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


Part XVI





Department of Veterans Affairs





_______________________________________________________________________



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 23386]]



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 2000. The purpose in publishing the 
Department's regulatory agenda is to allow all interested persons the 
opportunity to participate in VA's regulatory planning.

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

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:  Gloria Armstrong at (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 that VA will have under development 
or review.

 Thomas O. Gessel,

Director, Office of Regulations Management.

                                  Department of Veterans Affairs--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2978        Medication Prescribing Authority....................................................     2900-AK05
2979        Standards for Collection, Compromise, Suspension, or Termination of Collection           2900-AK10
            Effort; Regional Office Committee on Waiver and Compromises.........................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Department of Veterans Affairs--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2980        Exemption from Pharmacy Copay.......................................................     2900-AJ12
2981        Medical Care and Treatment for Which VA Will Not Seek Reimbursement.................     2900-AJ20
2982        Clothing Allowance..................................................................     2900-AJ21
2983        Provision of Aids to the Blind......................................................     2900-AJ22
2984        Priorities for State Home Grants for Construction, Acquisition, or Renovation.......     2900-AJ43
2985        Per Diem for Adult Day Health Care of Veterans in State Homes.......................     2900-AJ74
2986        Policy Regarding Participation in National Practitioner Data Bank...................     2900-AJ76
2987        Aids for the Blind..................................................................     2900-AJ83
2988        Therapeutic Housing.................................................................     2900-AK01
2989        Reimbursement/Payment for Uninsured Veterans' Non-VA Emergency Medical Care.........     2900-AK08
2990        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Orthopedic System.............................     2900-AE91
2991        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders..     2900-AF23
2992        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Digestive System..................................     2900-AF24
2993        Revised Definition of Net Value and Revised Criteria for Pre-Foreclosure Debt            2900-AG20
            Waivers.............................................................................
2994        Total Disability Evaluations Based on Inability of the Individual to Engage in           2900-AH21
            Substantially Gainful Employment....................................................
2995        Evidence on File at Date of Death...................................................     2900-AH42
2996        Ankylosis and Limitation of Motion of Digits of the Hands...........................     2900-AI44
2997        Veterans Education: Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements at Flight Schools......     2900-AJ23
2998        Dependents Education: Verification of Pursuit and Continued Enrollment..............     2900-AJ41
2999        Revised Criteria for Monetary Allowance for a Child Born with Spina Bifida Who Is a      2900-AJ51
            Child of a Vietnam Veteran..........................................................
3000        Certification Evidence for Proof of Service.........................................     2900-AJ55
3001        Schedule for Rating Disability: The Spine...........................................     2900-AJ60
3002        Education Provisions of the Veterans Programs Enhancement Act of 1998...............     2900-AJ68
3003        Accelerated Benefits Option for Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance and Veterans'       2900-AJ80
            Group Life Insurance................................................................
3004        Evidence of Permanent and Total Disability..........................................     2900-AJ82
3005        Schedule for Rating Disabilities: Global Assessment of Functioning Scale in the          2900-AJ84
            Evaluation of Mental Disorders......................................................
3006        Benefit of the Doubt................................................................     2900-AJ93
3007        Permanent Incapacity for Self-Support...............................................     2900-AJ95
3008        Presumptive Service Connection for Hepatitis C Infection............................     2900-AJ96
3009        Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Claims Based on Personal Assault.....................     2900-AK00
3010        Minimum Active Duty Requirement.....................................................     2900-AK02
3011        State Department as Agent of Department of Veterans Affairs.........................     2900-AK03

[[Page 23387]]

