[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]



[[Page 22255]]



_______________________________________________________________________


Part XVI



Department of Veterans Affairs



_______________________________________________________________________

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 22256]]



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 April 1997. 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: Christy Fick or Gloria Armstrong, 
(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.

Dated: February 27, 1997.

Thomas O. Gessel,

Director, Office of Regulations Management.

                                                  Prerule Stage                                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2905        Monthly Allowance Under 38 USC 1805 for a Child Born with Spina Bifida who is a Child               
            of a Vietnam Veteran..................................................................    2900-AI70 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                               Proposed Rule Stage                                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2906        Aid to States for Care of Veterans in State Homes and Grants to States for                          
            Construction or Acquisition of State Home Facilities..................................    2900-AE87 
2907        Payment for Non-VA Outpatient Office Visits and Payment for Inpatient Non-VA Physician              
            Services..............................................................................    2900-AH66 
2908        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Orthopedic System...............................    2900-AE91 
2909        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders....    2900-AF23 
2910        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Digestive System....................................    2900-AF24 
2911        Veterans' Education; Suspension and Discontinuance of Payments........................    2900-AF85 
2912        Individual Unemployability............................................................    2900-AH21 
2913        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 
2914        Service Connection for Dental Conditions for Treatment Purposes.......................    2900-AH41 
2915        Evidence in File at Date of Death.....................................................    2900-AH42 
2916        Vision................................................................................    2900-AH43 
2917        Loan Guaranty: Electronic Payment of Funding Fee......................................    2900-AH73 
2918        Veterans Education: Effective Date for the Award of Educational Assistance............    2900-AH76 
2919        Medical Evidence That a Disability Has Improved.......................................    2900-AH82 
2920        Election of Education Benefits........................................................    2900-AH88 
2921        Computation of Income.................................................................    2900-AH94 
2922        Child Custody.........................................................................    2900-AI10 
2923        Loan Guaranty: Credit Standards.......................................................    2900-AI16 
2924        Intervertebral Disc Syndrome..........................................................    2900-AI22 
2925        Veterans Education: Advanced Payments & Lump Sum Payments for Educational Assistance..    2900-AI31 
2926        Claims Based on Aggravation of Nonservice-Connected Disability........................    2900-AI42 
2927        Ankylosis and Limitation of Motion of Digits of the Hands.............................    2900-AI44 
2928        Cold Injuries.........................................................................    2900-AI46 
2929        Capping of National Service Life Insurance ``H'' Term Premiums........................    2900-AI52 
2930        Veterans Education: Reduction in Required Reports.....................................    2900-AI58 
2931        New Eligibility Criteria for the Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty Other Miscellaneous               
            Issues................................................................................    2900-AI63 
2932        New Criteria for Approval of Courses for Educational Assistance Programs..............    2900-AI67 
2933        Reservist Education: Monthly Verification of Enrollment and other Reports.............    2900-AI68 
2934        Miscellaneous Educational Revisions...................................................    2900-AI69 
2935        Provision of Vocational Training and Rehabilitation to Vietnam Veterans' Children with              
            Spina Bifida..........................................................................    2900-AI72 
2936        Amended Criteria for Approval of Flight Training Courses..............................    2900-AI76 

[[Page 22257]]

