Public Law 115–46: To authorize appropriations and to appropriate amounts for the Veterans Choice Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to improve hiring authorities of the Department, to authorize major medical facility leases, and for other purposes. Public Law46 Public Law 115–46131 Stat. 958 2017-08-12 2017-08-12 United States Government Publishing OfficeNational Archives and Records AdministrationOffice of the Federal Registertext/xmlENPursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain. GPO Locator to USLM Converter 4.15.31;Stage2.202507022026-01-02 115public ?957PUBLIC LAW 115–46—AUG. 12, 2017 VA CHOICE AND QUALITY EMPLOYMENT ACT OF 2017 131 STAT. 958 Public Law115–46 115th Congress
An Act To authorize appropriations and to appropriate amounts for the Veterans Choice Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to improve hiring authorities of the Department, to authorize major medical facility leases, and for other purposes.

Aug. 12, 2017

[S. 114]

   Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representa­tives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,

VA Choice

and Quality

Employment

Act of 2017.

38 USC 101 note.
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.(a) Short Title.—This Act may be cited as the “VA Choice and Quality Employment Act of 2017”. (b) Table of Contents.—The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1.  TITLE I— Sec. 101.  TITLE II— Sec. 201.  Sec. 202.  Sec. 203.  Sec. 204.  Sec. 205.  Sec. 206.  Sec. 207.  Sec. 208.  Sec. 209.  Sec. 210.  Sec. 211.  Sec. 212.  Sec. 213.  Sec. 214.  TITLE III— Sec. 301.  Sec. 302.  TITLE IV— Sec. 401.  Sec. 402.  Sec. 403. 
<num value="I">TITLE I—</num><heading>APPROPRIATION OF AMOUNTS FOR VETERANS CHOICE PROGRAM</heading> <section id="d250816e272" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tI/s101" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="101">SEC. 101. </num><heading>APPROPRIATION OF AMOUNTS FOR VETERANS CHOICE PROGRAM.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90e4dd5-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tI/s101/a" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In General</inline>.—</heading><content>There is authorized to be appropriated, and is appropriated, to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, out of any funds in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, $2,100,000,000 to be deposited in the Veterans Choice Fund under section 802 of the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 (<ref href="/us/pl/113/146">Public Law 113–146</ref>; <ref href="/us/usc/t38/s1701">38 U.S.C. 1701 note</ref>).</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90e4dd6-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tI/s101/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Availability</inline>.—</heading><content>The amount appropriated under subsection (a) shall remain available until expended.</content></subsection> </section> <num value="II">TITLE II—</num><heading>PERSONNEL MATTERS</heading> <section id="d250816e308" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s201" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="201">SEC. 201. </num><heading>MODIFICATION TO ANNUAL DETERMINATION OF STAFFING SHORTAGES IN VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION.</heading><chapeau class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="xb90e4dd7-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  <ref href="/us/usc/t38/s7412/a">Section 7412(a) of title 38, United States Code</ref>, <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction>—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90e4dd8-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s201/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>the five occupations</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>at a minimum, the five clinical occupations and the five nonclinical occupations</quotedText>”; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90e4dd9-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s201/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>throughout the Department</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>with respect to each medical center of the Department,</quotedText>”.</content></paragraph> </section> <section id="d250816e345" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s202" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="202">SEC. 202. </num><heading>ESTABLISHMENT OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90eea1a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s202/a" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Fellowship Program</inline>.—</heading><content><ref href="/us/usc/t38/ch7">Chapter 7 of title 38, United States Code</ref>, <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90eea1b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">38 USC</p><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90eea1c-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">prec. 741.</p></sidenote> by <amendingAction type="add">adding</amendingAction> at the end the following new subchapter:<quotedContent><subchapter id="yb90fd47d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658174"><num class="fontsize10 smallCaps" value="III">“SUBCHAPTER III—</num><heading class="fontsize10 smallCaps">EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM</heading><section class="centered fontsize12" id="yb90fd47e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658163"><num class="fontsize12" value="741">“§ 741.</num><heading class="fontsize12"><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90fd47f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s741">38 USC 741</ref>.</p></sidenote> Executive Management Fellowship Program</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd480-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">“(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Fellowship Program</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>There is in the Department an Executive Management Fellowship Program. The purpose of the program shall be to provide—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd481-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">“(1) </num><content>eligible employees of the Veterans Benefits Administration and the Veterans Health Administration with training and experience in the private sector; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd482-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><content>eligible employees of a private-sector entity with training and experience in the Department of Veterans Affairs.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd483-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">“(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Fellowship</inline>.—</heading><paragraph class="inline" id="yb90fd484-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c"><num value="1">(1) </num><chapeau>A fellowship provided under this section is a 1-year fellowship during which—</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd485-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">“(A) </num><content>with respect to a Department participant, the participant receives training and experience at a private-sector entity that is engaged in the administration and delivery of health <page identifier="/us/stat/131/960">131 STAT. 960</page> care or other services similar to the benefits administered by the Secretary; and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd486-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">“(B) </num><content>with respect to a private-sector participant, the participant receives training and experience at the Veterans Benefits Administration or the Veterans Health Administration.</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> <paragraph class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd487-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90fd488-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Contracts.</p></sidenote><content>The Secretary shall enter into such agreements with private-sector entities as are necessary to carry out this section.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd489-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">“(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Selection of Recipients</inline>.—</heading><paragraph class="inline" id="yb90fd48a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c"><num value="1">(1) </num><chapeau>In August of each year, the Secretary shall select—</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd48b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">“(A) </num><content>not fewer than 18 and not more than 30 eligible employees of the Veterans Benefits Administration and the Veterans Health Administration to receive a fellowship under this section; and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd48c-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">“(B) </num><content>not fewer than 18 and not more than 30 eligible employees of private-sector entities to receive a fellowship under this section.