 
3012        Signature by Mark...................................................................     2900-AK07
3013        Commencement of the Period of Payment...............................................     2900-AK09
3014        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation--Simplified Acquisition            2900-AI71
            Procedures for Health Care Resources................................................
3015        Contractor Qualifications...........................................................     2900-AJ05
3016        VA Acquisition Regulation Part 819, Small Business and Small Disadvantaged Business      2900-AJ36
            Concerns............................................................................
3017        Universal Product Numbers (UPNs)....................................................     2900-AJ45
3018        Construction and Architect-Engineer Contracts.......................................     2900-AJ56
3019        Board of Veterans Appeals: Rules of Practice--Subpoenas.............................     2900-AJ58
3020        Notice of Appeal in Simultaneously Contested Claims.................................     2900-AJ73
3021        Rules of Practice; Jursidiction.....................................................     2900-AJ97
3022        Headstone and Marker Inscription Policy.............................................     2900-AH45
3023        State Cemetery Grants: Aid to States for Establishment, Expansion, and Improvement       2900-AH46
            of Veterans Cemeteries..............................................................
3024        Eligibility for Burial of Dependent Adult Children of Eligible Veterans.............     2900-AI95
3025        Use of the Secretary's Authority as Provided by 38 U.S.C. 2402(6)...................     2900-AJ48
3026        Outer Burial Receptacles............................................................     2900-AJ49
3027        Interment or Memorialization in VA National Cemeteries and Certain State Cemeteries--    2900-AJ77
            Federal or State Capital Crime......................................................
3028        Audits of States, Local Governments, and Nonprofit Organizations; Grants and             2900-AJ62
            Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Nonprofit
            Organizations.......................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3029        Provision of Drugs and Medicines Prescribed by Non-VA Physicians....................     2900-AJ24
3030        Advanced Health Care Planning.......................................................     2900-AJ28
3031        Provision of Drugs and Medicines to Certain Veterans in State Nursing Homes.........     2900-AJ34
3032        Loan Guaranty: Title Evidence Requirements and Occupancy Requirements for Conveyance     2900-AE20
            of Properties to VA.................................................................
3033        Acceptance of Partial Payments; Indemnification of Default..........................     2900-AE60
3034        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Skin..........................................     2900-AF00
3035        Amendments to Training and Rehabilitation Programs..................................     2900-AG00
3036        Vision..............................................................................     2900-AH43
3037        Intervertebral Disc Syndrome........................................................     2900-AI22
3038        Claims Based on Aggravation of Nonservice-Connected Disability......................     2900-AI42
3039        New Criteria for Approval of Courses for Educational Assistance Programs............     2900-AI67
3040        Reservist Education: Monthly Verification of Enrollment and Other Reports...........     2900-AI68
3041        Veterans Training: Increase in Rates Payable Under 38 U.S.C. Chapter 31.............     2900-AI74
3042        Use of Facilities To Provide Training or Work Experience for Veterans...............     2900-AJ01
3043        Eligibility Reporting Requirements..................................................     2900-AJ09
3044        Dependents Education: Eligibility and Entitlement Standards.........................     2900-AJ19
3045        Veterans' Benefits Act of 1997......................................................     2900-AJ25
3046        Cash Value for National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) Term Capped Policies..........     2900-AJ35
3047        Well Grounded Claims/Duty to Assist.................................................     2900-AJ44
3048        Exclusions from Income..............................................................     2900-AJ52
3049        Claims Based on Effect of Tobacco Products..........................................     2900-AJ59
3050        Modified Eligibility Criteria for the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty...............     2900-AJ69
3051        National Service Life Insurance.....................................................     2900-AJ78
3052        Increase in Rates Payable under the Montgomery GI Bill--Selected Reserve............     2900-AJ88
3053        Increase in Rates Payable under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty.................     2900-AJ89
3054        Miscellaneous Montgomery GI Bill Eligibility and Entitlement Issues.................     2900-AJ90
3055        Review of Benefit Claims Decisions..................................................     2900-AJ99
3056        Veterans Millennium Health Care and Benefits Act....................................     2900-AK04
3057        Revised Definition of a Program of Education Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active        2900-AK06
            Duty and Other Miscellaneous Issues.................................................
3058        VA Acquisition Regulations Part 801, Legal/Technical Review Requirements............     2900-AI96
3059        Sealed Bidding and Competitive Proposals............................................     2900-AI99

[[Page 23388]]

