[The Regulatory Plan and Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions]
[Department of Veterans Affairs Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]


_______________________________________________________________________

Part XVI





Department of Veterans Affairs





_______________________________________________________________________



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 63074]]



DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                                    


  



_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

38 CFR Ch. I

Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions

AGENCY: Department of Veterans Affairs.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: This agenda announces the regulations that the Department of 
Veterans Affairs (VA) will have under development or review during the 
12-month period beginning October 1996. The purpose in publishing the 
Department's regulatory agenda is to allow all interested persons the 
opportunity to participate in VA's regulatory planning.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are invited to comment on the entries 
listed in the agenda by contacting the individual agency contact listed 
for each entry or by writing to: Director, Office of Regulations 
Management (02D), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20420.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gloria Armstrong or Christy Fick, 
(202) 273-8605.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This document is issued pursuant to 
Executive Order 12866 ``Regulatory Planning and Review'' (and 
implementing guidance) and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, which 
require that executive agencies semiannually publish in the Federal 
Register an agenda of regulations under development or review. For this 
edition of VA's regulatory agenda, the most important significant 
regulatory actions are included in The Regulatory Plan, which appears 
in Part II of this issue of the Federal Register. The Regulatory Plan 
entries are listed in the Table of Contents below and are denoted by a 
bracketed bold reference, which directs the reader to the appropriate 
Sequence Number in Part II.

Thomas O. Gessel,

Director, Office of Regulations Management.

                                               Proposed Rule Stage                                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3281        Disposition of Veteran's Personal Funds and Effects on Facility Upon Death, or                      
            Discharge, or Unauthorized Absence, and of Funds and Effects Found on Facility........    2900-AB61 
3282        Aid to States for Care of Veterans in State Homes and Grants to States for                          
            Construction or Acquisition of State Home Facilities..................................    2900-AE87 
3283        Payments for Outpatients and Ancillary Medical Services Provided by Non-VA Providers..    2900-AH66 
3284        Informed Consent for Patient Care.....................................................    2900-AH72 
3285        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Orthopedic System...............................    2900-AE91 
3286        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders....    2900-AF23 
3287        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Digestive System....................................    2900-AF24 
3288        Reduction of Debt Through the Performance of Work-Study Services......................    2900-AF29 
3289        Veterans' Education; Suspension and Discontinuance of Payments........................    2900-AF85 
3290        Individual Unemployability............................................................    2900-AH21 
3291        Loan Guaranty: Authority To Close VA-Guaranteed Loans on an Automatic Basis,                        
            Withdrawal of Automatic Processing Authority and Elimination of Late Reporting Waivers    2900-AH23 
3292        Service Connection for Dental Conditions for Treatment Purposes.......................    2900-AH41 
3293        Evidence in File at Date of Death.....................................................    2900-AH42 
3294        Vision................................................................................    2900-AH43 
3295        Claims Based on Tobacco Use During Active Service.....................................    2900-AH58 
3296        Loan Guaranty: Electronic Payment of Funding Fee......................................    2900-AH73 
3297        Veterans Education: Effective Date for the Award of Educational Assistance............    2900-AH76 
3298        Medical Evidence That a Disability Has Improved.......................................    2900-AH82 
3299        Election of Education Benefits........................................................    2900-AH88 
3300        Computation of Income.................................................................    2900-AH94 
3301        Veterans Education: Submission of School Catalog to State Approving Agencies..........    2900-AH97 
3302        Claims Based on Exposure to Ionizing Radiation (Prostate Cancer and Any Other Cancer).    2900-AI00 
3303        Child Custody.........................................................................    2900-AI10 
3304        Loan Guaranty: Revised Credit Standards...............................................    2900-AI16 
3305        Notice of Time Limit for Filing Evidence..............................................    2900-AI19 
3306        Evaluation of Income..................................................................    2900-AI20 
3307        Intervertebral Disc Syndrome..........................................................    2900-AI22 
3308        Veterans Education: Advanced Payments & Lump Sum Payments for Educational Assistance..    2900-AI31 
3309        Claims Based on Aggravation of Nonservice-Connected Disability........................    2900-AI42 
3310        Ankylosis and Limitation of Motion of Digits of the Hands.............................    2900-AI44 
3311        Survivors and dependents Education: Extension of Eligibility Period...................    2900-AI45 
3312        Cold Injuries.........................................................................    2900-AI46 
3313        Capping of National Service Life Insurance ``H'' Term Premiums........................    2900-AI52 
3314        Purchase Card/Electronic Data Interchange.............................................    2900-AI41 
3315        Rules of Practice; Hearings...........................................................    2900-AG07 
3316        Headstone and Marker Inscription Policy...............................................    2900-AH45 

[[Page 63075]]

                                                                                                                
3317        State Cemetery Grants: Aid to States for Establishment, Expansion and Improvement of                
            Veterans Cemeteries...................................................................    2900-AH46 
3318        Fee to Trace Vendors VA Issued Checks.................................................    2900-AI38 
3319        Release of Information From Department of Veterans Affairs Records....................    2900-AH98 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                Final Rule Stage                                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3320        CHAMPVA Regulations...................................................................    2900-AE64 
3321        Community Residential Care Program and Contract Program for Veterans With Alcohol and               
            Drug Dependence Disorders.............................................................    2900-AH61 
3322        Treatment of Research--Related Injuries to Human Subjects.............................    2900-AH68 
3323        Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Clarification of Per Diem Eligibility..    2900-AH89 
3324        Miscellaneous Changes to Part 17......................................................    2900-AI37 
3325        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Cardiovascular System (Reg Plan Seq. No. 93)....    2900-AE40 
3326        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Muscular System.................................    2900-AE89 
3327        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Skin............................................    2900-AF00 
3328        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Diseases of the Ear and Other Sense Organs..........    2900-AF22 
3329        Amendments to Training and Rehabilitation Programs....................................    2900-AG00 
3330        Fibromyalgia..........................................................................    2900-AH05 
3331        Delegation of Authority To Provide Relief on Account of Administrative Error..........    2900-AH19 
3332        Loan Guaranty Flood Insurance Requirements............................................    2900-AH63 
3333        Loan Guaranty: Limitation on Discount Points Financed in Connection With Interest Rate              
            Reduction Refinancing Loans...........................................................    2900-AH90 
3334        Veterans Education: Approval of Correspondence Courses................................    2900-AH91 
3335        Fiduciary Activities; Miscellaneous...................................................    2900-AI14 
3336        Vocational Rehabilitation; Miscellaneous Changes......................................    2900-AI29 
3337        Veterans Education: Approval of Independent Study.....................................    2900-AI34 
3338        Spouse and Surviving Spouse...........................................................    2900-AI36 
3339        Decisions to Conform..................................................................    2900-AI39 
3340        Upgraded Discharges...................................................................    2900-AI40 
3341        Adjudication Regulations; Miscellaneous...............................................    2900-AI43 
3342        Dependency and Income.................................................................    2900-AI47 
3343        Veterans Education: Increased Allowances of the Educational Assistance Test Program...    2900-AI53 
3344        VAAR: Commercial Items................................................................    2900-AI05 
3345        Miscellaneous Changes to VA Acquisition Regulations...................................    2900-AI28 
3346        Definitions and Terms for Part 802....................................................    2900-AI49 
3347        Department Protest....................................................................    2900-AI51 
3348        Rules of Practice: Oral Argument in Filing Appellate Briefs...........................    2900-AI18 
3349        Appeals Regulations: Remand for Further Development...................................    2900-AI50 
3350        Disinterments in National Cemeteries..................................................    2900-AI21 
3351        Delegation of Subpoena Authority and Description of Means of Service..................   2900-AH00  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in Part II of this issue of the Federal Register.          


                                                Long-Term Actions                                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3352        Loan Guaranty: Title Evidence Requirements and Occupancy Requirements for Conveyance                
            of Properties to VA...................................................................    2900-AE20 
3353        Acceptance of Partial Payments; Indemnification of Default............................    2900-AE60 
3354        Revised Definition of Net Value and Revised Criteria for Pre-Foreclosure Debt Waivers.    2900-AG20 
3355        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation (VAAR): Part 801, Veterans                    
            Affairs Acquisition Regulation System.................................................    2900-AH28 
3356        Appeals Regulations; Rules of Practice................................................    2900-AE78 
3357        Rules of Practice: Medical Opinions; Appeal Processing and Submission of Additional                 
            Evidence..............................................................................    2900-AG90 

[[Page 63076]]

                                                                                                                
3358        Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex Under Federally Assisted Education Programs and               
            Activities............................................................................    2900-AB51 
3359        Operation of Child Care Centers at VA Facilities......................................    2900-AD48 
3360        Standards for Collection, Comprise, Suspension, or Termination of Collection Effort,                
            in Referral of Civil Claims for Money or Property; Delegations of Authority...........    2900-AI27 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                Completed Actions                                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3361        Health Professionals' Educational Assistance Program..................................    2900-AF87 
3362        Contract Program for Veterans With Alcohol and Drug Dependence Disorders..............    2900-AH77 
3363        Medical; Nonsubstantive Miscellaneous Changes.........................................    2900-AH95 
3364        Medical; VA Health Professional Scholarship Program, Correction.......................    2900-AH99 
3365        Autopsies.............................................................................    2900-AI07 
3366        Delegation of Authority; Nonsubstantive Administrative Changes........................    2900-AI08 
3367        Delegations of Authority; Nonsubstantive Miscellaneous Changes........................    2900-AI17 
3368        Schedule for Rating Disabilities; Endocrine System Disabilities.......................    2900-AE41 
3369        Educational Assistance for Members of the Selected Reserve............................    2900-AE43 
3370        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Respiratory System..............................    2900-AE94 
3371        Schedule for Rating Disabilities; Infectious Diseases, Immune Disorders and                         
            Nutritional Deficiencies (Systemic Conditions)........................................    2900-AE95 
3372        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Mental Disorders....................................    2900-AF01 
3373        Reservists' Education; Commencing Date of Award of Educational Assistance.............    2900-AF74 
3374        Veterans' Education; Implementation of the Veterans' Benefits Act of 1992 and the                   
            National Defense Authorization Act for 1993...........................................    2900-AG22 
3375        Veterans' Education; Veterans' Benefits Act of 1992 and the National Defense                        
            Authorization Act of 1993 in the Post-Vietnam Era Veterans' Educational Assistance                  
            Program...............................................................................    2900-AG23 
3376        Veterans Education: Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill Active                   
            Duty, 1994-95.........................................................................    2900-AH14 
3377        Veterans Education: Implementation of the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 1994...    2900-AH31 
3378        Veterans Education: Course Measurement for Graduate Courses...........................    2900-AH39 
3379        Compensation for Disability Resulting From Hospitalization, Treatment, Examination, or              
            Vocational Rehabilitation.............................................................    2900-AH44 
3380        Examinations..........................................................................    2900-AH48 
3381        Servicemen's and Veterans' Group Life Insurance.......................................    2900-AH50 
3382        Evidence Dependency and Age...........................................................    2900-AH51 
3383        United States Government Life Insurance...............................................    2900-AH52 
3384        Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief...................................................    2900-AH53 
3385        Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance......................................................    2900-AH54 
3386        National Service Life Insurance.......................................................    2900-AH55 
3387        Reservists' Education: Technical Amendment to the Montgomery GI Bill--Selected Reserve              
            Program...............................................................................    2900-AH59 
3388        Veterans and Dependents Education: Revision and Rescission of Obsolete and Duplicate                
            Regulations...........................................................................    2900-AH60 
3389        Revision and Rescission of Obsolete and Duplicate Regulations Governing Post-Vietnam                
            Era Veterans Educational Assistance...................................................    2900-AH64 
3390        Abandoned Claims......................................................................    2900-AH65 
3391        Veterans Education: Increased Allowances for the Educational Assistance Test Program..    2900-AH78 
3392        Veterans Education: Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill Active                   
            Duty, 1995 - 1996.....................................................................    2900-AH79 
3393        Adjudication Regulations; Miscellaneous...............................................    2900-AH83 
3394        Lump Sum Payment Under Public Law 93-177..............................................    2900-AH85 
3395        Travel Time; Removal of Obsolete Provisions From the CFR..............................    2900-AH86 
3396        Removal of References to ``Vicious Habits''...........................................    2900-AH87 
3397        Veterans Education: Additional Educational Assistance While Serving in the Selected                 
            Reserve...............................................................................    2900-AH92 
3398        Veterans Benefits Administration, Fiduciary Activities................................    2900-AH93 
3399        Criteria for Determining Need for Aid and Attendance..................................    2900-AH96 
3400        Loan Guarantee; Regulation Reform.....................................................    2900-AI01 
3401        Revision and Rescission of Obsolete and Duplicative Regulations Governing the                       
            Montgomery GI Bill--Selective Reserves................................................    2900-AI04 
3402        Willful Misconduct....................................................................    2900-AI26 