</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> <paragraph class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd48d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><content>To the extent practicable, the Secretary shall select eligible employees under subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1) from among eligible employees who are veterans in a manner that is reflective of the demographics of the veteran population of the United States and that whenever practicable provides a preference to such employees who represent or service rural areas.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd48e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="d">“(d) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Eligible Employees</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>For the purposes of this section, an eligible employee is—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd48f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">“(1) </num><chapeau>with respect to an employee of the Veterans Benefits Administration or the Veterans Health Administration, an employee who—</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd490-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">“(A) </num><content>is compensated at a rate of basic pay not less than the minimum rate of basic pay payable for grade GS–14 of the General Schedule and not more than either the minimum rate of basic pay payable to a member of the Senior Executive Service under section 5382 of title 5 or the minimum rate of basic pay payable pursuant to chapter 74 of this title, as the case may be;</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd491-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">“(B) </num><content>enters into an agreement with the Secretary under subsection (e); and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd492-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="C">“(C) </num><content>submits to the Secretary an application containing such information and assurances as the Secretary may require; and</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd493-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><chapeau>with respect to an employee of a private-sector entity, an employee who—</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd494-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">“(A) </num><content>is employed in a position whose duties and responsibilities are commensurate with an employee of the Department described in paragraph (1);</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd495-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">“(B) </num><content>enters into an agreement with the Secretary under subsection (e); and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd496-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="C">“(C) </num><content>submits to the Secretary an application containing such information and assurances as the Secretary may require.</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd497-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="e">“(e) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Agreements</inline>.—</heading><paragraph class="inline" id="yb90fd498-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c"><num value="1">(1) </num><chapeau>An agreement between the Secretary and a Department participant shall be in writing, shall be signed by the participant, and shall include the following provisions:</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd499-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">“(A) </num><content>The Secretary’s agreement to provide the participant with a fellowship under this section;</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd49a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">“(B) </num><chapeau>The participant’s agreement—</chapeau><clause class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd49b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="i">“(i) </num><content>to accept the fellowship;<page identifier="/us/stat/131/961">131 STAT. 961</page></content></clause> <clause class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd49c-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="ii">“(ii) </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90fd49d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Time period.</p></sidenote><content>after completion of the fellowship, to serve as a full-time employee in the Veterans Benefits Administration or the Veterans Health Administration for at least 2 years as specified in the agreement; and</content></clause> <clause class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd49e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="iii">“(iii) </num><content>that, during the 2-year period beginning on the last day of the fellowship, the participant will not accept employment in the same industry as the industry of the private-sector entity at which the participant accepts the fellowship.</content></clause> </subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd49f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="C">“(C) </num><content>A provision that any financial obligation of the United States arising out of an agreement entered into under this subchapter, and any obligation of the participant which is conditioned on such agreement, is contingent upon funds being appropriated.</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd4a0-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="D">“(D) </num><content>A statement of the damages to which the United States is entitled under this subchapter for the participant’s breach of the agreement.</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd4a1-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="E">“(E) </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90fd4a2-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Determination.</p></sidenote><content>Such other terms as the Secretary determines are required to be included in the agreement.</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> <paragraph class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd4a3-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><chapeau>An agreement between the Secretary and a private-sector participant shall be in writing, shall be signed by the participant, and shall include the following provisions:</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd4a4-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">“(A) </num><content>The Secretary’s agreement to provide the participant with a fellowship under this section.</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd4a5-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">“(B) </num><content>The participant’s agreement to accept the fellowship.</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd4a6-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="C">“(C) </num><content>Such other terms as the Secretary determines are required to be included in the agreement.</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd4a7-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="f">“(f) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Treatment of Recipients</inline>.—</heading><paragraph class="inline" id="yb90fd4a8-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c"><num value="1">(1) </num><content>A Department participant shall be considered an employee of the Department for all purposes, including for purposes of receiving a salary and benefits, and shall remain eligible for all promotion and incentive programs otherwise available to such an employee.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd4a9-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><content>A private-sector participant shall be considered an employee of the private-sector entity that employs the participant for all purposes, including for purposes of receiving a salary and benefits, and during the fellowship shall be treated as a contractor of the Department.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd4aa-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="g">“(g) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Reports</inline>.—</heading><paragraph class="inline" id="yb90fd4ab-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c"><num value="1">(1) </num><content>Not later than 60 days after completing a fellowship under this section, a recipient of the fellowship shall submit to the Secretary a report on the fellowship.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd4ac-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><content>Each such report shall describe the duties of the recipient during the fellowship and any recommendations of the recipient for the application by the Secretary of industry processes, technologies, and best practices.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd4ad-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">“(3) </num><content>Not later than 7 days after receiving each such report, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives such report without change.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90fd4ae-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="h">“(h) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Definitions</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>In this section:</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90fd4af-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" role="definitions" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">“(1) </num><content>The term ‘<term>Department participant</term>’ means an employee of the Veterans Benefits Administration or the Veterans Health Administration who is participating in the fellowship under this section.