 
3060        VA Acquisition Regulations: Part 802, Definition of ``Head of Contracting Activity''     2900-AJ26
3061        VA Acquisition Regulations: Part 801, VA Contracting Officer Certification Program..     2900-AJ33
3062        Board of Veterans Appeals--Rules of Practice--Attorney Fee Matters..................     2900-AI98
3063        Delegations of Authority--Appeals Regulations and Rules of Practice.................     2900-AJ66
3064        Notification of Representatives in Connection with Motions for Revision of Decisions     2900-AJ75
            on Grounds of Clear and Unmistakable Error..........................................
3065        The Board of Veterans Appeal; Rules of Practice--Motion for Review of Decisions on       2900-AJ85
            Grounds of Clear and Unmistakable Error: Content of Record; Advancement on the
            Docket..............................................................................
3066        Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex in Education Programs and Activities Receiving     2900-AJ11
            or Benefiting From Federal Financial Assistance.....................................
3067        Delegation of Authority--Decisionmaking Regarding Discrimination....................     2900-AJ63
3068        Release of Information from Department of Veterans Affairs Records..................     2900-AH98
3069        Recognition of Organizations and Accreditation of Representatives...................     2900-AI93
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3070        Protection of Human Subjects........................................................     2900-AJ08
3071        Child Custody.......................................................................     2900-AI10
3072        Loan Guaranty: Advertising and Solicitation Disclosure Requirements.................     2900-AJ86
3073        Loan Guaranty: Revision to VA Work Rules for Credit Scored Loans....................     2900-AJ91
3074        Loan Guaranty: Credit Standards Revision............................................     2900-AJ92
3075        Appeals Regulations; Rules of Practice..............................................     2900-AE78
3076        Rules of Practice; Hearings.........................................................     2900-AG07
3077        Rules of Practice: Medical Opinions; Appeal Processing and Submission of Additional      2900-AG90
            Evidence............................................................................
3078        Operation of Child Care Centers at VA Facilities....................................     2900-AD48
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3079        Per Diem for Nursing Home Care of Veterans in State Homes...........................     2900-AE87
3080        Medical Evidence That a Disability Has Improved.....................................     2900-AH82
3081        New Eligibility Criteria for the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty, Other                  2900-AI63
            Miscellaneous Issues................................................................
3082        Revision of Decision................................................................     2900-AI64
3083        Amended Criteria for Approval of Flight Training Courses............................     2900-AI76
3084        Child...............................................................................     2900-AJ54
3085        DIC Benefits for Survivors of Certain Veterans Rated Totally Disabled at Time of         2900-AJ65
            Death...............................................................................
3086        Rate Increase for the Educational Assistance Test Program; 1999-2000 Academic Year..     2900-AJ87
3087        VA Acquisition Regulations: Simplified Acquisition Procedures.......................     2900-AJ16
3088        Application of Labor Laws to Government Acquisitions................................     2900-AJ81
3089        Appeals Regulations, Rules of Practice: Title Change................................     2900-AJ57
3090        Case Docketing--Appeals Regulations and Rules of Practice...........................     2900-AJ72
3091        Board of Veterans Appeals: Rules of Practice--Revision of Decisions on Grounds of        2900-AJ98
            Clear and Unmistakable Error; Clarification.........................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 23389]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                       Prerule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2978.  MEDICATION PRESCRIBING AUTHORITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17; 38 CFR 17.33

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Veterans Health Administration of the Department of 
Veterans Affairs is considering amending its medical regulations to 
specify those who are eligible to prescribe medications. The 
supplementary information portion of the document contains a 
preliminary list of those under consideration for prescribing 
medications. To help formulate a proposed rule regarding medication 
prescribing authority, an advance notice of proposed rulemaking 
solicits written comments and announces a public hearing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Audrey Crenshew Drake, Program Director Nursing (118), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8424
Fax: 202 273-9066
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK05



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2979.  STANDARDS FOR COLLECTION, COMPROMISE, SUSPENSION, OR 
TERMINATION OF COLLECTION EFFORT; REGIONAL OFFICE COMMITTEE ON WAIVER 
AND COMPROMISES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Legal Authority: 31 USC 3700; 38 USC 501; 38 USC 5302; 38 USC 5314; 38 
USC 5315

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 900-904; 38 CFR 1.900-1.970

