such claim is actually made to an agent, fiscal intermediary,
or other entity, including any State or political subdivision thereof, acting for or on behalf of the USDA, recipient, or party.
(4) Each claim for property, services, food coupons, or money is subject to a civil penalty regardless of whether such property, services,
food coupons, or money is actually delivered or paid.
(5) If the Government has made payment (including transferred property or provided services) on a claim, a person subject to a civil
penalty under paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall also be subject to an assessment of not more than twice the amount of such claim or
that portion thereof that is determined to be in violation of paragraph (a)(1) of this section. Such assessment shall be in lieu of damages
sustained by the Government because of such claim.
(b) Statements. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, any person who makes a written statement that—
(i) The person knows or has reason to know—
(A) Asserts a material fact which is false, fictitious, or fraudulent; or
(B) Is false, fictitious, or fraudulent because it omits a material fact that the person making the statement had a duty to include in such
statement; and
(ii) Contains or is accompanied by an express certification or affirmation of the truthfulness and accuracy of the contents of the
statement, shall be subject, in addition to any other remedy that may be prescribed by law, to a civil penalty of not more than the amount
specified at §3.91(b)(11)(ii) of this title for each such statement.
(2) Each written representation, certification, or affirmation constitutes a separate statement.
(3) A statement shall be considered made to the USDA when such statement is actually made to an agent, fiscal intermediary, or other
entity, including any State or political subdivision thereof, acting for or on behalf of the USDA.
(c) Benefits. (1) In the case of any claim or statement made by any individual relating to any of the benefits listed in paragraph (c)(2) of
this section received by such individual, such individual may be held liable for penalties and assessments under this section only if such
claim or statement is made by such individual in making application for such benefits with respect to such individual's eligibility to receive
such benefits.
(2) For purposes of this paragraph, the term benefits means—
(i) Benefits under the food stamp program established under the Food Stamp Act of 1977 which are intended as food assistance for the
personal use of the individual who receives the benefits or for a member of the individual's family or household (as defined in section 3(h) of
the Food Stamp Act of 1977);
(ii) Benefits under the National School Lunch Act;
(iii) Benefits under any housing assistance program for lower income families or elderly or handicapped persons which is administered
by the Secretary or USDA;
(iv) Benefits under the special supplemental food program for women, infants, and children established under section 17 of the Child
Nutrition Act of 1966 which are intended for the personal use of the individual who receives the benefits or for a member of the individual's
family or household.
(d) Intent. No proof of specific intent to defraud is required to establish liability under this section.
(e) More than one person liable. In any case in which it is determined that more than one person is liable for making a claim or
statement under this section, each person may be held liable for a civil penalty under this section.
(f) Joint and several liability. In any case in which it is determined that more than one person is liable for making a claim under this
section on which the government has made payment (including transferred property or provided services), an assessment may be imposed
against any such person or jointly and severally against any combination of such persons. The aggregate amount of the assessments
collected with respect to such claim shall not exceed twice the portion of such claim determined to be in violation of paragraph (a)(1) of this
section.
[56 FR 9582, Mar. 7, 1991, as amended at 57 FR 3909, Feb. 3, 1992; 75 FR 17556, Apr. 7, 2010]

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§1.304 Investigation.
(a) The investigating official may investigate allegations that a person is liable under §1.303 of this part.

(b) If an investigating official concludes that a subpoena pursuant to the authority conferred by 31 U.S.C. 3804(a) is warranted, the
investigating officer may issue a subpoena, which shall notify the person to whom it is addressed of the authority under which it is issued
and shall identify the information, documents, reports, answers, records, accounts, papers, or data sought.
(c) The investigating official may designate a person to act on his behalf to receive the documents or other materials sought by a
subpoena issued under paragraph (b) of this section.
(d) The person receiving such subpoena shall be required to tender to the investigating official or the person designated to receive the
documents a certification that the documents or other materials sought have been produced, or that such documents or other materials are
not available and the reasons therefore, or that such documents or other materials, suitably identified, have been withheld based upon the
assertion of an identified privilege.
(e) Each agency shall develop criteria for determining which allegations that a person is liable under §1.303 of this part are to be
referred to the investigating official.
(f) If the investigating official concludes that an action under the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act may be warranted, the investigating
official shall submit a report containing findings and conclusions of such investigation to the reviewing official.
(g) Nothing in this section shall preclude or limit an investigating official's discretion to refer allegations directly to the Department of
Justice for suit under the False Claims Act or other civil relief, nor preclude or limit such official's discretion to defer or postpone a report or
referral to the reviewing official in order to avoid interference with a criminal investigation or prosecution.
(h) Nothing in this section modifies any responsibility of an investigating official to report violations of criminal law to the Attorney
General.
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§1.305 Review by the reviewing official.
(a) Upon receipt of the report of the investigating official, the reviewing official may refer the report to the appropriate agency fraud
claims officer (AFCO) for a recommendation with respect to the determination required under this section.
(b) The AFCO shall evaluate the evidence and make a recommendation to the reviewing officer within 45 days of receipt of the report
of the investigating official.
(c) The reviewing official is not bound by the recommendation of the AFCO, and may accept or reject it.
(d) If, based on the report of the investigating official under §1.304(f) of this part, the reviewing official determines that there is adequate
evidence to believe that a person is liable under §1.303 of this part, the reviewing official shall transmit to the Attorney General a written
notice of the reviewing official's intention to issue a complaint under §1.307 of this part.
(e) Such notice shall include—
(1) A statement of the reviewing official's reasons for issuing a complaint;
(2) A statement of the evidence that supports the allegations of liability;
(3) A description of the claims or statements upon which the allegations of liability are based;
(4) An estimate of the amount of money or the value of property, services, or other benefits requested or demanded in violation of
§1.303 of this part;
(5) A statement of any exculpatory or mitigating circumstances that may relate to the claims or statements;
(6) A statement that there is a reasonable prospect of collecting the amount specified in §1.307(b)(2) of this part and the reasons
supporting such statement.
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§1.306 Prerequisites for issuing a complaint.
The reviewing official may issue a complaint under §1.307 of this part only if:
(a) The Attorney General or an Assistant Attorney General designated by the Attorney General approves the issuance of a complaint in
a written statement as provided in 31 U.S.C. 3803(b)(1);
(b) In the case of allegations of liability under §1.303(a) of this part with respect to a claim, the reviewing official determines with
respect to such claim, or a group of related claims submitted at the same time, that the amount of money or the value of property or
services demanded or requested in violation of §1.303(a) of this part does not exceed $150,000; and
(c) For the purposes of this section, a group of related claims submitted at the same time shall include only those claims arising from
the same transaction (e.g., a single grant, loan, application, or contract) that are submitted simultaneously as part of a single request,
demand, or submission, regardless of the amount of money or the value of property or services demanded or requested.

(d) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the reviewing official's authority to join in a single complaint against a person
claims that are unrelated or were not submitted simultaneously, regardless of the amount of money or the value of property or services
demanded or requested.
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§1.307 Complaint.
(a) On or after the date the Department of Justice approves the issuance of a complaint in accordance with 31 U.S.C. 3803(b)(1), the
reviewing official may serve a complaint on the respondent, as provided in §1.308 of this part.
(b) The complaint shall state—
(1) The allegations of liability, including the statutory basis for liability, an identification of the claims or statements that are the basis for
the alleged liability, and the reasons that liability allegedly arises from such claims or statements;
(2) The maximum amount of penalties and assessments for which the respondent may be held liable;
(3) Instructions for requesting a hearing, including a specific advice of the respondent's right to request a hearing and to be represented
by a representative; and
(4) That failure to file an answer within 30 days of service of the complaint may result in the imposition of the penalty and assessment
sought in the complaint without right to appeal.
(c) At the same time the reviewing official serves the complaint, he or she shall serve the respondent with a copy of these regulations.
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§1.308 Service of complaint and notice of hearing.
(a) Service of a complaint or notice of hearing shall be made by certified or registered mail or by delivery in any manner authorized by
Rule 4(d) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.
(b) Proof of service, stating the name and address of the person on whom the notice was served, and the manner and date of service,
shall be made by:
(1) Affidavit of the individual making service;
(2) An acknowledged United States Postal Service return receipt card; or
(3) Written acknowledgment by the respondent or his representative.
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§1.309 Answer and request for hearing.
(a) Within 30 days of the date of receipt or refusal to accept service of the complaint, the respondent may file an answer with the
reviewing official.
(b) In the answer, the respondent—
(1) Shall admit or deny each of the allegations of liability made in the complaint;
(2) Shall state any defense upon which the respondent intends to rely;
(3) Shall state the name, address, and telephone number of the person authorized to act as the respondent's representative, if any;
(4) May state any reasons why the respondent contends the penalty and assessment should be reduced or modified; and
(5) May request a hearing.
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§1.310 Default upon failure to file an answer.
(a) If the respondent does not file an answer within the time prescribed in §1.309(a) of this part, the reviewing official may refer the
complaint together with proof of service to the ALJ and request that the ALJ issue an order of default imposing the penalties and
assessments sought in the complaint. An answer must comply in all material respects with §1.309(b) of this part in order to be considered
filed within the time prescribed in §1.310(a) of this part.
(b) Upon the referral of the complaint under paragraph (a) of this section, the ALJ shall promptly serve on the respondent, in the
manner prescribed in §1.308 of this part, a notice that a decision will be issued under this section.
(c) If the respondent fails to answer, the ALJ shall assume the facts alleged in the complaint to be true and, if such facts establish
liability under §1.303 of this part, the ALJ shall issue a decision imposing the penalties and assessments sought in the complaint, not to

exceed the maximum amount allowed under the statute.
(d) A respondent who fails to file a timely answer waives any right to a review of the penalty and assessment, unless he can
demonstrate extraordinary circumstances justifying the failure to file an answer.
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§1.311 Referral of complaint and answer to the ALJ.
Upon receipt of an answer, the reviewing official shall send to the ALJ copies of the complaint, proof of service, and the answer.
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§1.312 Procedure where respondent does not request a hearing.
(a) If the respondent files an answer with the reviewing official within the time period prescribed in §1.309(a) of this part but does not
request a hearing, the ALJ, upon receipt of the complaint, proof of service, and answer, shall notify the respondent that a decision will be
issued under this section and shall afford the parties 30 days in which to submit documentary evidence or other relevant written information,
including briefs or other written arguments. At the end of that period, the ALJ shall issue a decision based upon the pleadings and the
evidence submitted, or if no evidence has been submitted, upon the pleadings. The burden of proof shall be as set forth in §1.329 of this
part.
(b) When a decision is to be issued under this section, the ALJ shall have discretion to permit, allow, limit, or otherwise control
discovery to the extent set forth under §§1.322 thru 1.324 of this part.
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§1.313 Procedure where respondent requests a hearing; notice of hearing.
(a) When the ALJ receives the complaint, proof of service, and an answer requesting a hearing, the ALJ shall promptly serve, in
accordance with §1.308 of this part, a notice of hearing on all parties.
(b) Such notice shall include:
(1) The tentative time and place, and the nature of the hearing;
(2) The legal authority and jurisdiction under which the hearing is to be held;
(3) The matters of fact and law to be asserted;
(4) A description of the procedures for the conduct of the hearing;
(5) The name, address, and telephone number of the representative for the USDA and the representative for the respondent, if any;
and
(6) Such other matters as the ALJ deems appropriate.
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§1.314 Parties to the hearing.
(a) The parties to the hearing shall be the respondent and USDA. The proceeding shall be brought in the name of the Secretary.
(b) Pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 3730(c)(5), a private party plaintiff under the False Claims Act may participate in proceedings under this
subpart to the extent authorized by the provisions of that Act.
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§1.315 Separation of functions.
(a) Neither the investigating official, the reviewing official, nor any employee or agent of the USDA who takes part in investigating,
preparing, or presenting a particular case may, in such case or in a factually related case—
(1) Conduct the hearing in such case;
(2) Participate in or advise the ALJ in the decision in such case, or participate in or advise in the review of the decision in such case by
the judicial officer, except as a witness or representative in public proceedings; or
(3) Make the collection of penalties and assessments under §1.341 of this part.
(b) The ALJ shall not be responsible to or subject to the supervision or direction of the investigating official or the reviewing official.
(c) Except to the extent limited by paragraph (a) of this section, the representative for USDA may be employed in any constituent
agency of USDA, including the offices of either the investigating official or the reviewing official.

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§1.316 Ex parte contacts.
Except to the extent required for the disposition of ex parte matters as authorized by law, the ALJ shall not consult or be consulted by
any person or party (except employees of the ALJ's office) on any matter in issue, unless on notice and opportunity for all parties to
participate.
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§1.317 Disqualification of reviewing official or ALJ.
(a) A reviewing official or ALJ in a particular case may disqualify himself or herself at any time.
(b) A party may file with the ALJ a motion for disqualification of a reviewing official or an ALJ. Such motion shall be accompanied by an
affidavit alleging personal bias or other reason for disqualification.
(c) Such motion and affidavit shall be filed promptly upon the party's discovery of reasons requiring disqualification, or such objections
shall be deemed waived.
(d) Such affidavit shall state specific facts that support the party's belief that personal bias or other reason for disqualification exists and
the time and circumstances of the party's discovery of such facts. It shall be accompanied by a certificate of the representative of record
that it is made in good faith.
(e) Upon the filing of such a motion and affidavit, the ALJ shall proceed no further in the case until he or she resolves the matter of
disqualification in accordance with paragraph (f).
(f)(1) If the ALJ determines that a reviewing official is disqualified, the ALJ shall dismiss the complaint without prejudice.
(2) If the ALJ disqualifies himself or herself, the case shall be reassigned promptly to another ALJ.
(3) If the ALJ denies a motion to disqualify, the authority head may determine the matter only as part of his or her review of the initial
decision upon appeal, if any.
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§1.318 Rights of parties.
All parties may:
(a) Be accompanied, represented, and advised by a representative;
(b) Participate in any prehearing or post-hearing conference held by the ALJ;
(c) Agree to stipulations of fact or law, which shall be made part of the record;
(d) Conduct discovery;
(e) Make opening and closing statements at the hearing;
(f) Present evidence relevant to the issues at the hearing;
(g) Cross examine witnesses;
(h) Present oral arguments at the hearings; and
(i) Submit written briefs, proposed findings of fact, and proposed conclusions of law after the hearing.
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§1.319 Authority of the ALJ.
(a) The ALJ shall conduct a fair and impartial hearing, avoid delay, maintain order, and assure that a record of the proceedings is
made.
(b) The ALJ may:
(1) Set and change the date, time, and place of the hearing upon reasonable notice to the parties;
(2) Continue or recess the hearing in whole or part for a reasonable period of time;
(3) Hold conferences to identify or simplify the issues, or to consider other matters that may aid in the expeditious disposition of the
proceeding;
(4) Administer oaths and affirmations;

(5) Issue subpoenas requiring the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents at depositions or at hearings;
(6) Rule on motions and other procedural matters;
(7) Regulate the scope and timing of discovery;
(8) Regulate the course of the hearing and the conduct of attorneys and parties;
(9) Examine witnesses;
(10) Receive, rule on, exclude, or limit evidence;
(11) Upon motion of a party take official notice of facts;
(12) Upon motion of a party, decide cases, in whole or in part, by summary judgment where there is no disputed issue of material fact;
(13) Conduct any conference, argument, or hearing on motions in person or by telephone; and
(14) Exercise such other authority as is necessary to carry out the responsibilities of the ALJ under this subpart.
(c) The ALJ does not have the authority to decide upon the validity of Federal statutes, regulations, or legal opinions.
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§1.320 Prehearing conferences.
(a) The ALJ may schedule a prehearing conference at a reasonable time in advance of the hearing and may schedule additional
prehearing conferences as appropriate.
(b) The ALJ may conduct any prehearing conference in person or by telephone.
(c) The ALJ may use prehearing conferences to discuss the following matters:
(1) Simplification of the issues;
(2) The necessity or desirability of amendments to the pleadings, including the need for a more definite statement;
(3) Stipulations, admissions of fact or as to the contents and authenticity of documents;
(4) Whether the parties can agree to submission of the case on a stipulated record;
(5) Whether a party chooses to waive appearance at an oral hearing and to submit only documentary evidence (subject to the objection
of other parties) and written argument.
(6) Limitation of the number of witnesses;
(7) Scheduling dates for the exchange of witness lists and of proposed exhibits;
(8) Discovery;
(9) The time and place for the hearing; and
(10) Such other matters as may tend to expedite the fair and just disposition of the proceedings.
(d) The ALJ shall issue an order containing all matters agreed upon by the parties or ordered by the ALJ at a prehearing conference.
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§1.321 Disclosure of documents.
(a) Upon written request to the reviewing official, the respondent may review any relevant and material documents, transcripts, records,
and other materials that relate to the allegations set out in the complaint and upon which the findings and conclusions of the investigating
official under §1.304(f) of this part are based unless such documents are privileged under Federal law. Upon payment of fees for
duplication, the defendant may obtain copies of such documents.
(b) Upon written request to the reviewing official, the respondent also may obtain a copy of all exculpatory information in the
possession of the reviewing official or investigating official relating to the allegations in the complaint, even if it is contained in a document
that would otherwise be privileged. If the document would otherwise be privileged, only that portion containing exculpatory information must
be disclosed.
(c) The notice sent to the Attorney General from the reviewing official as described in §1.305 of this part is not discoverable under any
circumstances.
(d) The respondent may file a motion to compel disclosure of the documents subject to the provisions of this section. Such a motion
may be filed with the ALJ following the filing of the answer pursuant to §1.309 of this part.

