7 CFR § 1.212 Administrative Regulations

§ 1.212 What is the Department's policy on providing official information or testimony relating to official information in response to a demand?

Current through Jul 29, 2026 · Read all of Part 1

(a) It is the Department's general policy not to allow its employees to provide official information or testimony relating to official information in response to a demand. However, the Department will consider a demand submitted in accordance with this subpart and issue a decision to grant or deny the demand.

(b) No employee may provide official information or testimony relating to official information in response to a demand unless authorized by the Department in accordance with this subpart. See United States ex rel. Touhy v. Ragen, 340 U.S. 462 (1951). An employee who fails to comply with this regulation may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including removal.

Responsibilities if Making a Demand

← § 1.211 Definitions that apply to this subpart.§ 1.213 How can I obtain official information or testimony relating to official information in response to my demand? →