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to revise 
its current regulations on debt collection by eliminating some and 
cross-referencing the remainder to the revised DOJ/Treasury 
Governmentwide Federal Claims Collection Standards (31 CFR parts 900-
904). These regulations will also be updated to comply with the Debt 
Collection Improvement Act of 1996. In addition, VA also proposes to 
amend regulations pertaining to the administration of our Regional 
Office Committees on Waivers and Compromises.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter T. Mulhern, Office of Financial Management 
(047GC1), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5570
TDD Phone: 202 273 6574

RIN: 2900-AK10
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                 Proposed Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2980. EXEMPTION FROM PHARMACY COPAY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1521; 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.96

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action clearly establishes the base pension rate 
adjustment for number of dependents as the income threshold as a means 
to determine exemption from medication copayment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Carolyn S. West, Acting Director, Field Support, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8206
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ12
_______________________________________________________________________




2981. MEDICAL CARE AND TREATMENT FOR WHICH VA WILL NOT SEEK 
REIMBURSEMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1729

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend VA's medical regulations to 
provide that, under specified conditions, VA will not seek 
reimbursement from health insurance carriers or from veterans in the 
form of copayments for care or services not adjudicated as service 
connected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Howard, Senior Program Analyst, Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8198

RIN: 2900-AJ20

[[Page 23390]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2982. CLOTHING ALLOWANCE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1162

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.810

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulatory action needs to be amended to contain specific 
language that submission of torn, worn, damaged clothing is not a 
specific condition for approving clothing allowances.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ21
_______________________________________________________________________




2983. PROVISION OF AIDS TO THE BLIND

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1162; 38 USC 1710; 38 USC 1714(b)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.810

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulatory action needs to be amended to contain specific 
language for furnishing aids for the blind as part of prosthetic 
services to veterans receiving VA care under the authority of 38 U.S.C. 
section 1710, as amended by Public Law 104-262 and to those veterans 
eligible under the authority of 38 U.S.C. 1714(b).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ22
_______________________________________________________________________




2984. PRIORITIES FOR STATE HOME GRANTS FOR CONSTRUCTION, ACQUISITION, OR 
RENOVATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.216; 38 CFR 17.222

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs regulations concerning State homes. VA provides funds to States 
for projects for the construction, acquisition, or renovation of State 
veterans nursing homes and State veterans domiciliaries. VA also 
provides funds for projects for renovating existing State veterans 
hospital facilities provided that the renovations would not expand a 
State's capacity to furnish hospital care. This notice of proposed 
rulemaking requests comments regarding what regulations should be 
established with respect to the priorities for awarding State home 
grants for construction, acquisition, or renovation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Kathleen Greve, Chief, State Home Construction Program 
(114), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 
810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8536
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ43
_______________________________________________________________________




2985. PER DIEM FOR ADULT DAY HEALTH CARE OF VETERANS IN STATE HOMES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1741; 38 USC 1742; 38 USC 1743

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 51; 38 CFR 58

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to establish regulations setting forth 
a mechanism for paying per diem to State homes providing adult day 
health care to eligible veterans. The intended effect of the proposed 
regulations is to ensure that veterans receive high quality care in 
State homes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: L. Nan Stout, Chief, State Home Per Diem Program (114), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8538
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ74
_______________________________________________________________________




2986. POLICY REGARDING PARTICIPATION IN NATIONAL PRACTITIONER DATA BANK

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1110 to 11152

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 46

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to amend its 
regulations concerning the reporting of physicians, dentists, and other 
health care practitioners to the National Practitioner Data Bank 
(NPDB). These regulations concern malpractice payment reporting and 
clinical privileges actions reporting. These amendments appear to be 
necessary to make the reporting process more efficient and fair and to 
ensure that reporting is accomplished in accordance with the statutory 
framework.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ellen Fox Ph.D., Director, National Center for Ethics 
(10AE), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 
810

[[Page 23391]]

Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6926

Kathryn W. Enchelmayer, Office of Quality and Performance (10Q), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-8936

RIN: 2900-AJ76
_______________________________________________________________________




2987. AIDS FOR THE BLIND

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1701; 38 USC 1710; 38 USC 1714(b)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17; 37 CFR 17.154