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90ffbc0-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" role="definitions" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><content>The term ‘<term>private-sector entity</term>’ includes an entity operating under a public-private partnership.<page identifier="/us/stat/131/962">131 STAT. 962</page></content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb90ffbc1-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" role="definitions" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">“(3) </num><content>The term ‘<term>private-sector participant</term>’ means an employee of a private-sector entity who is participating in the fellowship under this section.”</content></paragraph> </subsection> </section> </subchapter> </quotedContent>.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90ffbc2-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s202/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90ffbc3-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s741">38 USC 741 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Deadline for Implementation</inline>.—</heading><content>Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall implement the Executive Management Fellowship Program required under <ref href="/us/usc/t38/s741">section 741 of title 38, United States Code</ref>, as added by subsection (a).</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb90ffbc4-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s202/c" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Clerical Amendment</inline>.—</heading><content>The table of sections at the beginning of <ref href="/us/usc/t38/ch7">chapter 7 of title 38, United States Code</ref>,<sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90ffbc5-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">38 USC</p><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb90ffbc6-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">prec. 701.</p></sidenote> <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction> by <amendingAction type="add">adding</amendingAction> at the end the following new items:<quotedContent><toc> <referenceItem role="subchapter" style="-uslm-lc:I658274"> <designator><inline class="smallCaps">“subchapter iii—</inline></designator> <label><inline class="smallCaps">executive management fellowship program</inline></label> </referenceItem><referenceItem role="section" style="-uslm-lc:I658242"> <designator>“741. </designator> <label>Executive Management Fellowship Program.”.</label> </referenceItem></toc> </quotedContent></content></subsection> </section> <section id="d250816e734" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s203" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="203">SEC. 203. </num><heading>ACCOUNTABILITY OF LEADERS FOR MANAGING THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb91022d7-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s203/a" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In General</inline>.—</heading><content><ref href="/us/usc/t38/ch7/schI">Subchapter I of chapter 7 of title 38, United States Code</ref>, <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction> by <amendingAction type="add">adding</amendingAction> at the end the following new section:<quotedContent><section class="centered fontsize12" id="yb91049e8-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658163"><num class="fontsize12" value="725">“§ 725.</num><heading class="fontsize12"><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb91049e9-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s725">38 USC 725</ref>.</p></sidenote> Annual performance plan for political appointees</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb91049ea-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">“(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In General</inline>.—</heading><content>The Secretary shall conduct an annual performance plan for each political appointee of the Department that is similar to the annual performance plan conducted for an employee of the Department who is appointed as a career appointee (as that term is defined in section 3132(a) of title 5) within the Senior Executive Service at the Department.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb91049eb-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">“(b) </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb91049ec-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Assessment.</p></sidenote><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Elements of Plan</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>Each annual performance plan conducted under subsection (a) with respect to a political appointee of the Department shall include an assessment of whether the appointee is meeting the following goals:</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91049ed-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">“(1) </num><content>Recruiting, selecting, and retaining well-qualified individuals for employment at the Department.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91049ee-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><content>Engaging and motivating employees.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91049ef-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">“(3) </num><content>Training and developing employees and preparing those employees for future leadership roles within the Department.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91049f0-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="4">“(4) </num><content>Holding each employee of the Department that is a manager accountable for addressing issues relating to performance, in particular issues relating to the performance of employees that report to the manager.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb91049f1-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" role="definitions" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">“(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Definition of Political Appointee</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>In this section, the term ‘<term>political appointee</term>’ means an employee of the Department who holds—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91049f2-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">“(1) </num><content>a position which has been excepted from the competitive service by reason of its confidential, policy-determining, policy-making, or policy-advocating character; or</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91049f3-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">“(2) </num><content>a position in the Senior Executive Service as a noncareer appointee (as such term is defined in section 3132(a) of title 5).”</content></paragraph> </subsection> </section> </quotedContent>.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb91049f4-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s203/b" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Clerical Amendment</inline>.—</heading><content>The table of sections at the beginning of chapter 7 of such title<sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb9107105-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">38 USC</p><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb9107106-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">prec. 701.<?GPOvSpace 04?></p></sidenote> <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction> by <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> after the item relating to section 723 the following new item:<quotedContent><toc> <referenceItem role="section" style="-uslm-lc:I658242"> <designator>“725. </designator> <label>Annual performance plan for political appointees.”.</label> </referenceItem></toc> </quotedContent><page identifier="/us/stat/131/963">131 STAT. 963</page></content></subsection> </section> <section id="d250816e864" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s204" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="204">SEC. 204. </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb9107107-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s701">38 USC 701 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading>REEMPLOYMENT OF FORMER EMPLOYEES AT DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9109818-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s204/a" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In General</inline>.—</heading><content>Notwithstanding sections 3309 through 3318 of <ref href="/us/usc/t5">title 5, United States Code</ref>, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may noncompetitively appoint a qualified former career or career conditional employee to any position within the competitive service at the Department of Veterans Affairs that is one grade or equivalent higher than the grade or equivalent of the position at the Department most recently occupied by the employee.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9109819-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s204/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Limitation</inline>.