                                                                                                                
2937        Purchase Card/Electronic Data Interchange.............................................    2900-AI41 
2938        Transportation: VAAR Part 847.........................................................    2900-AI56 
2939        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation-- Simplified Acquisition                      
            Procedures for Health Care Resources..................................................    2900-AI71 
2940        Headstone and Marker Inscription Policy...............................................    2900-AH45 
2941        State Cemetery Grants: Aid to States for Establishment, Expansion and Improvement of                
            Veterans Cemeteries...................................................................    2900-AH46 
2942        Fee to Trace Vendors VA Issued Checks.................................................    2900-AI38 
2943        Release of Information From Department of Veterans Affairs Records....................    2900-AH98 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                Final Rule Stage                                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2944        CHAMPVA Regulations...................................................................    2900-AE64 
2945        Treatment of Research--Related Injuries to Human Subjects.............................    2900-AH68 
2946        Informed Consent for Patient Care.....................................................    2900-AH72 
2947        Miscellaneous Changes to Part 17......................................................    2900-AI37 
2948        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Cardiovascular System...........................    2900-AE40 
2949        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Muscular System.................................    2900-AE89 
2950        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Skin............................................    2900-AF00 
2951        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Diseases of the Ear and Other Sense Organs..........    2900-AF22 
2952        Amendments to Training and Rehabilitation Programs....................................    2900-AG00 
2953        Fibromyalgia..........................................................................    2900-AH05 
2954        Loan Guaranty Flood Insurance Requirements............................................    2900-AH63 
2955        Veterans Education: Approval of Correspondence Courses................................    2900-AH91 
2956        Veterans Education: Submission of School Catalog to State Approving Agencies..........    2900-AH97 
2957        Claims Based on Exposure to Ionizing Radiation (Prostate Cancer and Any Other Cancer).    2900-AI00 
2958        Fiduciary Activities; Miscellaneous...................................................    2900-AI14 
2959        Vocational Rehabilitation; Miscellaneous Changes......................................    2900-AI29 
2960        Veterans Education: Approval of Independent Study.....................................    2900-AI34 
2961        Spouse and Surviving Spouse...........................................................    2900-AI36 
2962        Survivors and Dependents Education: Extension of Eligibility Period...................    2900-AI45 
2963        Dependency and Income.................................................................    2900-AI47 
2964        Reservists Education: Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Selected              
            Reserves..............................................................................    2900-AI54 
2965        Retroactive Payments Due to a Liberalizing Law or VA Issue............................    2900-AI57 
2966        Revision of Decision..................................................................    2900-AI64 
2967        Veteran's Benefits Improvement Act of 1996............................................    2900-AI66 
2968        Servicemen's and Veterans Group Life Insurance........................................    2900-AI73 
2969        Veterans Training: Increase in Rates Payable Under 38 USC Chapter 31..................    2900-AI74 
2970        VAAR: Commercial Items................................................................    2900-AI05 
2971        Miscellaneous Changes to VA Acquisition Regulations...................................    2900-AI28 
2972        Definitions and Terms for Part 802....................................................    2900-AI49 
2973        Department Protest....................................................................    2900-AI51 
2974        Rescission of 38 USC 810(c) Provisions in the VAAR....................................    2900-AI61 
2975        VA Acquisition Regulations: Title Update..............................................    2900-AI62 
2976        Rules of Practice: Oral Argument in Filing Appellate Briefs...........................    2900-AI18 
2977        Appeals Regulations: Remand for Further Development...................................    2900-AI50 
2978        Disinterments in National Cemeteries..................................................    2900-AI21 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                Long-Term Actions                                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2979        Sensori-Neural AIDS Eligibility.......................................................    2900-AI60 
2980        Provision of Health Care to Vietnam Veterans' Children with Spina Bifida..............    2900-AI65 

[[Page 22258]]

                                                                                                                
2981        Loan Guaranty: Title Evidence Requirements and Occupancy Requirements for Conveyance                
            of Properties to VA...................................................................    2900-AE20 
2982        Acceptance of Partial Payments; Indemnification of Default............................    2900-AE60 
2983        Revised Definition of Net Value and Revised Criteria for Pre-Foreclosure Debt Waivers.    2900-AG20 
2984        Delegation of Authority To Provide Relief on Account of Administrative Error..........    2900-AH19 
2985        Appeals Regulations; Rules of Practice................................................    2900-AE78 
2986        Rules of Practice; Hearings...........................................................    2900-AG07 
2987        Rules of Practice: Medical Opinions; Appeal Processing and Submission of Additional                 
            Evidence..............................................................................    2900-AG90 
2988        Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex Under Federally Assisted Education Programs and               
            Activities............................................................................    2900-AB51 
2989        Operation of Child Care Centers at VA Facilities......................................    2900-AD48 
2990        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   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2991        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 
2992        Community Residential Care Program and Contract Program for Veterans With Alcohol and               
            Drug Dependence Disorders.............................................................    2900-AH61 
2993        Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Clarification of Per Diem Eligibility..    2900-AH89 
2994        Reduction of Debt Through the Performance of Work-Study Services......................    2900-AF29 
2995        Claims Based on Tobacco Use During Active Service.....................................    2900-AH58 
2996        Loan Guaranty: Limitation on Discount Points Financed in Connection With Interest Rate              
            Reduction Refinancing Loans...........................................................    2900-AH90 
2997        Notice of Time Limit for Filing Evidence..............................................    2900-AI19 
2998        Evaluation of Income..................................................................    2900-AI20 
2999        Decisions to Conform..................................................................    2900-AI39 
3000        Upgraded Discharges...................................................................    2900-AI40 
3001        Adjudication Regulations; Miscellaneous...............................................    2900-AI43 
3002        Veterans Education: Increased Allowances of the Educational Assistance Test Program...    2900-AI53 
3003        Veterans Education: Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active                  
            Duty..................................................................................    2900-AI55 
3004        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation (VAAR): Part 801, Veterans                    
            Affairs Acquisition Regulation System.................................................    2900-AH28 
3005        Appeals Regulation: Notice of Board of Veterans' Appeals Decision.....................    2900-AI59 
3006        Delegation of Subpoena Authority and Description of Means of Service..................    2900-AH00 
3007        Delegation of Authority to Deputy General Counsel and Assistant General Counsel for                 
            Professional Staff Group IV in matters concerning invention and Patents...............    2900-AI75 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                       Prerule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2905.  MONTHLY ALLOWANCE UNDER 38 USC 1805 FOR A CHILD BORN WITH 
SPINA BIFIDA WHO IS A CHILD OF A VIETNAM VETERAN