[[Page 63077]]

                                                                                                                
3403        Diseases Associated With Exposure to Certain Herbicide Agents (Prostate Cancer and                  
            Acute and Subacute Peripheral Neuropathy).............................................    2900-AI35 
3404        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation--Loan Guaranty and Vocational                 
            Rehabilitation and Counseling Programs................................................    2900-AG65 
3405        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation--Service Contracting............    2900-AG67 
3406        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation (VAAR): Administrative Changes..    2900-AH27 
3407        Miscellaneous Amendments..............................................................    2900-AI02 
3408        Appeals Regulations: Rules of Practice; Board of Veterans' Appeals Administrative                   
            Procedures Improvement Act of 1994....................................................    2900-AH16 
3409        Rules of Practice: Request for and Notices of Field Hearings..........................    2900-AI11 
3410        Rules of Practice: Elimination of Unnecessary Provisions Relating to Representation,                
            Witnesses, and Access to Board Records................................................    2900-AI15 
3411        National Cemetery System..............................................................    2900-AI06 
3412        Delegation of Authority To Order Paid Advertising for Use in Recruitment..............    2900-AH74 
3413        Part-Time Career Employment Program...................................................    2900-AH75 
3414        Standards of Ethical Conduct and Related Responsibilities.............................    2900-AH80 
3415        Delegation of Authority to Regional Counsels..........................................    2900-AH81 
3416        Rulemaking Procedures.................................................................    2900-AH84 
3417        Inventions by Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs.........................    2900-AI03 
3418        Delegations of Authority Concerning Discrimination or Reprisals.......................    2900-AI12 
3419        Delegations of Authority; Federal Tort Claims and Debt Collections....................    2900-AI13 
3420        Information Law: Miscellaneous........................................................    2900-AI23 
3421        Reestablishing Rulemaking Procedures..................................................    2900-AI32 
3422        Rulemaking Procedures.................................................................    2900-AI33 
3423        Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment..........................................    2900-AI48 
3424        Gender Policy for VA Publications and Other Publications..............................    2900-AI09 
3425        Investigation Regulation..............................................................    2900-AI25 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                 Proposed Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3281. DISPOSITION OF VETERAN'S PERSONAL FUNDS AND EFFECTS ON FACILITY 
UPON DEATH, OR DISCHARGE, OR UNAUTHORIZED ABSENCE, AND OF FUNDS AND 
EFFECTS FOUND ON FACILITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 8501; 38 USC 8502; 38 USC 8503; 38 USC 8504; 
38 USC 8506; 38 USC 8507; 38 USC 8508; 38 USC 8509; 38 USC 8510; 38 USC 
8520; 38 USC 8521; 38 USC 8522; 38 USC 8523; 38 USC 8524; 38 USC 8525

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 12.0 to 12.24

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 208 of Public Law 94-581 provides that unclaimed 
property or funds and effects left by a dependent or survivor of a 
veteran receiving medical care at a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
facility as a CHAMPVA beneficiary will be disposed of in the same or 
similar manner as such property left by a veteran. Also, estates of 
dependents or survivors of a veteran who dies intestate and without 
legal heirs while a patient in any VA facility or any hospital, while 
being furnished care or treatment therein by VA, will escheat to the 
U.S. Government. Some of these regulations have not been updated since 
1948; therefore, editorial changes will be made, which will not affect 
policy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roscoe Butler, Headquarters Health Administration 
Service (161A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8302

RIN: 2900-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________




3282. AID TO STATES FOR CARE OF VETERANS IN STATE HOMES AND GRANTS TO 
STATES FOR CONSTRUCTION OR ACQUISITION OF STATE HOME FACILITIES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1741; 38 USC 1742; 38 USC 1743; 38 USC 8131; 
38 USC 8132; 38 USC 8133; 38 USC 8134;

[[Page 63078]]

38 USC 8135; 38 USC 8136; 38 USC 8137

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.165; 38 CFR 17.166; 38 CFR 17.167; 38 CFR 
17.183

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Several laws have been enacted since the last revision and 
update of the regulations governing the State Home Per Diem Program. 
Among them is Public Law 100-322, which provided that the Secretary, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, is to evaluate per diem rates annually 
and increase them as appropriate; the rates may not exceed the 
percentage increase in VA general hospitals. Numerous other changes and 
updates are needed to (1)assist the States in recognition of State 
homes; (2) provide various options for operating State homes, such as 
contracting or leasing and clarification of States' responsibilities 
for providing financial support for the operation; and (3) opening of 
beds, after completing construction in which VA provided up to 65 
percent of the cost. Timeframes for opening beds and clarification of 
assurance of financial support need to be documented. Current 
regulations will be updated and revised to accomplish these purposes. 
Additionally updates are necessary for the State Home Construction 
Program. Public Law 102-585 amends the time for conditional grant 
approvals, prohibits obligation of funds for rescinded projects during 
the same fiscal year, defines the date the recapture period begins, and 
provides for retroactive per diem payment after completion of 
recognition inspection. Further, the Life Safety Code requires updating 
to the 1993 edition and various other technical and editorial changes 
need to be made.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: L. Nan Stout, Chief, State Per Diem Program (114), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration (114B), 
810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8538
Fax: 202 273-9131

RIN: 2900-AE87
_______________________________________________________________________




3283. PAYMENTS FOR OUTPATIENTS AND ANCILLARY MEDICAL SERVICES PROVIDED 
BY NON-VA PROVIDERS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1703

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.50f(h) (Revision); 38 CFR 17.50g(New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will amend part 17.50f(h) to change payment 
methodology for ancillary medical care service from usual and customary 
to Medicare's Fee Schedule for Physicians' Services. Part 17.50g will 
be added to fully describe the payment methodology for outpatient and 
ancillary medical care services provided by non-VA providers. Payments 
under this fee schedule would be based on national uniform relative 
value units, based on the resources used in furnishing a service and 
adjusted for local economic conditions. Use of this fee schedule will 
enable VA to overcome payment discrepancies between geographic 
localities and various specialties and will relate payments to the 
value of the procedure that is identified on a claim by a current 
procedural terminology code. VA payment would be consistent with 
payment for similar medical services provided by other Government 
agencies.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Abby E. Skelding, Program Specialist (161A1), 
Headquarters Health Administration Svc, Department of Veterans Affairs, 
Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-8307
Fax: 202 273-9609

RIN: 2900-AH66
_______________________________________________________________________




3284. INFORMED CONSENT FOR PATIENT CARE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 7331; 38 USC 7332; 38 USC 7333

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.34

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA proposes to amend its regulations concerning informed 
consent for patient care. It is proposed to describe the requirements 
for obtaining and documenting informed consent. It is also proposed to 
describe the types of treatments or procedures for which the patient's 
signature on a VA authorized form would be required and to establish a 
list and priority of surrogates authorized to act on behalf of patients 
who lack decisionmaking capacity. Further, it is proposed to establish 
an internal decisionmaking process for patients who lack decisionmaking 
capacity and have no authorized surrogate. This action is intended to 
protect patient rights and to ensure that the patient (or the patient's 
surrogate or representative) receives sufficient information to make an 
informed health care decision.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/07/96                    61 FR 41108
NPRM Comment Period End         10/07/96
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ruth-Ann Phelps, Ph.D., Health Systems Specialist 
(11B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterean Health Administration, 
Department of Veterans Administration, 810 Vermont Ave. NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8473

RIN: 2900-AH72
_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3285. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE ORTHOPEDIC SYSTEM

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.71(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments will contain additions, deletions, and

[[Page 63079]]

revisions of terminology resulting from a systematic review of the 
medical criteria used to evaluate disabilities of the orthopedic 
system. For the purposes of the Regulatory Plan, VA has identified this 
schedule for rating disabilities under the umbrella of RIN: 2900-AE40 
in the ``Additional Information'' section of this document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/28/90                    55 FR 53315
ANPRM Comment Period End        02/26/91
NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AE91
_______________________________________________________________________




3286. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS AND 
CONVULSIVE DISORDERS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.120; 38 CFR 4.121; 38 CFR 4.122; 38 CFR 4.123; 
38 CFR 4.124; 38 CFR 4.124a

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments will contain additions, deletions, and 
revisions of terminology resulting from a systematic review of the 
medical criteria used to evaluate disabilities of the neurological 
system. For the purposes of the Regulatory Plan, VA has identified this 
schedule for rating disabilities under the umbrella of RIN: 2900-AE40 
in the ``Additional Information'' section of this document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/02/91                    56 FR 20169
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/01/91
NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, MD, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AF23
_______________________________________________________________________




3287. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.114

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments will contain additions, deletions, and 
revisions of terminology resulting from a systematic review of the 
medical criteria used to evaluate disabilities of the digestive system. 
For the purposes of the Regulatory Plan, VA has identified this 
schedule for rating disabilities under the umbrella of RIN: 2900-AE40 
in the ``Additional Information'' section of this document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/02/91                    56 FR 20168
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/01/91
NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AF24
_______________________________________________________________________




3288. REDUCTION OF DEBT THROUGH THE PERFORMANCE OF WORK-STUDY SERVICES

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 102-16

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.929

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: There is a section of PL 102-16 which is designed to 
eliminate some VA debts. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs is given the 
authority to enter into an agreement with an individual who has 
incurred an overpayment of VA educational or rehabilitation benefits. 
Pursuant to the agreement the individual may reduce the resulting debt 
through performance of work-study services. The law gives VA 
considerable latitude in administering this program. The regulation 
will state the way in which VA will implement this provision of law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/05/96                    61 FR 40589
NPRM Comment Period End         10/04/96
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AF29
_______________________________________________________________________




3289. VETERANS' EDUCATION; SUSPENSION AND DISCONTINUANCE OF PAYMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3690

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4133; 38 CFR 21.4134; 38 CFR 21.4135; 38 CFR 
21.4146; 38 CFR 21.4152; 38 CFR 21.4202; 38 CFR 21.4207; 38 CFR 
21.4208; 38 CFR 21.4210; 38 CFR 21.4211; 38 CFR 21.4212; 38 CFR 
21.4213; 38 CFR 21.4214; 38 CFR 21.4215; 38 CFR 21.4216; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under certain conditions VA can suspend or discontinue 
payments

[[Page 63080]]

of educational assistance to individuals even though the course in 
which they are enrolled is approved for VA training. Current 
regulations provide for a review of the circumstances at the local VA 
facility and another de novo review at VA Central Office. The proposal 
would gather in one place the procedures which VA follows in deciding 
whether to suspend or discontinue payments; would make a part of the 
Code of Federal Regulations the rules at the hearing which may be 
conducted in making this decision; and would eliminate the de novo 
Central Office review.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AF85
_______________________________________________________________________