—</heading><content>The Secretary may not appoint a qualified former employee to a position that is more than one grade (or equivalent) higher than the position at the Department most recently occupied by the employee.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb910981a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s204/c" role="definitions" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Definition of Qualified Former Employee</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>For purposes of this section, the term “<term>qualified former employee</term>” means any individual who—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb910981b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s204/c/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>formerly occupied any career or career conditional position at the Department of Veterans Affairs within 2 years before applying for reemployment at the Department;</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb910981c-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s204/c/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>voluntarily left such position, or was subject to a reduction in force, and had a satisfactory performance record while occupying such position; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb910981d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s204/c/3" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">(3) </num><content>since leaving such position has maintained licensing requirements, related to the position, if any, and gained skill, knowledge, or other factors related to the position.</content></paragraph> </subsection> </section> <section id="d250816e921" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s205" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="205">SEC. 205. </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb910981e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Deadline.</p><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb910981f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s701">38 USC 701 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading>PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR TECHNICAL EXPERTS AT DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><chapeau class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="xb910bf30-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish a promotional track system for employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs that the Secretary determines are technical experts pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Secretary for purposes of carrying out this section. Such system shall—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb910bf31-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s205/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>provide any such employee the opportunity to advance within the Department without being required to transition to a management position; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb910bf32-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s205/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><chapeau>for purposes of achieving career advancement—</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb910bf33-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s205/2/A" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">(A) </num><content>provide for the establishment of new positions within the Department; and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb910bf34-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s205/2/B" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">(B) </num><content>notwithstanding any other provision of law, provide for increases in pay for any such employee.</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> </section> <section id="d250816e955" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="206">SEC. 206. </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb910e645-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s701">38 USC 701 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading>EMPLOYMENT OF STUDENTS AND RECENT GRADUATES BY DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9110d56-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206/a" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb9110d57-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Regulations.</p></sidenote><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In General</inline>.—</heading><content>The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall prescribe regulations to allow for excepted service appointments of students and recent graduates leading to conversion to career or career conditional employment of a student or recent graduate of a qualifying educational institution, as defined by the Department.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9110d58-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Applicability</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>The conversion authority described in subsection (a) shall be applicable to individuals in good standing who—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9113469-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206/b/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>are employed in a qualifying internship or fellowship program at the Department;</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb911346a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206/b/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>are employed in the Department in a volunteer capacity and performing substantive duties comparable to those of <page identifier="/us/stat/131/964">131 STAT. 964</page> individuals in internship or fellowship programs and meet the required number of hours for conversion;</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb911346b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206/b/3" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">(3) </num><content>are employed in the Department under a contract or agreement with an external nonprofit organization and performing substantive duties comparable to those of individuals in internship or fellowship programs;</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb911346c-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206/b/4" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="4">(4) </num><content>have received educational assistance under <ref href="/us/usc/t38/ch33">chapter 33 of title 38, United States Code</ref>; or</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb911346d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206/b/5" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="5">(5) </num><content>graduated from a qualifying educational institution, as defined by the Department, and have not reached 30 years of age.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb911346e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s206/c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Uniformity</inline>.—</heading><content>For the purposes of paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (b), hours of work performed by an individual employed shall be considered equal to those performed by an individual employed in a qualifying internship or fellowship program by the Department.</content></subsection> </section> <section id="d250816e1029" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s207" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="207">SEC. 207. </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb911346f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s7401">38 USC 7401 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading>ENCOURAGEMENT OF TRANSITION OF MILITARY MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS INTO EMPLOYMENT WITH VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION.</heading><content style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish a program to encourage an individual who serves in the Armed Forces with a military occupational specialty relating to the provision of health care to seek employment with the Veterans Health Administration when the individual has been discharged or released from service in the Armed Forces or is contemplating separating from such service.</content></section> <section id="d250816e1041" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="208">SEC. 208. </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb9113470-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Determinations.</p><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb9113471-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s701">38 USC 701 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading>RECRUITING DATABASE AT DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9118292-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208/a" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Establishment</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish a single database that lists—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9118293-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208/a/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>each vacant position in the Department of Veterans Affairs that the Secretary determines is critical to the mission of the Department, difficult to fill, or both; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9118294-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208/a/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>each vacant position in the Department of Veterans Affairs for a mental health professional.