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1805; 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.27; 38 CFR 3.105; 38 CFR 3.158; 38 CFR 3.261; 
38 CFR 3.262; 38 CFR 3.263; 38 CFR 3.272; 38 CFR 3.275; 38 CFR 3.403; 
38 CFR 3.503; 38 CFR 3.814

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To amend VA regulations to provide a monthly allowance to a 
child born with Spina Bifida who is a child of a Vietnam veteran as 
required by Pub. L. 104-204.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jack Bisset, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810

[[Page 22259]]

Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7230

RIN: 2900-AI70
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                 Proposed Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2906. 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; 38 USC 8135; 38 USC 8136; 38 USC 
8137

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.190 to 17.222

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2907. PAYMENT FOR NON-VA OUTPATIENT OFFICE VISITS AND PAYMENT FOR 
INPATIENT NON-VA PHYSICIAN SERVICES

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1703

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.50f(h) (Revision); 38 CFR 17.50g0 (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule will amend part 17.50f(h) to change 
payment for Non-VA outpatient office visits and payment for inpatient 
Non-VA physician services provided to eligible VA beneficiaries. VA 
basically would adopt the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) 
Department of Health and Human Services Medicare Program Fee Schedule 
for Physician Services. 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 O'Donnell, 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
_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2908. 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 
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                            06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, M.D., Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(213A),

[[Page 22260]]

Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AE91
_______________________________________________________________________




2909. 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                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2910. 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                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2911. 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 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2912. 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                            06/00/97

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

[[Page 22261]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2913. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2914. 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                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2915. 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).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2916. 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                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2917. 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

[[Page 22262]]

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: 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-AH73
_______________________________________________________________________




2918. 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                            07/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2919. 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                            06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2920. 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                            07/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2921. 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                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2922. CHILD CUSTODY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

[[Page 22263]]

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                            06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge, Consultant, Regulations Staff (213A), 
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 801 
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI10
_______________________________________________________________________




2923. LOAN GUARANTY: 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2924. 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                            06/00/97

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-AI22
_______________________________________________________________________




2925. VETERANS EDUCATION: ADVANCED PAYMENTS & LUMP SUM PAYMENTS FOR 
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE

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 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                            10/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2926. CLAIMS BASED ON AGGRAVATION OF NONSERVICE-CONNECTED DISABILITY

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

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                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2927. 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

[[Page 22264]]

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                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2928. 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                            06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2929. 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                            10/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2930.  VETERANS EDUCATION: REDUCTION IN REQUIRED REPORTS

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 3034; 38 USC 3680(g); 38 USC 3684

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7154; 38 CFR 21.7156

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA will propose to revise the nature of the information to be 
reported by veterans and servicemembers receiving educational 
assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty, and the number 
of reports required of educational institutions in which these veterans 
and servicemembers are enrolled. This should reduce the information 
collection burden for this program, while maintaining the program's 
integrity.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97

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-AI58
_______________________________________________________________________




2931.  NEW ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL - 
ACTIVE DUTY OTHER MISCELLANEOUS ISSUES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3002; 38 USC 3011; 38 USC 3012; 38 USC 3018; 
38 USC 3018C; 38 USC 3452; 38 USC 3680A; PL 104-275, sec 107

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4135; 38 CFR 21.5021; 38 CFR 21.5058; 38 CFR 
21.5130; 38 CFR 21.7020; 38 CFR 21.7042; 38 CFR 21.7045; 38 CFR 
21.7050; 38 CFR 21.7520

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule will implement various provisions of the 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997, and the 
Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 1996. it will set forth new 
eligibility criteria that will allow additional individuals to 
establish eligibility for educational assistance under the Montgomery 
GI Bill - Active Duty; make permanent certain provisions concerning the 
approval of courses leading to alternative teacher certification; and 
make other modifications for the purpose of clarification.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97