3290. INDIVIDUAL UNEMPLOYABILITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.16

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend the Schedule for Rating Disabilities 
as it addressed the issue of individual unemployability, in order to 
establish a more objective standard for making unemployability 
determinations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lorna Weston, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH21
_______________________________________________________________________




3291. LOAN GUARANTY: AUTHORITY TO CLOSE VA-GUARANTEED LOANS ON AN 
AUTOMATIC BASIS, WITHDRAWAL OF AUTOMATIC PROCESSING AUTHORITY AND 
ELIMINATION OF LATE REPORTING WAIVERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 38 USC 3702(d)(3); 38 USC 3702(e)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36.4348; 38 CFR 36.4349; 38 CFR 36.4303(a); 38 
CFR 36.4303(d); 38 CFR 36.4335(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA is proposing to amend its loan guaranty regulations 
regarding criteria used to approve nonsupervised lenders to process VA-
guaranteed loans on the automatic basis. The Department is considering 
changes in the following requirements for lender participation in the 
automatic authority program: lender experience, working capital, lines 
of credit, and VA-approved underwriter eligibility and training. The 
Department is also considering changes in the regulation regarding 
annual recertification of lenders and standards for withdrawal of 
automatic authority. VA is also proposing to amend the requirements 
pertaining to lenders' reporting of VA-guaranteed loans to the 
Secretary within 60 days following full disbursement. The revised 
regulation will provide that if the lender does not report the loan 
within 60 days, the late report must be accompanied by a statement 
signed by a corporate officer of the lending institution, certifying 
that the loan is current and offering an explanation for the late 
reporting. This change will eliminate the current requirement for VA 
regional office to go through the formality of making a decision on 
whether or not to waive the requirement and instead either issue the 
guaranty or not, as appropriate under the circumstances.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judith Caden, Assistant Director, Loan Policy (264), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7368

RIN: 2900-AH23
_______________________________________________________________________




3292. SERVICE CONNECTION FOR DENTAL CONDITIONS FOR TREATMENT PURPOSES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will clarify the term ``reasonable period of 
service'' (Manio v. Brown).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lorna Weston, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH41
_______________________________________________________________________




3293. EVIDENCE IN FILE AT DATE OF DEATH

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.1000

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will clarify the definition of ``medical evidence 
on file at time of death'' (Hayes v. Brown).

[[Page 63081]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lorna Weston, Consultant, Regulations Staff (231A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH42
_______________________________________________________________________




3294. VISION

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.75

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend the vision portion of the rating 
schedule to provide current medical terminology, clarify ambiguous 
evaluation criteria, and add medical conditions not presently in the 
rating schedule. For the purposes of the Regulatory Plan, VA has 
identified this schedule for rating disabilities under the umbrella of 
RIN: 2900-AE40 in the ``Additional Information'' section of this 
document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH43
_______________________________________________________________________




3295. CLAIMS BASED ON TOBACCO USE DURING ACTIVE SERVICE

Priority:  Economically Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.304

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule will establish criteria for determining 
service connection of disability/death due to the use of tobacco 
products during active service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judy Veres, Consultant, Judicial Review Staff (213C), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH58
_______________________________________________________________________




3296. LOAN GUARANTY: ELECTRONIC PAYMENT OF FUNDING FEE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36.4312

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA is proposing to require that all funding fee collections 
be made electronically through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) 
program. The ACH program provides VA-approved lenders the opportunity 
to pay the funding fee electronically instead of sending checks and the 
Loan Guaranty Funding Fee Transmittal by mail.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Juith Caden, Assistant Director for Loan Policy (264), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7368

RIN: 2900-AH73
_______________________________________________________________________




3297. VETERANS EDUCATION: EFFECTIVE DATE FOR THE AWARD OF EDUCATIONAL 
ASSISTANCE

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3018B

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7131

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The provisions of 38 U.S.C. allow a veteran who was 
voluntarily separated from active military, naval, or air service under 
either 10 U.S.C. 1174a or 1175 before October 23, 1992, to elect to 
receive educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill, Active 
Duty. He or she was given until October 23, 1993, to make the election. 
The provisions of 38 U.S.C. 3018B also require the veteran to submit 
$1,200 to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as a condition of 
receiving the educational assistance. The statute does not contain a 
deadline for paying the $1,200. This document amends the VA's 
Vocational Rehabilitation and Education regulations to explain that an 
individual who made the election before October 23, 1993, must still 
submit the $1,200 to VA as a condition of receiving educational 
assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill, Active Duty.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Programs Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH76
_______________________________________________________________________




3298. MEDICAL EVIDENCE THAT A DISABILITY HAS IMPROVED

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.344

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To remove redundancies and unnecessary material, simplify the 
language, and clarify basic principles of the regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

[[Page 63082]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry Freiheit, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7252

RIN: 2900-AH82
_______________________________________________________________________




3299. ELECTION OF EDUCATION BENEFITS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3562; 38 USC 3221; 38 USC 3033; 10 USC 16132

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.3023; 38 CFR 21.5041; 38 CFR 21.7040; 38 CFR 
21.7540

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: An individual may be eligible for educational assistance 
under more than one of the education programs VA administers. Often the 
individual must elect which benefit she or he wants. Current 
regulations state that these elections are final once the individual 
negotiates a check issued under the program he or she has chosen. These 
regulations must be revised to allow for a different method of 
determining when an election is final because VA will soon begin 
converting from paying educational assistance with paper checks to 
paying these benefits electronically.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH88
_______________________________________________________________________




3300. COMPUTATION OF INCOME

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.260

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Proposes to amend VA adjudication regulations concerning 
income computations to remove obsolete instructions for determining 
income limitations in section 306 pension cases. Eliminates 
proportionate computation instructions for section 306 pension.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7218

RIN: 2900-AH94
_______________________________________________________________________




3301.  VETERANS EDUCATION: SUBMISSION OF SCHOOL CATALOG TO STATE 
APPROVING AGENCIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 102-568

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4253

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Current regulations provide that schools must submit a data 
log or bulletin to the State approving agency when seeking approval for 
courses for training under VA-administered education programs. Public 
Law 102-568 removed this requirement for elementary and secondary 
schools. VA intends to amend the regulations to reflect this statutory 
change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH97
_______________________________________________________________________




3302.  CLAIMS BASED ON EXPOSURE TO IONIZING RADIATION (PROSTATE 
CANCER AND ANY OTHER CANCER)

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 98-542

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.311(b)(2)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To implement a decision by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs 
that, based on all evidence currently available to him, prostate cancer 
and any other cancers are ``radiogenic diseases''.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/25/96                    61 FR 50264
NPRM Comment Period End         11/25/96
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bissett, Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7230

RIN: 2900-AI00
_______________________________________________________________________




3303.  CHILD CUSTODY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.24(b); 38 CFR 3.24(c); 38 CFR 3.57(d)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To clarify the status of school children between the ages of 
18 and 23, and adult helpless children when there is a veteran or 
surviving spouse entitled to receive improved pension.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 801

[[Page 63083]]

Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI10
_______________________________________________________________________




3304.  LOAN GUARANTY: REVISED CREDIT STANDARDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 101; 38 USC 501; 38 USC 3710

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36.4337

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA proposes to amend it loan guaranty regulations regarding 
credit standards used by lenders to evaluate the credit- worthiness of 
veteran-borrowers for home loans. VA is committed to regular review and 
revision of the standards used to determine the creditworthiness of 
veteran-applicants as issues arise and as the mortgage industry 
changes. VA recognizes that it is important to keep in step with the 
rest of the home mortgage industry at least to an extent appropriate 
for Government benefit-related mortgage program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judith Caden, Assistant Director for Loan Policy (264), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7368
Fax: 202 275-3523

RIN: 2900-AI16
_______________________________________________________________________




3305.  NOTICE OF TIME LIMIT FOR FILING EVIDENCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 5010(h); 38 USC 5103(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.12(c)(6); 38 CFR 3.109(a)(2); 38 CFR 
3.351(a)(6); 38 CFR 3.557(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To protect the effective date of increase for any claimant 
who submits evidence within one year of the date it was requested by 
VA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI19
_______________________________________________________________________




3306.  EVALUATION OF INCOME

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1315; 38 USC 1506

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.262(l); 38 CFR 3.272(g); 38 CFR 3.272(h); 38 
CFR 3.273(e)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To eliminate obsolete regulatory language and to simplify the 
rule concerning the reduction of final expenses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI20
_______________________________________________________________________




3307.  INTERVERTEBRAL DISC SYNDROME

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.71(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To ensure that veterans diagnosed with intervertebral disc 
syndrome meet uniform criteria and receive consistent evaluations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI22
_______________________________________________________________________




3308.  VETERANS EDUCATION: ADVANCED PAYMENTS & LUMP SUM PAYMENTS 
FOR EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 16136; 38 USC 3034; 38 USC 3680

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4138; 38 CFR 21.7140

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulations governing advance payments and lump sum 
payments of educational assistance have accumulated obsolete provisions 
over the years. This proposal will remove obsolete provisions and make 
other clarifying changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 725-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI31
_______________________________________________________________________




3309.  CLAIMS BASED ON AGGRAVATION OF NONSERVICE-CONNECTED 
DISABILITY

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

[[Page 63084]]

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.310

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends VA regulations concerning secondary 
service connection for certain disabilities. This amendment is 
necessary because of a recent decision by the U.S. Court of Veterans 
Appeals, and will establish a new means by which veterans may be 
compensated for disabilities related to other service-connected 
conditions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judy Veres, Consultant, Judicial Review Staff (213C), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7240

RIN: 2900-AI42
_______________________________________________________________________




3310.  ANKYLOSIS AND LIMITATION OF MOTION OF DIGITS OF THE HANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.71a

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document revises the evaluation criteria for ankylosis 
and limitation of motion of the fingers to ensure that veterans 
diagnosed with these conditions receive consistent evaluations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7230

RIN: 2900-AI44
_______________________________________________________________________




3311.  SURVIVORS AND DEPENDENTS EDUCATION: EXTENSION OF 
ELIGIBILITY PERIOD

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3512

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.3021; 38 CFR 21.3046; 38 CFR 21.3047

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Eligible spouses and surviving spouses have ten years to use 
their educational assistance under the Survivors' and Dependents' 
Educational Assistance program. However, if the spouse or surviving 
spouse was prevented from initiating or completing a program of 
education within the ten-year period due to a physical or mental 
disability that is not the result of willful misconduct, statute 
permits the extension of that period. This proposed rule will implement 
this statutory provision.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636

RIN: 2900-AI45
_______________________________________________________________________




3312.  COLD INJURIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.104

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document is amended to provide evaluation criteria based 
on current medical knowledge about the long-term effects of cold injury 
that can be applied to any part of the body affected by cold injury.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7230

RIN: 2900-AI46
_______________________________________________________________________




3313.  CAPPING OF NATIONAL SERVICE LIFE INSURANCE ``H'' TERM 
PREMIUMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1904; 38 USC 1906

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 8.30

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Insurance Service of the Veterans Benefits Administration 
is amending its regulations to reflect that premiums for National 
Service Life Insurance (NSLI) ``H'' term policyholders will be capped 
at the renewal age 70 premium rate. NSLI ``H'' term policyholders who 
have already renewed their policies at the age 71 premium rate or above 
will have their premiums reduced (``rolled back'') to the renewal age 
70 rate. Policyholders under age 80 will have their premiums capped at 
their first renewal beyond age 70.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Poole, Chief, Insurance Program Administration 
(290B), Department of Veterans Affairs, P.O. Box 8079, Philadelphia, PA 
10101
Phone: 215 381-3290
Fax: 215 381-3504

RIN: 2900-AI52
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



3314.  PURCHASE CARD/ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 40 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 832; 48 CFR 852

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is proposing to amend 
its

[[Page 63085]]

acquisition regulations to require contractors, on contracts awarded by 
the Office of Acquisition and Materiel Management, either through its 
VA National Acquisition Center or Acquisition Operations and Analysis 
Service, to accept the Governmentwide commercial purchase care for 
payment of goods and/or services valued below the simplified 
acquisition threshold (SAT) and to use electronic data interchange 
(EDI) for both ordering and billing purposes. Requiring the use of 
purchase cards and EDI on contracts awarded by other VA contracting 
activities will be at the option of the contracting officer, if 
determined to be in the best interest of the Government.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. The agency has not yet determined whether there 
is a paperwork burden associated with this action.