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§1.322 Discovery.
(a) The following types of discovery are authorized:
(1) Requests for production, inspection and photocopying of documents;
(2) Requests for admission of the authenticity of any relevant document or the truth of any relevant fact;
(3) Written interrogatories; and
(4) Depositions.
(b) The ALJ shall set the schedule for discovery.
(c) Requests for production of documents and requests for admission.
(1) A party may serve requests for production of documents or requests for admission on another party.
(2) If a party served with such requests fails to respond timely, the requesting party may file a motion to compel production or deem
admissions, as appropriate.
(3) A party served with such a request may file a motion for a protective order before the date on which a response to the discovery
request is due, stating reasons why discovery should be limited or should not be required.
(4) Within 15 days of service of a motion to compel or to deem matter admitted or a motion for a protective order, the opposing party
may file a response.
(5) The ALJ may grant a motion to compel production or deem matter admitted or may deny a motion for a protective order only if he
finds that—
(i) The discovery sought is necessary for the expeditious, fair, and reasonable consideration of the issues;
(ii) It is not unduly costly or burdensome;
(iii) It will not unduly delay the proceeding; and
(iv) The information sought is not privileged.
(d) Depositions and written interrogatories. Depositions and written interrogatories are permitted only on the order of the ALJ.
(1) A party seeking to use depositions or written interrogatories may file a motion with the ALJ.
(2) A party and/or the potential deponent may file an opposition to the motion or a motion for a protective order within 10 days of
service of the motion.
(3) The ALJ may grant a motion allowing the taking of a deposition or the use of interrogatories or may deny a motion for a protective
order only if he finds that the moving party has satisfied the standards set forth in paragraph (c)(5) of this section and has shown that the
information sought cannot be obtained by any other means.
(4) If the ALJ grants a motion permitting a deposition, he shall issue a subpoena, which may also require the witness to produce
documents. The party seeking to depose shall serve the subpoena in the manner prescribed in §1.308 of this part.
(5) The party seeking to depose shall provide for the taking of a verbatim transcript of the deposition, which it shall make available to all
other parties for inspection and copying.
(e) Costs. The costs of discovery shall be borne by the party seeking discovery.
(f) In issuing a protective order, the ALJ may make any order which justice requires to protect a party or person from annoyance,
embarrassment, oppression, or undue burden or expense, including one or more of the following:
(1) That the discovery not be had;
(2) That the discovery may be had only on specified terms and conditions, including a designation of the time or place;
(3) That the discovery may be had only through a method of discovery other than that requested;
(4) That certain matters not be inquired into, or that the scope of discovery be limited to certain matters;
(5) That discovery be conducted with no one present except persons designated by the ALJ;
(6) That the contents of discovery or evidence be sealed;
(7) That a deposition after being sealed be opened only by order of the ALJ;

(8) That a trade secret or other confidential research, development, commercial information or facts pertaining to any criminal
investigation, proceeding, or other administrative investigation not be disclosed or be disclosed only in a designated way; or
(9) That the parties simultaneously file specified documents or information enclosed in sealed envelopes to be opened as directed by
the ALJ.
(g) Exchange of witness lists, statements, and exhibits. Witness lists, copies of prior statements of proposed witnesses, and copies of
proposed hearing exhibits, including copies of any written statements or depositions that a party intends to offer in lieu of live testimony in
accordance with §1.331(b) of this part, shall be exchanged at least 15 days in advance of the hearing, or at such other time as may be set
by the ALJ. A witness whose name does not appear on the witness list shall not be permitted to testify and no exhibit not provided to the
opposing party as provided above shall be admitted into evidence at the hearing absent a showing of good cause.
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§1.323 Subpoenas for attendance at hearing.
(a) A party wishing to procure the appearance and testimony at the hearing of any individual may request that the ALJ issue a
subpoena.
(b) A subpoena requiring the attendance and testimony of an individual may also require the individual to produce documents at such
hearing.
(c) A party who desires the issuance of a subpoena shall file with the ALJ a written request not less than 15 days before the date fixed
for the hearing unless otherwise allowed by the ALJ for good cause shown. Such request shall specify any documents to be produced and
shall designate the witnesses whose attendance is sought to be required and describe their addresses and locations with sufficient
particularity to permit such witnesses to be found. The subpoena shall specify the time and place at which the witness is to appear and any
documents the witness is to produce. Such a request may be made ex parte.
(d) When the ALJ issues a subpoena under this section, the party who requested such subpoena shall serve all other parties with
notice of the names and addresses of the individuals subpoenaed and specify any documents required to be produced.
(e) A subpoena shall be served by delivery, or by registered mail or by certified mail in the manner prescribed in §1.308 of this part. A
subpoena upon a party or upon an individual under the control of a party may be served by first class mail.
(f) A party or the individual to whom the subpoena is directed may file a motion to quash the subpoena within five days of service or on
or before the time specified in the subpoena for compliance if it is less than five days after service.
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§1.324 Fees.
The party requesting a subpoena shall pay the cost of the fees and mileage of any witness subpoenaed in the amounts that would be
payable to a witness in a proceeding in United States District Court. A check for witness fees and mileage shall accompany the subpoena
when served, except that when a subpoena is issued on behalf of USDA, a check for witness fees and mileage need not accompany the
subpoena.
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§1.325 Form, filing and service of papers.
(a) Form. (1) The original and two copies of all papers in a proceeding conducted under this subpart shall be filed with the ALJ
assigned to the case.
(2) Every pleading and paper filed in the proceeding shall contain a caption setting forth the title of the action, the case number
assigned by the ALJ, and a designation of the paper (e.g., motion to quash subpoena).
(3) Every pleading and paper shall be signed by and shall contain the address and telephone number of the representative for the party
or the person on whose behalf the paper was filed.
(4) Papers are considered filed when they are mailed. Date of mailing may be established by a certificate from the party or his
representative or by proof that the document was sent by certified or registered mail.
(b) Service. A party filing a document with the ALJ shall, at the time of filing, serve a copy of such document on every other party.
Service upon any party of any document other than the complaint or notice of hearing shall be made by delivering or mailing a copy to the
party's last known address. When a party is represented by a representative, service shall be made upon such representative in lieu of the
actual party.
(c) Proof of service. A certificate of the person serving the document by personal delivery or by mail, setting forth the manner of
service, shall be proof of service.
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§1.326 Computation of time.

(a) In computing any period of time under this part or in an order issued thereunder, the time begins with the day following the act,
event, or default, and includes the last day of the period, unless it is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday observed by the Federal
Government, in which event it includes the next business day.
(b) When the period of time allowed is ten or fewer calendar days, intermediate Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays observed by
the Federal Government shall be excluded from the computation.
(c) When a document has been served by mail, an additional five days will be added to the time permitted for any response.
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§1.327 Motions.
(a) Motions shall state the relief sought, the authority relied upon, and the facts alleged, and shall be filed with the ALJ and served on
all other parties.
(b) Except for motions made during a prehearing conference or at the hearing, all motions shall be in writing. The ALJ may require that
oral motions be reduced to writing.
(c) The ALJ may require written motions to be accompanied by supporting memorandums.
(d) Within 15 days after a written motion is served, or such other time as may be fixed by the ALJ, any party may file a response to
such motion.
(e) The ALJ may not grant a written motion prior to expiration of the time for filing responses thereto, except upon consent of the
parties or following a hearing, but may overrule or deny such motion without awaiting a response.
(f) The ALJ shall make every reasonable effort to dispose of all outstanding motions prior to the beginning of the hearing.
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§1.328 Sanctions.
(a) The ALJ may sanction a person, including any party or representative for:
(1) Failing to comply with a lawful order, subpoena, or procedure;
(2) Failing to prosecute or defend an action; or
(3) Engaging in other misconduct that interferes with the speedy, orderly, or fair conduct of the hearing.
(b) Any such sanction, including but not limited to those listed in paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) of this section, shall reasonably relate to
the severity and nature of the failure or misconduct.
(c) When a party fails to comply with a subpoena or an order, including an order for taking a deposition, the production of evidence
within the party's control, or a request for admission, the ALJ may:
(1) Draw an inference in favor of the requesting party with regard to the information sought;
(2) In the case of requests for admission, deem admitted each item as to which an admission is requested;
(3) Prohibit the party failing to comply with such order from introducing evidence concerning, or otherwise relying upon testimony
relating to the information sought;
(4) Strike any part of the pleadings or other submissions of the party failing to comply with such request; or
(5) Request that the Attorney General petition an appropriate district court for an order to enforce a subpoena.
(d) If a party fails to prosecute or defend an action under this subpart commenced by service of a complaint, the ALJ may dismiss the
action or enter an initial decision imposing penalties and assessments.
(e) The ALJ may refuse to consider any motion or other action which is not filed in a timely fashion.
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§1.329 The hearing and burden of proof.
(a) The ALJ shall conduct a hearing on the record in order to determine whether the respondent is liable for a civil penalty or
assessment under §1.303 of this part, and if so, the appropriate amount of any such civil penalty or assessment considering any
aggravating or mitigating factors.
(b) The USDA shall prove respondent's liability and any aggravating factors by a preponderance of the evidence.
(c) The respondent shall prove any affirmative defenses and any mitigating factors by a preponderance of the evidence.
(d) The hearing shall be open to the public unless otherwise ordered by the ALJ for good cause shown.

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§1.330 Location of hearing.
(a) The hearing may be held—
(1) In any judicial district of the United States in which the respondent resides or transacts business;
(2) In any judicial district of the United States in which the claim or statement in issue was made; or
(3) In such other place as may be agreed upon by the respondent and the ALJ.
(b) Each party shall have the opportunity to present argument with respect to the location of the hearing.
(c) The ALJ shall issue an order to the parties designating the time and the place of the hearing.
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§1.331 Witnesses.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, testimony at the hearing shall be given orally by witnesses under oath or
affirmation.
(b) At the discretion of the ALJ, testimony may be admitted in the form of a written statement or deposition. Any such written statement
must be provided to all other parties along with the last known address of such witness, in a manner which allows sufficient time for other
parties to subpoena such witness for cross-examination at the hearing. Prior written statements of witnesses proposed to testify at the
hearing and deposition transcripts shall be exchanged as provided in §1.322(g) of this part.
(c) The ALJ shall permit the parties to conduct such cross-examination as may be required for a full and true disclosure of the facts.
(d) A witness may be cross-examined on any matter relevant to the proceeding without regard to the scope of his or her direct
examination.
(e) Upon motion of any party, the ALJ shall order witnesses excluded so that they cannot hear the testimony of other witnesses. This
rule does not authorize exclusion of—
(1) A party who is an individual;
(2) In the case of a party that is not an individual, an officer or employee of the party designated by the representative; or
(3) An individual whose presence is shown by a party to be essential to the presentation of its case, including an individual employed
by the USDA engaged in assisting the representative for USDA.
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§1.332 Evidence.
(a) The ALJ shall determine the admissibility of evidence.
(b) Except as provided herein, the Federal Rules of Evidence are not applicable to the hearing, except that the ALJ may in his
discretion apply the Federal Rules of Evidence in order to assure production of credible evidence.
(c) The ALJ shall exclude irrelevant and immaterial evidence.
(d) Although relevant, evidence may be excluded if its probative value is substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice,
confusion of the issues, or by considerations of undue delay or needless presentation of cumulative evidence.
(e) Although relevant, evidence may be excluded if it is privileged under Federal law.
(f) Evidence concerning offers of compromise or settlement shall be inadmissible to the extent provided in Rule 408 of the Federal
Rules of Evidence.
(g) The ALJ shall permit the parties to introduce rebuttal witnesses and evidence.
(h) All documents and other evidence offered or taken for the record shall be open to examination by all parties unless otherwise
ordered by the ALJ pursuant to §1.322 of this part.
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§1.333 The record.
(a) The hearing will be recorded and transcribed. Transcripts may be obtained from the reporter by anyone at a cost not to exceed the
actual cost of duplication.
(b) The transcript of testimony, exhibits and other evidence admitted at the hearing, and all papers and requests filed in the proceeding
constitute the record for the decision by the ALJ and the judicial officer.

(c) The record may be inspected and copied (upon payment of a reasonable fee) by anyone unless otherwise ordered by the ALJ.
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§1.334 Post-hearing briefs.
The ALJ may require the parties to file post-hearing briefs. In any event, any party may file a post-hearing brief. The ALJ shall fix the
time for filing such briefs, not to exceed 60 days from the date the parties receive the transcript of the hearing or, if applicable, the stipulated
record. Such briefs may be accompanied by proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law. The ALJ may permit the parties to file reply
briefs.
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§1.335 Determining the amount of penalties and assessments.
(a) In determining an appropriate amount of civil penalties and assessments, the ALJ and the judicial officer, upon appeal, should
evaluate any circumstances that mitigate or aggravate the violation and should articulate in their opinions the reasons that support the
penalties and assessments they impose. Because of the intangible costs of fraud, the expense of investigating such conduct, and the need
to deter others who might be similarly tempted, ordinarily double damages and a significant civil penalty should be imposed.
(b) Although not exhaustive, the following factors are among those that may influence the ALJ and the judicial officer in determining the
amount of penalties and assessments to impose with respect to the misconduct (i.e., the false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims or statements)
charged in the complaint:
(1) The number of false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims or statements;
(2) The time period over which such claims or statements were made;
(3) The degree of the respondent's culpability with respect to the misconduct;
(4) The amount of money or the value of the property, services, or benefit falsely claimed;
(5) The value of the Government's actual loss as a result of the misconduct, including foreseeable consequential damages and the
costs of investigation;
(6) The relationship of the amount imposed as civil penalties to the amount of the Government's loss;
(7) The potential or actual impact of the misconduct upon national defense, public health or safety, or public confidence in the
management of Government programs and operations, including particularly the impact on the intended beneficiaries of such programs;
(8) Whether the respondent has engaged in a pattern of the same or similar misconduct;
(9) Whether the respondent attempted to conceal the misconduct;
(10) The degree to which the respondent has involved others in the misconduct or in concealing it;
(11) Where the misconduct of employees or agents is imputed to the respondent, the extent to which the respondent's practices
fostered or attempted to preclude such misconduct;
(12) Whether the respondent cooperated in or obstructed an investigation of the misconduct;
(13) Whether the respondent assisted in identifying and prosecuting other wrongdoers;
(14) The complexity of the program or transaction, and the degree of the respondent's sophistication with respect to it, including the
extent of the respondent's prior participation in the program or in similar transactions;
(15) Whether the respondent has been found, in any criminal, civil, or administrative proceeding to have engaged in similar misconduct
or to have dealt dishonestly with the government of the United States or of a State, directly or indirectly; and
(16) The need to deter the respondent and others from any engaging in the same or similar misconduct.
(c) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the ALJ or the judicial officer from considering any other factors that in any given
case may mitigate or aggravate the acts for which penalties and assessments are imposed.
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§1.336 Initial decision of the ALJ.
(a) The ALJ shall issue an initial decision, which shall contain findings of fact, conclusions of law, and the amount of any penalties and
assessments imposed.
(b) The findings of fact shall include a finding on each of the following issues for every claim or statement with respect to which a
penalty or assessment was proposed:
(1) Whether any claim or statement identified in the complaint violates §1.303 of this part;

(2) If the respondent is liable for penalties or assessments, the appropriate amount of any such penalties or assessments considering
any mitigating or aggravating factors described in §1.335 of this part.
(c) The ALJ shall serve the initial decision on all parties within 90 days after the time for submission of post-hearing briefs and reply
briefs (if permitted) has expired. The ALJ shall include with the initial decision a statement describing the right of any respondent
determined to be liable for a civil penalty or assessment to file notice of appeal with the judicial officer. The ALJ may extend the time period
for serving the initial decision on the parties.
(d) Unless the initial decision of the ALJ is timely appealed to the judicial officer, or a motion for reconsideration of the initial decision is
timely filed, the initial decision shall constitute the final decision of the Secretary and shall be final and binding on the parties 30 days after it
is issued by the ALJ.
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§1.337 Reconsideration of initial decision.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, any party may file a motion for reconsideration of the initial decision within 20
days of receipt of the initial decision. If service was made by mail, receipt will be presumed to be five days from the date of mailing in the
absence of contrary proof.
(b) Every such motion must set forth the matters claimed to have been erroneously decided and the nature of the alleged errors. Such
motion shall be accompanied by a supporting brief.
(c) Responses to such motions shall be allowed only upon request of the ALJ.
(d) No party may file a motion for reconsideration of an initial decision that has been revised in response to a previous motion for
reconsideration.
(e) The ALJ may dispose of a motion for reconsideration by denying it or by issuing a revised initial decision.
(f) If the ALJ denies a motion for reconsideration, the initial decision shall constitute the final decision of the authority head and shall be
final and binding on the parties 30 days after the ALJ denies the motion, unless the initial decision is timely appealed to the judicial officer in
accordance with §1.338 of this part.
(g) If the ALJ issues a revised initial decision, that decision shall constitute the final decision of the authority head and shall be final and
binding on the parties 30 days after it is issued, unless it is timely appealed to the judicial officer in accordance with §1.338 of this part.
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§1.338 Appeal to the judicial officer.
(a) Any respondent who has filed a timely answer and who is determined in an initial decision to be liable for a civil penalty or
assessment may appeal such decision to the Secretary by filing a notice of appeal with the judicial officer in accordance with this section.
The judicial officer of USDA shall consider all appeals to the Secretary under this subpart and render a decision on behalf of the Secretary.
(b)(1) A notice of appeal may be filed at any time within 30 days after the ALJ issues an initial decision. However, if another party files a
motion for reconsideration under §1.337 of this part, consideration of the appeal shall be stayed automatically pending resolution of the
motion for reconsideration.
(2) If a motion for reconsideration is timely filed, a notice of appeal may be filed within 30 days after the ALJ denies the motion or
issues a revised initial decision, whichever applies.
(c) The judicial officer may extend the initial 30-day period during which a notice of appeal may be filed for an additional 30 days if the
respondent files a request for an extension within the initial 30-day period and shows good cause.
(d) If the respondent timely files a notice of appeal with the judicial officer and the time for filing motions for reconsideration under
§1.337 of this part has expired, the ALJ will forward the record of the proceeding to the judicial officer.
(e) A notice of appeal shall be accompanied by a written brief specifying exceptions to the initial decision and reasons supporting the
exceptions.
(f) The representative for USDA may file a brief in opposition to exceptions within 30 days of receiving the brief proposing exceptions.
(g) There is no right to appear personally before the judicial officer.
(h) There is no right to interlocutory appeal of rulings by the ALJ.
(i) The judicial officer, in reviewing the decision, shall not consider any objection that was not raised before the ALJ unless a
demonstration is made that extraordinary circumstances caused the failure to raise the objection.
(j) If any party demonstrates to the satisfaction of the judicial officer that additional evidence not presented to the ALJ is material and
that there were reasonable grounds for the failure to present such evidence to the ALJ, the judicial officer shall remand the matter to the
ALJ for consideration of such additional evidence.
(k) The judicial officer may affirm, reduce, reverse, compromise, remand or settle any penalty or assessment determined by the ALJ.

(l) The judicial officer shall promptly serve each party to the appeal with a copy of the decision of the judicial officer and a statement
describing the respondent's right to seek judicial review.
(m) Unless a petition for review is filed as provided in 31 U.S.C. 3805 after a respondent has exhausted all administrative remedies
under this part and within 60 days after the date on which the judicial officer serves the respondent with a copy of the judicial officer's
decision, a determination that a respondent is liable under §1.303 of this part is final and is not subject to judicial review.
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§1.339 Stays ordered by the Department of Justice.
(a) If at any time the Attorney General or an Assistant Attorney General designated by the Attorney General transmits to the Secretary
a written finding that continuation of the administrative process described in this subpart with respect to a claim or statement may adversely
affect any pending or potential criminal or civil action related to such claim or statement, the judicial officer shall stay the process
immediately.
(b) If the judicial officer stays the administrative process in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section, the judicial officer may order
the process resumed only upon receipt of the written authorization of the Attorney General.
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§1.340 Stay pending appeal.
(a) A decision is stayed automatically pending disposition of a motion for reconsideration or of an appeal to the judicial officer.
(b) The respondent may file with the ALJ a request for stay of the effective date of a decision of the judicial officer pending judicial
review. Such request shall state the grounds upon which respondent relies in requesting the stay, together with a copy of the notice(s) of
appeal filed by respondent seeking review of a decision of the judicial officer. The filing of such a request shall automatically stay the
effective date of the decision of the judicial officer until the ALJ rules upon the request.
(c) The representative for the USDA may file an opposition to respondent's request for a stay within 10 days of receipt of the request. If
the representative for the USDA fails to file such an opposition within the allotted time, or indicates that the USDA has no objection to the
request, the ALJ may grant the stay without requiring respondent to give a bond or other security.
(d) The ALJ may grant a contested request where justice so requires and to the extent necessary to prevent irreparable harm but only
upon the respondent's giving of a bond or other adequate security. The ALJ shall rule promptly on a contested request for stay.
(e) A decision of the ALJ denying respondent's request for a stay shall constitute final agency action.
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§1.341 Judicial review.
Section 3805 of title 31, United States Code, authorizes judicial review by an appropriate United States District Court of a final decision
of the judicial officer imposing penalties or assessments under this part and specifies the procedures for such review.
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§1.342 Collection of civil penalties and assessments.
Sections 3806 and 3808(b) of title 31, United States Code, authorize actions for collection of civil penalties and assessments imposed
under this subpart and specify the procedures for such actions.
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§1.343 Right to administrative offset.
The amount of any penalty or assessment which has become final, or for which a judgment has been entered under §1.341 or §1.342
of this part, or any amount agreed upon in a settlement under §1.345 of this part, may be collected by administrative offset under 31 U.S.C.
3716, except that an administrative offset may not be made under this subsection against a refund of an overpayment of Federal taxes then
or later owing by the United States to the respondent.
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§1.344 Deposit to Treasury of the United States.
All amounts collected pursuant to this subpart shall be deposited as miscellaneous receipts in the Treasury of the United States.
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§1.345 Settlement.
(a) A respondent may make offers of compromise of settlement at any time.