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-AI63

[[Page 22265]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2932.  NEW CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF COURSES FOR EDUCATIONAL 
ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3680A

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4251; 38 CFR 21.4252; 38 CFR 21.4253; 38 CFR 
21.7122; 38 CFR 21.7622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will bring various regulations into agreement with 
the Veterans Benefits Improvements Act of 1996. It will include new 
criteria for use in approving courses for the educational programs VA 
administers; it will include new criteria for VA to use in approving 
enrollments in courses. it will make other changes for the purposes of 
clarification.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: June Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration, 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-AI67
_______________________________________________________________________




2933.  RESERVIST EDUCATION: MONTHLY VERIFICATION OF ENROLLMENT 
AND OTHER REPORTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  10 USC 16136(b); 38 USC 3680(g); 38 USC 3684; 38 USC 
5113

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7635; 38 CFR 21.7654; 38 CFR 21.7656

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will expand the current requirement that some 
reservists receiving educational assistance under the Montgomery GI 
Bill - Selected Reserve verify their pursuit of a program of education 
monthly to include those reservists who are pursuing a standard college 
degree. At the same time the number of reports VA receives from 
educational institutions will be reduced. This will be a cost-effective 
way to reduce overpayments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration, 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-AI68
_______________________________________________________________________




2934.  MISCELLANEOUS EDUCATIONAL REVISIONS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  10 USC 16136(b); 38 USC 3034; 38 USC 3036; 38 USC 
3684; 38 USC 3686; 38 USC 3688; 38 USC 3690; 38 USC 3696; 38 USC 5121

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.3041; 38 CFR 21.3045; 38 CFR 21.4009; 38 CFR 
21.4200; 38 CFR 21.4201; 38 CFR 21.4233; 38 CFR 21.4250; 38 CFR 
21.4270; 38 CFR 21.5270; 38 CFR 21.5901; 38 CFR 21.7020; 38 CFR 
21.7139; 38 CFR 21.7140; 38 CFR 21.7144; 38 CFR 21.7170; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will amend the educational assistance and 
educational benefit regulations of VA. It will remove a number of 
provisions that no longer apply or otherwise have no substantive 
effect, and will make other changes for the purposes of clarification.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Program Administration, 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-AI69
_______________________________________________________________________




2935.  PROVISION OF VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND REHABILITATION TO 
VIETNAM VETERANS' CHILDREN WITH SPINA BIFIDA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1801 to 1806; PL 104-204, sec 421

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.8001; 38 CFR 21.8005; 38 CFR 21.8010; 38 CFR 
21.8015; 38 CFR 21.8021; 38 CFR 21.8040; 38 CFR 21.8042; 38 CFR 
21.8050; 38 CFR 21.8052; 38 CFR 21.8060; 38 CFR 21.8070; 38 CFR 
21.8072; 38 CFR 21.8074; 38 CFR 21.8080; 38 CFR 21.8082; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule establishes a program of vocational 
training for Vietnam veterans' children suffering from spina bifida. 
This proposed rule includes eligibility criteria, evaluation and 
planning guidelines, program entitlements, and requirements for program 
administration.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffrey T. Goetz, Acting Director, Vocational 
Rehabilitation and Counseling Service (28), Department of Veterans 
Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7425
Fax: 202 275-5122

RIN: 2900-AI72
_______________________________________________________________________




2936.  AMENDED CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF FLIGHT TRAINING COURSES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  10 USC 16131(g); 38 USC 101(20); 38 USC 3032; 38 USC 
3231; 38 USC 3680(g); 38 USC 3690

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.4200; 38 CFR 21.4263

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposal will amend the regulations governing the 
approval of flight training courses for VA training. It will bring 
these regulations into agreement with the current two-year operation 
requirement that VA is

[[Page 22266]]

required by statute to apply to approval of enrollments. It will also 
permit approval of courses offered pursuant to 14 CFR part 142.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: June C. Schaeffer, Assistant Director for Policy and, 
Program Administration, 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-AI76
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2937. PURCHASE CARD/ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 40 USC 486(c); 42 USC 7254

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 812; 48 CFR 832; 48 CFR 852

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is proposing to amend 
its 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: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI41
_______________________________________________________________________




2938.  TRANSPORTATION: VAAR PART 847

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 847

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This change will update VA Acquisition Regulation chapters 47 
and 52 and remove obsolete material.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97

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: Ramona Jones, Procurement Analyst (95A), Acquisition 
Policy Team, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8818
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: J[email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI56
_______________________________________________________________________




2939.  DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION--
SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION PROCEDURES FOR HEALTH CARE RESOURCES

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 8153

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 801; 48 CFR 873

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 301 of Pub. L. 104-262, the Veterans' Health Care 
Eligibility Reform Act of 1996 authorizes the Secretary of Veterans 
Affairs to establish simplified acquisition procedures for the purchase 
of commercial health care services, the use of medical equipment or 
space. These acquisition procedures will help maximize the efficiency 
of the acquisition process and strengthen the medical programs of the 
Department of Veterans Affairs.