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher (95A), Senior Procurement Analyst, 
Office of Acquisition & Materiel Management, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI41
_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



3315. RULES OF PRACTICE; HEARINGS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 38 USC 7102; 38 USC 7104; 38 USC 7105; 38 
USC 7105A; 38 USC 5711

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 20.3; 38 CFR 20.700; 38 CFR 20.702; 38 CFR 
20.703; 38 CFR 20.704; 38 CFR 20.707; 38 CFR 20.711; 38 CFR 20.714; 38 
CFR 20.716; 38 CFR 20.717; 38 CFR 20.1003; 38 CFR 2.1; 38 CFR 19.75

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation will amend the Rules of Practice of the Board 
of Veterans' Appeals concerning hearings, to refine them in light of 
experience and to improve the efficiency of the appellate process. No 
alternatives are available. These revisions will not entail any costs 
to the Government other than the costs normally associated with 
drafting, agency review, and publication. These revisions will not 
entail any costs to the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven L. Keller, Chief Counsel (01C), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Board of Veterans' Appeals, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AG07
_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



3316. HEADSTONE AND MARKER INSCRIPTION POLICY

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 38 USC 2306

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.630; 38 CFR 1.632

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule revises 38 CFR, section 1.630 to implement 
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regulations on its inscription 
policy for use on Government-provided headstones or markers. The 
amendment formalizes and updates previous and current policies to 
reflect changes in VA's Simplified Inscription Policy based on 
inscription information authorized at Government (specific valor 
awards) or at private (additional inscription items) expense. The rule 
is published as proposed in the Federal Register to provide information 
to the public on expanded inscription policy for Government-furnished 
headstones and markers. A 60-day public comment period is provided. 
This action is subject to the requirements of the Administrative 
Procedures Act and E.O. 12866 as the rule is an interpretation of 
statute as approved by the then-Administrator now Secretary of Veterans 
Affairs in 1974. The proposed rule will not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities and only individual VA 
beneficiaries could be directly affected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ken Greenberg, Program Analyst (402B1), NCS 
Communications Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5179
Fax: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AH45
_______________________________________________________________________




3317. STATE CEMETERY GRANTS: AID TO STATES FOR ESTABLISHMENT, EXPANSION 
AND IMPROVEMENT OF VETERANS CEMETERIES

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 2408

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 39.1; 38 CFR 39.2; 38 CFR 39.3; 38 CFR 39.7; 38 
CFR 39.8; 38 CFR 39.9

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule revises 38 CFR, part 39, to amend 
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regulations for the State Cemetery 
Grants Program to implement and update information on program 
requirements and the application process for participants. The 
amendment formalizes new standards and provides guidance on how States 
may obtain funding for grants to expand, establish, or improve State 
veterans cemeteries. The rule is published as proposed in the Federal 
Register to provide information to the public on how to apply for 
Federal funding for State veterans cemeteries. A 60-day public comment 
period is

[[Page 63086]]

provided. It is subject to the requirements of the Administrative 
Procedures Act and E.O. 12866 because the rule is an interpretation of 
statute. The proposed rule will have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities; only those States that apply for 
funding may be direct beneficiaries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Ken Greenberg, Program Analyst (402B1), NCS 
Communications Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5179
Fax: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AH46
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



3318.  FEE TO TRACE VENDORS VA ISSUED CHECKS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  38 USC 9701(b)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.585

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA proposes to create a new regulation to charge vendors a 
fee to trace a VA issue check.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charlene Bah, Office of Financial Management (047GC1), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-6651

RIN: 2900-AI38
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL


                    ________________________________



3319.  RELEASE OF INFORMATION FROM DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS 
AFFAIRS RECORDS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; 38 USC 5701

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.500 to 1.584

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
regulations governing the confidentiality and release of VA records 
subject to the Privacy Act, 5 USC 552a, the Freedom of Information Act 
(FOIA), 5 USC 552, and the veterans' records confidentiality statute 
(section 5701), 38 USC 5701. The amendments will implement court 
decisions and Executive Branch guidance issued since the regulations 
were originally published. The amendment is part of the 
Administration's effort to simplify, clarify, and modernize Federal 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lorraine M. Johnson, Staff Attorney, Office of General 
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6381

RIN: 2900-AH98
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                    Final Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3320. CHAMPVA REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1713

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.54 to 17.54f

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Title 38 CFR part 17, section 17.54, sets forth the basic 
policies and procedures governing the administration of the CHAMPVA 
program. This proposed revision to 38 CFR 17.54 would incorporate 
revised CHAMPVA claims-processing procedures and define benefits and 
services for this program. These proposed regulations will not have an 
effect on the economy, State or local government agencies or geographic 
regions, and will not increases in costs, because the monetary impact 
would be insignificant. This regulatory action is important because 
current regulations describe the CHAMPVA program in terms of the 
initial agreement between VA and DOD (since modified) and do not 
address the program changes initiated by VA to centralize all CHAMPVA 
activities. The proposed regulations address the CHAMPVA Center's new 
role in program administration, including absorption of the previously 
contracted-out claims-processing activities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/01/96                    61 FR 56486
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Susan K. Schmetzer, Chief, Policy and Strategic 
Planning, CHAMPVA Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, 300 South 
Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80209
Phone: 303 331-7552
Fax: 303 331-7800

RIN: 2900-AE64
_______________________________________________________________________




3321. COMMUNITY RESIDENTIAL CARE PROGRAM AND CONTRACT PROGRAM FOR 
VETERANS WITH ALCOHOL AND DRUG DEPENDENCE DISORDERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.51e(c)(2); 38 CFR 17.51j(a)(2); 38 CFR 
17.53b(a)(1)(i); 38 CFR 17.53c(a)(1)(i)

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 63087]]

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to update 
references to material incorporated by reference in regulations 
concerning the Adult Day Health Care Program, the Community Residential 
Care Program and the Contract Program for Veterans with Alcohol and 
Drug Dependence Disorders. These regulations incorporate by reference 
various editions of the National Fire Protection Association Life 
Safety Code (NFPA 101, Life Safety Code and NFPA 101A, Guide on 
Alternative Approaches to Life Safety). References will be made to the 
1995 editions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/11/95                    60 FR 47133
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/95
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Karen Boies, Ph.D., Deputy Assoc. Director for 
Addictive Disorders, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8436

RIN: 2900-AH61
_______________________________________________________________________




3322. TREATMENT OF RESEARCH--RELATED INJURIES TO HUMAN SUBJECTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 16

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA proposes to amend its regulations to provide (or pay for 
the provision of) necessary medical treatment to human subjects injured 
as a result of participation in VA research. All participants in 
research approved by a VA Research and Development Committee and 
conducted by VA employees would be eligible for such treatment, even if 
the research was funded from sources other than the VA research 
appropriation. Experience suggests that the incidence of research-
related injury is low, and therefore the additional costs of this 
policy will be minimal.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/09/96                    61 FR 47469
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ted Lorei, Staff Assistant - Research and Development, 
Veterans Health Administration (12C), Department of Veterans Affairs, 
810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8285

RIN: 2900-AH68
_______________________________________________________________________




3323. HOMELESS PROVIDERS GRANT AND PER DIEM PROGRAM, CLARIFICATION OF 
PER DIEM ELIGIBILITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 102-590

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.700

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to amend the rules pursuant to the Homeless 
Providers Grant and Per Diem Program. These regulations were 
established pursuant to Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Services Act of 
1992. The regulations set forth provisions to assist public or 
nonprofit private entities in establishing new programs to furnish 
supportive services and supportive housing for homeless veterans 
through grants. The regulations also provide for per diem payments, or 
in-kind assistance in lieu of per diem payments, to entities that are 
receiving grants or to entities eligible to receive a grant that 
established supportive services or a supportive housing program for 
homeless veterans after November 10, 1992. It is proposed to amend the 
regulations concerning per diem assistance by: (1) clarifying the 
definition of eligible entity; (2) establishing a priority for funding 
eligible entities; and (3) clarifying the maximum amount payable for 
per diem assistance. These amendments and changes will enable VA to 
more closely review applications for per diem assistance thus providing 
better assurances of the quality of services offered to homeless 
veterans by public or nonprofit entities. Additionally, the rate of 
payments will be clarified to reflect legislative intent. This 
regulatory action is important because it allows VA to determine which 
programs will best serve the homeless veteran.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/16/96                    61 FR 37024
NPRM Comment Period End         09/16/96
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Roger Casey, Program Manager, VA Homeless Providers 
Grant and Per Diem Prgm, Mental Health and Behavioral Science, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8442

RIN: 2900-AH89
_______________________________________________________________________




3324.  MISCELLANEOUS CHANGES TO PART 17

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This documents amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
medical regulations (38 CFR part 17) by making nonsubstantive 
miscellaneous changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Leroy E. Cossette, Acting Dir., Health Administration, 
Service (161A), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8300

RIN: 2900-AI37
_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3325. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 93 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 2900-AE40

[[Page 63088]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3326. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE MUSCULAR SYSTEM

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.73

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments will contain additions, deletions and 
revisions of terminology resulting from a systematic review of the 
medical criteria used to evaluate disabilities of the muscular system. 
For the purposes of the Regulatory Plan, VA has identified the 
individual schedules for rating disabilities under the umbrella of RIN: 
2900-AE40 in the ``Additional Information'' section of this document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/08/90                    55 FR 46950
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/07/91
NPRM                            06/16/93                    58 FR 33235
NPRM Comment Period End         07/16/93
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AE89
_______________________________________________________________________




3327. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE SKIN

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.118

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments will contain additions, deletions, and 
revisions of terminology resulting from a systematic review of the 
medical criteria used to evaluate skin conditions. For the purposes of 
the Regulatory Plan, VA has identified this schedule for rating 
disabilities under the umbrella RIN: 2900-AE40 in the ``Additional 
Information'' section of this document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/02/91                    56 FR 20171
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/01/91
NPRM                            01/19/93                     58 FR 4969
NPRM Comment Period End         03/22/93
Final Action                    08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Carol McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AF00
_______________________________________________________________________




3328. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--DISEASES OF THE EAR AND OTHER 
SENSE ORGANS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.75; 38 CFR 4.76; 38 CFR 4.77; 38 CFR 4.78; 38 
CFR 4.79; 38 CFR 4.80; 38 CFR 4.83; 38 CFR 4.84; 38 CFR 4.85; 38 CFR 
4.86; 38 CFR 4.87

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments will contain additions, deletions, and 
revisions of terminology resulting from a systematic review of the 
medical criteria used to evaluate impairments of the eye, ear, and 
other sense organs. For the purposes of the Regulatory Plan, VA has 
identified this schedule for rating disabilities under the umbrella of 
RIN: 2900-AE40 in the ``Additional Information'' section of this 
document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/02/91                    56 FR 20170
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/01/91
NPRM                            04/12/94                    59 FR 17295
NPRM Comment Period End         06/13/94
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AF22
_______________________________________________________________________




3329. AMENDMENTS TO TRAINING AND REHABILITATION PROGRAMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  PL 102-568

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.40; 38 CFR 21.260; 38 CFR 21.6005; 38 CFR 
21.6042; 38 CFR 21.6050; 38 CFR 21.6052; 38 CFR 21.6054; 38 CFR 
21.6056; 38 CFR 21.6058; 38 CFR 21.6420; 38 CFR 21.6501; 38 CFR 
21.6503; 38 CFR 21.6505; 38 CFR 21.6507; 38 CFR 21.6523; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Veterans' Benefits Act of 1992 extends the termination 
date for the program of vocational training for certain pensioners 
through December 31, 1995; makes permanent the programs protecting 
health care benefits for pensioners who lose their benefits due to 
income from work or training and the special counseling and employment 
services program for veterans with total disability ratings because of 
individual unemployability. In addition the law authorizes a 10 percent 
increase in subsistence allowance for participants in the vocational 
rehabilitation program, and extends eligibility for vocational 
rehabilitation to veterans with service-connected disability of 10 
percent under certain conditions. The change also includes revisions to 
implement regulatory reform.