(b) The reviewing official has the exclusive authority to compromise or settle a case under this subpart at any time after the date on
which the reviewing official is permitted to issue a complaint and before the date on which the ALJ issues a decision.
(c) The judicial officer has exclusive authority to compromise or settle a case under this subpart at any time after the date on which the
ALJ issues a decision, except during the pendency of any appeal under §1.341 of this part or during the pendency of any action to collect
penalties and assessments under §1.342 of this part.
(d) The Attorney General has exclusive authority to compromise or settle a case under this subpart during the pendency of any appeal
under §1.341 of this part, or any action to recover penalties and assessments under §1.342 of this part.
(e) The investigating official may recommend settlement terms to the reviewing official, the judicial officer, or the Attorney General, as
appropriate. The reviewing official may recommend settlement terms to the judicial officer, or the Attorney General, as appropriate.
(f) Any settlement must be in writing.
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§1.346 Limitation.
The complaint referred to in §1.307 of this part with respect to a claim or statement must be served in the manner specified in §1.308 of
this part within 6 years after the date on which such claim or statement is made.
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Subpart M—Rules of Practice Governing Adjudication of Sourcing Area Applications and Formal
Review of Sourcing Areas Pursuant to the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act
of 1990 (16 U.S.C. 620 et seq.)
A
S

: 5 U.S.C. 556 and 16 U.S.C. 620 et seq.
: 59 FR 8824, Feb. 24, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.410 Meaning of words.
As used in these procedures, words in the singular form shall be deemed to import the plural, and vice versa, as the circumstance may
require.
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§1.411 Definitions.
As used in these procedures, the terms as defined in the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990, 16 U.S.C.
620 et seq. (Act) and in the regulations issued thereunder, shall apply with equal force and effect. In addition and except as may be
provided otherwise in these procedures:
(a) Applicant or Sourcing area applicant means a person who submits a sourcing area application pursuant to these rules, or a person
who sourcing area is subject to formal review pursuant to 36 CFR 223.191(e).
(b) Decision means:
(1) The Judge's initial decision made in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 554, 556, 557, and 16 U.S.C. 620 et seq. and 36
CFR 223.190 and 223.191(e), which includes the Judge's findings and conclusions and the reasons or basis therefore on all material issues
of fact, law or discretion, orders and rulings on proposed findings, conclusions and orders submitted by the parties; and
(2) The decision and order by the Judicial officer upon appeal of the Judge's decision.
(c) Determination is synonymous with decision.
(d) Hearing means that part of the proceeding which may be requested by a party of record, and which involves the submission of
additional evidence before the Administrative Law Judge for the record in the proceeding.
(e) Hearing Clerk means the Office of the Hearing Clerk, United States Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250.
(f) Judge means any Administrative Law Judge Appointed pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3105 and assigned to the proceeding involved.
(g) Judicial Officer means an official of the United States Department of Agriculture delegated authority by the Secretary of Agriculture,
pursuant to the Act of April 4, 1940 (7 U.S.C. 450c-459g) and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. 1988 ed., appendix, p. 1280), to
perform the function involved (7 CFR 235(a)), or the Secretary of Agriculture, if the authority so delegated is exercised by the Secretary.
(h) Party of record or Party is a party to the proceeding to determine approval or disapproval of a sourcing area application, including
the proceeding for formal review of a sourcing area. The sourcing area applicant and persons who submit written comments on the
sourcing area application at issue during the 30 calendar day comment period, including the Regional Forester, are the parties of record.
For purposes of a formal review of a sourcing area, the holder of the sourcing area that is the subject of the review and persons who submit

written comments on the sourcing area application at issue during the 30 calendar day comment period after institution of the formal review,
including the Regional Forester, are the parties of record.
(i) Sourcing Area Application means the application by which a person applies for a sourcing area or the application by which a
sourcing area holder applies for a formal review of a sourcing area.
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§1.412 Institution of proceedings.
(a) Sourcing area applications. The proceeding for determining sourcing areas shall be instituted by receipt of a sourcing area
application by the Office of Administrative Law Judges, pursuant to 36 CFR 223.190.
(b) Review of sourcing areas. Informal review of a sourcing area precedes institution of a formal review as follows:
(1) Request by Sourcing area holder. A sourcing area holder who wishes to begin a review of a sourcing area shall send a written
request for a review to the Regional Forester of the region in which the manufacturing facility being sourced is located. The request shall
state the reason for the request.
(i) Informal review. The Regional Forester shall begin an informal review, pursuant to 36 CFR 223.191(e), based on the written request.
If no agreement is reached in the informal review process, the Regional Forester of the region in which the manufacturing facility being
sourced is located shall transmit to the Office of Administrative Law Judges any submissions received during the informal review process,
within 5 working days of the meeting convened during the informal review (36 CFR 223.191)e)). Agreement is reached when all persons
attending the meeting convened by the Regional Forester to resolve differences as to the proper sourcing area, including the Regional
Forester, sign the document describing the sourcing area.
(ii) Formal review. Institution by a sourcing area holder of a formal review of the sourcing area occurs if the informal review process
does not result in agreement among the parties, and the sourcing area holder submits a sourcing area application to the Office of the
Administrative Law Judges, pursuant to 36 CFR 223.190, within 10 working days after the meeting convened by the Regional Forester as
part of the informal process.
(2) Initiation of review by agency. If the Forest Service wishes to begin a review of a sourcing area, the Regional Forester of the region
in which the manufacturing facility being sourced is located shall begin an informal review, pursuant to 36 CFR 223.191(e). If no agreement
is reached in the informal review process, the Regional Forester of the region in which the manufacturing facility being sourced is located
shall transmit to the Office of Administrative Law Judges any submissions received during the informal review process, within 5 working
days of the meeting convened during the informal review (36 CFR 223.191(e)). Agreement is reached when all persons attending the
meeting convened by the Regional Forester to resolve differences as to the proper sourcing area, including the Regional Forester, sign the
document describing the sourcing area. Institution by the Forest Service of a formal review of a sourcing area occurs when the Office of
Administrative Law Judges receives the papers and documents submitted during the informal review process.
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§1.413 Submission of a sourcing area application.
A sourcing area applicant shall send the application to the Office of Administrative Law Judges and shall, simultaneously, send a copy
of the sourcing area application to the Forest Service Regional Forester of the region in which the manufacturing facility being sourced is
located. Where the sourcing area application will cover purchases from more than one agency, application is to be made to the agency from
which the applicant expects to purchase the preponderance of its Federal timber. The sourcing area applicant must also send a complete
copy of the application to each agency concerned. The lead agency shall make the decision in consultation with, and upon co-signature of,
the other agency(ies) concerned. Sourcing area applications must be signed by the persons making the request, or in the case of a
corporation, by its chief executive officer, and must be notarized. The application shall be on company letterhead.
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§1.414 Docket number.
Each proceeding, following its institution, shall be assigned a docket number by the Hearing Clerk, and thereafter the proceeding shall
be referred to by such number. The Hearing Clerk shall notify the sourcing area applicant and the Regional Forester to whom the applicant
submitted a copy of the application of the docket number and the name of the Judge to whom the case has been assigned. In a formal
review of a sourcing area instituted by the Forest Service, the Hearing Clerk shall inform the sourcing area holder whose sourcing area is
subject to the review and the Regional Forester who submitted the comments instituting the formal review of the docket number and the
name of the Judge to whom the case has been assigned.
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§1.415 Notification of proceedings.
The Regional Forester of the region in which the manufacturing facility being sourced is located shall notify prospective parties of the
sourcing area application and/or the formal review of a sourcing area after receipt of the docket number and the name of the Judge to
whom the proceeding has been assigned, pursuant to §1.414 of these rules. Notification will consist of publication of a notice in newspapers
of general circulation in the area included in the sourcing area application. The Regional Forester shall promptly notify the Hearing Clerk of
the date of the publication and the notice. Additional notification will be made through agency mailing lists. Notification shall include the
docket number, the name of the Judge to whom the case has been assigned and the mailing address of the Judge. In the case of a
sourcing area review, notification will also state the reason for the review.

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§1.416 Comment period.
Written comments on a sourcing area application or on a formal review of a sourcing area shall include the docket number and may be
submitted to the Judge for 30 calendar days following publication of the notice. Persons submitting comments shall send a copy of the
comments to the Regional Forester of the region in which the manufacturing facility being sourced is located. All comments must be
received by the Judge and by the Regional Forester by the 30th day of the comment period.
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§1.417 Review period.
(a) Review of comments. The sourcing area applicant, the sourcing area holder whose sourcing area is the subject of a formal review
and other parties who submitted written comments will be allowed 10 working days from the close of the comment period to review the
written comments at the Regional Forester's office during regular business hours.
(b) Recommendation to Judge to approve or disapprove a sourcing area application. During the 10 working day review period, parties
who have submitted written comments on an application or on a formal review of a sourcing area may submit a written recommendation to
the Judge, including an analysis of the facts and law as to why the Judge should approve or disapprove that application. A sourcing area
applicant whose sourcing area application is the subject of the proceeding, and a sourcing area holder whose sourcing area is the subject
of a formal review, may also submit a written recommendation to the Judge. The recommendation must be postmarked no later than the
10th working day of the review period.
(c) Request for a hearing. The sourcing area applicant, the sourcing area holder whose sourcing area is the subject of a formal review
and persons who submitted written comments, or the attorney of record for a party in the proceeding, may review the comments and
request a hearing within 10 working days after the comment period, pursuant to 36 CFR 233.190(h)(2). The request must be postmarked no
later than the 10th working day of the review period. An attorney may file an appearance of record prior to the scheduled hearing. The
request for a hearing shall be filed with the Judge. The hearing is for the purpose of supplementing the written record submitted prior to the
hearing. The written record submitted prior to the hearing consists of papers and documents submitted during the 30 calendar day
comment period, the 10 working day review period, and any motions submitted before the hearing. For purposes of a formal review of a
sourcing area, the written record also consists of the papers and documents submitted during the informal review.
(1) Contents of the notice of hearing. The Judge shall issue a notice of hearing regarding a particular sourcing area application or
regarding formal review of a sourcing area application or regarding formal review of a sourcing area to all parties of record for that
application or formal review. The notice of hearing shall contain a reference to the authority under which the sourcing area is proposed or
formally reviewed; shall define the scope of the hearing; shall contain a reference to the sourcing area that is the subject of the hearing; and
shall state the date, time and place of such hearing; and shall state the date, time and place of such hearing; which shall be set with due
regard for the necessity and convenience of the parties of record or their representatives. The Judge shall schedule a hearing no later than
21 calendar days after the 10 working day period for reviewing written comments ends. The Judge may consolidate requests for a hearing
regarding the same application.
(2) Giving notice of hearing. The notice of hearing shall be served upon the parties of record for the sourcing area application at issue
by the Hearing Clerk.
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§1.418 Procedure upon no request for hearing.
If no hearing is requested by a party of record, the Judge shall issue an initial decision based on the written record and without further
procedure or hearing. If no hearing is requested, the written record consists of papers and documents submitted during the 30-day
comment period, the 10-day review period, and includes motions submitted before the Judge issues an initial decision. For purposes of a
formal review of a sourcing area, the written record also consists of the papers and documents submitted during the informal review. Copies
of the decision shall be served by the Hearing Clerk upon each of the parties of record.
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§1.419 Amendment of a sourcing area application.
The sourcing area applicant may move to amend the sourcing area application with clarifying and technical amendments at any time
prior to the Judge's initial determination if there is no hearing, or prior to the close of the hearing if there is a hearing.
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§1.420 Consent recommendation.
Any time before the Judge files the decision, the parties of record may enter a consent recommendation. Such consent
recommendation shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk, signed by the parties with appropriate space for signature by the Judge. The consent
recommendation shall contain an admission of the jurisdictional facts, the factual and legal basis for the recommended sourcing area, the
consent to the issuance of the recommended decision as the final decision of the agency without further procedure and such other
admissions or statements as may be recommended by the parties. The Judge shall review the recommendation to determine whether such
recommendation conforms with the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990 (16 U.S.C. 620, et seq.), 36 CFR
223.190, 36 CFR 223.191(e) and these procedures. If the recommendation conforms to the aforementioned Act, regulations, and
procedures, the Judge may enter such decision without further procedure, unless an error is apparent on the face of the document. If the

Judge enters the decision, such decision shall have the same force and effect as a decision issued after full hearing and shall become final
upon issuance to become effective in accordance with the terms of the decision.
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§1.421 Prehearing conferences and procedures.
(a) Purpose and scope. (1) Upon motion of a party of record or upon the Judge's own motion, the Judge may direct the parties or their
counsel to attend a conference at any reasonable time, prior to or during the course of the hearing, when the Judge finds that the
proceeding would be expedited by a prehearing conference. Reasonable notice of the time and place of the conference shall be given. The
Judge may order each of the parties to furnish at or subsequent to the conference any or all of the following:
(i) An outline of a party's position;
(ii) The facts upon which the party will rely;
(iii) The legal theories upon which the party will rely;
(iv) Copies of or a list of documents which the party anticipates introducing at the hearing; and
(v) A list of anticipated witnesses who will testify on behalf of the party. At the discretion of the party furnishing such list of witnesses,
the names of the witnesses need not be furnished if they are otherwise identified in some meaningful way such as a short statement of the
type of evidence they will offer.
(2) The Judge shall not order any of the foregoing procedures that a party can show is inappropriate or unwarranted under the
circumstances of the particular determination.
(3) At the conference, the following matters shall be considered:
(i) The simplification of issues;
(ii) The possibility of obtaining stipulations of facts and of the authenticity, accuracy, and admissibility of documents, which will avoid
unnecessary proof;
(iii) The limitation of the number of expert or other witnesses;
(iv) Negotiation, compromise, or settlement of issues;
(v) The exchange of copies of proposed exhibits;
(vi) The identification of documents or matters of which official notice may be requested;
(vii) A schedule to be followed by the parties for completion of the actions decided at the conference; and
(viii) Such other matters as may expedite and aid in the disposition of the proceeding.
(b) Reporting. A prehearing conference will not be stenographically reported unless so directed by the Judge.
(c) Action in lieu of personal attendance at a conference. In the event the Judge concludes that personal attendance by the Judge and
the parties or counsel at a prehearing conference is unwarranted or impracticable, but determines that a conference would expedite the
proceeding, the Judge may conduct such conference by telephone or correspondence.
(d) Order. Actions taken as a result of a conference shall be reduced to an appropriate written order, unless the Judge concludes that a
stenographic report shall suffice, or if the Judge elects to make a statement on the record at the hearing summarizing the actions taken.
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§1.422 Conduct of the hearing.
(a) Time and place. The hearing shall be held at the time and place fixed in the notice of hearing. If any change in the time or place of
the hearing is made, the Judge shall file with the Hearing Clerk a notice of such change, which notice shall be served upon the parties,
unless it is made during the course of an oral script, or actual notice is given to the parties.
(b) Appearances. The parties may appear in person or by attorney of record in the proceeding. Any party who desires to be heard in
person shall, before proceeding to testify, state his name, address, and occupation. If any such person is appearing through counsel, such
person or such counsel shall, before proceeding to testify or otherwise to participate in the hearing, state for the record the authority to act
as such counsel or representative, and the names, addresses, and occupations of such person and such counsel. Any such person or such
counsel shall give such other information respecting his appearance as the Judge may request. Any person who appears as counsel must
conform to the standards of ethical conduct required of practitioners before the courts of the United States.
(c) Failure to appear. A party of record who, after being duly notified, fails to appear at the hearing without good cause, shall be
deemed to have waived the right to an oral hearing in the proceeding. Failure to appear at a hearing shall not be deemed to be a waiver of
the right to be served with a copy of the Judge's decision.
(d) Order of proceeding. The Judge shall determine the order in which the parties shall proceed.

(e) Evidence—(1) In general. (i) The testimony of witnesses at a hearing shall be on oath or affirmation and shall be subject to crossexamination. Cross-examination shall be permitted to the extent required for a full and true disclosure of the facts. The Judge may require
that testimony on one issue raised by numerous parties be heard at one time.
(ii) Upon a finding of good cause, the Judge may order that any witness be examined separately and apart from all other witnesses
except those who may be parties to the proceeding.
(iii) After a witness has testified on direct examination, any other party may request and obtain the production of any statement, or part
thereof, of such witness in the possession of the party who called the witness, which relates to the subject matter as to which the witness
has testified. Such production shall be made according to the procedures and subject to the definitions and limitations prescribed in the
Jencks Act (18 U.S.C. 3500).
(iv) Evidence which is immaterial, or unduly repetitious, or which is not of the sort upon which responsible persons are accustomed to
rely, shall be excluded insofar as practicable.
(2) Objections. (i) If a party objects to the admission of any evidence or to the limitation of the scope of any examination or crossexamination or to any other ruling of the Judge, the party shall state briefly the grounds of such objection, whereupon an automatic
exception will follow if the objection is overruled by the Judge.
(ii) Only objections made before the Judge may subsequently be relied upon in the proceeding.
(3) Depositions. The deposition of any witness shall be admitted in the manner provided in and subject to the provisions of §1.228 of
these procedures.
(4) Exhibits. Unless the Judge finds that the furnishing of copies is impracticable, two copies of each exhibit shall be filed with the
Judge. The party submitting the exhibit shall serve on every other party of record a copy of the exhibit, pursuant to §1.427(c) of these
procedures. A true copy of an exhibit may be substituted for the original.
(5) Official records or documents. An official government record or document or entry therein, if admissible for any purpose, shall be
admissible in evidence without the production of the person who made or prepared the same, and shall be prima facie evidence of the
relevant facts stated therein. Such record or document shall be evidenced by an official publication thereof or a copy certified by a person
having legal authority to make such certification.
(6) Official notice. Official notice shall be taken of such matters as are judicially noted by the courts of the United States and of any
other matter of technical, scientific, or commercial fact of established character: Provided, That the parties shall be given adequate notice of
matters so noticed, and shall be given adequate opportunity to show that such facts are erroneously noticed.
(7) Offer of proof. Whenever evidence is excluded by the Judge, the party offering such evidence may make an offer of proof, which
shall be included in the transcript. The offer of proof shall consist of a brief statement describing the evidence excluded. If the evidence
consists of a brief oral statement, it shall be included in the transcript in toto. If the evidence consists of an exhibit, it shall be marked for
identification and inserted in the hearing record.
(f) Transcript. Hearings shall be recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts thereof shall be made available to any person, at actual
cost of duplication (5 U.S.C. App. 2, section 11).
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§1.423 Post-hearing procedure.
(a) Corrections to transcript. (1) Within the period of time fixed by the Judge, any party may file a motion proposing corrections to the
transcript.
(2) Unless a party files such motion in the manner prescribed, the transcript shall be presumed, except for obvious typographical
errors, to be complete.
(3) As soon as practicable after the close of the hearing and after consideration of any timely objections filed as to the transcript, the
Judge shall issue an order making any corrections to the transcript which the Judge finds are warranted, which corrections shall be entered
onto the original transcript by the Hearing Clerk (without obscuring the origianl text).
(b) Proposed findings of fact, conclusions, order, and brief. Prior to the close of the hearing, each party may submit for consideration
proposed findings of fact, conclusions, order, and brief in support thereof. A copy of each such document filed by a party shall be served
upon each of the other parties.
(c) Judge's decision. (1) The Judge may, upon motion of any party or in his or her own discretion, issue a decision orally at the close of
the hearing, or within 10 calendar days after the close of the hearing, or within 10 calendar days after submission of the record, if no
hearing is requested.
(2) If the decision is announced orally, a copy thereof, excerpted from the transcript of the record, shall be furnished to the parties by
the Hearing Clerk. Irrespective of the date such copy is mailed, the issuance date of the decision shall be the date the oral decision was
announced.
(3) If the decision is in writing, it shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk and served upon the parties as provided in §1.427.
(4) The Judge's decision shall become effective without further proceedings 21 calendar days after the issuance of the decision, if
announced orally at the hearing, or if the decision is in writing, 21 calendar days after the date of service thereof upon the respondent,

unless there is an appeal to the Judicial Officer by a party to the proceeding pursuant to §1.426; Provided, however, that no decision shall
be final for purposes of judicial review except a final decision of the Judicial Officer upon appeal.
(5) The Judicial Officer shall issue a decision within 10 calendar days of the receipt of the response to the appeal.
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§1.424 Motions and requests.
(a) General. All motions and requests shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk, and served upon all the parties except motions and
requests made on the record during the oral hearing.
(b) Motions entertained. No dispositive motions, including motions to dismiss on the pleadings and motions for summary judgment,
shall be entertained unless specifically mentioned herein or allowed in the discretion of the Judge.
(c) Contents. All written motions and requests shall state the particular order, ruling, or action desired and the grounds therefore.
(d) Response to motions and requests. Within 5 days after service of any written motion or request, or within such shorter or longer
period as may be fixed by the Judge, an opposing party may file a response to the motion or request. The other party shall have no right to
reply to the response.
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§1.425 Judges.
(a) Assignment. No Judge shall be assigned to serve in any proceeding who:
(1) Has any pecuniary interest in any matter or business involved in the proceeding;
(2) Is related within the third degree by blood or marriage to any party to the proceeding; or
(3) Has any conflict of interest which might impair the Judge's objectivity in the proceeding.
(b) Disqualification of Judge. (1) Any party to the proceeding may, by motion made to the Judge, request that the Judge withdraw from
the proceeding because of an alleged disqualifying reason. Such motion shall set forth with particularity the grounds of alleged
disqualification. The Judge may then either rule upon or certify the motion to the Secretary, but not both.
(2) A Judge shall withdraw from any proceeding for any reason deemed by the Judge to be disqualifying.
(c) Powers. Subject to review as provided elsewhere in this part, the Judge, in any assigned proceeding shall have power to:
(1) Rule upon motions and requests;
(2) Set the time and place of a pre-hearing conference and the hearing, adjourn the hearing from time to time, and change the time and
place of hearing;
(3) Administer oaths and affirmations;
(4) Request the presence of and examine witnesses and receive relevant evidence at the hearing;
(5) Take or order the taking of depositions as authorized under these rules;
(6) Admit or exclude evidence;
(7) Hear oral argument on facts or law,
(8) Do all acts and take all measures necessary for the maintenance of order, including the exclusion of contumacious counsel or other
persons;
(9) Request additional information from any party to aid in the Judge's determination; and
(10) Take all other actions authorized under these procedures.
(d) Who may act in the absence of the Judge. In case of the absence of the Judge or the Judge's inability to act, the powers and duties
to be performed by the Judge under these rules of practice in connection with any assigned proceeding may, without abatement of the
proceeding unless otherwise directed by the Chief Judge, be assigned to any other Judge.
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§1.426 Appeal to Judicial Officer.
(a) Filing of petition. Within 10 calendar days after receiving service of the Judge's decision, a party who disagrees with the decision, or
any part thereof, or any ruling by the Judge or any alleged deprivation of rights, may appeal such decision to the Judicial Officer by filing an
appeal petition with the Hearing Clerk. As provided in §1.422(e)(2), objections regarding evidence or a limitation regarding examination or
cross-examination or other rulings made before the Judge may be relied upon in an appeal. Each issue set forth in the petition, and the
arguments thereon, shall be separately numbered; shall be plainly and concisely stated; and shall contain detailed citations of the record,