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

RIN: 2900-AI71
_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



2940. 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.

[[Page 22267]]

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 expense like specific 
valor awards or other items paid for at private expense. The rule is 
published as proposed in the Federal Register to provide information to 
the public on specific changes to VA's 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 a 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                            07/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2941. 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 (New)

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 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                            09/00/97

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


                    ________________________________



2942. 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


                    ________________________________



2943. 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

[[Page 22268]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                    Final Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2944. CHAMPVA REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1713

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.84

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Title 38 CFR part 17, section 17.84, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2945. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2946. INFORMED CONSENT FOR PATIENT CARE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.32

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 
(10AE), 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2947. 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


                    ________________________________



2948. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE CARDIOVASCULAR 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

[[Page 22269]]

duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 1155

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 4.100; 38 CFR 4.101; 38 CFR 4.102; 38 CFR 4.103; 
38 CFR 4.104

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is conducting the 
first comprehensive review of its rating schedule since 1945. These 
revisions will update the rating schedule to ensure that it uses 
current medical terminology and unambiguous criteria, and that it 
reflects medical advances that have occurred since the last review. 
This comprehensive review includes a review of the different body 
systems identified under additional information.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/26/90                     55 FR 6658
ANPRM Comment Period End        04/27/90
NPRM                            01/19/93                     58 FR 4954
NPRM Comment Period End         03/22/93
Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: For the purposes of the Regulatory Plan, VA has 
identified the individual schedules for rating disabilities (AE89, 
AE91, AF00, AF01, AF02, AF22, AF23, AF24, AH05, AH43) under the 
umbrella RIN 2900-AE40.

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-AE40
_______________________________________________________________________




2949. 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                    06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2950. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2951. 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                    06/00/97

[[Page 22270]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2952. 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.

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2953. 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                    06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2954. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2955. 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 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                    08/00/97

[[Page 22271]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2956. 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                            01/08/97                     62 FR 1075
NPRM Comment Period End         03/10/97
Final Action                    08/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2957. 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                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jack Bissett, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2958. FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES; MISCELLANEOUS

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.

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501; 38 USC 5502; 38 USC 5503; 38 USC 5504; 38 
USC 5711; 38 USC 7105

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 13.2; 38 CFR 13.3; 38 CFR 13.55; 38 CFR 13.56; 38 
CFR 13.58; 38 CFR 13.59; 38 CFR 13.61; 38 CFR 13.64; 38 CFR 13.69; 38 
CFR 13.74; 38 CFR 13.75; 38 CFR 13.76; 38 CFR 13.100; 38 CFR 13.108; 38 
CFR 13.109; ...

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 and provisions placing 
limitations on compensation payments for certain incompetent veterans 
where the sunset date has expired. 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                    10/00/97

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: 202 275-5924

RIN: 2900-AI14
_______________________________________________________________________




2959. 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

[[Page 22272]]

Agency Contact: Charles A. Graffam, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2960. 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                    08/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2961. 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                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2962. 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                            01/09/97                     62 FR 1303
NPRM Comment Period End         03/10/97
Final Action                    08/00/97

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

RIN: 2900-AI45
_______________________________________________________________________




2963. 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                    06/00/97

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2964.  RESERVISTS EDUCATION: INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE 
MONTGOMERY GI BILL--SELECTED RESERVES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  10 USC 16131(b)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7636

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: By statute, the monthly rates of basic educational assistance 
payable to reservists under the Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve 
for fiscal year 1997 (October 1, 1996, through September 30, 1997) are 
changed to show a 2.7% increase in these rates. Furthermore, the 
Veterans' Benefits improvements Act of 1996 provides that effective 
October 9, 1996, the lower

[[Page 22273]]

rate of educational assistance payable to reservists pursuing 
cooperative training is abolished. They will be paid at the same rate 
as those reservists pursuing a degree in residence. The regulations 
will be changed to reflect the increase in rates and the change in 
statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

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-AI54
_______________________________________________________________________




