USDA has the following specific statutory authorities to contract for personal services:
(a) Section 706(a) of the Organic Act of 1944 (7 U.S.C. 2225) authorizes contracting with persons or organizations on a temporary basis, without regard to civil service compensation classification standards in 5 U.S.C., Chapter 51 and Subchapter III of Chapter 53, Provided:
(1) That no expenditures shall be made unless specifically provided for in the applicable appropriation, and
(2) Expenditures do not exceed any limitations prescribed in the appropriation.
(b) 7 U.S.C. 1627 authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to contract with technically qualified persons, firms or organizations to perform research, inspection, classification, technical, or other special services, without regard to the civil-service laws, Provided: it is for a temporary basis and for a term not to exceed six months in any fiscal year.