statutes, regulations or authorities being relied upon in support thereof. A brief may be filed in support of the appeal simultaneously with the
petition. A party filing a petition of appeal to the Judicial Officer, and any brief in support thereof, shall serve the other parties to the
proceeding with a copy of the petition and supporting brief. The copies of the petition and supporting brief shall be served on the parties to
the proceeding with a copy of the petition and supporting brief. The copies of the petition and supporting brief shall be served on the parties
to the proceeding on the same day as the petition and supporting brief are filed with the Judicial Officer.
(b) Response to appeal petition. Within 10 calendar days after the service of a copy of an appeal petition and any brief in support
thereof, filed by a party to the proceeding, any other party may file with the Hearing Clerk a response in support of or in opposition to the
appeal and in such response any relevant issue, not presented in the appeal petition, may be raised. A party filing a response to a petition
of appeal to the Judicial Officer shall serve the other parties to the proceeding with a copy of the response. The copies of the response shall
be served on the parties to the proceeding on the same day as the response is filed with the Judicial Officer.
(c) Transmittal of record. Whenever an appeal of a Judge's decision is filed and a response thereto has been filed or time for filing a
response has expired, the Hearing Clerk shall transmit to the Judicial Officer the record of the proceeding. Such record shall include: The
pleadings; motions and requests filed and rulings thereon; the transcript of the testimony taken at the hearing, together with the exhibits
filed in connection therewith; any documents or papers filed in connection with a prehearing conference; such proposed findings of fact,
conclusions, and orders, and briefs in support thereof, as may have been filed in connection with the proceeding; the Judge's decision; such
exceptions, statements of objections and briefs in support thereof as may have been filed in the proceeding; and the appeal petition, and
such briefs in support thereof and responses thereto as may have been filed in the proceeding.
(d) Decision of the Judicial Officer on appeal. The Judicial Officer, upon the basis of and after due consideration of the record and any
matter of which official notice is taken, shall rule on the appeal within 4 months after the institution of the proceeding, pursuant to 16 U.S.C.
620b(c)(3). If the Judicial Officer decides that no change or modification of the Judge's decision is warranted, the Judicial Officer may adopt
the Judge's decision as the final order in the proceeding, preserving any right of the party bringing the appeal to seek judicial review of such
decision in the proper forum. A final order issued by the Judicial Officer shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk. Such order may be regarded
by a party as final for purposes of judicial review.
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§1.427 Filing; identification of parties of record; service; and computation of time.
(a) Filing; number of copies. Except as otherwise provided in this section, all documents or papers required or authorized by the rules
in this part to be filed with the Hearing Clerk shall be filed in duplicate. Any document or paper required or authorized under the rules in this
part to be filed with the Hearing Clerk shall, during the course of an oral hearing, be filed with the Judge.
(b) Parties of record shall receive a list from the Hearing Clerk of the names and addresses of all parties of record immediately after the
close of the comment period.
(c) Service; proof of service. (1) Each party of record is responsible for serving on every other party and to the Judge all papers and
documents submitted after the comment period. Service shall be made either:
(i) By delivering a copy of the document or paper to the individual to be served or to a member of the partnership to be served, or to the
president, secretary, or other executive officer or a director of the corporation or association to be served, or to the attorney of record
representing such individual, partnership, corporation, organization, or association; or
(ii) By leaving a copy of the document or paper at the principal office or place of business or residence of such individual, partnership,
corporation, organization, or association, or of the attorney or agent of record and mailing by regular mail another copy to such person at
such address; or
(iii) By registering or certifying and mailing a copy of the document or paper, addressed to such individual, partnership, corporation,
organization, or association, or to the attorney or agent of record, at the last known residence or principal office or place of business of such
person: Provided, That if the registered or certified document or paper is returned undelivered because the addressee refused or failed to
accept delivery, the document or paper shall be served by remailing it by regular mail; or
(iv) By mailing the document or paper by regular mail.
(2) Proof of service hereunder shall be made by the certificate of the person who actually made the service: Provided, that if the service
is made by mail, as outlined in paragraph (b)(3) of this section, proof of service shall be made by the return post-office receipt, in the case
of registered or certified mail, and if that service is made by regular mail, as outlined in paragraphs (b)(3) and (b)(4) of this section, proof of
service shall be made by the certificate of the person who mailed the matter by regular mail. The certificate and post-office receipt
contemplated herein shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk, and made a part of the record of the proceeding. The Judge and the Hearing
Clerk shall follow the procedures outlined in (c) for service of papers or documents signed by the Judge and/or the Hearing Clerk.
(d) Effective date of filing. Any document or paper required or authorized under the rules in this part to be filed shall be deemed to be
filed at the time when it reaches the Hearing Clerk; or, if authorized to be filed with another officer or employee of the Department it shall be
deemed to be filed at the time when it reaches such officer or employee.
(e) Computations of time. Saturdays, Sundays and Federal holidays shall be included in computing the time allowed for the filing of any
document or paper except as provided in these rules; Provided, that, when such time expires on a Saturday, Sunday, or Federal holiday,
such period shall be extended to include the next following business day.
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§1.428 Depositions.

(a) Motion for taking deposition. Upon the motion of a party to the proceeding, the Judge may, at any time after the filing of the
submission, order the taking of testimony by deposition. The Motion shall be in writing, shall be filed with the Hearing Clerk, and shall set
forth:
(1) The name and address of the proposed deponent;
(2) The name and address of the person (referred to hereafter in this section as the “officer”) qualified under the regulations in this part
to take depositions, before whom the proposed examination is to be made;
(3) The proposed time and place of the examination; and
(4) The reasons why such deposition should be taken, which shall be solely for the purpose of eliciting testimony which otherwise might
not be available at the time of the hearing, for uses as provided in paragraph (g) of this section.
(b) Judge's order for taking deposition. (1) If the Judge finds that testimony may not be otherwise available at the hearing, the taking of
the deposition may be ordered. The order shall be served upon the parties, and shall state:
(i) The time and place of the examination;
(ii) The name of the officer before whom the examination is to be made; and
(iii) The name of the deponent.
(2) The officer and the time and place need not be the same as those suggested in the motion.
(c) Qualifications of officer. The deposition shall be made before the Judge or before an officer authorized by the law of the United
States or by the law of the place of the examination to administer oaths, or before an officer authorized by the Secretary to administer
oaths.
(d) Procedure on examinations. (1) The deponent shall be subject to cross-examination. Objections to questions or documents shall be
in short form, stating the grounds of objections relied upon. The questions propounded, together with all objections made (but not including
argument or debate), shall be recorded verbatim. In lieu of oral examination, parties may transmit written questions to the officer prior to the
examination and the officer shall propound such questions to the deponent.
(2) The applicant shall arrange for the examination of the witness either by oral examination, or by written questions upon agreement of
the parties or as directed by the Judge. If the examination is conducted by means of written questions, copies of the questions shall be
served upon the other party to the proceeding and filed with the officer and the other party may serve cross questions and file them with the
officer at any time prior to the time of the examination.
(e) Certification by officer. The officer shall certify on the deposition that the deponent was duly sworn and that the deposition is a true
record of the deponent's testimony. The officer shall then securely seal the deposition, together with one copy thereof (unless there are
more than two parties in the proceeding, in which case there should be another copy for each additional party), in an envelope and mail the
same by registered or certified mail to the Hearing Clerk.
(f) Corrections to the transcript. (1) At any time prior to the hearing any party may file a motion proposing corrections to the transcript of
the deposition.
(2) Unless a party files such a motion in the manner prescribed, the transcript shall be presumed, except for obvious typographical
errors, to be a true, correct, and complete transcript of the testimony given in the deposition proceeding and to contain an accurate
description or reference to all exhibits in connection therewith, and shall be deemed to be certified correct without further procedure.
(3) At any time prior to use of the deposition in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section and after consideration of any objections
filed thereto, the Judge may issue an order making any corrections in the transcript which the Judge finds are warranted, which corrections
shall be entered onto the original transcript by the Hearing Clerk (without obscuring the original text).
(g) Use of deposition. A deposition ordered and taken in accordance with the provisions of this section may be used in a proceeding
under these rules if the Judge finds that the evidence is otherwise admissible and that the witness is dead; that the witness is unable to
attend or testify because of age, sickness, infirmity, or imprisonment; or that such exceptional circumstances exist as to make it desirable, in
the interests of justice, to allow the deposition to be used. If the party upon whose motion the deposition was taken refuses to offer it in
evidence, any other party may offer the deposition or any thereof in evidence. If only part of a deposition is offered in evidence by a party,
an adverse party may require the introduction of any other part which ought in fairness to be considered with the part introduced and any
party may introduce any other parts.
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§1.429 Ex parte communications.
(a) At no stage of the proceeding between its institution and issuance of the final decision shall an employee of the Department who is
or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the decisional process of the proceeding discuss ex parte the merits of the proceeding
with any person having an interest in the proceeding, or with any representative of such person: Provided, That, procedural matters and
status reports shall not be included within this limitation; and Provided further, That an employee of the Department who is or may be
involved in the decisional process of the proceeding may discuss the merits of the proceeding if all parties of record have been given notice
and an opportunity to participate. A memorandum of any such discussion shall be included in the record.

(b) No interested person shall make or knowingly cause to be made to the Judge an ex parte communication relevant to the merits of
the proceeding.
(c) If the Judge reviews an ex parte communication in violation of this section, the one who receives the communication shall place in
the public record of the proceeding:
(1) All such written communication;
(2) Memoranda stating the substance of all such oral communications; and
(3) All written responses, and memoranda stating the substance of all oral responses thereto.
(d) Upon receipt of a communication knowingly made or knowingly caused to be made by a party in violation of this section, the Judge
may, to the extent consistent with the interests of justice and the policy of the underlying statute, require the party to show cause why his
claim or interest in the proceeding should not be dismissed, denied, disregarded, or otherwise adversely affected on account of such
violation.
(e) To the extent consistent with the interests of justice and the policy of the underlying statute, a violation of this section shall be
sufficient grounds for a decision adverse to the party who knowingly commits a violation of this section or who knowingly causes such a
violation to occur.
(f) For purposes of this section ex parte communication means an oral or written communication not on the public record with respect
to which reasonable prior notice to all parties is not given, but it shall not include requests for status reports on any matter or the
proceeding.
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Subpart N—Policy With Regard to Indemnification of Department of Agriculture Employees
A
S

: 5 U.S.C. 301.
: 69 FR 28042, May 18, 2004, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.501 Policy on employee indemnification.
(a) Indemnification, under the context of this section, shall be the policy whereby the Department of Agriculture compensates an
employee for the legal consequences of conduct, taken within the scope of his or her employment, giving rise to a verdict, judgment, or
other monetary award rendered against the employee.
(b) The Department of Agriculture may indemnify a Department employee (which for the purposes of this regulation shall include a
former employee) for any verdict, judgment, or other monetary award rendered against such employee, provided the Secretary or the
Secretary's designee determines, in his or her discretion, that the conduct giving rise to such verdict, judgment, or award was taken within
the scope of his or her employment with the Department, and such indemnification is in the interest of the United States.
(c) The Department of Agriculture may pay for the settlement or compromise of a personal damage claim against a Department
employee by the payment of available funds, at any time, provided that the Secretary or the Secretary's designee determines, in his or her
discretion, that the alleged conduct giving rise to the personal damage claim was taken within the scope of the employee's employment,
and such settlement or compromise is in the interest of the United States.
(d) Absent exceptional circumstances, as determined by the Secretary or his or her designee, the Department will not entertain a
request to agree to indemnify or pay for a settlement of a personal damage claim before entry of an adverse judgment, verdict, or other
monetary award.
(e) When a Department employee becomes aware that an action has been filed against the employee in his or her individual capacity
as a result of conduct taken within the scope of his or her employment, the employee should immediately notify his or her supervisor that
such an action is pending. The supervisor shall promptly thereafter notify the Office of the General Counsel.
(f) A Department employee may request indemnification to satisfy a verdict, judgment, or monetary award entered against the
employee or to satisfy the requirements of a settlement proposal. The employee shall submit a written request, with appropriate
documentation that includes a copy of the verdict, judgment, award or settlement proposal, as appropriate, to the head of his or her
employing component, who shall thereupon submit it to the General Counsel, in a timely manner, a recommended disposition of the
request. The Office of the General Counsel shall seek the views of the Department of Justice. The Office of the General Counsel shall
forward the employee's request, the employing component's recommendation, and the General Counsel's recommendation, along with the
time frame in which a decision is needed, to the Secretary or his or her designee for decision. The Secretary or his or her designee will
decide promptly whether to indemnify or pay for a settlement of a personal damage claim.
(g) Any payment under this section to indemnify a Department employee for a personal damage verdict, judgment, or award or to settle
a personal damage claim shall be contingent upon the availability of appropriated funds of the employing component of the United States
Department of Agriculture.
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Subpart O—Conditions in FERC Hydropower Licenses
A
S

: 16 U.S.C. 797(e), 811, 823d.
: 80 FR 17181, Mar. 31, 2015, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.601 What is the purpose of this subpart, and to what license proceedings does it apply?
(a) Hearing process. (1) The regulations in §§1.601 through 1.660 contain rules of practice and procedure applicable to hearings on
disputed issues of material fact with respect to mandatory conditions that the Department of Agriculture, Forest Service (Forest Service)
may develop for inclusion in a hydropower license issued under subchapter I of the Federal Power Act (FPA), 16 U.S.C. 791 et seq. The
authority to develop these conditions is granted by FPA section 4(e), 16 U.S.C. 797(e), which authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to
condition hydropower licenses issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
(2) The hearing process under this part does not apply to recommendations that the Forest Service may submit to FERC under FPA
section 10(a), 16 U.S.C. 803(a).
(3) The FPA also grants the Department of Commerce and the Department of the Interior the authority to develop mandatory conditions
and prescriptions for inclusion in a hydropower license. Where the Forest Service and either or both of these other Departments develop
conditions or prescriptions to be included in the same hydropower license and where the Departments agree to consolidate the hearings
under §1.623:
(i) A hearing conducted under this subpart will also address disputed issues of material fact with respect to any condition or prescription
developed by one of the other Departments; or
(ii) A hearing requested under this subpart will be conducted by one of the other Departments, pursuant to 43 CFR 45.1 et seq. or 50
CFR 221.1 et seq., as applicable.
(4) The regulations in §§1.601 through 1.660 will be construed and applied to each hearing process to achieve a just and speedy
determination, consistent with adequate consideration of the issues involved and the provisions of §1.660(a).
(b) Alternatives process. The regulations in §§1.670 through 1.674 contain rules of procedure applicable to the submission and
consideration of alternative conditions under FPA section 33, 16 U.S.C. 823d. That section allows any party to the license proceeding to
propose an alternative to a condition deemed necessary by the Forest Service under section 4(e).
(c) Reserved authority. Where the Forest Service has notified or notifies FERC that it is reserving its authority to develop one or more
conditions at a later time, the hearing and alternatives processes under this subpart for such conditions will be available if and when the
Forest Service exercises its reserved authority.
(d) Applicability. (1) This subpart applies to any hydropower license proceeding for which the license had not been issued as of
November 17, 2005, and for which one or more preliminary conditions have been or are filed with FERC before FERC issues the license.
(2) This subpart also applies to any exercise of the Forest Service's reserved authority under paragraph (c) of this section with respect
to a hydropower license issued before or after November 17, 2005.
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§1.602 What terms are used in this subpart?
As used in this subpart:
ALJ means an administrative law judge appointed under 5 U.S.C. 3105 and assigned to preside over the hearing process under this
subpart.
Alternative means a condition that a license party other than the Forest Service or another Department develops as an alternative to a
preliminary condition from the Forest Service or another Department, under FPA sec. 33, 16 U.S.C. 823d.
Condition means a condition under FPA sec. 4(e), 16 U.S.C. 797(e), for the adequate protection and utilization of a reservation.
Day means a calendar day.
Department means the Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, or Department of the Interior.
Discovery means a prehearing process for obtaining facts or information to assist a party in preparing or presenting its case.
Ex parte communication means an oral or written communication to the ALJ that is made without providing all parties reasonable notice
and an opportunity to participate.
FERC means the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Forest Service means the USDA Forest Service.
FPA means the Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. 791 et seq.
Hearing Clerk means the Hearing Clerk, OALJ, USDA, 1400 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC 20250; phone: 202-720-4443,
facsimile: 202-720-9776.
Intervention means a process by which a person who did not request a hearing under §1.621 can participate as a party to the hearing
under §1.622.
License party means a party to the license proceeding, as that term is defined at 18 CFR 385.102(c).
License proceeding means a proceeding before FERC for issuance of a license for a hydroelectric facility under 18 CFR part 4 or 5.
Material fact means a fact that, if proved, may affect a Department's decision whether to affirm, modify, or withdraw any condition or
prescription.
Modified condition or prescription means any modified condition or prescription filed by a Department with FERC for inclusion in a
hydropower license.
NEPA document means an environmental document as defined at 40 CFR 1508.10 to include an environmental assessment,
environmental impact statement (EIS), finding of no significant impact, and notice of intent to prepare an EIS. Such documents are issued
to comply with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., and the CEQ Regulations
Implementing the Procedural Requirements of NEPA (40 CFR parts 21500-1508).
NFS means the National Forest System and refers to:
(1) Federal land managed by the Forest Service; and
(2) The Deputy Chief of the National Forest System, located in the Forest Service's Washington, DC, office.
Office of Administrative Law Judges (OALJ) is the office within USDA in which ALJs conduct hearings under the regulations in this
subpart.
Party means, with respect to USDA's hearing process:
(1) A license party that has filed a timely request for a hearing under:
(i) Section 1.621; or
(ii) Either 43 CFR 45.21 or 50 CFR 221.21, with respect to a hearing process consolidated under §1.623;
(2) A license party that has filed a timely notice of intervention and response under:
(i) Section 1.622; or
(ii) Either 43 CFR 45.22 or 50 CFR 221.22, with respect to a hearing process consolidated under §1.623;
(3) The Forest Service; and
(4) Any other Department that has filed a preliminary condition or prescription, with respect to a hearing process consolidated under
§1.623.
Person means an individual; a partnership, corporation, association, or other legal entity; an unincorporated organization; and any
Federal, State, Tribal, county, district, territorial, or local government or agency.
Preliminary condition or prescription means any preliminary condition or prescription filed by a Department with FERC for potential
inclusion in a hydropower license.
Prescription means a fishway prescribed under FPA sec. 18, 16 U.S.C. 811, to provide for the safe, timely, and effective passage of
fish.
Representative means a person who:
(1) Is authorized by a party to represent the party in a hearing process under this subpart; and
(2) Has filed an appearance under §1.610.
Reservation has the same meaning as the term “reservations” in FPA sec. 3(2), 16 U.S.C. 796(2).
Secretary means the Secretary of Agriculture or his or her designee.
Senior Department employee has the same meaning as the term “senior employee” in 5 CFR 2637.211(a).
USDA means the United States Department of Agriculture.

