Section 4290.509 - Employment of USDA or SBA officials(a) Without the Agency's prior written approval, for a period of two years after the date of your most recent issuance of Leverage or after the receipt of any assistance as defined in paragraph (b) of this section, whichever is later, you are not permitted to employ, offer employment to, or retain for professional services, any person who:(1) Served as an officer, attorney, agent, or employee of SBA or USDA within one year before such date; and(2) In that capacity, occupied a position or engaged in activities which, in SBA's or the Agency's determination, involved discretion with respect to the issuing of Leverage or the granting of such assistance.(b) For purposes of this section, "assistance" means financial, contractual, grant, managerial, or other aid, including licensing, certifications, and other eligibility determinations made by USDA or SBA, and any express decision to compromise or defer possible litigation or other adverse action. 69 FR 32204 , June 8, 2004, as amended at 76 FR 80222 , Dec. 23, 2011