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9118295-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Qualified Applicant</inline>.—</heading><content>If the Secretary determines that an applicant for a vacant position listed in the database established under subsection (a) is qualified for such position but does not select the applicant for such position, the Secretary, at the election of the applicant, may consider the applicant for other similar vacant positions listed in the database for which the applicant is qualified.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9118296-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208/c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Prolonged Vacancies</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>If the Secretary does not fill a vacant position listed in the database established under subsection (a) after a period determined appropriate by the Secretary, the Secretary—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9118297-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208/c/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>may ensure that applicants described in subsection (b) are considered for such position; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9118298-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208/c/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>may use the database established under subsection (a) to assist in filling such position.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9118299-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s208/d" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="d">(d) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Report</inline>.—</heading><content>Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the use and efficacy of the database established under subsection (a).<page identifier="/us/stat/131/965">131 STAT. 965</page></content></subsection> </section> <section id="d250816e1112" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s209" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="209">SEC. 209. </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb911829a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s7401">38 USC 7401 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading>TRAINING FOR HUMAN RESOURCES PROFESSIONALS OF VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION ON RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb911d0bb-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s209/a" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In General</inline>.—</heading><content>The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall provide to human resources professionals of the Veterans Health Administration training on how to best recruit and retain employees of the Veterans Health Administration, including with respect to any recruitment and retention matters that are unique to the Veterans Health Administration pursuant to <ref href="/us/usc/t38/ch74">chapter 74 of title 38, United States Code</ref>, or other provisions of law.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb911d0bc-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s209/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Virtual Training</inline>.—</heading><content>Training provided under this section shall be provided virtually.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb911d0bd-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s209/c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Amount of Training</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>The Secretary shall ensure that each human resources professional of the Veterans Health Administration receives the training described in subsection (a)—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb911d0be-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s209/c/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>as soon as practicable after being hired by the Secretary as a human resources professional; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb911d0bf-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s209/c/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>annually thereafter.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb911d0c0-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s209/d" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="d">(d) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Certification</inline>.—</heading><content>The Secretary shall require that each human resources professional of the Veterans Health Administration, upon the completion of the training described in subsection (a), certifies that the professional received the training and understands the information provided by the training.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb911d0c1-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s209/e" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="e">(e) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Annual Report</inline>.—</heading><content>Not less frequently than annually, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a report on the training described in subsection (a), including the cost of providing such training and the number of human resources professionals who received such training during the year covered by the report.</content></subsection> </section> <section id="d250816e1182" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="210">SEC. 210. </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb911d0c2-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Deadlines.</p><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb911d0c3-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s7401">38 USC 7401 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading>PLAN TO HIRE DIRECTORS OF MEDICAL CENTERS OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9121ee4-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210/a" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Plan</inline>.—</heading><content>Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall develop and implement a plan to hire highly qualified directors for each medical center of the Department of Veterans Affairs that lacks a permanent director as of the date of the plan.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9121ee5-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Priority</inline>.—</heading><content>The Secretary shall prioritize under the plan developed under subsection (a) the hiring of directors for medical centers that have not had a permanent director for the longest periods.</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9121ee6-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210/c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Matters Included</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>The plan developed under subsection (a) shall include the following:</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9121ee7-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210/c/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>A deadline to hire directors of medical centers of the Department as described in such subsection.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9121ee8-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210/c/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>Identification of the possible impediments to such hiring.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9121ee9-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210/c/3" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">(3) </num><content>Identification of opportunities to promote and train candidates from within the Department to senior executive positions in the Department, including as directors of medical centers.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9121eea-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210/d" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="d">(d) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Submittal of Plan</inline>.—</heading><content>Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives the plan developed under subsection (a).<page identifier="/us/stat/131/966">131 STAT. 966</page></content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9121eeb-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s210/e" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="e">(e) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Semiannual Reports</inline>.—</heading><content>Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and not later than 180 days thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a report containing a list of each medical center of the Department that lacks a permanent director as of the date of the report.</content></subsection> </section> <section id="d250816e1259" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="211">SEC. 211. </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb9121eec-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180"><ref href="/us/usc/t38/s701">38 USC 701 note</ref>.