You refers to a party other than a Department.
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§1.603 How are time periods computed?
(a) General. Time periods are computed as follows:
(1) The day of the act or event from which the period begins to run is not included.
(2) The last day of the period is included.
(i) If that day is a Saturday, Sunday, or Federal holiday, the period is extended to the next business day.
(ii) The last day of the period ends at 5 p.m. at the place where the filing or other action is due.
(3) If the period is less than 7 days, any Saturday, Sunday, or Federal holiday that falls within the period is not included.
(b) Extensions of time. (1) No extension of time can be granted to file a request for a hearing under §1.621, a notice of intervention and
response under §1.622, an answer under §1.625, or any document under §§1.670 through 1.674.
(2) An extension of time to file any other document under this subpart may be granted only upon a showing of good cause.
(i) To request an extension of time, a party must file a motion under §1.635 stating how much additional time is needed and the
reasons for the request.
(ii) The party must file the motion before the applicable time period expires, unless the party demonstrates extraordinary circumstances
that justify a delay in filing.
(iii) The ALJ may grant the extension only if:
(A) It would not unduly prejudice other parties; and
(B) It would not delay the decision under §1.660.
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§1.604 What deadlines apply to the trial-type hearing and alternatives processes?
(a) The following table summarizes the steps in the trial-type hearing process under this subpart and indicates the deadlines generally
applicable to each step. If the deadlines in this table are in any way inconsistent with the deadlines as set by other sections of this subpart
or by the ALJ, the deadlines as set by those other sections or by the ALJ control.

Process step
(1) Forest Service files preliminary
condition(s) with FERC
(2) License party files request for hearing

Process
day
0

Must generally be completed

See
section
1.620.

30 Within 30 days after Forest Service files 1.621(a).
preliminary condition(s) with FERC
50 Within 20 days after deadline for filing 1.622(a).
requests for hearing
85 Within 55 days after deadline for filing 1.626(a).
requests for hearing
86-91 Before deadline for filing motions
1.641(a).
seeking discovery
90 Within 5 days after effective date of
1.630.
referral notice

(3) Any other license party files notice of
intervention and response
(4) NFS refers case to ALJ office for
hearing and issues referral notice to parties
(5) Parties may meet and agree to
discovery (optional step)
(6) ALJ office sends docketing notice, and
ALJ issues notice setting date for initial
prehearing conference
(7) Party files motion seeking discovery
92 Within 7 days after effective date of
from another party
referral notice
(8) Other party files objections to discovery
99 Within 7 days after service of discovery
motion or specific portions of discovery
motion
requests
(9) Parties meet to discuss discovery and
100-104 Before date set for initial prehearing
hearing schedule
conference
(10) ALJ conducts initial prehearing
105 On or about 20th day after effective
conference
date of referral notice
(11) ALJ issues order following initial
107 Within 2 days after initial prehearing
prehearing conference
conference

1.641(d).
1.641(e).
1.640(d).
1.640(a).
1.640(g).

(12) Party responds to interrogatories from
another party as authorized by ALJ
(13) Party responds to requests for
documents, etc., from another party as
authorized by ALJ
(14) Parties complete all discovery,
including depositions, as authorized by ALJ
(15) Parties file updated lists of witnesses
and exhibits
(16) Parties file written direct testimony
(17) Parties complete prehearing
preparation and ALJ commences hearing
(18) ALJ closes hearing record
(19) Parties file post-hearing briefs
(20) ALJ issues decision

120-22 Within 15 days after ALJ's order
authorizing discovery during or
following initial prehearing conference
120-22 Within 15 days after ALJ's order
authorizing discovery during or
following initial prehearing conference
130 Within 25 days after initial prehearing
conference
140 Within 10 days after deadline for
completion of discovery
140 Within 10 days after deadline for
completion of discovery
155 Within 25 days after deadline for
completion of discovery
160 When ALJ closes hearing
175 Within 15 days after hearing closes
190 Within 30 days after hearing closes

1.643(c).
1.645(c).
1.641(i).
1.642(b).
1.652(a).
1.650(a).
1.658.
1.659(a).
1.660(a).

(b) The following table summarizes the steps in the alternatives process under this subpart and indicates the deadlines generally
applicable to each step. If the deadlines in this table are in any way inconsistent with the deadlines as set by other sections of this subpart,
the deadlines as set by those other sections control.

Process step
(1) Forest Service files preliminary
condition(s) with FERC
(2) License party files alternative
condition(s)
(3) ALJ issues decision on any
hearing request
(4) License party files revised
alternative condition(s) if authorized
(5) Forest Service files modified
condition(s) with FERC

Process
day
0

Must generally be completed

See
section
1.620.

30 Within 30 days after Forest Service files
preliminary condition(s) with FERC
190 Within 30 days after hearing closes (see
previous table)
210 Within 20 days after ALJ issues decision

1.671(a).

300 Within 60 days after the deadline for filing
comments on FERC's draft NEPA document

1.673(a).

1.660(a).
1.672(a).

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§1.610 Who may represent a party, and what requirements apply to a representative?
(a) Individuals. A party who is an individual may either represent himself or herself in the hearing process under this subpart or
authorize an attorney to represent him or her.
(b) Organizations. A party that is an organization or other entity may authorize one of the following to represent it:
(1) An attorney;
(2) A partner, if the entity is a partnership;
(3) An officer or agent, if the entity is a corporation, association, or unincorporated organization;
(4) A receiver, administrator, executor, or similar fiduciary, if the entity is a receivership, trust, or estate; or
(5) An elected or appointed official or an employee, if the entity is a Federal, State, Tribal, county, district, territorial, or local
government or component.
(c) Appearance. An individual representing himself or herself and any other representative must file a notice of appearance. The notice
must:
(1) Meet the form and content requirements for documents under §1.611;

(2) Include the name and address of the party on whose behalf the appearance is made;
(3) If the representative is an attorney, include a statement that he or she is a member in good standing of the bar of the highest court
of a state, the District of Columbia, or any territory or commonwealth of the United States (identifying which one); and
(4) If the representative is not an attorney, include a statement explaining his or her authority to represent the entity.
(d) Lead representative. If a party has more than one representative, the ALJ may require the party to designate a lead representative
for service of documents under §1.613.
(e) Disqualification. The ALJ may disqualify any representative for misconduct or other good cause.
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D

F

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§1.611 What are the form and content requirements for documents under this subpart?
(a) Form. Each document filed in a case under §§1.610 through 1.660 must:
(1) Measure 81⁄2 by 11 inches, except that a table, chart, diagram, or other attachment may be larger if folded to 81⁄2 by 11 inches and
attached to the document;
(2) Be printed on just one side of the page (except that service copies may be printed on both sides of the page);
(3) Be clearly typewritten, printed, or otherwise reproduced by a process that yields legible and permanent copies;
(4) Use 11 point font size or larger;
(5) Be double-spaced except for footnotes and long quotations, which may be single-spaced;
(6) Have margins of at least 1 inch; and
(7) Be bound on the left side, if bound.
(b) Caption. Each document filed under §§1.610 through 1.660 must begin with a caption that sets forth:
(1) The name of the case under §§1.610 through 1.660 and the docket number, if one has been assigned;
(2) The name and docket number of the license proceeding to which the case under §§1.610 through 1.660 relates; and
(3) A descriptive title for the document, indicating the party for whom it is filed and the nature of the document.
(c) Signature. The original of each document filed under §§1.610 through 1.660 must be signed by the representative of the person for
whom the document is filed. The signature constitutes a certification by the representative that he or she has read the document; that to the
best of his or her knowledge, information, and belief, the statements made in the document are true; and that the document is not being
filed for the purpose of causing delay.
(d) Contact information. Below the representative's signature, the document must provide the representative's name, mailing address,
street address (if different), telephone number, facsimile number (if any), and electronic mail address (if any).
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§1.612 Where and how must documents be filed?
(a) Place of filing. Any documents relating to a case under §§1.610 through 1.660 must be filed with the appropriate office, as follows:
(1) Before NFS refers a case for docketing under §1.626, any documents must be filed with NFS by directing them to the “Deputy
Chief, NFS.”
(i) For delivery by regular mail, address to USDA Forest Service, Attn: Lands Staff, Mail Stop 1124, 1400 Independence Ave. SW.,
Washington, DC 20250-1124.
(ii) For delivery by hand or private carrier, deliver to USDA Forest Service, Yates Bldg. (4 SO), 201 14th Street SW., Washington, DC
(SW. corner of 14th Street and Independence Ave. SW.); phone (202) 205-1248; facsimile (703) 605-5117. Hand deliverers must obtain an
official date-time-stamp from Lands Staff.
(2) The Forest Service will notify the parties of the date on which NFS refers a case for docketing under §1.626. After that date, any
documents must be filed with:
(i) The Hearing Clerk, if OALJ will be conducting the hearing. The Hearing Clerk's address, telephone number, and facsimile number
are set forth in §1.602; or

(ii) The hearings component of or used by another Department, if that Department will be conducting the hearing. The name, address,
telephone number, and facsimile number of the appropriate hearings component will be provided in the referral notice from the Forest
Service.
(b) Method of filing. (1) A document must be filed with the appropriate office under paragraph (a) of this section using one of the
following methods:
(i) By hand delivery of the original document and two copies;
(ii) By sending the original document and two copies by express mail or courier service; or
(iii) By sending the document by facsimile if:
(A) The document is 20 pages or less, including all attachments;
(B) The sending facsimile machine confirms that the transmission was successful; and
(C) The original of the document and two copies are sent by regular mail on the same day.
(2) Parties are encouraged, and may be required by the ALJ, to supplement any filing by providing the appropriate office with an
electronic copy of the document on compact disc or other suitable media. With respect to any supporting material accompanying a request
for hearing, a notice of intervention and response, or an answer, the party may submit in lieu of an original and two hard copies:
(i) An original; and
(ii) One copy on a compact disc or other suitable media.
(c) Date of filing. A document under this subpart is considered filed on the date it is received. However, any document received after 5
p.m. at the place where the filing is due is considered filed on the next regular business day.
(d) Nonconforming documents. If any document submitted for filing under this subpart does not comply with the requirements of this
subpart or any applicable order, it may be rejected.
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§1.613 What are the requirements for service of documents?
(a) Filed documents. Any document related to a case under §§1.610 through 1.660 must be served at the same time the document is
delivered or sent for filing. Copies must be served as follows:
(1) A complete copy of any request for a hearing under §1.621 must be delivered or sent to FERC and each license party, using one of
the methods of service in paragraph (c) of this section or under 18 CFR 385.2010(f)(3) for license parties that have agreed to receive
electronic service.
(2) A complete copy of any notice of intervention and response under §1.622 must be:
(i) Delivered or sent to FERC, the license applicant, any person who has filed a request for hearing under §1.621, and the Forest
Service office that submitted the preliminary conditions to FERC, using one of the methods of service in paragraph (c) of this section; and
(ii) Delivered or sent to any other license party using one of the methods of service in paragraph (c) of this section or under 18 CFR
385.2010(f)(3) for license parties that have agreed to receive electronic service, or by regular mail.
(3) A complete copy of any answer or notice under §1.625 and any other document filed by any party to the hearing process must be
delivered or sent to every other party to the hearing process, using one of the methods of service in paragraph (c) of this section.
(b) Documents issued by the Hearing Clerk or ALJ. A complete copy of any notice, order, decision, or other document issued by the
Hearing Clerk or the ALJ under §§1.610 through 1.660 must be served on each party, using one of the methods of service in paragraph (c)
of this section.
(c) Method of service. Unless otherwise agreed to by the parties and ordered by the ALJ, service must be accomplished by one of the
following methods:
(1) By hand delivery of the document;
(2) By sending the document by express mail or courier service for delivery on the next business day;
(3) By sending the document by facsimile if:
(i) The document is 20 pages or less, including all attachments;
(ii) The sending facsimile machine confirms that the transmission was successful; and
(iii) The document is sent by regular mail on the same day; or
(4) By sending the document, including all attachments, by electronic means if the party to be served has consented to that means of
service in writing. However, if the serving party learns that the document did not reach the party to be served, the serving party must re-

serve the document by another method set forth in paragraph (c) of this section (including another electronic means, if the party to be
served has consented to that means in writing).
(d) Certificate of service. A certificate of service must be attached to each document filed under §§1.610 through 1.660. The certificate
must be signed by the party's representative and include the following information:
(1) The name, address, and other contact information of each party's representative on whom the document was served;
(2) The means of service, including information indicating compliance with paragraph (c)(3) or (c)(4) of this section, if applicable; and
(3) The date of service.
Initiation of Hearing Process
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§1.620 What supporting information must the Forest Service provide with its preliminary conditions?
(a) Supporting information. (1) When the Forest Service files its preliminary conditions with FERC, it must include a rationale for each
condition, explaining why the Forest Service deems the condition necessary for the adequate protection and utilization of the affected NFS
lands, and an index to the Forest Service's administrative record that identifies all documents relied upon.
(2) If any of the documents relied upon are not already in the license proceeding record, the Forest Service must:
(i) File them with FERC at the time it files its preliminary conditions; and
(ii) Provide copies to the license applicant.
(b) Service. The Forest Service will serve copies of its preliminary conditions on each license party.
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§1.621 How do I request a hearing?
(a) General. To request a hearing on disputed issues of material fact with respect to any preliminary condition filed by the Forest
Service, you must:
(1) Be a license party; and
(2) File with NFS, at the appropriate address provided in §1.612(a)(1), a written request for a hearing:
(i) For a case under §1.601(d)(1), within 30 days after the Forest Service files a preliminary condition with FERC; or
(ii) For a case under §1.601(d)(2), within 60 days after the Forest Service files a preliminary condition with FERC.
(b) Content. Your hearing request must contain:
(1) A numbered list of the factual issues that you allege are in dispute, each stated in a single, concise sentence;
(2) The following information with respect to each issue:
(i) The specific factual statements made or relied upon by the Forest Service under §1.620(a) that you dispute;
(ii) The basis for your opinion that those factual statements are unfounded or erroneous; and
(iii) The basis for your opinion that any factual dispute is material.
(3) With respect to any scientific studies, literature, and other documented information supporting your opinions under paragraphs (b)
(2)(ii) and (b)(2)(iii) of this section, specific citations to the information relied upon. If any such document is not already in the license
proceeding record, you must provide a copy with the request; and
(4) A statement indicating whether or not you consent to service by electronic means under §1.613(c)(4) and, if so, by what means.
(c) Witnesses and exhibits. Your hearing request must also list the witnesses and exhibits that you intend to present at the hearing,
other than solely for impeachment purposes.
(1) For each witness listed, you must provide:
(i) His or her name, address, telephone number, and qualifications; and
(ii) A brief narrative summary of his or her expected testimony.
(2) For each exhibit listed, you must specify whether it is in the license proceeding record.
(d) Page limits. (1) For each disputed factual issue, the information provided under paragraph (b)(2) of this section may not exceed two
pages.

(2) For each witness, the information provided under paragraph (c)(1) of this section may not exceed one page.
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§1.622 How do I file a notice of intervention and response?
(a) General. (1) To intervene as a party to the hearing process, you must:
(i) Be a license party; and
(ii) File with NFS, at the appropriate address provided in §1.612(a)(1), a notice of intervention and a written response to any request for
a hearing within 20 days after the deadline in §1.621(a)(2).
(2) A notice of intervention and response must be limited to one or more of the issues of material fact raised in the hearing request and
may not raise additional issues.
(b) Content. In your notice of intervention and response you must explain your position with respect to the issues of material fact raised
in the hearing request under §1.621(b).
(1) If you agree with the information provided by the Forest Service under §1.620(a) or by the requester under §1.621(b), your
response may refer to the Forest Service's explanation or the requester's hearing request for support.
(2) If you wish to rely on additional information or analysis, your response must provide the same level of detail with respect to the
additional information or analysis as required under §1.621(b).
(3) Your notice of intervention and response must also indicate whether or not you consent to service by electronic means under
§1.613(c)(4) and, if so, by what means.
(c) Witnesses and exhibits. Your response and notice must also list the witnesses and exhibits that you intend to present at the hearing,
other than solely for impeachment purposes.
(1) For each witness listed, you must provide:
(i) His or her name, address, telephone number, and qualifications; and
(ii) A brief narrative summary of his or her expected testimony; and
(2) For each exhibit listed, you must specify whether it is in the license proceeding record.
(d) Page limits. (1) For each disputed factual issue, the information provided under paragraph (b) of this section (excluding citations to
scientific studies, literature, and other documented information supporting your opinions) may not exceed two pages.
(2) For each witness, the information provided under paragraph (c)(1) of this section may not exceed one page.
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§1.623 Will hearing requests be consolidated?
(a) Initial Department coordination. If NFS has received a copy of a hearing request, it must contact the other Departments and
determine:
(1) Whether any of the other Departments has also filed a preliminary condition or prescription relating to the license with FERC; and
(2) If so, whether the other Department has also received a hearing request with respect to the preliminary condition or prescription.
(b) Decision on consolidation. Where more than one Department has received a hearing request, the Departments involved must
decide jointly:
(1) Whether the cases should be consolidated for hearing under paragraphs (c)(3)(ii) through (iv) of this section; and
(2) If so, which Department will conduct the hearing on their behalf.
(c) Criteria. Cases will or may be consolidated as follows:
(1) All hearing requests with respect to any conditions from the same Department will be consolidated for hearing.
(2) All hearing requests with respect to any prescriptions from the same Department will be consolidated for hearing.
(3) All or any portion of the following may be consolidated for hearing, if the Departments involved determine that there are common
issues of material fact or that consolidation is otherwise appropriate:
(i) Two or more hearing requests with respect to any condition and any prescription from the same Department;
(ii) Two or more hearing requests with respect to conditions from different Departments;
(iii) Two or more hearing requests with respect to prescriptions from different Departments; or

(iv) Two or more hearing requests with respect to any condition from one Department and any prescription from another Department.
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§1.624 Can a hearing process be stayed to allow for settlement discussions?
(a) Prior to referral to the ALJ, the hearing requester and the Forest Service may by agreement stay the hearing process under this
subpart for a period not to exceed 120 days to allow for settlement discussions, if the stay period and any subsequent hearing process (if
required) can be accommodated within the time frame established for the license proceeding.
(b) Any stay of the hearing process will not affect the deadline for filing a notice of intervention and response, if any, pursuant to
§1.622(a)(1)(ii).
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§1.625 How will the Forest Service respond to any hearing requests?
(a) General. NFS will determine whether to answer any hearing request under §1.621 on behalf of the Forest Service.
(b) Content. If NFS answers a hearing request:
(1) For each of the numbered factual issues listed under §1.621(b)(1), NFS's answer must explain the Forest Service's position with
respect to the issues of material fact raised by the requester, including one or more of the following statements as appropriate:
(i) That the Forest Service is willing to stipulate to the facts as alleged by the requester;
(ii) That the Forest Service believes the issue listed by the requester is not a factual issue, explaining the basis for such belief;
(iii) That the Forest Service believes the issue listed by the requester is not material, explaining the basis for such belief; or
(iv) That the Forest Service agrees that the issue is factual, material, and in dispute.
(2) NFS's answer must also indicate whether the hearing request will be consolidated with one or more other hearing requests under
§1.623 and, if so:
(i) Identify any other hearing request that will be consolidated with this hearing request; and
(ii) State which Department will conduct the hearing and provide contact information for the appropriate Department hearings
component.
(3) If the Forest Service plans to rely on any scientific studies, literature, and other documented information that are not already in the
license proceeding record, a copy of each item must be provided with NFS's answer.
(4) NFS's answer must also indicate whether or not the Forest Service consents to service by electronic means under §1.613(c)(4)
and, if so, by what means.
(c) Witnesses and exhibits. NFS's answer must also contain a list of the Forest Service's witnesses and exhibits that the Forest Service
intends to present at the hearing, other than solely for impeachment purposes.
(1) For each witness listed, the Forest Service must provide:
(i) His or her name, address, telephone number, and qualifications; and
(ii) A brief narrative summary of his or her expected testimony.
(2) For each exhibit listed, the Forest Service must specify whether it is in the license proceeding record.
(d) Page limits. (1) For each disputed factual issue, the information provided under paragraph (b)(1) of this section may not exceed two
pages.
(2) For each witness, the information provided under paragraph (c)(1) of this section may not exceed one page.
(e) Notice in lieu of answer. If NFS elects not to answer a hearing request:
(1) The Forest Service is deemed to agree that the issues listed by the requester are factual, material, and in dispute;
(2) The Forest Service may file a list of witnesses and exhibits with respect to the request only as provided in §1.642(b); and
(3) NFS must include with its case referral under §1.623 a notice in lieu of answer containing the information required by paragraph (b)
(2) of this section, if the hearing request will be consolidated with one or more other hearing requests under §1.623, and the statement
required by paragraph (b)(4) of this section.
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§1.626 What will the Forest Service do with any hearing requests?