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to establish regulations setting forth 
the requirements for the provision of mechanical and electronic 
equipment to aid blind veterans in overcoming the handicap of 
blindness.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Don Garner, Director of Blind Rehabilitation Service, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8481

Rose Mary McMahon, Executive Assistant, Veterans Health Administration, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-8482

RIN: 2900-AJ83
_______________________________________________________________________




2988.  THERAPEUTIC HOUSING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1772

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking proposes to establish provisions regarding 
payment rates and length of stay for veterans residing in housing under 
VA's Compensation Work Therapy/Transitional Residences program. These 
provisions are designed to ensure that veterans pay an equitable amount 
and stay only for the time necessary to meet the intended goals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Christine Woods, Program Specialist, Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, HQ-Psychosocial 
Rehabilitation Services, Bldg. 148, Rm D133, VA Medical Center, 
Hampton, VA 23669
Phone: 757 722-9961
Fax: 757 728-3143

RIN: 2900-AK01
_______________________________________________________________________




2989.  REIMBURSEMENT/PAYMENT FOR UNINSURED VETERANS' NON-VA 
EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1725; PL 106-117

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, May 22, 2000, 180 days after effective 
date of PL 106-117.

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs medical regulations to provide regulations governing the 
circumstances which certain reimbursement or payment may be provided 
for certain uninsured enrolled veterans' non-VA emergency treatment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   05/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roscoe G. Butler, Chief, Policy and Operations (10C3), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8302
Fax: 202 273-9609
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK08



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2990. 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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/28/90                    55 FR 53315
ANPRM Comment Period End        02/26/91
NPRM                            07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AE91
_______________________________________________________________________




2991. 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

[[Page 23392]]

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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/02/91                    56 FR 20169
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/01/91
NPRM                            11/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AF23
_______________________________________________________________________




2992. 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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/02/91                    56 FR 20168
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/01/91
NPRM                            09/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AF24
_______________________________________________________________________




2993. REVISED DEFINITION OF NET VALUE AND REVISED CRITERIA FOR PRE-
FORECLOSURE DEBT WAIVERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 3720(a); 38 USC 3732(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4301; 38 CFR 36.4323

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is proposing to amend its 
loan guaranty regulations to revise the definition of property 
improvements for purposes of determining the net value of a foreclosed 
property and to clarify VA's position on pre-foreclosure debt waivers 
for liable veterans in cases involving transferee defaults. These 
changes will account for actual property appraisal procedures and will 
clarify Agency policy on preforeclosure debt waivers. Note: Because the 
original Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) was published on 
September 22, 1993 (58 FR 49251), VA will republish the NPRM to provide 
for a new notice and comment period before proceeding with a final 
rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/22/93                    58 FR 49251
NPRM Comment Period End         10/22/93
Second NPRM                     05/00/00
Second NPRM Comment Period End  06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Fyne, Assistant Director for Loan Management 
(261), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7380

RIN: 2900-AG20
_______________________________________________________________________




2994. TOTAL DISABILITY EVALUATIONS BASED ON INABILITY OF THE INDIVIDUAL 
TO ENGAGE IN SUBSTANTIALLY GAINFUL EMPLOYMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 512(a); 38 USC 1110; 38 USC 
1131; 38 USC 1155; 38 USC 1502; 38 USC 1521(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.321; 38 CFR 3.340; 38 CFR 3.341; 38 CFR 3.342; 
38 CFR 4.16; 38 CFR 4.17; 38 CFR 4.18

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend the regulations in part 3 of title 38, 
United States Code, and in the Schedule for Rating Disabilities in part 
4 to provide clear and objective standards for determining whether a 
veteran is entitled to a total evaluation based on his or her inability 
to perform substantially gainful employment due to disability.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH21
_______________________________________________________________________




2995. EVIDENCE ON 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

[[Page 23393]]

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                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AH42
_______________________________________________________________________




2996. ANKYLOSIS AND LIMITATION OF MOTION OF DIGITS OF THE HANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.71a

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AI44
_______________________________________________________________________




2997. VETERANS EDUCATION: REPORTING AND RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS AT 
FLIGHT SCHOOLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 16136; 38 USC 3002; 38 USC 3034; 38 USC 3202; 
38 USC 3241; 38 USC 3452; 38 USC 3471; 38 USC 5101