[[Page 63089]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Graffam, Veterans Claims Examiner (281), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7410

RIN: 2900-AG00
_______________________________________________________________________




3330. FIBROMYALGIA

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.71(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will add a diagnostic code and criteria for a 
rheumatologic condition characterized by pain and tender points. For 
the purposes of the Regulatory Plan, VA has identified this schedule 
for rating disabilities under the umbrella of RIN: 2900-AE40 in the 
``Additional Information'' section of this document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/07/96                    61 FR 20438
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AH05
_______________________________________________________________________




3331. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE RELIEF ON ACCOUNT OF 
ADMINISTRATIVE ERROR

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 512(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2.7

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will make explicit the implied delegation of 
authority to deny equitable relief claims that was noted in OGC Prec. 
11-94.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH19
_______________________________________________________________________




3332. LOAN GUARANTY FLOOD INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 40122; 42 USC 1364; 42 USC 1365; 42 USC 4128

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36.4222; 38 CFR 36.4326; 38 CFR 36.4402; 38 CFR 
36.4500; 38 CFR 36.4512; 38 CFR 36.4600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its loan 
guaranty regulations to comply with certain provisions of the National 
Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994, title V of Public Law 103-325. 
These amendments strengthen requirements for procuring and maintaining 
flood insurance on properties which secure loans guaranteed or made by 
VA and which are located in areas identified by the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency (FEMA) as having special flood hazards. The 
amendments also include new procedural requirements for VA to follow in 
making, servicing, or selling loans, which Public Law 103-325 requires 
all ``Federal agency lenders'' to incorporate into regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judith Caden, Assistant Director for Loan Policy (264), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7368

RIN: 2900-AH63
_______________________________________________________________________




3333. LOAN GUARANTY: LIMITATION ON DISCOUNT POINTS FINANCED IN 
CONNECTION WITH INTEREST RATE REDUCTION REFINANCING LOANS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3703; 38 USC 3710; 38 USC 3712

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36.4223; 38 CFR 36.4306(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would limit the number of points 
included in an interest rate reduction refinancing loans. Veterans 
would still be able to pay more than two points if they choose to do 
so, but the additional points could not be included in the loan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/28/96                     61 FR 7414
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judith Caden, Assistant Director for Loan Policy, 
(264), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7368

RIN: 2900-AH90
_______________________________________________________________________




3334. VETERANS EDUCATION: APPROVAL OF CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 102-568

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4256; 38 CFR 21.4279

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Current regulations provide that in order for a 
correspondence course to be approved for VA training it must take not 
less than six hours of preparation a week over any 26-week period and 
no more than 20 percent of the students should be able to complete the 
course in less than six months. These substantive rules were based upon 
authority formerly contained in statute that allowed the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs to set

[[Page 63090]]

correspondence course completion standards by regulation. This 
discretionary authority has been eliminated, and different standards 
have been incorporated in the statute. The implementing regulations 
must be amended to reflect statutory provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH91
_______________________________________________________________________




3335.  FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES; MISCELLANEOUS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 13.2; 38 CFR 13.55; 38 CFR 13.58; 38 CFR 13.100; 
38 CFR 13.103; 38 CFR 13.108; 38 CFR 13.109; 38 CFR 13.73; 38 CFR 
13.70; 38 CFR 13.107; 38 CFR 13.110

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the regulations captioned ``Veterans 
Benefits Administration, fiduciary activities'' (38 CFR Part 13). It 
removes provisions that are unnecessary because they are duplicative of 
other provisions, constitute internal instruction, or constitute 
restatement of statute. In addition, it removes obsolete provisions 
concerning the General Post Fund, Funds Due Incompetent Beneficiary 
accounts, war bond, and adjusted service bonds. It also makes changes 
to clarify language; to update position titles to reflect 
administrative changes within VA; and to update authority citations. 
This final rule makes no substantive changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Douglas L. Bragg, Program Analyst (20S53), Veterans 
Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6616
Fax: 202 275-5824

RIN: 2900-AI14
_______________________________________________________________________




3336.  VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION; MISCELLANEOUS CHANGES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC ch 31

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.74; 38 CFR 21.254; 38 CFR 21.256; 38 CFR 
21.260; 38 CFR 21.292; 38 CFR 21.430

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
vocational Rehabilitation regulations in 38 CFR part 21 by making a 
number of nonsubstantive changes. More specifically, a number of 
delegations of authority are changed to decentralize decisionmaking; 
numerous changes are made to reflect current organizational structure; 
and authority citations are updated. In addition, the regulations are 
amended to reflect subsistence allowance payment rates mandated by the 
Veterans Benefits Act of 1992 (Public Law No. 102-564). Also, changes 
are made for purposes of clarity.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles A. Graffman, Veterans Claims Examiner (281), 
Vocational Rehabilitation Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, 
Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, 
DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7410
Fax: 202 275-5122

RIN: 2900-AI29
_______________________________________________________________________




3337.  VETERANS EDUCATION: APPROVAL OF INDEPENDENT STUDY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3675; 38 USC 3680A

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4267

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposal will modernize the definition of independent 
study to include the modern technologies used to provide interaction 
between student and faculty. Furthermore, the proposal will explicitly 
state State Approving Agency responsibilities in approving independent 
study courses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI34
_______________________________________________________________________




3338.  SPOUSE AND SURVIVING SPOUSE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.50; 38 CFR 3.106(e); 38 CFR 3.205(a); 38 CFR 
3.214; 38 CFR 3.252(b); 38 CFR 3.252(e); 38 CFR 3.257; 38 CFR 3.262(k); 
38 CFR 3.400(e); 38 CFR 3.401(c); 38 CFR 3.450(c); 38 CFR 3.452(c); 38 
CFR 3.666(b); 38 CFR 3.702(e); 38 CFR 3.805; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To conform the adjudication regulations with VA policy that 
all publications will be stated in a manner that does not seem to 
preclude benefits for female veterans dependents or beneficiaries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 63091]]

Additional Information: 38 CFR 3.857 38 CFR 1.13

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI36
_______________________________________________________________________




3339.  DECISIONS TO CONFORM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.101; 38 CFR 3.352; 38 CFR 14.507

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To remove a redundant provision that states all decisions 
will conform to the statutes and VA regulations and to the precedent 
opinions of the General Counsel. Also, to make a clarifying change to 
the regulations concerning criteria for determining need for aid and 
attendance.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steve Tomaske, Consultant, Procedures Staff (231B), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7256

RIN: 2900-AI39
_______________________________________________________________________




3340.  UPGRADED DISCHARGES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a); PL 95-126

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.12(g); 38 CFR 3.12(h)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To make the adjudication regulations regarding upgraded 
discharges simpler and easier to understand.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry Freiheit, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7252

RIN: 2900-AI40
_______________________________________________________________________




3341.  ADJUDICATION REGULATIONS; MISCELLANEOUS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.107; 38 CFR 3.315(c); 38 CFR 3.400; 38 CFR 
3.709; 38 CFR 3.712; 38 CFR 961; 38 CFR 962; 38 CFR 3.1000(g)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
adjudication regulations by removing obsolete sections, updating 
authority citations, and making other nonsubstantive changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset, Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (231A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7230

RIN: 2900-AI43
_______________________________________________________________________




3342.  DEPENDENCY AND INCOME

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1503

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.272(c)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
adjudication regulations to exclude payments of accrued pension 
benefits as countable income in determining entitlement to VA death 
pension benefits. This change is needed to implement a decision of the 
United States Court of Veterans Appeals. The intended effect of this 
change is to bring the regulations into conformance with the decision 
of the Court.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bradley B. Flohr, Consultant, Program Management 
(213C), Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7241
Fax: 202 273-1756

RIN: 2900-AI47
_______________________________________________________________________




3343.  VETERANS EDUCATION: INCREASED ALLOWANCES OF THE 
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE TEST PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 2143

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.5820; 38 CFR 21.5822

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The law provides that rates of subsistence allowance and 
educational assistance payable under the Educational Assistance Test 
Program shall be adjusted annually by the Secretary of Defense based 
upon the average actual cost of attendance at public institutions of 
higher learning in the twelve-month period since the rates were last 
adjusted. After consultation with the Department of Education, the 
Department of Defense has concluded that the rates for the 1996-97 
academic year should be increased by 6% over the rates payable for the 
1995-96 academic year. The regulations dealing with these rates must be 
adjusted accordingly.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 63092]]

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy, and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187

RIN: 2900-AI53
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



3344.  VAAR: COMMERCIAL ITEMS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 40 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 807; 48 CFR 810; 48 CFR 811; 48 CFR 812; 48 CFR 
836; 48 CFR 846; 48 CFR 852; 48 CFR 870

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document will amend the Department of Veterans Affairs 
Acquisition Regulations (VAAR) concerning the acquisition of commercial 
items. It amends provisions to conform to the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation (FAR), reorganizes material, removes obsolete material, and 
sets forth internal VA procedures. These amendments are necessary for 
purposes of clarification and to conform VA regulations with statutory 
changes made by Public Laws 103-355 and 103-446 and with FAR 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (95A), 
Office of Acquisition Policy and Review, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: K[email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI05
_______________________________________________________________________




3345.  MISCELLANEOUS CHANGES TO VA ACQUISITION REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 40 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation:  48 CFR ch 8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This change will provide title updates and eliminates 
restatements and provisions that are duplicative of FAR or obsolete.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ramona Jones, Procurement Analyst (95A), Acquisition 
Policy and Review Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8818
Email: J[email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI28
_______________________________________________________________________




3346.  DEFINITIONS AND TERMS FOR PART 802

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 38 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation:  48 CFR ch 8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document will update official titles in 48 CFR part 802.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Sherry Patton, Senior Procurement Analyst (95A), Office 
of Acquisition Policy & Review, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8822

RIN: 2900-AI49
_______________________________________________________________________




3347.  DEPARTMENT PROTEST

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 40 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 833; 48 CFR 852

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking action will amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs Acquisition Regulations to delete coverage which duplicates the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation, update references, and delete internal 
agency guidance to contracting officers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (95A), 
Office of Acquisition Policy and Review, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: K[email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI51
_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



3348.  RULES OF PRACTICE: ORAL ARGUMENT IN FILING APPELLATE 
BRIEFS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 5901; 38 USC 5905; 38 USC 7102; 38 USC 
7104(a); 38 USC 7105(a); 38 USC 7107

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 20.700; 38 CFR 20.718

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is making changes to the 
Rules