(a) Case referral. Within 55 days after the deadline in §1.621(a)(2) or 35 days after the expiration of any stay period under §1.624,
whichever is later, NFS will refer the case for a hearing as follows:
(1) If the hearing is to be conducted by USDA, NFS will refer the case to the OALJ.
(2) If the hearing is to be conducted by another Department, NFS will refer the case to the hearings component used by that
Department.
(b) Content. The case referral will consist of the following:
(1) Two copies of any preliminary condition under §1.620;
(2) The original and one copy of any hearing request under §1.621;
(3) The original and one copy of any notice of intervention and response under §1.622;
(4) The original and one copy of any answer or notice in lieu of answer under §1.625; and
(5) The original and one copy of a referral notice under paragraph (c) of this section.
(c) Notice. At the time NFS refers the case for a hearing, it must provide a referral notice that contains the following information:
(1) The name, address, telephone number, and facsimile number of the Department hearings component that will conduct the hearing;
(2) The name, address, and other contact information for the representative of each party to the hearing process;
(3) An identification of any other hearing request that will be consolidated with this hearing request; and
(4) The effective date of the case referral to the appropriate Department hearings component.
(d) Delivery and service. (1) NFS must refer the case to the appropriate Department hearings component by one of the methods
identified in §1.612(b)(1)(i) and (b)(1)(ii).
(2) The Forest Service must serve a copy of the referral notice on FERC and each party to the hearing by one of the methods identified
in §1.613(c)(1) and (c)(2).
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§1.627 What regulations apply to a case referred for a hearing?
(a) If NFS refers the case to the OALJ, these regulations will continue to apply to the hearing process.
(b) If NFS refers the case to the Department of Interior's Office of Hearing and Appeals, the regulations at 43 CFR 45.1 et seq. will
apply from that point on.
(c) If NFS refers the case to the Department of Commerce's designated ALJ office, the regulations at 50 CFR 221.1 et seq. will apply
from that point on.
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§1.630 What will OALJ do with a case referral?
Within 5 days after the effective date stated in the referral notice under §1.626(c)(4), 43 CFR 45.26(c)(4), or 50 CFR 221.26(c)(4):
(a) The Hearing Clerk must:
(1) Docket the case;
(2) Assign an ALJ to preside over the hearing process and issue a decision; and
(3) Issue a docketing notice that informs the parties of the docket number and the ALJ assigned to the case; and
(b) The ALJ must issue a notice setting the time, place, and method for conducting an initial prehearing conference under §1.640. This
notice may be combined with the docketing notice under paragraph (a)(3) of this section.
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§1.631 What are the powers of the ALJ?
The ALJ will have all powers necessary to conduct a fair, orderly, expeditious, and impartial hearing process relating to Forest Service's
or other Department's condition or prescription that has been referred to the ALJ for hearing, including the powers to:

(a) Administer oaths and affirmations;
(b) Issue subpoenas under §1.647;
(c) Shorten or enlarge time periods set forth in these regulations, except that the deadline in §1.660(a)(2) can be extended only if the
ALJ must be replaced under §1.632 or 1.633;
(d) Rule on motions;
(e) Authorize discovery as provided for in §§1.641 through 1.647;
(f) Hold hearings and conferences;
(g) Regulate the course of hearings;
(h) Call and question witnesses;
(i) Exclude any person from a hearing or conference for misconduct or other good cause;
(j) Summarily dispose of any hearing request or issue as to which the ALJ determines there is no disputed issue of material fact;
(k) Issue a decision consistent with §1.660(b) regarding any disputed issue of material fact; and
(l) Take any other action authorized by law.
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§1.632 What happens if the ALJ becomes unavailable?
(a) If the ALJ becomes unavailable or otherwise unable to perform the duties described in §1.631, the Hearing Clerk will designate a
successor.
(b) If a hearing has commenced and the ALJ cannot proceed with it, a successor ALJ may do so. At the request of a party, the
successor ALJ may recall any witness whose testimony is material and disputed, and who is available to testify again without undue
burden. The successor ALJ may, within his or her discretion, recall any other witness.
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§1.633 Under what circumstances may the ALJ be disqualified?
(a) The ALJ may withdraw from a case at any time the ALJ deems himself or herself disqualified.
(b) At any time before issuance of the ALJ's decision, any party may move that the ALJ disqualify himself or herself for personal bias or
other valid cause.
(1) The party must file the motion promptly after discovering facts or other reasons allegedly constituting cause for disqualification.
(2) The party must file with the motion an affidavit or declaration setting forth the facts or other reasons in detail.
(c) The ALJ must rule upon the motion, stating the grounds for the ruling.
(1) If the ALJ concludes that the motion is timely and meritorious, he or she must disqualify himself or herself and withdraw from the
case.
(2) If the ALJ does not disqualify himself or herself and withdraw from the case, the ALJ must continue with the hearing process and
issue a decision.
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§1.634 What is the law governing ex parte communications?
(a) Ex parte communications with the ALJ or his or her staff are prohibited in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 554(d).
(b) This section does not prohibit ex parte inquiries concerning case status or procedural requirements, unless the inquiry involves an
area of controversy in the hearing process.
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§1.635 What are the requirements for motions?
(a) General. Any party may apply for an order or ruling on any matter related to the hearing process by presenting a motion to the ALJ.
A motion may be presented any time after the Hearing Clerk issues a docketing notice under §1.630.
(1) A motion made at a hearing may be stated orally on the record, unless the ALJ directs that it be reduced to writing.
(2) Any other motion must:

(i) Be in writing;
(ii) Comply with the requirements of §§1.610 through 1.613 with respect to form, content, filing, and service; and
(iii) Not exceed 15 pages, including all supporting arguments.
(b) Content. (1) Each motion must state clearly and concisely:
(i) Its purpose and the relief sought;
(ii) The facts constituting the grounds for the relief sought; and
(iii) Any applicable statutory or regulatory authority.
(2) A proposed order must accompany the motion.
(c) Response. Except as otherwise required by this part, any other party may file a response to a written motion within 10 days after
service of the motion. The response may not exceed 15 pages, including all supporting arguments. When a party presents a motion at a
hearing, any other party may present a response orally on the record.
(d) Reply. Unless the ALJ orders otherwise, no reply to a response may be filed.
(e) Effect of filing. Unless the ALJ orders otherwise, the filing of a motion does not stay the hearing process.
(f) Ruling. The ALJ will rule on the motion as soon as practicable, either orally on the record or in writing. He or she may summarily
deny any dilatory, repetitive, or frivolous motion.
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§1.640 What are the requirements for prehearing conferences?
(a) Initial prehearing conference. The ALJ will conduct an initial prehearing conference with the parties at the time specified in the
notice under §1.630, on or about the 20th day after the effective date stated in the referral notice under §1.626(c)(4), 43 CFR 45.26(c)(4), or
50 CFR 221.26(c)(4).
(1) The initial prehearing conference will be used:
(i) To identify, narrow, and clarify the disputed issues of material fact and exclude issues that do not qualify for review as factual,
material, and disputed;
(ii) To consider the parties' motions for discovery under §1.641 and to set a deadline for the completion of discovery;
(iii) To discuss the evidence on which each party intends to rely at the hearing;
(iv) To set deadlines for submission of written testimony under §1.652 and exchange of exhibits to be offered as evidence under
§1.654; and
(v) To set the date, time, and place of the hearing.
(2) The initial prehearing conference may also be used:
(i) To discuss limiting and grouping witnesses to avoid duplication;
(ii) To discuss stipulations of fact and of the content and authenticity of documents;
(iii) To consider requests that the ALJ take official notice of public records or other matters;
(iv) To discuss the submission of written testimony, briefs, or other documents in electronic form; and
(v) To consider any other matters that may aid in the disposition of the case.
(b) Other conferences. The ALJ may in his or her discretion direct the parties to attend one or more other prehearing conferences, if
consistent with the need to complete the hearing process within 90 days. Any party may by motion request a conference.
(c) Notice. The ALJ must give the parties reasonable notice of the time and place of any conference. A conference will ordinarily be
held by telephone, unless the ALJ orders otherwise.
(d) Preparation. (1) Each party's representative must be fully prepared to discuss all issues pertinent to that party that are properly
before the conference, both procedural and substantive. The representative must be authorized to commit the party that he or she
represents respecting those issues.
(2) Before the date set for the initial prehearing conference, the parties' representatives must make a good faith effort:

(i) To meet in person, by telephone, or by other appropriate means; and
(ii) To reach agreement on discovery and the schedule of remaining steps in the hearing process.
(e) Failure to attend. Unless the ALJ orders otherwise, a party that fails to attend or participate in a conference, after being served with
reasonable notice of its time and place, waives all objections to any agreements reached in the conference and to any consequent orders
or rulings.
(f) Scope. During a conference, the ALJ may dispose of any procedural matters related to the case.
(g) Order. Within 2 days after the conclusion of each conference, the ALJ must issue an order that recites any agreements reached at
the conference and any rulings made by the ALJ during or as a result of the conference.
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§1.641 How may parties obtain discovery of information needed for the case?
(a) General. By agreement of the parties or with the permission of the ALJ, a party may obtain discovery of information to assist the
party in preparing or presenting its case. Available methods of discovery are:
(1) Written interrogatories as provided in §1.643;
(2) Depositions of witnesses as provided in paragraph (h) of this section; and
(3) Requests for production of designated documents or tangible things or for entry on designated land for inspection or other
purposes.
(b) Criteria. Discovery may occur only as agreed to by the parties or as authorized by the ALJ during a prehearing conference or in a
written order under §1.640(g). The ALJ may authorize discovery only if the party requesting discovery demonstrates:
(1) That the discovery will not unreasonably delay the hearing process;
(2) That the information sought:
(i) Will be admissible at the hearing or appears reasonably calculated to lead to the discovery of admissible evidence;
(ii) Is not already in the license proceeding record or otherwise obtainable by the party;
(iii) Is not cumulative or repetitious; and
(iv) Is not privileged or protected from disclosure by applicable law;
(3) That the scope of the discovery is not unduly burdensome;
(4) That the method to be used is the least burdensome method available;
(5) That any trade secrets or proprietary information can be adequately safeguarded; and
(6) That the standards for discovery under paragraphs (f) through (h) of this section have been met, if applicable.
(c) Motions. A party may initiate discovery:
(1) Pursuant to an agreement of the parties; or
(2) By filing a motion that:
(i) Briefly describes the proposed method(s), purpose, and scope of the discovery;
(ii) Explains how the discovery meets the criteria in paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(6) of this section; and
(iii) Attaches a copy of any proposed discovery request (written interrogatories, notice of deposition, or request for production of
designated documents or tangible things or for entry on designated land).
(d) Timing of motions. A party must file any discovery motion under paragraph (c)(2) of this section within 7 days after the effective date
stated in the referral notice under §1.626(c)(4), 43 CFR 45.26(c)(4), or 50 CFR 221.26(c)(4).
(e) Objections. (1) A party must file any objections to a discovery motion or to specific portions of a proposed discovery request within 7
days after service of the motion.
(2) An objection must explain how, in the objecting party's view, the discovery sought does not meet the criteria in paragraphs (b)(1)
through (6) of this section.
(f) Materials prepared for hearing. A party generally may not obtain discovery of documents and tangible things otherwise discoverable
under paragraph (b) of this section if they were prepared in anticipation of or for the hearing by or for another party's representative
(including the party's attorney, expert, or consultant).

(1) If a party wants to discover such materials, it must show:
(i) That it has substantial need of the materials in preparing its own case; and
(ii) That the party is unable without undue hardship to obtain the substantial equivalent of the materials by other means.
(2) In ordering discovery of such materials when the required showing has been made, the ALJ must protect against disclosure of the
mental impressions, conclusions, opinions, or legal theories of an attorney.
(g) Experts. Unless restricted by the ALJ, a party may discover any facts known or opinions held by an expert through the methods set
out in paragraph (a) of this section concerning any relevant matters that are not privileged. Such discovery will be permitted only if:
(1) The expert is expected to be a witness at the hearing; or
(2) The expert is relied on by another expert who is expected to be a witness at the hearing, and the party shows:
(i) That it has a compelling need for the information; and
(ii) That it cannot practicably obtain the information by other means.
(h) Limitations on depositions. (1) A party may depose an expert or non-expert witness only if the party shows that the witness:
(i) Will be unable to attend the hearing because of age, illness, or other incapacity; or
(ii) Is unwilling to attend the hearing voluntarily, and the party is unable to compel the witness's attendance at the hearing by subpoena.
(2) Paragraph (h)(1)(ii) of this section does not apply to any person employed by or under contract with the party seeking the
deposition.
(3) A party may depose a senior Department employee only if the party shows:
(i) That the employee's testimony is necessary in order to provide significant, unprivileged information that is not available from any
other source or by less burdensome means; and
(ii) That the deposition would not significantly interfere with the employee's ability to perform his or her government duties.
(4) Unless otherwise stipulated to by the parties or authorized by the ALJ upon a showing of extraordinary circumstances, a deposition
is limited to 1 day of 7 hours.
(i) Completion of discovery. All discovery must be completed within 25 days after the initial prehearing conference.
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§1.642 When must a party supplement or amend information it has previously provided?
(a) Discovery. A party must promptly supplement or amend any prior response to a discovery request if it learns that the response:
(1) Was incomplete or incorrect when made; or
(2) Though complete and correct when made, is now incomplete or incorrect in any material respect.
(b) Witnesses and exhibits. (1) Within 10 days after the date set for completion of discovery, each party must file an updated version of
the list of witnesses and exhibits required under §1.621(c), §1.622(c), or §1.625(c).
(2) If a party wishes to include any new witness or exhibit on its updated list, it must provide an explanation of why it was not feasible
for the party to include the witness or exhibit on its list under §1.621(c), §1.622(c), or §1.625(c).
(c) Failure to disclose. (1) A party will not be permitted to introduce as evidence at the hearing testimony from a witness or other
information that it failed to disclose under §1.621(c), §1.622(c), or §1.625(c), or paragraph (a) or (b) of this section.
(2) Paragraph (c)(1) of this section does not apply if the failure to disclose was substantially justified or is harmless.
(3) A party may object to the admission of evidence under paragraph (c)(1) of this section before or during the hearing.
(4) The ALJ will consider the following in determining whether to exclude evidence under paragraphs (c)(1) through (3) of this section:
(i) The prejudice to the objecting party;
(ii) The ability of the objecting party to cure any prejudice;
(iii) The extent to which presentation of the evidence would disrupt the orderly and efficient hearing of the case;
(iv) The importance of the evidence; and
(v) The reason for the failure to disclose, including any bad faith or willfulness regarding the failure.

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§1.643 What are the requirements for written interrogatories?
(a) Motion; limitation. Except upon agreement of the parties:
(1) A party wishing to propound interrogatories must file a motion under §1.641(c); and
(2) A party may propound no more than 25 interrogatories, counting discrete subparts as separate interrogatories, unless the ALJ
approves a higher number upon a showing of good cause.
(b) ALJ order. The ALJ will issue an order under §1.641(b) with respect to any discovery motion requesting the use of written
interrogatories. The order will:
(1) Grant the motion and approve the use of some or all of the proposed interrogatories; or
(2) Deny the motion.
(c) Answers to interrogatories. Except upon agreement of the parties, the party to whom the proposed interrogatories are directed must
file its answers to any interrogatories approved by the ALJ within 15 days after issuance of the order under paragraph (b) of this section.
(1) Each approved interrogatory must be answered separately and fully in writing.
(2) The party or its representative must sign the answers to interrogatories under oath or affirmation.
(d) Access to records. A party's answer to an interrogatory is sufficient when:
(1) The information may be obtained from an examination of records, or from a compilation, abstract, or summary based on such
records;
(2) The burden of obtaining the information from the records is substantially the same for all parties;
(3) The answering party specifically identifies the individual records from which the requesting party may obtain the information and
where the records are located; and
(4) The answering party provides the requesting party with reasonable opportunity to examine the records and make a copy,
compilation, abstract, or summary.
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§1.644 What are the requirements for depositions?
(a) Motion and notice. Except upon agreement of the parties, a party wishing to take a deposition must file a motion under §1.641(c).
Any notice of deposition filed with the motion must state:
(1) The time and place that the deposition is to be taken;
(2) The name and address of the person before whom the deposition is to be taken;
(3) The name and address of the witness whose deposition is to be taken; and
(4) Any documents or materials that the witness is to produce.
(b) ALJ order. The ALJ will issue an order under §1.641(b) with respect to any discovery motion requesting the taking of a deposition.
The order will:
(1) Grant the motion and approve the taking of the deposition, subject to any conditions or restrictions the ALJ may impose; or
(2) Deny the motion.
(c) Arrangements. If the parties agree to or the ALJ approves the taking of the deposition, the party requesting the deposition must
make appropriate arrangements for necessary facilities and personnel.
(1) The deposition will be taken at the time and place agreed to by the parties or indicated in the ALJ's order.
(2) The deposition may be taken before any disinterested person authorized to administer oaths in the place where the deposition is to
be taken.
(3) Any party that objects to the taking of a deposition because of the disqualification of the person before whom it is to be taken must
do so:
(i) Before the deposition begins; or
(ii) As soon as the disqualification becomes known or could have been discovered with reasonable diligence.
(4) A deposition may be taken by telephone conference call, if agreed to by the parties or approved in the ALJ's order.

