(a) The appointing officer of an agency may authorize reimbursement for travel expenses necessarily incurred by candidates attending interviews for positions for which there is a shortage of qualified candidates. Positions in the competitive class for which there are shortages of qualified candidates shall be determined by the State Department of Civil Service; for positions outside the competitive class such determination shall be made by the head of the agency in which the positions are authorized.

(b) Reimbursement will be allowed to candidates who reside over 50 miles from place of interview.

(c) Expenses may include transportation, food and lodging.