GIPSA raises fees for certain product tests to cover operations costs

GIPSA raises fees for certain product tests to cover operations costs    The U.S. Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyard Administration’s Federal Grain Inspection Service will increase its fees for certain processed commodity testing services, starting Feb. 12.
   The Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyard Administration said the increased fees are needed to help cover a mandated 4.1 percent January 2003 federal pay increase. The agency regularly reviews its user-fee-financed programs to determine if they adequately cover its operations costs.
   The fee increase for processed commodity tests will generate about $135,000 in additional yearly revenue, the agency said. The fee will mostly impact processors and shippers of wheat flour, vegetable oil and corn meal.
   The Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyard Administration said it will continue to seek out cost savings and implement appropriate changes to reduce costs.