(d) Testimony. Each witness deposed must be placed under oath or affirmation, and the other parties must be given an opportunity for
cross-examination.
(e) Representation of witness. The witness being deposed may have counsel or another representative present during the deposition.
(f) Recording and transcript. Except as provided in paragraph (g) of this section, the deposition must be stenographically recorded and
transcribed at the expense of the party that requested the deposition.
(1) Any other party may obtain a copy of the transcript at its own expense.
(2) Unless waived by the deponent, the deponent will have 3 days after receiving the transcript to read and sign it.
(3) The person before whom the deposition was taken must certify the transcript following receipt of the signed transcript from the
deponent or expiration of the 3-day review period, whichever occurs first.
(g) Video recording. The testimony at a deposition may be recorded on videotape, subject to any conditions or restrictions that the
parties may agree to or the ALJ may impose, at the expense of the party requesting the recording.
(1) The video recording may be in conjunction with an oral examination by telephone conference held under paragraph (c)(4) of this
section.
(2) After the deposition has been taken, the person recording the deposition must:
(i) Provide a copy of the videotape to any party that requests it, at the requesting party's expense; and
(ii) Attach to the videotape a statement identifying the case and the deponent and certifying the authenticity of the video recording.
(h) Use of deposition. A deposition may be used at the hearing as provided in §1.653.
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§1.645 What are the requirements for requests for documents or tangible things or entry on land?
(a) Motion. Except upon agreement of the parties, a party wishing to request the production of designated documents or tangible things
or entry on designated land must file a motion under §1.641(c). A request may include any of the following that are in the possession,
custody, or control of another party:
(1) The production of designated documents for inspection and copying, other than documents that are already in the license
proceeding record;
(2) The production of designated tangible things for inspection, copying, testing, or sampling; or
(3) Entry on designated land or other property for inspection and measuring, surveying, photographing, testing, or sampling either the
property or any designated object or operation on the property.
(b) ALJ order. The ALJ will issue an order under §1.641(b) with respect to any discovery motion requesting the production of
documents or tangible things or entry on land for inspection, copying, or other purposes. The order will:
(1) Grant the motion and approve the use of some or all of the proposed requests; or
(2) Deny the motion.
(c) Compliance with order. Except upon agreement of the parties, the party to whom any approved request for production is directed
must permit the approved inspection and other activities within 15 days after issuance of the order under paragraph (a) of this section.
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§1.646 What sanctions may the ALJ impose for failure to comply with discovery?
(a) Upon motion of a party, the ALJ may impose sanctions under paragraph (b) of this section if any party:
(1) Fails to comply with an order approving discovery; or
(2) Fails to supplement or amend a response to discovery under §1.642(a).
(b) The ALJ may impose one or more of the following sanctions:
(1) Infer that the information, testimony, document, or other evidence withheld would have been adverse to the party;
(2) Order that, for the purposes of the hearing, designated facts are established;
(3) Order that the party not introduce into evidence, or otherwise rely on to support its case, any information, testimony, document, or
other evidence:
(i) That the party improperly withheld; or

(ii) That the party obtained from another party in discovery;
(4) Allow another party to use secondary evidence to show what the information, testimony, document, or other evidence withheld
would have shown; or
(5) Take other appropriate action to remedy the party's failure to comply.
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§1.647 What are the requirements for subpoenas and witness fees?
(a) Request for subpoena. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(2) of this section, any party may request by written motion that the
ALJ issue a subpoena to the extent authorized by law for the attendance of a person, the giving of testimony, or the production of
documents or other relevant evidence during discovery or for the hearing.
(2) A party may request a subpoena for a senior Department employee only if the party shows:
(i) That the employee's testimony is necessary in order to provide significant, unprivileged information that is not available from any
other source or by less burdensome means; and
(ii) That the employee's attendance would not significantly interfere with the ability to perform his or her government duties.
(b) Service. (1) A subpoena may be served by any person who is not a party and is 18 years of age or older.
(2) Service must be made by hand delivering a copy of the subpoena to the person named therein.
(3) The person serving the subpoena must:
(i) Prepare a certificate of service setting forth:
(A) The date, time, and manner of service; or
(B) The reason for any failure of service; and
(ii) Swear to or affirm the certificate, attach it to a copy of the subpoena, and return it to the party on whose behalf the subpoena was
served.
(c) Witness fees. (1) A party who subpoenas a witness who is not a party must pay him or her the same fees and mileage expenses
that are paid witnesses in the district courts of the United States.
(2) A witness who is not a party and who attends a deposition or hearing at the request of any party without having been subpoenaed
is entitled to the same fees and mileage expenses as if he or she had been subpoenaed. However, this paragraph does not apply to
Federal employees who are called as witnesses by the Forest Service or another Department.
(d) Motion to quash. (1) A person to whom a subpoena is directed may request by motion that the ALJ quash or modify the subpoena.
(2) The motion must be filed:
(i) Within 5 days after service of the subpoena; or
(ii) At or before the time specified in the subpoena for compliance, if that is less than 5 days after service of the subpoena.
(3) The ALJ may quash or modify the subpoena if it:
(i) Is unreasonable;
(ii) Requires production of information during discovery that is not discoverable; or
(iii) Requires disclosure of irrelevant, privileged, or otherwise protected information.
(e) Enforcement. For good cause shown, the ALJ may apply to the appropriate United States District Court for the issuance of an order
compelling the appearance and testimony of a witness or the production of evidence as set forth in a subpoena that has been duly issued
and served.
Hearing, Briefing, and Decision
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§1.650 When and where will the hearing be held?
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the hearing will be held at the time and place set at the initial prehearing
conference under §1.640, generally within 25 days after the date set for completion of discovery.
(b) On motion by a party or on the ALJ's initiative, the ALJ may change the date, time, or place of the hearing if he or she finds:
(1) That there is good cause for the change; and

(2) That the change will not unduly prejudice the parties and witnesses.
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§1.651 What are the parties' rights during the hearing?
Each party has the following rights during the hearing, as necessary to assure full and accurate disclosure of the facts:
(a) To present testimony and exhibits, consistent with the requirements in §§1.621(c), 1.622(c), 1.625(c), 1.642(b), and 1.652;
(b) To make objections, motions, and arguments; and
(c) To cross-examine witnesses and to conduct re-direct and re-cross examination as permitted by the ALJ.
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§1.652 What are the requirements for presenting testimony?
(a) Written direct testimony. Unless otherwise ordered by the ALJ, all direct hearing testimony for each party's initial case must be
prepared and submitted in written form. The ALJ will determine whether rebuttal testimony, if allowed, must be submitted in written form.
(1) Prepared written testimony must:
(i) Have line numbers inserted in the left-hand margin of each page;
(ii) Be authenticated by an affidavit or declaration of the witness;
(iii) Be filed within 10 days after the date set for completion of discovery; and
(iv) Be offered as an exhibit during the hearing.
(2) Any witness submitting written testimony must be available for cross-examination at the hearing.
(b) Oral testimony. Oral examination of a witness in a hearing, including on cross-examination or redirect, must be conducted under
oath and in the presence of the ALJ, with an opportunity for all parties to question the witness.
(c) Telephonic testimony. The ALJ may by order allow a witness to testify by telephonic conference call.
(1) The arrangements for the call must let each party listen to and speak to the witness and each other within the hearing of the ALJ.
(2) The ALJ will ensure the full identification of each speaker so the reporter can create a proper record.
(3) The ALJ may issue a subpoena under §1.647 directing a witness to testify by telephonic conference call.
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§1.653 How may a party use a deposition in the hearing?
(a) In general. Subject to the provisions of this section, a party may use in the hearing any part or all of a deposition taken under
§1.644 against any party who:
(1) Was present or represented at the taking of the deposition; or
(2) Had reasonable notice of the taking of the deposition.
(b) Admissibility. (1) No part of a deposition will be included in the hearing record, unless received in evidence by the ALJ.
(2) The ALJ will exclude from evidence any question and response to which an objection:
(i) Was noted at the taking of the deposition; and
(ii) Would have been sustained if the witness had been personally present and testifying at a hearing.
(3) If a party offers only part of a deposition in evidence:
(i) An adverse party may require the party to introduce any other part that ought in fairness to be considered with the part introduced;
and
(ii) Any other party may introduce any other parts.
(c) Videotaped deposition. If the deposition was recorded on videotape and is admitted into evidence, relevant portions will be played
during the hearing and transcribed into the record by the reporter.
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§1.654 What are the requirements for exhibits, official notice, and stipulations?

(a) General. (1) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section, any material offered in evidence, other than oral
testimony, must be offered in the form of an exhibit.
(2) Each exhibit offered by a party must be marked for identification.
(3) Any party who seeks to have an exhibit admitted into evidence must provide:
(i) The original of the exhibit to the reporter, unless the ALJ permits the substitution of a copy; and
(ii) A copy of the exhibit to the ALJ.
(b) Material not offered. If a document offered as an exhibit contains material not offered as evidence:
(1) The party offering the exhibit must:
(i) Designate the matter offered as evidence;
(ii) Segregate and exclude the material not offered in evidence, to the extent practicable; and
(iii) Provide copies of the entire document to the other parties appearing at the hearing.
(2) The ALJ must give the other parties an opportunity to inspect the entire document and offer in evidence any other portions of the
document.
(c) Official notice. (1) At the request of any party at the hearing, the ALJ may take official notice of any matter of which the courts of the
United States may take judicial notice, including the public records of any Department party.
(2) The ALJ must give the other parties appearing at the hearing an opportunity to show the contrary of an officially noticed fact.
(3) Any party requesting official notice of a fact after the conclusion of the hearing must show good cause for its failure to request
official notice during the hearing.
(d) Stipulations. (1) The parties may stipulate to any relevant facts or to the authenticity of any relevant documents.
(2) If received in evidence at the hearing, a stipulation is binding on the stipulating parties.
(3) A stipulation may be written or made orally at the hearing.
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§1.655 What evidence is admissible at the hearing?
(a) General. (1) Subject to the provisions of §1.642(b), the ALJ may admit any written, oral, documentary, or demonstrative evidence
that is:
(i) Relevant, reliable, and probative; and
(ii) Not privileged or unduly repetitious or cumulative.
(2) The ALJ may exclude evidence if its probative value is substantially outweighed by the risk of undue prejudice, confusion of the
issues, or delay.
(3) Hearsay evidence is admissible. The ALJ may consider the fact that evidence is hearsay when determining its probative value.
(4) The Federal Rules of Evidence do not directly apply to the hearing, but may be used as guidance by the ALJ and the parties in
interpreting and applying the provisions of this section.
(b) Objections. Any party objecting to the admission or exclusion of evidence must concisely state the grounds. A ruling on every
objection must appear in the record.
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§1.656 What are the requirements for transcription of the hearing?
(a) Transcript and reporter's fees. The hearing will be transcribed verbatim.
(1) The Forest Service will secure the services of a reporter and pay the reporter's fees to provide an original transcript to the OALJ on
an expedited basis.
(2) Each party must pay the reporter for any copies of the transcript obtained by that party.
(b) Transcript corrections. (1) Any party may file a motion proposing corrections to the transcript. The motion must be filed within 5 days
after receipt of the transcript, unless the ALJ sets a different deadline.
(2) Unless a party files a timely motion under paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the transcript will be presumed to be correct and
complete, except for obvious typographical errors.

(3) As soon as practicable after the close of the hearing and after consideration of any motions filed under paragraph (b)(1) of this
section, the ALJ will issue an order making any corrections to the transcript that the ALJ finds are warranted.
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§1.657 Who has the burden of persuasion, and what standard of proof applies?
(a) Any party who has filed a request for a hearing has the burden of persuasion with respect to the issues of material fact raised by
that party.
(b) The standard of proof is a preponderance of the evidence.
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§1.658 When will the hearing record close?
(a) The hearing record will close when the ALJ closes the hearing, unless he or she directs otherwise.
(b) Evidence may not be added after the hearing record is closed, but the transcript may be corrected under §1.656(b).
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§1.659 What are the requirements for post-hearing briefs?
(a) General. (1) Each party may file a post-hearing brief within 15 days after the close of the hearing.
(2) A party may file a reply brief only if requested by the ALJ. The deadline for filing a reply brief, if any, will be set by the ALJ.
(3) The ALJ may limit the length of the briefs to be filed under this section.
(b) Content. (1) An initial brief must include:
(i) A concise statement of the case;
(ii) A separate section containing proposed findings regarding the issues of material fact, with supporting citations to the hearing
record;
(iii) Arguments in support of the party's position; and
(iv) Any other matter required by the ALJ.
(2) A reply brief, if requested by the ALJ, must be limited to any issues identified by the ALJ.
(c) Form. (1) An exhibit admitted in evidence or marked for identification in the record may not be reproduced in the brief.
(i) Such an exhibit may be reproduced, within reasonable limits, in an appendix to the brief.
(ii) Any pertinent analysis of an exhibit may be included in a brief.
(2) If a brief exceeds 20 pages, it must contain:
(i) A table of contents and of points made, with page references; and
(ii) An alphabetical list of citations to legal authority, with page references.
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§1.660 What are the requirements for the ALJ's decision?
(a) Timing. The ALJ must issue a decision within the shorter of the following time periods:
(1) 30 days after the close of the hearing under §1.658; or
(2) 120 days after the effective date stated in the referral notice under §1.626(c)(4), 43 CFR 45.26(c)(4), or 50 CFR 221.26(c)(4).
(b) Content. (1) The decision must contain:
(i) Findings of fact on all disputed issues of material fact;
(ii) Conclusions of law necessary to make the findings of fact (such as rulings on materiality and on the admissibility of evidence); and
(iii) Reasons for the findings and conclusions.
(2) The ALJ may adopt any of the findings of fact proposed by one or more of the parties.

(3) The decision will not contain conclusions as to whether any preliminary condition or prescription should be adopted, modified, or
rejected, or whether any proposed alternative should be accepted or rejected.
(c) Service. Promptly after issuing his or her decision, the ALJ must:
(1) Serve the decision on each party to the hearing;
(2) Prepare a list of all documents that constitute the complete record for the hearing process (including the decision) and certify that
the list is complete; and
(3) Forward to FERC the complete record for the hearing process, along with the certified list prepared under paragraph (c)(2) of this
section, for inclusion in the record for the license proceeding. Materials received in electronic form, e.g., as attachments to electronic mail,
should be transmitted to FERC in electronic form. However, for cases in which a settlement was reached prior to a decision, the entire
record need not be transmitted to FERC. In such situations, only the initial pleadings (hearing requests with attachments, any notices of
intervention and response, answers, and referral notice) and any dismissal order of the ALJ need be transmitted.
(d) Finality. The ALJ's decision under this section with respect to the disputed issues of material fact will not be subject to further
administrative review. To the extent the ALJ's decision forms the basis for any condition or prescription subsequently included in the license,
it may be subject to judicial review under 16 U.S.C. 825l(b).
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§1.670 How must documents be filed and served under this subpart?
(a) Filing. (1) A document under this subpart must be filed using one of the methods set forth in §1.612(b).
(2) A document is considered filed on the date it is received. However, any document received after 5 p.m. at the place where the filing
is due is considered filed on the next regular business day.
(b) Service. (1) Any document filed under this subpart must be served at the same time the document is delivered or sent for filing. A
complete copy of the document must be delivered or sent to each license party and FERC, using:
(i) One of the methods of service in §1.613(c); or
(ii) Regular mail.
(2) The provisions of §1.613(d) regarding a certificate of service apply to service under this subpart.
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§1.671 How do I propose an alternative?
(a) General. To propose an alternative condition, you must:
(1) Be a license party; and
(2) File a written proposal with NFS, at the appropriate address provided in §1.612(a)(1):
(i) For a case under §1.601(d)(1), within 30 days after the Forest Service files its preliminary conditions with FERC; or
(ii) For a case under §1.601(d)(2), within 60 days after the Forest Service files its proposed conditions with FERC.
(b) Content. Your proposal must include:
(1) A description of the alternative, in an equivalent level of detail to the Forest Service's preliminary condition;
(2) An explanation of how the alternative will provide for the adequate protection and utilization of the reservation;
(3) An explanation of how the alternative, as compared to the preliminary condition, will:
(i) Cost significantly less to implement; or
(ii) Result in improved operation of the project works for electricity production;
(4) An explanation of how the alternative will affect:
(i) Energy supply, distribution, cost, and use;
(ii) Flood control;
(iii) Navigation;

(iv) Water supply;
(v) Air quality; and
(vi) Other aspects of environmental quality; and
(5) Specific citations to any scientific studies, literature, and other documented information relied on to support your proposal, including
any assumptions you are making (e.g., regarding the cost of energy or the rate of inflation). If any such document is not already in the
license proceeding record, you must provide a copy with the proposal.
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§1.672 May I file a revised proposed alternative?
(a) Within 20 days after issuance of the ALJ's decision under §1.660, you may file with NFS, at the appropriate address provided in
§1.612(a)(1), a revised proposed alternative condition if:
(1) You previously filed a proposed alternative that met the requirements of §1.671; and
(2) Your revised proposed alternative is designed to respond to one or more findings of fact by the ALJ.
(b) Your revised proposed alternative must:
(1) Satisfy the content requirements for a proposed alternative under §1.671(b); and
(2) Identify the specific ALJ finding(s) to which the revised proposed alternative is designed to respond and how the revised proposed
alternative differs from the original alternative.
(c) Filing a revised proposed alternative will constitute a withdrawal of the previously filed proposed alternative.
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§1.673 When will the Forest Service file its modified condition?
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, if any license party proposes an alternative to a preliminary condition or
prescription under §1.671,the Forest Service will do the following within 60 days after the deadline for filing comments on FERC's draft
NEPA document under 18 CFR 5.25(c):
(1) Analyze under §1.674 any alternative condition proposed under §1.671 or 1.672; and
(2) File with FERC:
(i) Any condition the Forest Service adopts as its modified condition; and
(ii) The Forest Service's analysis of the modified condition and any proposed alternative.
(b) If the Forest Service needs additional time to complete the steps set forth in paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section, it will so
inform FERC within 60 days after the deadline for filing comments on FERC's draft NEPA document under 18 CFR 5.25(c).
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§1.674 How will the Forest Service analyze a proposed alternative and formulate its modified condition?
(a) In deciding whether to accept an alternative proposed under §1.671 or §1.672, the Forest Service must consider evidence and
supporting material provided by any license party or otherwise reasonably available to the Forest Service, including:
(1) Any evidence on the implementation costs or operational impacts for electricity production of the proposed alternative;
(2) Any comments received on the Forest Service's preliminary condition;
(3) Any ALJ decision on disputed issues of material fact issued under §1.660 with respect to the preliminary condition;
(4) Comments received on any draft or final NEPA documents; and
(5) The license party's proposal under §1.671 or §1.672.
(b) The Forest Service must accept a proposed alternative if the Forest Service determines, based on substantial evidence provided by
any license party or otherwise available to the Forest Service, that the alternative:
(1) Will, as compared to the Forest Service's preliminary condition:
(i) Cost significantly less to implement; or
(ii) Result in improved operation of the project works for electricity production; and
(2) Will provide for the adequate protection and utilization of the reservation.

(c) For purposes of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the Forest Service will consider evidence and supporting material provided
by any license party by the deadline for filing comments on FERC's NEPA document under 18 CFR 5.25(c).
(d) When the Forest Service files with FERC the condition that the Forest Service adopts as its modified condition under §1.673(a)(2),
it must also file:
(1) A written statement explaining:
(i) The basis for the adopted condition;
(ii) If the Forest Service is not accepting any pending alternative, its reasons for not doing so; and
(iii) If any alternative submitted under §1.671 was subsequently withdrawn by the license party, that the alternative was withdrawn; and
(2) Any study, data, and other factual information relied on that is not already part of the licensing proceeding record.
(e) The written statement under paragraph (d)(1) of this section must demonstrate that the Forest Service gave equal consideration to
the effects of the condition adopted and any alternative not accepted on:
(1) Energy supply, distribution, cost, and use;
(2) Flood control;
(3) Navigation;
(4) Water supply;
(5) Air quality; and
(6) Preservation of other aspects of environmental quality.
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§1.675 Has OMB approved the information collection provisions of this subpart?
Yes. This subpart contains provisions in §§1.670 through 1.674 that would collect information from the public. It therefore requires
approval by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. (PRA).
According to the PRA, a Federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information
unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number that indicates OMB approval. OMB has reviewed the information collection in this
rule and approved it under OMB control number 1094-0001.
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Subpart P—Rules of Practice and Procedure Governing Formal Rulemaking Proceedings Instituted
by the Secretary
S

: 82 FR 51149, Nov. 3, 2017, unless otherwise noted.

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§1.800 Words in the singular form.
Words in this subpart in the singular form shall be deemed to import the plural, and vice versa, as the context may require.
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§1.801 Scope and applicability of this subpart.
Except for proceedings covered by 7 CFR part 900, and by 7 CFR part 1200, the rules of practice and procedure in this subpart shall
be applicable to all formal rulemaking proceedings.
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§1.802 Definitions.
As used in this subpart:
Administrator means the Administrator of the Agency administering the statute involved, or any officer or employee of the Agency to
whom authority has heretofore been delegated, or to whom authority may hereafter be delegated, to act for the Administrator.
Department means the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
F
R
means the publication provided for by the Federal Register Act, approved July 26, 1935 (44 U.S.C. 1501-1511),
and acts supplementing and amending it.

Hearing means that part of the proceeding that involves the submission of evidence.
Hearing clerk means the Hearing Clerk, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC
Judge means any administrative law Judge appointed pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3105 and assigned to conduct the hearing.
Party means:
(1) Any employee or contractor of the Department acting in an official capacity; or
(2) A person who intends to cross examine a witness at the hearing and has notified the person named in the notice of hearing by
specified dates of his or her intent to participate in the hearing as a “party” pursuant to §1.804.
Proceeding means a proceeding before the Secretary arising under a statute in which the Secretary uses formal rulemaking
procedures as set forth in this subpart.
Secretary means the Secretary of Agriculture of the United States, or any officer or employee of the Department to whom authority has
heretofore been delegated, or to whom authority may hereafter be delegated, to act for the Secretary.
Witness means any person who:
(1) Has notified the person named in the notice of hearing by the specified date of his or her intent to participate in the hearing as a
witness pursuant to §1.804; and
(2) Who submits written direct testimony on the proposed regulations pursuant to §1.807; and
(3) Testifies orally at the hearing.
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§1.803 Institution of proceedings.
(a) Filing and contents of the notice of hearing. A proceeding under this subpart shall be instituted by the Secretary or designee
through filing the notice of hearing with the hearing clerk.The notice of hearing shall state:
(1) The legal authority under which the rule is proposed.
(2) The scope and nature of the hearing, including witness instructions for testifying, including the means and timing of the submission
of pre-hearing documents, and scheduling, as necessary.
(3) The terms or substance of the proposed rule or a description of the subjects and issues involved.
(4) The time and place of such hearing.
(5) The final date for notification of intent to participate as a party or witness in the hearing pursuant to §1.804.
(6) The person to whom notification of intent to participate as a party or witness is to be provided pursuant to §1.804, and the means by
which such notifications are to be provided.
(7) Any alternative procedures established pursuant to paragraph (d) of this section.
(b) Giving notice of hearing. (1) The Administrator shall give or cause to be given notice of hearing in the following manner:
(i) By publication of the notice of hearing in the F

R

.