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4235; 38 CFR 21.4263

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Veterans are required by statute to apply for any benefit the 
Department of Veterans Affairs administers. This proposal will describe 
the information to be included in an application for educational 
assistance for the pursuit of flight training. VA believes that, in 
order to comply with various statutory requirements connected with the 
educational programs VA administers, flight schools with courses 
approved for VA training will have to keep some records beyond those 
required by the Federal Aviation Administration. This proposal will 
state those recordkeeping requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AJ23
_______________________________________________________________________




2998. DEPENDENTS EDUCATION: VERIFICATION OF PURSUIT AND CONTINUED 
ENROLLMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3680; 38 USC 5113

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4135; 38 CFR 21.4138; 38 CFR 21.4204; 38 CFR 
21.5130; 38 CFR 21.5131; 38 CFR 21.5133; 38 CFR 21.5200

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA will propose revising the effective dates of reductions in 
payments of Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) and 
will propose revising the effective dates of reductions in payment of 
educational assistance under the Post-Vietnam Era Veterans Educational 
Assistance Program (VEAP). VA also will propose to remove the 
requirement that an individual must verify his or her continued 
enrollment in and pursuit of a program of education leading to a 
standard college degree before VA will make the monthly payment of 
educational assistance under either DEA or VEAP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AJ41
_______________________________________________________________________




2999. REVISED CRITERIA FOR MONETARY ALLOWANCE FOR A CHILD BORN WITH 
SPINA BIFIDA WHO IS A CHILD OF A VIETNAM VETERAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1805

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.814

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To revise criteria for evaluation of spina bifida by 
clarifying them and making them more objective.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/13/00                    65 FR 13254
NPRM Comment Period End         05/12/00
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 23394]]

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AJ51
_______________________________________________________________________




3000. CERTIFICATION EVIDENCE FOR PROOF OF SERVICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.203

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To allow the claimants' representatives to certify 
photocopies as proof of service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Attorney-Advisor, Compensation and Pension 
(211), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7402
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ55
_______________________________________________________________________




3001. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITY: THE SPINE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.71a

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment will contain additions, deletions, and 
revisions of terminology pertaining to spinal disabilities based on a 
systematic review of the medical criteria used to evaluate disabilities 
of the spine.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AJ60
_______________________________________________________________________




3002. EDUCATION PROVISIONS OF THE VETERANS PROGRAMS ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 
1998

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 16136; 38 USC 3034; 38 USC 3241; 38 USC 3485; 
38 USC 3537; 38 USC 3677; 38 USC 3684; 38 USC 5101

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4145; 38 CFR 21.4200; 38 CFR 21.4206; 38 CFR 
21.4262

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will bring VA's educational assistance regulations 
into agreement with the Veterans Program Enhancement Act of 1998. This 
will include revising the calculation of the reporting fee paid to 
educational institutions; making advance payments to work-study 
students optional rather than mandatory; and revising the approval 
criteria for on-job training programs offered by the Federal Government 
or by State or local governments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AJ68
_______________________________________________________________________




3003. ACCELERATED BENEFITS OPTION FOR SERVICEMEMBERS' GROUP LIFE 
INSURANCE AND VETERANS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 105-368, sec 302

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 9.13

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 302 of the Veterans Program Enhancement Act of 1998 
(Pub. L. 105-368) authorizes the payment of accelerated benefits in the 
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) and Veterans' Group Life 
Insurance (VGLI) programs, effective February 9, 1999. This rule amends 
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regulations by providing an 
accelerated benefit option that will permit terminally ill members 
access to life insurance benefits before they die.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gregory C. Hosmer, Senior Attorney/Insurance 
Specialist, Insurance Program Administration & Oversight, Department of 
Veterans Affairs, P.O. Box 8079, Philadelphia, PA 19101
Phone: 215 842-2000

RIN: 2900-AJ80
_______________________________________________________________________




3004. EVIDENCE OF PERMANENT AND TOTAL DISABILITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.3(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment would allow VA to accept the following types 
of evidence as establishing that a veteran is permanently and totally 
disabled, without need for medical evidence: (1) Status as a nursing 
home patient, (2) SSA determination of total disability, and (3) 
attainment of age 65.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420