</p></sidenote><heading>EXIT SURVEYS AT DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb912e23d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/a" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Exit Surveys Required</inline>.—</heading><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e23e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/a/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In general</inline>.—</heading><content>The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall develop and carry out a standardized exit survey to be voluntarily completed by career and noncareer employees and executives of the Department of Veterans Affairs who voluntarily separate from the Department.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e23f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/a/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Consultation</inline>.—</heading><content>Such exit survey shall be developed in consultation with an appropriate non-Department entity with experience developing such surveys.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb912e240-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Survey Content</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>The survey shall include, at a minimum, the following:</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e241-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/b/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>Reasons for leaving the Department.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e242-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/b/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>Efforts made by the supervisor of the employee to retain the individual.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e243-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/b/3" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">(3) </num><content>The extent of job satisfaction and engagement during the employment.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e244-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/b/4" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="4">(4) </num><content>The intent of employee to either remain employed within the Federal Government or to leave employment with the Federal Government.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e245-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/b/5" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="5">(5) </num><content>Such other matters as the Secretary determines appropriate.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb912e246-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Anonymity of Survey Content</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>The Secretary shall ensure that data collected under subsection (a)—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e247-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/c/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>is anonymized, including through the use of a location that allows for privacy;</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e248-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/c/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>is not directly visible by another employee; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e249-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/c/3" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">(3) </num><content>does not require the departing employee to input any personally identifiable data.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb912e24a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/d" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="d">(d) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Sharing of Survey Data</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>The Secretary shall ensure that the results of the survey required by subsection (a) are—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e24b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/d/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>aggregated at the Veterans Integrated Service Network level; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e24c-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/d/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>shared on an annual basis with directors and managers of facilities of the Department and the Veterans Integrated Service Networks.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb912e24d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/e" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="e">(e) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Annual Report</inline>.—</heading><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e24e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/e/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In general</inline>.—</heading><content>Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act and not less frequently than once each year thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a report containing the aggregate results of the exit survey under subsection (a) covering the year prior to the report.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e24f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/e/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Contents</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include, for the period covered by the report, the following:</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e250-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/e/2/A" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">(A) </num><sidenote><p class="leftAlign firstIndent0 fontsize8" id="xb912e251-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658180">Analysis.</p></sidenote><content>An analysis of the most common reasons employees choose to leave the Department.<page identifier="/us/stat/131/967">131 STAT. 967</page></content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e252-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/e/2/B" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">(B) </num><content>The steps the Secretary is taking to improve retention, particularly for mission-critical occupations.</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e253-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/e/2/C" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="C">(C) </num><content>The demographic characteristics of employees choosing to leave the Department.</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e254-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/e/2/D" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="D">(D) </num><content>Any legislative barriers to improving employee retention.</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb912e255-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s211/e/2/E" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="E">(E) </num><content>The total number of employees who voluntarily separated from the Department and the number and percentage of whom took the exit survey under subsection (a).</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> </subsection> </section> <section id="d250816e1432" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s212" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="212">SEC. 212. </num><heading>REQUIREMENT THAT PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS EMPLOYED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS RECEIVE COMPETITIVE PAY.</heading><chapeau class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="xb9130866-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  <ref href="/us/usc/t38/s7451/a/2">Section 7451(a)(2) of title 38, United States Code</ref>, <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction>—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9130867-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s212/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>by <amendingAction type="redesignate">redesignating</amendingAction> subparagraph (B) as subparagraph (C);</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9130868-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s212/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>by <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraph (B):<quotedContent><subparagraph class="indentUp0 fontsize10" id="yb9130869-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">“(B) </num><content>Physician assistant.”</content></subparagraph> </quotedContent>; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb913086a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s212/3" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">(3) </num><content>in subparagraph (C), as redesignated by paragraph (1), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>and registered nurse</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>registered nurse, and physician assistant</quotedText>”.</content></paragraph> </section> <section id="d250816e1482" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s213" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="213">SEC. 213. </num><heading>EXPANSION OF DIRECT-HIRING AUTHORITY FOR DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS IN CASE OF SHORTAGE OF HIGHLY QUALIFIED CANDIDATES.