2965.  RETROACTIVE PAYMENTS DUE TO A LIBERALIZING LAW OR VA 
ISSUE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.114(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To amend adjudication regulations regarding retroactive 
payments of compensation, pension, and dependency and indemnity 
compensation due to a liberalizing law or VA issue.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

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-AI57
_______________________________________________________________________




2966.  REVISION OF DECISION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.105(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To amend VA regulations concerning the revision of decisions 
that were not clearly and unmistakably erroneous on the same factual 
basis. This rulemaking authorizes designated personnel at VA regional 
offices to revise previous determinations based on a difference of 
opinion rather than requiring that they submit such cases to central 
office for a decision.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AI64
_______________________________________________________________________




2967.  VETERAN'S BENEFITS IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1996

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 101(29); 38 USC 5310; 38 USC 5313A; 38 USC 
5121(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.2(f); 38 CFR 3.20(c); 38 CFR 3.307(a); 38 CFR 
3.810(a); 38 CFR 3.810(d); 38 CFR 3.1000(a); 38 CFR 3.1600(c)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To amend VA regulations concerning: The clothing allowance 
based on certain service-connected disabilities; the dates of the 
Vietnam era; the payment of benefits to a surviving spouse for the 
month in which the veteran dies; the period for which accrued benefits 
are payable; and burial allowance eligibility. These amendments are 
based on statutory revisions contained in the veterans' benefits 
improvements act of 1996, Pub. L. 104-275.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AI66
_______________________________________________________________________




2968.  SERVICEMEN'S AND VETERANS GROUP LIFE INSURANCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-275, sec 402; PL 104-275, sec 403; PL 104-274, 
sec 405

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 9.2; 38 CFR 9.8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 402 merged retired reservist Servicemen's Group Life 
Insurance and Veterans' Group Life Insurance and extends Veterans Group 
Life Insurance to members of the Ready Reserves at the time of 
separation from the Reserves. Section 403 allows for the conversion of 
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance and Veterans' Group Life Insurance 
to commercial insurance at any time. Section 405 changes the name of 
the ``Servicemen's Group Life Insurance'' program to the 
``Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance'' program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gregory Hosmer (290B), Senior Insurance Specialist/
Attorney, Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, PO Box 8079, Philadelphia, PA 19101
Phone: 215 842-2000
Fax: 215 381-3504

RIN: 2900-AI73
_______________________________________________________________________




2969.  VETERANS TRAINING: INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER 38 USC 
CHAPTER 31

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3108; 38 USC 3462(e); PL 101-237

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.260(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: By statute, the monthly rates of basic subsistence allowance 
payable under 38 U.S.C. chapter 31 must be

[[Page 22274]]

adjusted each fiscal year. In accordance with the statutory formula, 
the regulations governing rates of basic subsistence allowance payable 
under 38 U.S.C. chapter 31 for fiscal year 1996 are changed to show a 
2.9 increase in these rates.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Layton, Veterans Claims Examiner (28), 
Vocational Rehabilitation & Counseling Svc, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, Dc 20420
Phone: 202 273-7413
Fax: 202 275-5122

RIN: 2900-AI74
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2970. VAAR: COMMERCIAL ITEMS

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 810; 48 CFR 811; 48 CFR 812; 48 CFR 836; 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 Law 102-355 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), 
Acquisition Policy Team, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI05
_______________________________________________________________________




2971. 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 Team, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8818
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: J[email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI28
_______________________________________________________________________




2972. 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                    09/00/97

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: Barbara Danzig, Acquisition Policy Team Leader (95A), 
Acquisition Policy Team, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8817
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI49
_______________________________________________________________________




2973. 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), 
Acquisition Policy Team, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI51

[[Page 22275]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2974.  RESCISSION OF 38 USC 810(C) PROVISIONS IN THE VAAR

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 807; 48 CFR 852

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rulemaking action will amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs Acquisition Regulations (VAAR) to delete coverage relating to 
Veterans Health Administration (VHA) cost comparison studies. The 
coverage being deleted placed certain restrictions on such studies 
pursuant to 38 USC 8110(c). 38 USC 8110(c) has been revised, removing 
those restrictions. Thus, the VAAR is being revised to correspond with 
public law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              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 (95A), Senior Procurement Analyst, 
Office of Acquisition & Materiel Management, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9305
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI61
_______________________________________________________________________




2975.  VA ACQUISITION REGULATIONS: TITLE UPDATE

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

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

CFR Citation:  48 CFR ch 8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This change will update titles and mail routing symbols.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

