Reimbursement of travel expenses to persons interviewing for state employment, whether paid from state-appropriated, federal, or other funds, is allowed in accordance with the following provisions:

1. (1) Travel expenses, within the limitations applicable to state employees, may be paid to individuals being considered for employment by a state government agency if the head of the interviewing agency makes a specific, formal determination in each case that all of the following apply:

   1. (a) The significance of the position to be filled is such that it warrants incurring the costs.
   2. (b) The costs do not exceed the expense of conducting the interview at the interviewee's home area or elsewhere.
   3. (c) Qualified candidates residing within South Carolina are considered before candidates from other states are sought.
2. (2) Where the position to be filled is that of an agency head, the determination referenced in item (1) must be made by the chairman of the board or commission of the interviewing agency.

HISTORY: 1995 Act No. 145, Part II, Section 24, eff June 29, 1995.