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) Title 7 U.S.C., section 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, if it is for a temporary basis and for a term not to exceed six months in any fiscal year.

The HCA is authorized to request the use of non-Government evaluators in proposal evaluations. Each decision shall be supported by a written determination in accordance with FAR 37.204.