</heading><content style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  <ref href="/us/usc/t5/s3304/a/3/B">Section 3304(a)(3)(B) of title 5, United States Code</ref>, <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction> by <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>(or, with respect to the Department of Veterans Affairs, that there exists a severe shortage of highly qualified candidates)</quotedText>” after “<quotedText>severe shortage of candidates</quotedText>”.</content></section> <section id="d250816e1498" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s214" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="214">SEC. 214. </num><heading>COMPTROLLER GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES ASSESSMENT OF SUCCESSION PLANNING AT DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb913568b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s214/a" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="a">(a) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Assessment</inline>.—</heading><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb913568c-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s214/a/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">In general</inline>.—</heading><content>The Comptroller General of the United States shall assess the extent to which key succession planning policies and guidance at the Department of Veterans Affairs, including the Veterans Health Administration, the Veterans Benefits Administration, and the National Cemetery Administration, are consistent with leading practices for succession and workforce planning identified by Comptroller General.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb913568d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s214/a/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Additional matters</inline>.—</heading><content>In carrying out the assessment required by paragraph (1), the Comptroller General may assess such other matters as the Comptroller General considers appropriate.</content></paragraph> </subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9137d9e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s214/b" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="b">(b) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Report</inline>.—</heading><content>Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a report on the assessment carried out under subsection (a).</content></subsection> <subsection class="firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="yb9137d9f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s214/c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="c">(c) </num><heading class="fontsize10"><inline class="smallCaps">Sense of Congress on Study on Compliance With Policies and Guidance</inline>.—</heading><chapeau>It is the sense of Congress that—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9137da0-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s214/c/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>the Comptroller General should conduct a study to examine the extent to which a sampling of installations of the Department of Veterans Affairs are complying with policies <page identifier="/us/stat/131/968">131 STAT. 968</page> and guidance of the Department, as well as applicable leading practices; and</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9137da1-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tII/s214/c/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>the scope and timeframe of a study conducted as described in paragraph (1) may be dependent upon the findings of the Comptroller General with respect to the assessment carried out under subsection (a).</content></paragraph> </subsection> </section> <num value="III">TITLE III—</num><heading>MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY LEASES</heading> <section id="d250816e1568" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="301">SEC. 301. </num><heading>AUTHORIZATION OF CERTAIN MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY LEASES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><chapeau class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="xb91440f2-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may carry out the following major medical facility leases at the locations specified and in an amount for each lease not to exceed the amount specified for such location (not including any estimated cancellation costs):</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440f3-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Ann Arbor, Michigan, an amount not to exceed $4,247,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440f4-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><content>For a new outpatient mental health clinic, Birmingham, Alabama, an amount not to exceed $6,649,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440f5-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/3" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">(3) </num><content>For new research space, Boston, Massachusetts, an amount not to exceed $6,224,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440f6-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/4" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="4">(4) </num><content>For a replacement research space, Charleston, South Carolina, an amount not to exceed $7,274,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440f7-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/5" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="5">(5) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Corpus Christi, Texas, an amount not to exceed $6,556,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440f8-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/6" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="6">(6) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Daytona Beach, Florida, an amount not to exceed $12,198,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440f9-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/7" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="7">(7) </num><content>For a replacement Chief Business Office Purchased Care office space, Denver, Colorado, an amount not to exceed $14,784,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440fa-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/8" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="8">(8) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Fredericksburg, Virginia, an amount not to exceed $45,015,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440fb-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/9" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="9">(9) </num><content>For a new outpatient clinic, Gainesville, Florida, an amount not to exceed $7,891,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440fc-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/10" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="10">(10) </num><content>For an outpatient mental health clinic, Gainesville, Florida, an amount not to exceed $4,320,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440fd-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/11" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="11">(11) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Hampton Roads, Virginia, an amount not to exceed $18,141,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440fe-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/12" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="12">(12) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Indianapolis, Indiana, an amount not to exceed $7,876,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb91440ff-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/13" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="13">(13) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, an amount not to exceed $18,623,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144100-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/14" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="14">(14) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Missoula, Montana, an amount not to exceed $6,942,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144101-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/15" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="15">(15) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient mental health clinic, Northern Colorado, Colorado, an amount not to exceed $8,904,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144102-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/16" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="16">(16) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Ocala, Florida, an amount not to exceed $5,026,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144103-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/17" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="17">(17) </num><content>For a new outpatient clinic, Oxnard, California, an amount not to exceed $5,274,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144104-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/18" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="18">(18) </num><content>For a new outpatient clinic, Pike County, Georgia, an amount not to exceed $5,565,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144105-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/19" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="19">(19) </num><content>For a new outpatient clinic, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, an amount not to exceed $6,247,000.