(ii) By posting of the notice of hearing to the USDA Web site.
(2) Legal notice of the hearing shall be deemed to be given if notice is given in the manner provided by paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this
section.
(c) Record of notice. A copy of the notice of hearing published in the F
shall be filed with the hearing clerk and submitted to the Judge at the hearing.

R

pursuant to paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section

(d) Alternative procedures. The Administrator may establish alternative procedures for the proceeding that are in addition to or in lieu of
one or more procedures in this subpart, provided that the procedures are consistent with 5 U.S.C. 556 and 557. The alternative procedures
must be described in the notice of hearing, as required in paragraph (a)(7) of this section.
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§1.804 Notification by interested persons.
(a) Any person desiring to participate as a party or witness at the hearing shall notify the person named in the notice of hearing, as
prescribed in the notice of hearing, on or before the date specified in the notice of hearing. A person may be both a party and a witness.
(b) The notification must clearly state whether the interested person is participating at the hearing as a party, witness, or both.

(c) If a party or witness will be participating with or through a representative or counsel, the notification must so state and provide the
name of the representative or counsel.
(d) Persons who fail to comply with this section and any specified instructions in the notice of hearing shall be deemed to have waived
their right to participate in the hearing. Failure to comply with this section shall result in the exclusion of any filed written testimony.
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§1.805 Docket number.
Each proceeding, immediately following its institution, shall be assigned a docket number by the hearing clerk and thereafter the
proceeding may be referred to by such number.
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§1.806 Judge.
(a) Assignment. No Judge who has any pecuniary interest in the outcome of a proceeding shall serve as Judge in such proceeding.
(b) Power of Judge. Subject to review by the Secretary, as provided elsewhere in this subpart, the Judge in any proceeding shall have
power to:
(1) Rule upon motions and requests;
(2) Change the time and place of hearings, and adjourn the hearing from time to time or from place to place;
(3) Administer oaths and affirmations and take affidavits;
(4) Examine and cross-examine witnesses and receive evidence;
(5) Admit or exclude evidence;
(6) Hear oral argument on facts or law; and
(7) Do all acts and take all measures necessary for the maintenance of order at the hearings and the efficient conduct of the
proceeding.
(c) Who may act in absence of the Judge. In case of the absence of the Judge or that Judge's inability to act, the powers and duties to
be performed by the Judge under this subpart in connection with a proceeding may, without abatement of the proceeding unless otherwise
ordered by the Secretary, be assigned to any other Judge.
(d) Disqualification of Judge. The Judge may at any time withdraw as Judge in a proceeding if such Judge deems himself or herself to
be disqualified. Upon the filing by an interested person in good faith of a timely and sufficient affidavit of personal bias or disqualification of a
Judge, the Secretary shall determine the matter as a part of the record and decision in the proceeding, after making such investigation or
holding such hearings, or both, as the Secretary may deem appropriate in the circumstances.
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§1.807 Direct testimony submitted as written documents.
Any person desiring to participate as a witness at the hearing shall submit direct testimony as written documents as prescribed by the
following:
(a) Direct testimony by a witness, including accompanying exhibits, must be submitted as specified in the notice of the hearing
pursuant to §1.803. Exhibits constituting part of such direct testimony, referred to in the direct testimony and made a part thereof must be
attached to the direct testimony. Direct testimony submitted with exhibits must state the issue(s) to which the exhibit relates; if no such
statement is made, the Judge, at the hearing, shall determine the relevance of the exhibit to the issues published in the F
R
(b) The direct testimony submitted shall contain:
(1) A concise statement of the witness' interest in the proceeding and his or her position regarding the issues presented. If the direct
testimony is presented by a witness who is not a party, the witness shall state the witness' relationship to the party on behalf of whom the
testimony is proffered; and
(2) Facts that are relevant and material.
(c) Copies of all direct testimony, including accompanying exhibits, must be submitted as prescribed by the notice of hearing.
(d) Upon receipt, direct testimony shall be assigned a number and stamped with that number and the docket number.
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§1.808 Motions and requests.

.

(a) General. (1) Parties shall file all motions and requests with the hearing clerk except that those made during the course of the
hearing may be filed with the Judge or may be stated orally and made a part of the transcript.
(2) Except as provided in §1.816(b), such motions and requests shall be addressed to, and ruled on by, the Judge if made prior to
certification of the transcript pursuant to §1.811 or by the Secretary if made thereafter.
(b) Certification to Secretary. The Judge may, in his or her discretion, submit or certify to the Secretary for decision any motion, request,
objection, or other question addressed to the Judge.
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§1.809 Conduct of the hearing.
(a) Time and place. The hearing shall be held at the time and place established in the notice of hearing. If the Judge subsequently
changes the time or place, the Judge shall file a notice of such changes with the hearing clerk, and the Administrator shall give or cause to
be given notice in the F
R
in the same manner as provided in §1.803. If the change in time or place of hearing is made less
than five days prior to the date previously established for the hearing, the Judge, either in addition to, or in lieu of, causing the notice of the
change to be given, shall announce the change at the time and place previously established for the hearing.
(b) Appearances—(1) Right to appear. Any interested person shall be given an opportunity to appear, as a witness, with or without,
authorized counsel or representative, and to be heard with respect to matters relevant and material to the proceeding, provided that such
interested person complies with §§1.804, 1.807, and any alternative procedures included in the hearing notice pursuant to §1.803. In
addition to compliance with any witness instructions set forth in the notice of hearing, any witness who desires to be heard in person at any
hearing shall, before proceeding to testify do so under oath or affirmation.
(2) Appearance with or through counsel or representative. (i) A witness may appear with counsel or a representative if the witness
identifies the counsel or representative in the notification submitted pursuant to §1.804.
(ii) The counsel or representative shall, before proceeding with the witness testimony, state for the record the authority to act as such
counsel or representative, and the names, addresses, and occupations of such counsel or representative.
(iii) The witness or his or her counsel or representative shall give such other information respecting the witness' appearance as the
Judge may request.
(3) Debarment of counsel or representative. (i) Whenever, while a proceeding is pending before the Judge, such Judge finds that a
person, acting as counsel or representative for any party or witness, is guilty of unethical or unprofessional conduct, the Judge may order
that such person be precluded from further acting as counsel or representative in such proceeding.
(ii) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(3)(iii) of this section, an appeal to the Secretary may be taken from any such order, but the
proceeding shall not be delayed or suspended pending disposition of the appeal.
(iii) In case the Judge has ordered that a person be precluded from further action as counsel or representative in the proceeding, the
Judge within a reasonable time thereafter shall submit to the Secretary a report of the facts and circumstances surrounding such order and
shall recommend what action the Secretary should take respecting the appearance of such person as counsel or representative in other
proceedings before the Secretary. Thereafter the Secretary may, after notice and an opportunity for hearing, issue such order respecting the
appearance of such person as counsel or representative in proceedings before the Secretary as the Secretary finds to be appropriate.
(4) Failure to appear. If any interested person, who complied with §§1.804, 1.807, fails to appear at the hearing, that person shall be
deemed to have waived the right to be heard in the proceeding and such failure to appear shall result in the exclusion of that person's
written testimony.
(c) Order of procedure. (1) The Judge shall, at the opening of the hearing prior to the taking of testimony, note as part of the record the
notice of hearing as published in the F
R
.
(2) Evidence shall then be received with respect to the matters specified in the notice of the hearing in such order as the Judge shall
announce.
(d) Evidence—(1) General. The hearing shall be publicly conducted, and the testimony given at the hearing shall be reported verbatim.
(i) Every witness shall, before proceeding to testify, be sworn or make an affirmation.
(ii) When necessary, in order to prevent undue prolongation of the hearing, the Judge may:
(A) Limit the number of times any witness may testify to the same matter or the amount of corroborative or cumulative evidence.
(B) Limit cross examination of a witness by time, scope, or as appropriate, provided that the Judge announces the time limit at the
beginning of the hearing, prior to the taking of testimony.
(iii) The Judge shall exclude from the record evidence which is immaterial, irrelevant, or unduly repetitious, or which is not of the sort
upon which responsible persons are accustomed to rely.
(2) Objections. If a party objects to the admission or rejection of any evidence or to any other ruling of the Judge during the hearing,
such party shall state briefly the grounds of such objection, whereupon an automatic exception will follow if the objection is overruled by the
Judge. The ruling of the Judge on any objection shall be a part of the transcript. Only objections made before the Judge may subsequently
be relied upon in the proceeding.

(3) Upon proper motion, the Judge may accept direct testimony submitted pursuant to §1.807 into evidence without a witness reading
the direct testimony into evidence. Such direct testimony shall become a part of the record subject to exclusion of irrelevant and immaterial
parts thereof. A party shall be deemed to have waived the right to introduce pre-hearing written direct testimony and documents if such
party fails to present a witness to introduce those documents. The witness introducing direct testimony and documents shall do so under
oath or affirmation and shall:
(i) State his or her name, address and occupation.
(ii) State qualifications for introducing the direct testimony. If an expert, the witness shall briefly state the scientific or technical training
which qualifies the witness as an expert.
(iii) Identify the direct testimony and documents previously submitted pursuant to §1.807 of this subpart.
(iv) Submit to direct and cross examination determined to be necessary and appropriate by the Judge.
(4) Cross examination. For purposes of this section, the Administrator's or his or her representative's interest shall be considered
adverse to all parties. The Judge may:
(i) Require the cross-examiner to outline the intended scope of the cross examination, which shall generally be limited to the scope of
the direct testimony.
(ii) Prohibit parties from cross-examining witnesses unless the Judge has determined that the cross-examiner has an adverse interest
on the facts at issue to the party or witness.
(iii) Limit the number of times any party or parties having a common interest may cross-examine an adverse witness on the same
matter.
(5) Proof and authentication of official records or documents. An official record or document, when admissible for any purpose, shall be
admissible as evidence without the presence of the person who made or prepared the same. The Judge shall exercise discretion in
determining whether an official publication of such record or document shall be necessary, or whether a copy would be permissible. If
permissible such a copy shall be attested to by the person having legal custody of it, and accompanied by a certificate that such person has
the custody.
(6) Exhibits. (i) All written statements, documents, charts, tabulations, or data offered into evidence at the hearing shall, after
identification by the witness or his or her counsel or representative and upon satisfactory showing of authenticity, relevancy, and materiality,
be numbered as exhibits and received in evidence and made a part of the record.
(ii) Such exhibits shall be submitted in quadruplicate and in documentary form.
(7) Official notice. (i) Subject to paragraph (d)(7)(ii) of this section, official notice at the hearing may be taken of such matters as are
judicially noticed by the courts of the United States and of any other matter of technical, scientific, or commercial fact of established
character.
(ii) Interested persons shall be given an adequate period of time, at the hearing or subsequent to it, of matters so noticed and shall be
given adequate opportunity to show that such facts are inaccurate or are erroneously noticed.
(8) Offer of proof. (i) Whenever evidence is excluded from the record, the party offering such evidence may make an offer of proof,
which shall be included in the transcript.
(ii) The offer of proof shall consist of a brief statement describing the evidence to be offered. If the evidence consists of a brief oral
statement, it shall be inserted into the transcript; if the evidence consists of an exhibit(s), it shall be inserted into the record for the purpose
of an offer of proof. In such event, it shall be considered a part of the record if the Secretary determines that the Judge's ruling in excluding
the evidence was erroneous.
(iii) The Judge shall not allow the insertion of such evidence in toto if the taking of such evidence will consume a considerable length of
time at the hearing. In such event, if the Secretary determines that the Judge erred in excluding the evidence, and that such error was
substantial, the hearing may be reopened to permit the taking of such evidence.
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§1.810 Oral and written arguments.
(a) Oral argument before the Judge. Oral argument before the Judge shall be in the discretion of the Judge. Such argument, when
permitted, may be limited by the Judge to any extent that the Judge finds necessary for the expeditious disposition of the proceeding and
shall be made part of the transcript.
(b) Briefs, proposed findings, and conclusions. (1) The Judge shall announce at the hearing a reasonable period of time within which
interested persons may file with the hearing clerk proposed findings and conclusions, and written arguments or briefs, based upon the
evidence received at the hearing, citing, where practicable, the page or pages of the transcript of the testimony where such evidence
appears.
(2) Factual material other than that adduced at the hearing or subject to official notice shall not be alluded to therein, and, in any case,
shall not be considered in the formulation of the rule.

(3) If the person filing a brief desires the Secretary to consider any objection made by such person to a ruling of the Judge, as provided
in §1.809(d), that person shall include in the brief a concise statement concerning each such objection, referring, where practicable, to the
pertinent pages of the transcript.
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§1.811 Certification of the transcript.
(a) The Judge shall notify the hearing clerk of the close of a hearing and of the time for filing transcript corrections, written arguments,
briefs, proposed findings, and proposed conclusions.
(b)(1) After the hearing, the Administrator, shall transmit to the hearing clerk an original and three copies of the transcript of the
testimony and the original and all copies of the exhibits not already on file with the hearing clerk.
(2) The Judge shall attach to the original transcript of the testimony a certificate stating that, to the best of the Judge's knowledge and
belief, the transcript is a true transcript of the testimony given at the hearing, except in such particulars as the Judge shall specify, and that
the exhibits transmitted are all the exhibits as introduced at the hearing with such exceptions as the Judge shall specify. A copy of such
certificate shall be attached to each of the copies of the transcript of testimony.
(3) In accordance with such certificate the hearing clerk shall note upon the official record copy, and cause to be noted on other copies
of the transcript, each correction detailed therein by adding or crossing out (but without obscuring the text as originally transcribed) at the
appropriate place any words necessary to make the same conform to the correct meaning, as certified by the Judge.
(4) The hearing clerk shall obtain and file certifications to the effect that such corrections have been effectuated in copies other than the
official record copy.
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§1.812 Copies of the transcript.
(a) During the period in which the proceeding has an active status in the Department, a copy of the transcript and exhibits shall be kept
on file with the hearing clerk where it shall be available for examination during official hours of business. Thereafter the transcript and
exhibits shall be made available by the hearing clerk for examination during official hours of business after prior request and reasonable
notice to the hearing clerk.
(b) A copy of the transcripts of the hearing shall be made available to any person at actual cost of duplication.
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§1.813 Administrator's recommended decision.
(a) Preparation. As soon as practicable following the termination of the period allowed for the filing of written arguments or briefs and
proposed findings and conclusions the Administrator shall file with the hearing clerk a recommended decision.
(b) Contents. The Administrator's recommended decision shall include:
(1) A preliminary statement containing a description of the history of the proceedings, a brief explanation of the material issues of fact,
law and proposed findings and conclusions about such issues, including the reasons or basis for such proposed findings.
(2) A ruling upon proposed findings or conclusions submitted by interested persons.
(3) An appropriate proposed rule effectuating the Administrator's recommendations.
(c) Exceptions to recommended decision. (1) Immediately following the filing of the recommended decision, the Administrator shall give
notice thereof and opportunity to file exceptions thereto by publication in the F
R
.
(2) Within the period of time specified in such notice, any interested person may file with the hearing clerk exceptions to the
Administrator's proposed rule and a brief in support of such exceptions.
(3) Such exceptions shall be in writing, shall refer, where practicable, to the related pages of the transcript, and may suggest
appropriate changes in the proposed rule.
(d) Omission of recommended decision. The procedure provided in this section may be omitted only if the Secretary finds on the basis
of the record that due and timely execution of the Secretary's functions imperatively and unavoidably requires such omission.
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§1.814 Submission to Secretary.
(a) Upon the expiration of the period allowed for filing exceptions or upon request of the Secretary, the hearing clerk shall transmit to
the Secretary the record of the proceeding.
(b) Such record shall include:
(1) All motions and requests filed with the hearing clerk and rulings thereon.

(2) The certified transcript.
(3) Any proposed findings or conclusions or written arguments or briefs that may have been filed.
(4) The Administrator's recommended decision, if any.
(5) Filed exceptions.
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§1.815 Decision by the Secretary.
After due consideration of the record, the Secretary shall render a decision. Such decision shall become a part of the record and shall
include:
(a) A statement of findings and conclusions, including the reasons or basis for such findings, upon all the material issues of fact or law
presented on the record.
(b) A ruling upon proposed findings and proposed conclusions not previously ruled upon in the record.
(c) A ruling upon exceptions filed by interested persons.
(d) Either a denial of the proposal to issue a rule, or, if the findings upon the record so warrant, a rule, the provisions of which shall be
set forth and such rule shall be complete.
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§1.816 Filing, extension of time, effective date of filing, and computation of time.
(a) Number of copies. Except as provided otherwise, all documents or papers required or authorized by the foregoing provisions hereof
to be filed with the hearing clerk shall be filed in quadruplicate. Any documents or papers so required or authorized to be filed with the
hearing clerk shall be filed with the Judge during the course of an oral hearing.
(b) Extension of time. (1) The time for filing of any document or paper required or authorized by the foregoing provisions to be filed may
be extended by the Judge (before the record is so certified by the Judge) or by the Administrator (after the record is so certified by the
Judge but before it is transmitted to the Secretary), or by the Secretary (after the record is transmitted to the secretary) upon request filed,
and if, in the judgment of the Judge, Administrator, or the Secretary, as the case may be, there is good reason for the extension.
(2) All rulings made pursuant to this paragraph shall be filed with the hearing clerk.
(c) Effective date of filing. Any document or paper required or authorized in this subpart to be filed shall be deemed to be filed at the
time it is received by the Hearing Clerk.
(d) Computation of time. (1) Each day, including Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays, shall be included in computing the time
allowed for filing any document or paper.
(2) That when the time for filing a document or paper expires on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal public holiday, the time allowed for filing
the document or paper shall be extended to include the following business day.
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§1.817 Ex parte communications.
(a) For the purposes of this section, ex parte communication means any oral or written communication not on the public record with
respect to which reasonable prior notice to all interested parties is not given, but which shall not include requests for status reports
(including requests on procedural matters) on a proceeding.
(b) At no stage of the proceeding following the issuance of a notice of hearing and prior to the issuance of the Secretary's decision
thereon shall an employee of the Department who is or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the decision process of the
proceeding discuss ex parte the merits of the proceeding with any person having an interest in the proceeding or with any representative of
such person. This prohibition does not include communications about:
(1) Procedural matters and status reports.
(2) The merits of the proceeding if all parties known to be interested in the proceeding have been given notice and an opportunity to
participate. A memorandum of any such discussion shall be included in the record of the proceeding.
(c) No interested person outside the Department shall make or knowingly cause to be made to an employee of the Department who is
or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the decisional process of the proceeding, an ex parte communication relevant to the
merits of the proceeding except as provided in paragraph (a) of this section.
(d) If an employee of the Department who is or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the decisional process of the proceeding
receives or makes or knowingly causes to be made a communication prohibited by this section, the Department shall place on the public
record of the proceeding:

(1) All such written communications;
(2) Memoranda stating the substance of all such oral communications; and
(3) All written responses, and memoranda, stating the substance of all oral responses thereto.
(e) Upon receipt of a communication knowingly made or knowingly caused to be made by a party in violation of this section, the
Department may, to the extent consistent with the interest of justice and the policy of the underlying statute, require the party to show cause
why his claim or interest in the proceeding should not be dismissed, denied, disregarded, or otherwise adversely affected on account of
such violation.
(f) This section does not constitute authority to withhold information from Congress.
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§1.818 Additional documents to be filed with hearing clerk.
In addition to the documents or papers required or authorized by the foregoing provisions of this subpart to be filed with the hearing
clerk, the hearing clerk shall receive for filing and shall have custody of all papers, reports, records, orders, and other documents which
relate to the administration of any order and which the Secretary is required to issue or to approve.
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§1.819 Hearing before Secretary.
(a) The Secretary may act in the place and stead of a Judge in any proceeding herein. When the Secretary so acts, the hearing clerk
shall transmit the record to the Secretary at the expiration of the period provided for the filing of proposed findings of fact, conclusions, and
orders, and the Secretary shall then, after due consideration of the record, issue the final decision in the proceeding.
(b) The Secretary may issue a tentative decision in which event the parties shall be afforded an opportunity to file exceptions before the
issuance of the final decision.
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