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: Ramona Jones, Procurement Analyst (95A), Acquisition 
Policy Team, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8818
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: J[email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI62
_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



2976. 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 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2977. APPEALS REGULATIONS: REMAND FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 7102; 38 USC 7103(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: Steven L. 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


                    ________________________________



2978. 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) is issuing a final 
rule concerning disinterments from national cemeteries. A proposed rule 
was published in the Federal Register on June 20, 1996 (61 FR 31479). 
No comments from the public were received. 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

[[Page 22276]]

only if unmarried. The regulation change defines immediate family 
members for purposes of disinterments to include a surviving spouse 
regardless of whether remarried or not. This is necessary since we 
believe the emotional ties of the surviving spouse are sufficient to 
justify his or her consent as a condition of disinterment. This 
document also makes nonsubstantive changes for purpose of 
clarification.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                   Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2979.  SENSORI-NEURAL AIDS ELIGIBILITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-262; 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 1721; 38 USC 1701

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17

Legal Deadline:  Other, Statutory, November 8, 1996.
PL 104-262, Sec 103, Required VA to establish guidelines for the 
provision of a sensori-neural aids by 11/8/96, VHA Directive published 
11/7/96.

Abstract: This Interim Final Rule provides that VA will furnish needed 
Sensori-Neural AIDS to the following veterans: (1) Those with a 
compensable service-connected disability (2) Those who are former 
prisoners of war. (3) Those in receipts of benefits under 38 USC 1151. 
(4) Those in receipt of increased pension based on the need for regular 
aid and attendance or by reason of being permanently housebound. (5) 
Those who have a visual or hearing impairment that resulted from the 
existence of another medical condition for which the veteran is 
receiving VA care, or which resulted from treatment of that medical 
condition. (6) Those with a significant functional or cognitive 
impairment evidenced by deficiencies in the ability to perform 
activities of daily living, but not including routinely occurring 
visual or hearing impairments; and (7) Those visually or hearing 
impaired so severely that the provision of sensori-neural aids is 
necessary to permit active participation in their own medical 
treatment.

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: VA will furnish needed hearing aids to those 
veterans who have service-connected hearing disabilities rated 0 
percent (0%) if there is organic, conductive, mixed or sensory hearing 
impairment and loss of pure tone hearing sensitivity in the low, mid, 
or high frequency range or a combination of frequency ranges which 
contribute to a loss of communication ability; however, hearing aids 
are to be provided only as needed for the service-connected hearing 
disability.

Agency Contact: Frederick Downs, Jr., Chief Consultant, Prosthetic and 
Sensory AIDS Service Strategic Healthcare Group, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8515
Fax: 202 273-9110

RIN: 2900-AI60
_______________________________________________________________________




2980.  PROVISION OF HEALTH CARE TO VIETNAM VETERANS' CHILDREN 
WITH SPINA BIFIDA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-204

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.900

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to establish regulations for provision 
of health care to Vietnam Veteran's children with spina bifida in 
accordance with recently enacted legislation.

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Neil Otchin, Program Chief for Clinical Programs (13), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-8578
Fax: 202 273-9080

RIN: 2900-AI65
_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2981. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2982. 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

[[Page 22277]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2983. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2984. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE RELIEF ON ACCOUNT OF 
ADMINISTRATIVE ERROR

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2.7

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH19
_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



2985. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2986. RULES OF PRACTICE; HEARINGS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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

RIN: 2900-AG07
_______________________________________________________________________




2987. 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
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY


                    ________________________________



2988. 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: Ellis Jones Hodges
Phone: 202 482-6711

RIN: 2900-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR ACQUISITION AND FACILITIES


                    ________________________________



2989. 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
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2990. 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.

[[Page 22278]]

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter Mulhern
Phone: 202 273-5570

RIN: 2900-AI27
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                   Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




2991. 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

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 12.0 to 12.24

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       12/04/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roscoe Butler
Phone: 202 273-8302

RIN: 2900-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________




2992. COMMUNITY RESIDENTIAL CARE PROGRAM AND CONTRACT PROGRAM FOR 
VETERANS WITH ALCOHOL AND DRUG DEPENDENCE DISORDERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

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)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/02/96                    61 FR 63719
Final Action Effective          01/02/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AH61
_______________________________________________________________________




2993. HOMELESS PROVIDERS GRANT AND PER DIEM PROGRAM, CLARIFICATION OF 
PER DIEM ELIGIBILITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 17.700

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/11/97                     62 FR 6121
Final Action Effective          03/13/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Roger Casey, Program Manager
Phone: 202 273-8442