[[Page 63093]]

of Practice for the Board of Veterans' Appeals as part of an ongoing 
effort to streamline the Board's case processing procedures. This 
change simplifies oral argument procedures and establishes a deadline 
for the optional filing of appellate briefs with the Board. Currently, 
there is no time limitation for filing briefs, which can result in 
considerable delay in consideration of appeals by the Board. The 
intended effect of this regulatory change is to promote the timely 
consideration of cases before the Board.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven L. Keller, Chief Counsel (01C), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Board of Veterans' Appeals, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AI18
_______________________________________________________________________




3349.  APPEALS REGULATIONS: REMAND FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 7102; 38 USC 7102(c); 38 USC 7104(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 19.9

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals is amending its Appeals 
Regulations to clarify the circumstances in which the Board is required 
to remand cases to the VA field facility with original jurisdiction in 
the case. The change would clarify that remand is unnecessary for 
certain technical/procedural defects. This change is required to avoid 
unnecessary remands, which increase the time the individual appellant, 
and appellants generally, must wait for a final decision on appeal.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steve Keller, Chief Counsel, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, Board of Veterans' Appeals, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AI50
_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



3350.  DISINTERMENTS IN NATIONAL CEMETERIES

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.621

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend 
regulations concerning disinterments from national cemeteries. Current 
regulations permit disinterment of persons buried in a national 
cemetery with the consent of immediate family members. The definition 
of immediate family members includes a surviving spouse only if 
unmarried. It is proposed to change the definition of immediate family 
members for purposes of disinterments to include a surviving spouse 
regardless of whether remarried or not. This appears to be necessary 
since we believe the emotional ties of the surviving spouse would be 
sufficient to justify his or her consent as a condition of 
disinterment. This document also would make nonsubstantive changes for 
purposes of clarification.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/20/96                    61 FR 31479
NPRM Comment Period End         08/19/96
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ken Greenberg, Program Analyst (402B1), NCS 
Communications Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5179
Fax: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AI21
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL


                    ________________________________



3351. DELEGATION OF SUBPOENA AUTHORITY AND DESCRIPTION OF MEANS OF 
SERVICE

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 38 USC 1711

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2.1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will clarify authority for the use of subpoena 
power and means of service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/10/95                    60 FR 40756
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Barry Tapp, Attorney (023A), Office of General Counsel, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-6334

RIN: 2900-AH00

[[Page 63094]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                   Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3352. LOAN GUARANTY: TITLE EVIDENCE REQUIREMENTS AND OCCUPANCY 
REQUIREMENTS FOR CONVEYANCE OF PROPERTIES TO VA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36.4320

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/06/90                    55 FR 31847
NPRM Comment Period Extended    10/05/90                    55 FR 35325
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Leonard A. Levy
Phone: 202 273-7344

RIN: 2900-AE20
_______________________________________________________________________




3353. ACCEPTANCE OF PARTIAL PAYMENTS; INDEMNIFICATION OF DEFAULT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4202; 38 CFR 4275; 38 CFR 4301; 38 CFR 4315; 38 
CFR 4323

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/02/94                     59 FR 9944
NPRM Comment Period End         05/02/94
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Leonard A. Levy
Phone: 202 273-7344

RIN: 2900-AE60
_______________________________________________________________________




3354. REVISED DEFINITION OF NET VALUE AND REVISED CRITERIA FOR PRE-
FORECLOSURE DEBT WAIVERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36.4301; 38 CFR 36.4323

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/22/93                    58 FR 49251
NPRM Comment Period End         10/22/93
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Len Levy
Phone: 202 273-7344

RIN: 2900-AG20
_______________________________________________________________________




3355. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION (VAAR): PART 
801, VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION SYSTEM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 801

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Sherry Patton (95A)
Phone: 202 273-8818
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH28
_______________________________________________________________________




3356. APPEALS REGULATIONS; RULES OF PRACTICE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 19.3 (Revision); 38 CFR 19.10; 38 CFR 19.15 
(Revision; 38 CFR 19.39; 38 CFR 20.3; 38 CFR 20.101 (Revision); 38 CFR 
20.102 (Revision); 38 CFR 20.201 (Revision); 38 CFR 20.605 (Revision); 
38 CFR 20.609 (Revision); 38 CFR 20.903 (Revision); 38 CFR 20.1000; 38 
CFR 20.1001; 38 CFR 20.1002; 38 CFR 20.1100 (Revision); ...

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/03/92                     57 FR 4131
NPRM Comment Period End         03/04/92
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven L. Keller
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AE78
_______________________________________________________________________




3357. RULES OF PRACTICE: MEDICAL OPINIONS; APPEAL PROCESSING AND 
SUBMISSION OF ADDITIONAL EVIDENCE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 19.9; 38 CFR 19.36; 38 CFR 20.3; 38 CFR 20.800; 
38 CFR 20.801; 38 CFR 20.802; 38 CFR 20.901; 38 CFR 20.903; 38 CFR 
20.1304

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven L. Keller
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AG90
_______________________________________________________________________




3358. NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEX UNDER FEDERALLY ASSISTED 
EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 18

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: R. Lamont Johnson
Phone: 202 482-6715

RIN: 2900-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________




3359. OPERATION OF CHILD CARE CENTERS AT VA FACILITIES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/27/89                    54 FR 53078
NPRM Comment Period End         01/26/90
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Renee Bruce
Phone: 410 605-7012
Fax: 410 605-7900

RIN: 2900-AD48

[[Page 63095]]

_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



3360.  STANDARDS FOR COLLECTION, COMPRISE, SUSPENSION, OR 
TERMINATION OF COLLECTION EFFORT, IN REFERRAL OF CIVIL CLAIMS FOR MONEY 
OR PROPERTY; DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  31 USC 3711 to 2720; 38 USC 5314; 38 USC 5315; 38 USC 
5302; 38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.900 to 1.955; 38 CFR 2.6(c); 4 CFR 101 to 105

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA proposes to revise its current regulations concerning the 
collection, compromise, suspension, termination and referral of claims 
owed to VA. This revision will be accomplished by eliminating most of 
our current regulations and cross referencing others to the GAO/DOJ 
Governmentwide standards found at 4 CFR parts 101 - 105. Most of our 
current regulations in this area are a restatement of the GAO/DOJ 
regulations. In addition, VA also proposes to amend a regulation 
pertaining to the administration of regional office committees on 
waivers and compromise and a regulation pertaining to delegations of 
authority to the Assistant Secretary for Management.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter Mulhern, Office of Financial Management (047GC1), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-5570

RIN: 2900-AI27
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                   Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3361. HEALTH PROFESSIONALS' EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.613; 38 CFR 17.614; 38 CFR 17.615; 38 CFR 
17.616; 38 CFR 17.617; 38 CFR 17.618; 38 CFR 17.607(c)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       03/18/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Eliza M. Wolff, RN, Dr.P.H. .
Phone: 202 565-7106

RIN: 2900-AF87
_______________________________________________________________________




3362. CONTRACT PROGRAM FOR VETERANS WITH ALCOHOL AND DRUG DEPENDENCE 
DISORDERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.53a

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/05/96                    61 FR 56897

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Karen Boies, PhD.
Phone: 202 273-8436

RIN: 2900-AH77
_______________________________________________________________________




3363. MEDICAL; NONSUBSTANTIVE MISCELLANEOUS CHANGES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/13/96                    61 FR 21964

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Leroy Cossett
Phone: 202 273-8300

RIN: 2900-AH95
_______________________________________________________________________




3364.  MEDICAL; VA HEALTH PROFESSIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM, 
CORRECTION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document corrects the repayment formula for health care 
professional who fail to comply with service obligations under VA 
Health Professional Scholarship Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/14/96                    61 FR 24236

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Meryl Bullar, Health Education Specialist (143), 
Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8367

RIN: 2900-AH99
_______________________________________________________________________




3365.  AUTOPSIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
autopsies regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/10/96                    61 FR 29293

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary Stitak, Staff Assistant (111E), Pathology and 
Laboratory Medicine Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810

[[Page 63096]]

Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8415

RIN: 2900-AI07
_______________________________________________________________________




3366.  DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY; NONSUBSTANTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE 
CHANGES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
delegations of authority regulations by removing redundant material.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/07/96                    61 FR 20438

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dawn Kirpatrick, Chief, Directive, Forms & Records 
Management, Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 801 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8309

RIN: 2900-AI08
_______________________________________________________________________




3367.  DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY; NONSUBSTANTIVE MISCELLANEOUS 
CHANGES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
delegations of authority regulations by making nonsubstantive changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/01/96                    61 FR 56448

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dawn L. Kirkpatrick, Chief, Directive, Forms & Records 
Management, Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8309

RIN: 2900-AI17
_______________________________________________________________________




3368. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES; ENDOCRINE SYSTEM DISABILITIES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.119

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/07/96                    61 FR 20440
Final Action Effective          06/06/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D.
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AE41
_______________________________________________________________________




3369. EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FOR MEMBERS OF THE SELECTED RESERVE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7520; 38 CFR 21.7540; 38 CFR 21.7576; 38 CFR 
21.7612; 38 CFR 21.7620; 38 CFR 21.7622; 38 CFR 21.7624; 38 CFR 
21.7631; 38 CFR 21.7635; 38 CFR 21.7636; 38 CFR 21.7639; 38 CFR 
21.7640; 38 CFR 21.7642; 38 CFR 21.7645; 38 CFR 21.7653; ...

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/10/96                    61 FR 29297
Final Action Effective          06/10/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636

RIN: 2900-AE43
_______________________________________________________________________




3370. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.96; 38 CFR 4.97

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/05/96                    61 FR 46720

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, MD
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AE94
_______________________________________________________________________




3371. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES; INFECTIOUS DISEASES, IMMUNE 
DISORDERS AND NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES (SYSTEMIC CONDITIONS)

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.88; 38 CFR 4.88a

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/31/96                    61 FR 39873
Final Action Effective          08/30/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D.
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AE95
_______________________________________________________________________




3372. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--MENTAL DISORDERS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

[[Page 63097]]

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.125; 38 CFR 4.126; 38 CFR 4.127; 38 CFR 4.128; 
38 CFR 4.129; 38 CFR 4.130; 38 CFR 4.131; 38 CFR 4.132

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/08/96                    61 FR 52695

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, MD
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AF01
_______________________________________________________________________




3373. RESERVISTS' EDUCATION; COMMENCING DATE OF AWARD OF EDUCATIONAL 
ASSISTANCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7631

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/20/96                    61 FR 11310
Final Action Effective          03/20/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AF74
_______________________________________________________________________




3374. VETERANS' EDUCATION; IMPLEMENTATION OF THE VETERANS' BENEFITS ACT 
OF 1992 AND THE NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR 1993

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.3145; 38 CFR 21.4131; 38 CFR 21.4135; 38 CFR 
21.4233; 38 CFR 21.4234; 38 CFR 21.4252; 38 CFR 21.4253; 38 CFR 
21.4254; 38 CFR 21.4265; 38 CFR 21.4267; 38 CFR 21.4270; 38 CFR 
21.4271; 38 CFR 21.4272; 38 CFR 21.4273; 38 CFR 21.4280; ...