[[Page 23395]]

Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AJ82
_______________________________________________________________________




3005. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES: GLOBAL ASSESSMENT OF FUNCTIONING 
SCALE IN THE EVALUATION OF MENTAL DISORDERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.125

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To assure evaluation of mental disorders is based solely on 
rating schedule criteria.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AJ84
_______________________________________________________________________




3006. BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 5107(b)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.102

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action proposes to amend 38 CFR part 3 by adding a new
subpart D--Universal Adjudication Rules. This new subpart would consist 
of reorganized sections from existing subpart A. The first of these 
sections to be reorganized is the general concept of ``benefit of the 
doubt.'' The intended effect of this amendment is to retain the 
existing provision but rewritten in a reorganized format using plain 
language principles and recognizing decisions of the U.S. Court of 
Appeals for Veterans Claims.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert M. White, Team Leader, Plain Language 
Regulations Project, Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7228
Fax: 202 275-4800

RIN: 2900-AJ93
_______________________________________________________________________




3007. PERMANENT INCAPACITY FOR SELF-SUPPORT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 1115; 38 USC 1311; 38 USC 1313; 
38 USC 1314; 38 USC 1521; 38 USC 1541; 38 USC 1542; PL 101-508; PL 102-
568

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.356

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action proposes to amend 38 CFR part 3 to conform it to 
the Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, Plain Language in 
Government Writing, by revising provisions on helpless children in 
section 3.356 and by incorporating rules on helpless children in VA's 
Adjudication Procedures Manual, M21-I.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert M. White, Team Leader, Plain Language 
Regulations Project, Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7228
Fax: 202 275-4800

RIN: 2900-AJ95
_______________________________________________________________________




3008.  PRESUMPTIVE SERVICE CONNECTION FOR HEPATITIS C INFECTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.318

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs adjudication regulations to establish presumptive service 
connection for hepatitis C infection in veterans who underwent certain 
treatment procedures during active military, naval, or air service. The 
intended effect of this rule is to ensure that veterans who may have 
been exposed to the hepatitis C virus during active military service, 
because they underwent hemodialysis, tranfusion of blood or blood 
products before January 1, 1993, or solid organ transplant before 
January 1, 1993, will be service-connected for hepatitis C infection.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AJ96
_______________________________________________________________________




3009.  POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER CLAIMS BASED ON PERSONAL 
ASSAULT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1154

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.304

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs (VA) adjudication regulations on the proof of stressor in 
claims for service connection of post-traumatic stress disorder 
resulting from personal assault. It provides that alternative evidence 
other than the veteran's military records may constitute credible 
supporting evidence of the stressor. It also implements decisions by 
the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, which state that VA 
Adjudication Procedure Manual provisions on this issue are the 
equivalent of regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/00

[[Page 23396]]

NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Attorney-Advisor, Compensation and Pension 
(211), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7402
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK00
_______________________________________________________________________




3010.  MINIMUM ACTIVE DUTY REQUIREMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 5303A

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 3.12a

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document explains the minimum active-duty service 
requirement (MADSR) for entitlement to VA benefits in ``plain 
language.'' It incorporates a provision from the adjudication 
procedures manual, M21-1, not currently addressed in the regulation, to 
allow for public comment. It also corrects in M21-1, the date of 
enactment of the law under which the MADSR was authorized. This does 
not affect entitlement or eligibility to VA benefits previously 
established under the manual provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Candice Weaver, Consultant, Compensation and Pension, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7235

RIN: 2900-AK02
_______________________________________________________________________




3011.  STATE DEPARTMENT AS AGENT OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS 
AFFAIRS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 5106

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 3.108

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document reorganizes and rewrites in ``plain language'' 
the regulation that identifies the State Department as an agent of the 
Department of Veterans Affairs for purposes of accepting, developing, 
and assisting with claims and evidence. It
incorporates a provision in the adjudication procedures manual 
regarding services offered by the Department of State.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Candice Weaver, Consultant, Compensation and Pension, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7235