<page identifier="/us/stat/131/969">131 STAT. 969</page></content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144106-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/20" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="20">(20) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Portland, Maine, an amount not to exceed $6,808,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144107-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/21" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="21">(21) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Raleigh, North Carolina, an amount not to exceed $21,870,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144108-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/22" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="22">(22) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, phase II, Rochester, New York, an amount not to exceed $3,645,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb9144109-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/23" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="23">(23) </num><content>For a replacement research space, San Diego, California, an amount not to exceed $4,852,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914410a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/24" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="24">(24) </num><content>For a new outpatient clinic, Santa Rosa, California, an amount not to exceed $6,922,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914410b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/25" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="25">(25) </num><content>For a replacement mental health clinic, Tampa, Florida, an amount not to exceed $13,387,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914410c-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/26" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="26">(26) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Lakeland, Tampa, Florida, an amount not to exceed $10,760,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914410d-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/27" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="27">(27) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Terre Haute, Indiana, an amount not to exceed $4,102,000.</content></paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914410e-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s301/28" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="28">(28) </num><content>For a replacement outpatient clinic, Rapid City, South Dakota, an amount not to exceed $4,532,000.</content></paragraph> </section> <section id="d250816e1722" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIII/s302" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="302">SEC. 302. </num><heading>AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR MEDICAL FACILITY LEASES.</heading><content style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2018 or the year in which funds are appropriated for the Medical Facilities account $274,634,000 for the major medical facility leases authorized in section 301.</content></section> <num value="IV">TITLE IV—</num><heading>OTHER MATTERS</heading> <section id="d250816e1735" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s401" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="401">SEC. 401. </num><heading>EXTENSION OF REDUCTION IN AMOUNT OF PENSION FURNISHED BY DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FOR CERTAIN VETERANS COVERED BY MEDICAID PLANS FOR SERVICES FURNISHED BY NURSING FACILITIES.</heading><content style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  <ref href="/us/usc/t38/s5503/d/7">Section 5503(d)(7) of title 38, United States Code</ref>, <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction> by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”.</content></section> <section id="d250816e1754" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="402">SEC. 402. </num><heading>EXTENSION OF REQUIREMENT FOR COLLECTION OF FEES FOR HOUSING LOANS GUARANTEED BY SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.</heading><chapeau class="indentUp0 firstIndent0 fontsize10" id="xb914b63f-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  <ref href="/us/usc/t38/s3729/b/2">Section 3729(b)(2) of title 38, United States Code</ref>, <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction>—</chapeau><paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b640-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/1" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="1">(1) </num><chapeau>in subparagraph (A)—</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b641-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/1/A" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">(A) </num><content>in clause (iii), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”; and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b642-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/1/B" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">(B) </num><content>in clause (iv), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”;</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b643-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/2" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="2">(2) </num><chapeau>in subparagraph (B)—</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b644-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/2/A" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">(A) </num><content>in clause (i), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”; and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b645-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/2/B" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">(B) </num><content>in clause (ii), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”;</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b646-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/3" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="3">(3) </num><chapeau>in subparagraph (C)—</chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b647-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/3/A" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">(A) </num><content>in clause (i), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”; and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b648-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/3/B" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">(B) </num><content>in clause (ii), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”; and</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> <paragraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b649-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/4" style="-uslm-lc:I658122"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="4">(4) </num><chapeau>in subparagraph (D)—<page identifier="/us/stat/131/970">131 STAT. 970</page></chapeau><subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b64a-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/4/A" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="A">(A) </num><content>in clause (i), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”; and</content></subparagraph> <subparagraph class="fontsize10" id="yb914b64b-e82d-11f0-bc57-ad3ac4b1618c" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s402/4/B" style="-uslm-lc:I658124"><num class="fontsize10" style="-uslm-lc:emspace2" value="B">(B) </num><content>in clause (ii), by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”.</content></subparagraph> </paragraph> </section> <section id="d250816e1886" identifier="/us/pl/115/46/tIV/s403" role="instruction" style="-uslm-lc:I658143"><num class="fontsize12" value="403">SEC. 403. </num><heading>EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY TO USE INCOME INFORMATION.</heading><content style="-uslm-lc:I658120">  <ref href="/us/usc/t38/s5317/g">Section 5317(g) of title 38, United States Code</ref>, <amendingAction type="amend">is amended</amendingAction> by <amendingAction type="delete">striking</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2024</quotedText>” and <amendingAction type="insert">inserting</amendingAction> “<quotedText>September 30, 2027</quotedText>”.</content></section> Approved August 12, 2017.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY—S. 114 (H.R. 1690): HOUSE REPORTS: ┐No. 115–249 (Comm. on Veterans’ Affairs) accompanying
H.R. 1690. CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 163 (2017):

May 25, considered and passed Senate.

July 24, considered and failed House.

July 28, considered and passed House, amended.

Aug. 1, Senate concurred in House amendments.

 DAILY COMPILATION OF PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS (2017):

Aug. 12, Presidential remarks.

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