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/22/96                     61 FR 6780
Final Action Effective          02/22/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AG22
_______________________________________________________________________




3375. VETERANS' EDUCATION; VETERANS' BENEFITS ACT OF 1992 AND THE 
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 1993 IN THE POST-VIETNAM ERA 
VETERANS' EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.5023; 38 CFR 21.5058; 38 CFR 21.5145; 38 CFR 
21.5232; 38 CFR 21.5250; 38 CFR 21.5270

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/27/96                     61 FR 7217

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AG23
_______________________________________________________________________




3376. VETERANS EDUCATION: INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY 
GI BILL ACTIVE DUTY, 1994-95

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7136; 38 CFR 21.7137

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/05/96                    61 FR 15190
Final Action Effective          04/05/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Shaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH14
_______________________________________________________________________




3377. VETERANS EDUCATION: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE VETERANS BENEFITS 
IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1994

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.3333; 38 CFR 21.4137; 38 CFR 21.4152; 38 CFR 
21.4155; 38 CFR 21.4200; 38 CFR 21.4201; 38 CFR 21.4252; 38 CFR 
21.4256; 38 CFR 21.4260; 38 CFR 21.4279; 38 CFR 21.7020; 38 CFR 
21.7045; 38 CFR 21.7120; 38 CFR 21.4820; 38 CFR 21.4822

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/10/96                    61 FR 29294
Final Action Effective          06/10/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH31
_______________________________________________________________________




3378. VETERANS EDUCATION: COURSE MEASUREMENT FOR GRADUATE COURSES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4273

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/06/96                    61 FR 28755

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH39
_______________________________________________________________________




3379. COMPENSATION FOR DISABILITY RESULTING FROM HOSPITALIZATION, 
TREATMENT, EXAMINATION, OR VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.358

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/23/96                    61 FR 25787
Final Action Effective          07/22/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH44

[[Page 63098]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3380. EXAMINATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.326

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/27/96                    61 FR 13424
Final Action Effective          03/27/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH48
_______________________________________________________________________




3381. SERVICEMEN'S AND VETERANS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 9.1 to 9.36

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/06/96                    61 FR 20134

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Poole
Phone: 215 951-5718

RIN: 2900-AH50
_______________________________________________________________________




3382. EVIDENCE DEPENDENCY AND AGE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.204

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/04/96                    61 FR 56626

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset, Jr.
Phone: 202 273-7230

RIN: 2900-AH51
_______________________________________________________________________




3383. UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 6.2 to 6.211

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/07/96                    61 FR 29024

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Poole
Phone: 215 951-5718

RIN: 2900-AH52
_______________________________________________________________________




3384. SOLDIERS' AND SAILORS' CIVIL RELIEF

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 7.2 to 7.33

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/07/96                    61 FR 29025

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Poole
Phone: 215 951-5718

RIN: 2900-AH53
_______________________________________________________________________




3385. VETERANS MORTGAGE LIFE INSURANCE

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 8a.1 to 8a.7

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/07/96                    61 FR 29027

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Poole
Phone: 215 951-5718

RIN: 2900-AH54
_______________________________________________________________________




3386. NATIONAL SERVICE LIFE INSURANCE

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 8.0 to 8.119

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/10/96                    61 FR 29289

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Poole
Phone: 215 951-5718

RIN: 2900-AH55
_______________________________________________________________________




3387. RESERVISTS' EDUCATION: TECHNICAL AMENDMENT TO THE MONTGOMERY GI 
BILL--SELECTED RESERVE PROGRAM

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4005; 38 CFR 21.4020; 38 CFR 21.4022; 38 CFR 
21.4134; 38 CFR 21.4151; 38 CFR 21.4153; 38 CFR 21.4201; 38 CFR 
21.4206; 38 CFR 21.4207; 38 CFR 21.4209; 38 CFR 21.4250; 38 CFR 
21.4251; 38 CFR 21.4263; 38 CFR 21.5040; 38 CFR 21.5741; ...

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/08/96                    61 FR 20727
Final Action Effective          05/08/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH59
_______________________________________________________________________




3388. VETERANS AND DEPENDENTS EDUCATION: REVISION AND RESCISSION OF 
OBSOLETE AND DUPLICATE REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing

[[Page 63099]]

Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.1020; 38 CFR 21.1021; 38 CFR 21.1022; 38 CFR 
21.1025; 38 CFR 21.1040; 38 CFR 21.1041; 38 CFR 21.1042; 38 CFR 
21.1043; 38 CFR 21.1044; 38 CFR 21.1045; 38 CFR 21.3021; 38 CFR 
21.3025; 38 CFR 21.3032; 38 CFR 21.3042; 38 CFR 21.3044; ...

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/24/96                    61 FR 26107
Final Action Effective          05/24/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH60
_______________________________________________________________________




3389. REVISION AND RESCISSION OF OBSOLETE AND DUPLICATE REGULATIONS 
GOVERNING POST-VIETNAM ERA VETERANS EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.5020; 38 CFR 21.5064; 38 CFR 21.5074; 38 CFR 
21.5135; 38 CFR 21.5141; 38 CFR 21.5200; 38 CFR 21.5292; 38 CFR 21.5300

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/07/96                    61 FR 29029
Final Action Effective          06/07/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH64
_______________________________________________________________________




3390. ABANDONED CLAIMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.109; 38 CFR 3.155

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       04/06/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Thornberry
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH65
_______________________________________________________________________




3391. VETERANS EDUCATION: INCREASED ALLOWANCES FOR THE EDUCATIONAL 
ASSISTANCE TEST PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.5820; 38 CFR 21.5822

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/06/96                    61 FR 28753
Final Action Effective          06/06/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH78
_______________________________________________________________________




3392. VETERANS EDUCATION: INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY 
GI BILL ACTIVE DUTY, 1995 - 1996

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7136; 38 CFR 21.7137

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/14/96                    61 FR 24237
Final Action Effective          10/01/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH79
_______________________________________________________________________




3393. ADJUDICATION REGULATIONS; MISCELLANEOUS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.23; 38 CFR 3.24; 38 CFR 3.25; 38 CFR 3.250; 38 
CFR 3.252; 38 CFR 3.458; 38 CFR 3.460; 38 CFR 3.461; 38 CFR 3.702; 38 
CFR 3.852; 38 CFR 3.901; 38 CFR 3.902; 38 CFR 3.1612

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/08/96                    61 FR 20726
Final Action Effective          05/08/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH83
_______________________________________________________________________




3394. LUMP SUM PAYMENT UNDER PUBLIC LAW 93-177

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.811

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/20/96                    61 FR 11309
Final Action Effective          03/20/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH85
_______________________________________________________________________




3395. TRAVEL TIME; REMOVAL OF OBSOLETE PROVISIONS FROM THE CFR

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.6

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/22/96                    61 FR 11731

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH86

[[Page 63100]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3396. REMOVAL OF REFERENCES TO ``VICIOUS HABITS''

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.3; 38 CFR 3.314; 38 CFR 3.323

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/07/96                    61 FR 20438
Final Action Effective          05/07/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH87
_______________________________________________________________________




3397. VETERANS EDUCATION: ADDITIONAL EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE WHILE 
SERVING IN THE SELECTED RESERVE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7136; 38 CFR 21.7137; 38 CFR 21.7139

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Withdrawn at request 
of DOD                          07/17/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636

RIN: 2900-AH92
_______________________________________________________________________




3398. VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION, FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Duplicate of RIN 
2900-AI14.                      04/18/96

RIN: 2900-AH93
_______________________________________________________________________




3399. CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING NEED FOR AID AND ATTENDANCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.352

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       04/09/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH96
_______________________________________________________________________




3400.  LOAN GUARANTEE; REGULATION REFORM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 605; 38 USC 2102; 38 USC 3711; 38 USC 3732; 42 
USC 3601 to 3631

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36.4216; 38 CFR 36.4253; 38 CFR 36.4350; 38 CFR 
36.4402; 38 CFR 36.4515; 38 CFR 36.4316; 38 CFR 36.4318; 38 CFR 
36.4346; 38 CFR 36.4350; 38 CFR 36.4404; 38 CFR 36.4502; 38 CFR 
36.4510; 38 CFR 36.4220; 38 CFR 36.4221; 38 CFR 36.4254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory document amends the Department of Veterans 
Affairs regulations governing the VA home loan program by removing 
provisions that have no legal effect and updating a position title. 
This document also amends the regulations by incorporating a precedent 
opinion of the VA General Counsel stating that the law governing the 
housing loan and specially adapted housing programs does not preclude 
VA from approving a loan or grant when the property will be held in a 
Family Living Trust provided the veterans has at least an equitable 
life estate in the property, the lien for any VA financing attaches to 
the remainder, and the trust arrangement is valid under State law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/04/96                    61 FR 28057
Final Action Effective          06/04/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: 38 CFR 36.4226 38 CFR 36.4283 38 CFR 36.4312 38 
CFR 36.4320 38 CFR 36.4335 38 CFR 36.4342 38 CFR 36.4343 38 CFR 36.4349 
38 CFR 36.4352 38 CFR 36.4364 38 CFR 36.4394 38 CFR 36.4408 38 CFR 
36.4510 38 CFR 36.4516 38 CFR 36.4518 38 CFR 36.4520 38 CFR 36.4600

Agency Contact: Judith Caden, Assistant Director for Loan Policy (264), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 801 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7376
Fax: 202 275-3523

RIN: 2900-AI01
_______________________________________________________________________




3401.  REVISION AND RESCISSION OF OBSOLETE AND DUPLICATIVE 
REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--SELECTIVE RESERVES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  10 USC 16136; 38 USC 3688

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7640; 38 CFR 21.7645; 38 CFR 21.7652; 38 CFR 
21.7672; 38 CFR 21.7801; 38 CFR 21.7802; 38 CFR 21.7805; 38 CFR 21.7810

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the regulations governing the Montgomery 
GI Bill-Selected Reserve. It removes unneeded regulations and revises 
some that are obsolete.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/11/96                    61 FR 29481

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration (225), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI04
_______________________________________________________________________




3402.  WILLFUL MISCONDUCT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1110; 38 USC 1131; 38 USC 1521(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.1(n); 38 CFR 3.1(y)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To remove unnecessary Latin phrases and to remove other

[[Page 63101]]

unnecessary material for purposes of clarity and readability.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/04/96                    61 FR 56626

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry Freiheit, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7232

RIN: 2900-AI26
_______________________________________________________________________




3403.  DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH EXPOSURE TO CERTAIN HERBICIDE 
AGENTS (PROSTATE CANCER AND ACUTE AND SUBACUTE PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a); PL 102-104

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.307(a); 38 CFR 3.309(e)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document implements a decision of the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs that there is a positive association between exposure 
to herbicides and the subsequent development of prostate cancer and 
acute and subacute peripheral neuropathy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/08/96                    61 FR 41365
Final Action                    11/07/96                    61 FR 57586

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset, Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7230

RIN: 2900-AI35
_______________________________________________________________________




3404. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION--LOAN 
GUARANTY AND VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND COUNSELING PROGRAMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 871

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/07/96                    61 FR 20493
Final Action Effective          05/07/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is a 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Wanza Lewis (95A)
Phone: 202 565-4424
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AG65
_______________________________________________________________________




3405. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION--SERVICE 
CONTRACTING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 837; 48 CFR 852

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/08/96                    61 FR 52709

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Wanza Lewis (95A)
Phone: 202 565-4424
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AG67
_______________________________________________________________________




3406. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION (VAAR): 
ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 801; 48 CFR 814; 48 CFR 833; 48 CFR 836; 48 CFR 
852

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/21/96                    61 FR 11585
Final Action Effective          03/21/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald Kaliher (95A)
Phone: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH27
_______________________________________________________________________




3407.  MISCELLANEOUS AMENDMENTS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 40 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation:  48 CFR ch 8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amended the Department of Veterans Affairs 
Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) to eliminate restatements of the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR); to eliminate provisions duplicative of 
other provisions in the VAAR; to eliminate internal procedures not 
required to be included in regulations; to make corrections; and to 
make clarifications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/07/96                    61 FR 20491