RIN: 2900-AH89
_______________________________________________________________________




2994. REDUCTION OF DEBT THROUGH THE PERFORMANCE OF WORK-STUDY SERVICES

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.929

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/01/97                    62 FR 15400
Final Action Effective          05/01/97

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-AF29
_______________________________________________________________________




2995. CLAIMS BASED ON TOBACCO USE DURING ACTIVE SERVICE

Priority:  Economically Significant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 3.304

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       11/18/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judy Veres
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH58
_______________________________________________________________________




2996. LOAN GUARANTY: LIMITATION ON DISCOUNT POINTS FINANCED IN 
CONNECTION WITH INTEREST RATE REDUCTION REFINANCING LOANS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/24/97                     62 FR 3610
Final Action Effective          01/24/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judith Caden
Phone: 202 273-7368

RIN: 2900-AH90
_______________________________________________________________________




2997. NOTICE OF TIME LIMIT FOR FILING EVIDENCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

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)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       04/24/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI19
_______________________________________________________________________




2998. EVALUATION OF INCOME

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       11/25/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Trowbridge

[[Page 22279]]

Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI20
_______________________________________________________________________




2999. 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.

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/30/96                    61 FR 68665
Final Action Effective          12/30/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steve Tomaske
Phone: 202 273-7256

RIN: 2900-AI39
_______________________________________________________________________




3000. UPGRADED DISCHARGES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/28/97                    62 FR 14822
Final Action Effective          03/28/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry Freiheit
Phone: 202 273-7252

RIN: 2900-AI40
_______________________________________________________________________




3001. 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.

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)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/26/96                    61 FR 67949
Final Action Effective          12/26/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AI43
_______________________________________________________________________




3002. VETERANS EDUCATION: INCREASED ALLOWANCES OF 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                    03/07/97                    62 FR 10454
Final Action Effective          03/07/97

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-AI53
_______________________________________________________________________




3003.  VETERANS EDUCATION: INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE 
MONTGOMERY GI BILL--ACTIVE DUTY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  38 USC 3015; 38 USC 3032

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 21.7136; 38 CFR 21.7137

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: By statute the monthly rates of basic educational assistance 
payable to veterans and servicemembers under the Montgomery GI Bill - 
Active Duty must be adjusted each fiscal year. In accordance with the 
statutory formula, the regulations governing rates of basic educational 
assistance payable under the Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty for fiscal 
year 1997 will be changed to show a 2.7% increase in these rates. 
Furthermore, the Veterans' Benefits Improvements Act of 1996, provides 
that the lower rate of educational assistance payable to veterans 
training under the Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty effective October 
9, 1996. They will be paid at the same rate as those veterans pursuing 
residence training. The regulations are changed to conform to statutory 
requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/28/97                    62 FR 14823
Final Action Effective          03/28/97

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-AI55
_______________________________________________________________________




3004. 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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       06/07/96

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3005.  APPEALS REGULATION: NOTICE OF BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS 
DECISION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 552a(b); 38 USC 5701(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 19.8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals is amending 38 CFR 19.8,

[[Page 22280]]

which among other things, requires the Board to mail copies of its 
decisions to all appellants and representatives. The U.S. Court of 
Veterans Appeals has interpreted the word ``mail'' to mean delivery by 
the U.S. Postal Service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/30/96                    61 FR 68666
Final Action Effective          12/30/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AI59
_______________________________________________________________________




3006. DELEGATION OF SUBPOENA AUTHORITY AND DESCRIPTION OF MEANS OF 
SERVICE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 2.1

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/30/96                    61 FR 68665
Final Action Effective          12/30/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Barry Tapp
Phone: 202 273-6334

RIN: 2900-AH00
_______________________________________________________________________




3007.  DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO DEPUTY GENERAL COUNSEL AND 
ASSISTANT GENERAL COUNSEL FOR PROFESSIONAL STAFF GROUP IV IN MATTERS 
CONCERNING INVENTION AND PATENTS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 512(a)

CFR Citation:  38 CFR 1.653; 38 CFR 1.654; 38 CFR 1.657

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment provides for the delegation of authority for 
making determinations regarding right, title and interest in employee 
inventions to the Assistant General Counsel for Professional Staff 
Group IV.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/28/97                    62 FR 14822
Final Action Effective          03/28/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bill Dangoia (024), Staff Attorney, General Counsel, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-6382
Fax: 202 273-6388

RIN: 2900-AI75
[FR Doc. 97-5793 Filed 04-24-97; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8320-01-F