7.43—Fee schedule.
The rates for manual searching, computer operator/programmer time and time spent reviewing records will be calculated based on the grades and rates established by the Washington-Baltimore Federal White-Collar Pay Schedule or equivalent grades, as follows:
When performed by employees:
GS-1 through GS-8—Hourly rate of GS-5 step 7 plus 16%
GS-9 through GS-14—Hourly rate of GS-12 step 7 plus 16%
GS-15 and above—Hourly rate of GS-15 step 7 plus 16%
(a)
The standard fee for a manual search to locate a record requested under subpart C of this part, including making it available for inspection, will be determined by multiplying the searcher's rate as calculated from the chart in this section and the time spent conducting the search.
(b)
The standard fee for a computer search for a record requested under subpart C of this part is the actual cost. This includes the cost of operating the central processing unit for the time directly attributable to searching for records responsive to a FOIA request and the operator/programmer's rate as calculated from the chart for costs apportionable to the search.
(c)
The standard fee for review of records requested under subpart C of this part is the reviewer's rate as calculated from the chart multiplied by the time he/she spent determining whether the requested records are exempt from mandatory disclosure.
(d)
The standard fee for duplication of a record requested under subpart C of this part is determined as follows:
(1)
Per copy of each page (not larger than 8.5×14 inches) reproduced by photocopy or similar means (includes costs of personnel and equipment)—US $0.10.
(e)
Depending upon the category of requestor, and the use for which the records are requested, in some cases the fees computed in accordance with the standard fee schedule in paragraph (d) of this section will either be reduced or not charged, as prescribed by other provisions of this subpart.
(f)
The following special services not required by FOIA may be made available upon request, at the stated fees: Certified copies of documents, with DOT or DOT component seal (where authorized)—US $4.00; or true copy, without seal—US $2.00.