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Sherry Patton (95A), Senior Procurement Analyst, Office 
of Acquisition & Materiel Management, Department of Veterans Affairs, 
810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8818
Email: P[email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI02
_______________________________________________________________________




3408. APPEALS REGULATIONS: RULES OF PRACTICE; BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS 
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1994

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 19; 38 CFR 20

[[Page 63102]]

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/07/96                    61 FR 20447

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven L. Keller
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AH16
_______________________________________________________________________




3409.  RULES OF PRACTICE: REQUEST FOR AND NOTICES OF FIELD 
HEARINGS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 7105(a); 38 USC 7107; 38 USC 
7110

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 19.76; 38 CFR 20.703

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Appeals Regulations for the Board of 
Veterans' Appeals to shorten from 60 days to 30 days the minimum notice 
the Department of Veterans Affairs must give an appellate of the date 
and place of a hearing before the Board at a field facility. This 
change will help reduce the numbers of ``no shows'' at field hearings.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/20/96                    61 FR 43008

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven L. Keller, Chief Counsel (01C), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Board of Veterans' Appeals, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AI11
_______________________________________________________________________




3410.  RULES OF PRACTICE: ELIMINATION OF UNNECESSARY PROVISIONS 
RELATING TO REPRESENTATION, WITNESSES, AND ACCESS TO BOARD RECORDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 5701; 38 USC 5903; 38 USC 7102; 38 USC 
7105(a); 38 USC 7107

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 20.606; 38 CFR 20.710; 38 CFR 20.1300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Rules of Practice for the Board of 
Veterans' Appeals to eliminate unnecessary provisions concerning 
individuals who may assist an attorney in presenting evidence and 
argument at the Board concerning testimony from members of Congress and 
congressional staff and adjudication appeals of denials of claims for 
veterans benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/07/96                    61 FR 29027
Final Action Effective          06/07/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven L. Keller, Chief Counsel, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, Board of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, 
DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AI15
_______________________________________________________________________




3411.  NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 38 USC 2306; 38 USC 2400; 38 USC 2401; 38 
USC 2402; 38 USC 2407; 38 USC ch 83

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.600; 38 CFR 1.601; 38 CFR 1.603; 38 CFR 1.604; 
38 CFR 1.620; 38 CFR 1.630; 38 CFR 1.631

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its 
regulations relating to national cemeteries and headstones and markers 
to remove provisions that merely restate statutory provisions, 
duplicate other regulatory provisions, or concern only internal 
instructions. The effect of this rule will be to reduce the number of 
federal regulations by eliminating those unnecessary to the efficient 
administration of the National Cemetery System. This final rule is 
consistent with the purpose of Executive Order 12866 and the National 
Performance Review. This rule will be published as a final with no 
public comment period. The effective date of this rule will be the date 
of publication in the Federal Register.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/31/96                    61 FR 27281

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ken Greenberg, Program Analyst (402B1), NCS Community 
Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5179
Fax: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AI06
_______________________________________________________________________




3412. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO ORDER PAID ADVERTISING FOR USE IN 
RECRUITMENT

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2.4 (Revision)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/06/96                    61 FR 20133
Final Action Effective          05/06/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gloria C. Oliver
Phone: 202 273-9737
Fax: 202 273-6798
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH74
_______________________________________________________________________




3413. PART-TIME CAREER EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.891 to 1.897

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/25/96                    61 FR 38570
Final Action Effective          07/25/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ellen Kollar

[[Page 63103]]

Phone: 202 273-9748
Fax: 202 273-5791

RIN: 2900-AH75
_______________________________________________________________________




3414. STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT AND RELATED RESPONSIBILITIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 0

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/12/96                    61 FR 11308

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James E. Adams
Phone: 202 273-6354
Fax: 202 273-6403

RIN: 2900-AH80
_______________________________________________________________________




3415. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO REGIONAL COUNSELS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 0; 38 CFR 1; 38 CFR 2; 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 13; 38 
CFR 14; 38 CFR 14.501; 38 CFR 14.518; 38 CFR 15; 38 CFR 36

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/27/96                     61 FR 7215

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Howard Lem
Phone: 202 565-4885

RIN: 2900-AH81
_______________________________________________________________________




3416. RULEMAKING PROCEDURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.12; 38 CFR 1.551

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/12/96                    61 FR 11309

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Thomas O. Gessel
Phone: 202 565-7625
Fax: 202 565-7873

RIN: 2900-AH84
_______________________________________________________________________




3417.  INVENTIONS BY EMPLOYEES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS 
AFFAIRS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 3710a; 35 USC 266; 38 USC 501; EO 12591

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 501; 38 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking amends the regulations concerning inventions 
developed by employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs. It adds 
the Federal Technology Transfer Act (FTTA) of 1986 as an authority for 
these regulations. Also, it reflects changes in delegations of 
authority made by the Department of Commerce, the lead agency 
concerning patents and inventions. Further, it removes language in the 
VA regulations that is also set forth in the Department of Commerce 
regulations. In addition, it makes changes to VA delegations of 
authority. Lastly, the amendments clarify procedures to be followed by 
VA employees in reporting inventions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/11/96                    61 FR 29657

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chuck Delobe, Deputy Assistant General (024B), Office 
of General Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6383

RIN: 2900-AI03
_______________________________________________________________________




3418.  DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY CONCERNING DISCRIMINATION OR 
REPRISALS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 302; 38 USC 501; 38 USC 512; 44 USC 3702

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking sets forth delegations of authority to the 
General Counsel and certain subordinates to make the final decision on 
a complaint of discrimination on grounds of race, color, religion, sex, 
national origin, age, disability, or reprisal brought by an employee of 
the Department of Veterans Affairs. The effect of this action is to 
clarify and expand CFR material to specify all delegations of authority 
already made concerning this subject matter

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/24/96                    61 FR 26107

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Neal C. Lawson, Assistant General Counsel (024), Office 
of General Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6384

RIN: 2900-AI12
_______________________________________________________________________




3419.  DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY; FEDERAL TORT CLAIMS AND DEBT 
COLLECTIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301 to 302; 38 USC 501; 38 USC 512; 44 USC 
3702; 28 USC 2671 to 2680

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
regulations captioned ``DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY'' and ``LEGAL 
SERVICES, GENERAL COUNSEL.'' The delegation of authority to Regional 
Counsels to settle certain claims (Federal Medical Care Recovery Act 
claims) without approval from the Office of General Counsel is raised 
to a limit of $100,000. Further, this document updates statutory 
references and organizational titles, eliminates references to repealed 
statutes, eliminates redundant delegations of authority, corrects 
titles of VA forms, eliminates references to obsolete VA

[[Page 63104]]

forms, reflects that the Baltimore Regional Counsel will have certain 
jurisdiction over incidents occurring in the Department of Veterans 
Affairs Central Office, eliminates restatements of Department of 
Justice regulations, eliminates references to internal VA matters not 
required to be published in the Federal Register, and makes changes for 
purposes of clarification.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/03/96                    61 FR 27783

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: E. Douglas Bradshaw, Assistant General Counsel (021), 
Office of General Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6481

RIN: 2900-AI13
_______________________________________________________________________




3420.  INFORMATION LAW: MISCELLANEOUS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR l

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking amends Department of Veterans Affairs 
regulations concerning information law by eliminating provisions that 
essentially restate statutory language from the Freedom of Information 
Act and the Privacy Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/07/96                    61 FR 29023

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lorrie Johnson/Jeff Corzatt, Staff Attorney (024A), 
Office of General Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6380

RIN: 2900-AI23
_______________________________________________________________________




3421.  REESTABLISHING RULEMAKING PROCEDURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In a document published in the Federal Register on March 20, 
1996 (61 FR 11309), the Department of Veterans Affair amended 38 CFR 
Part 1 by promulgating a final rule that included the elimination of 
1.12. The provisions of 1.12 set forth a policy statement concerning 
prior notice-and-comment for rulemaking. Judicial review of VA's action 
eliminating 1.12 has been sought on the basis that such action did not 
comply with notice- and-comment provisions. While we believe such a 
position is not legally correct, we are by this document reestablishing 
1.12, and, in a companion document published in the Federal Register, 
proposing to eliminate 1.12. This will provide interested parties an 
opportunity to provide comments concerning this matter, thus mooting 
the pending litigation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/01/96                    61 FR 33850

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Thomas O. Gessel, Director, Office of Regulations 
Management (02D), Office of General Counsel, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8605

RIN: 2900-AI32
_______________________________________________________________________




3422.  RULEMAKING PROCEDURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In a document recently published in the Federal Register (61 
FR 11309), the Department of Veterans Affairs amended the ``GENERAL 
PROVISION'' regulations by eliminating a policy statement concerning 
prior notice-and-comment for rulemaking. That action, taken without 
prior notice-and-comment, concluded that the policy statement was 
unnecessary. Judicial review has been sought on the basis that such 
action did not comply with the notice-and-comment provisions. While we 
believe such position is not legally correct, we do not object to 
providing interested parties with an opportunity to comment on whether 
the policy statement should be eliminated.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/01/96                    61 FR 33878

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Thomas O. Gessel, Director, Office of Regulations 
Management (02D), Office of General Counsel, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8605

RIN: 2900-AI33
_______________________________________________________________________




3423.  FEDERAL CIVIL PENALTIES INFLATION ADJUSTMENT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3710; 31 USC 3802

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 36; 38 CFR 42

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends Department of Veterans Affairs 
regulations by providing notice as required by statute to reflect 
statutory increases in maximum civil monetary penalties. Under 38 
U.S.C. 3710, VA may impose civil monetary penalties for false loan 
guaranty certifications. Also, under 31 U.S.C. 3802, VA may impose 
civil monetary penalties for fraudulent claims and for fraudulent 
statements. The Federal Civil Monetary Penalties Act of 1990, as 
amended by the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996 (the Act), sets 
forth a formula increasing the maximum statutory amounts for civil 
monetary penalties and requires VA to give notice of the new maximum 
amounts by regulation. Accordingly, this document gives notice that the 
maximum civil monetary penalties have been increased as follows: (1) 
$11,000 maximum civil monetary penalty for false loan guaranty 
certifications; (2) $5,500 maximum civil monetary penalty for 
fraudulent claims; and (3) $5,500 maximum civil monetary penalty for 
fraudulent statements.

[[Page 63105]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/01/96                    61 FR 56449

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Thomas O. Gessel, Director, Office of Regulations 
Management, Office of General Counsel (02D), Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8605
Fax: 202 273-9289

RIN: 2900-AI48
_______________________________________________________________________




3424.  GENDER POLICY FOR VA PUBLICATIONS AND OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends regulations of the Department of 
Veterans Affairs by removing 1.13 of 38 CFR. This section provided that 
VA publications and other communications must avoid using language 
referring only to the masculine gender when the female gender also was 
intended to be included. This guidance was intended to avoid any 
incorrect appearance of seeming to preclude benefits for female 
veterans, dependents, or beneficiaries. Although, VA is fully committed 
to the gender-neutral concepts that were set forth in 1.13, the 
material from 1.13 is removed since the mandate from that section is 
being accomplished through internal issuances.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/31/96                    61 FR 27282

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hoffman, Dir., Information Resources 
Management, Policy & Standards Service (045A3), Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8129

RIN: 2900-AI09
_______________________________________________________________________




3425.  INVESTIGATION REGULATION

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Removal of 38 CFR 1.450 through 1.455 as obsolete, superseded 
by Inspector General Act of 1978, as amended (5 U.S.C. App. 3)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/07/96                    61 FR 29023

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Joseph M. Vallowe, Attorney Advisor (50C2), Office of 
the Inspector General, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue, NWS, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-8623

RIN: 2900-AI25
[FR Doc. 96-25320 Filed 11-27-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8320-01-F