Uniform Allowance for Meat Grader Employees

The Food Safety and Quality Service (FSQS) of the Department of Agriculture requested a ruling concerning its authority to establish a uniform allowance for its meat graders. Because it obtains its operating expenses from a user-fee trust account, the FSQS may authorize a uniform allowance if the following conditions are met: (1) a specific appropriation for uniforms; (2) an official determination that employees are required to wear uniforms; (3) a determination that the government is to furnish uniforms or pay an allowance; and (4) promulgation of specific agency regulations governing the wearing of uniforms.