RIN: 2900-AK03
_______________________________________________________________________




3012.  SIGNATURE BY MARK

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 5101

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 3.113

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document explains in ``plain language'' how a claimant 
can use a mark or thumbprint in place of a signature. It also proposes 
to withdraw the requirement for a separate sheet of paper to certify 
the accuracy of the information provided on an Eligibility Verification 
Report signed by a mark or thumbprint.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Candice Weaver, Consultant, Compensation and Pension, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7235

RIN: 2900-AK07
_______________________________________________________________________




3013.  COMMENCEMENT OF THE PERIOD OF PAYMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 5111

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 3.31

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document explains in ``plain language'' when benefit 
payments begin for certain original, reopened, or increased awards. It 
also clarifies procedures to enhance consistency of application and 
proposes to remove two requirements from the adjudication procedures 
manual, M21-1, that are inconsistent with governing authority.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Candice Weaver, Consultant, Compensation and Pension, 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7235

RIN: 2900-AK09



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



3014. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION--SIMPLIFIED 
ACQUISITION PROCEDURES FOR HEALTH CARE RESOURCES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 8153

[[Page 23397]]

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 801; 48 CFR 806; 48 CFR 812; 48 CFR 837; 48 CFR 
852; 48 CFR 873

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA intends to withdraw the proposed rule concerning 
simplified acquisition procedures for health care resources published 
in the Federal Register on November 9, 1998 (63 FR 60256), and to 
promulgate a new proposed rule concerning simplified acquisition 
procedures for health care resources. The new proposed rule document 
would amend the Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation 
(VAAR) to establish simplified procedures for the competitive 
acquisition of health care resources, consisting of commercial services 
or the use of medical equipment or space, pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8151-
8153. Public Law 104-262, the Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Reform 
Act of 1996, authorized VA to prescribe simplified procedures for the 
procurement of health care resources. The proposed rule would prescribe 
those procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/09/98                    63 FR 60256
NPRM Comment Period End         01/08/99
Second NPRM                     10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 2900-AI71
_______________________________________________________________________




3015. CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 809

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend VA 
Acquisition Regulation to update VA debarment and suspension 
procedures, remove a certification requirement regarding conflict of 
interest, add a standard provision for use by contracting officers to 
collect currently required information, update references and titles, 
delegate authority, reorganize material, and delete obsolete material.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 2900-AJ05
_______________________________________________________________________




3016. VA ACQUISITION REGULATION PART 819, SMALL BUSINESS AND SMALL 
DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS CONCERNS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 819

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes to amend part 819 of the VA Acquisition 
Regulation (VAAR) to remove obsolete material, to update references and 
titles, and to amend the VAAR to correspond to the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation (FAR).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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: Rita Williams, Senior Procurement Analyst (95A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Acquisition & Materiel 
Management, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8774
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ36
_______________________________________________________________________




3017. UNIVERSAL PRODUCT NUMBERS (UPNS)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 811; 48 CFR 852

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking action would provide new contract clauses 
whereby Department of Veterans Affairs contracting officers could 
require contractors to furnish products marked at the case, box, and 
unit of use levels with Universal Product Numbers (UPNs) for scanning 
using bar code readers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

[[Page 23398]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ45
_______________________________________________________________________




3018. CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 801; 48 CFR 832; 48 CFR 836; 48 CFR 843; 48 CFR 
846; 48 CFR 852

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) to revise and update section 
numbers and titles, to make minor grammatical corrections and 
revisions, to delegate authority, and to update parts 836, Construction 
and Architect-Engineer Contracts, and 852, Solicitation Provisions and 
Contract Clauses, all to correspond to the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation (FAR). The rule would clarify how existing VAAR clauses 
relating to construction contracts are to be used, remove obsolete or 
duplicative materials, update the VAAR regarding certified cost or 
pricing data, and provide Agency procedures regarding disclosure of the 
Government cost estimate on construction contracts. The rule would also 
remove a ``guarantee'' clause from the VAAR and provide for VA 
contracting officers to use the FAR ``warranty'' clause for 
construction contracts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is a 
statutory requirement. There is a paperwork burden associated with this 
action.

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

RIN: 2900-AJ56



_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



3019. BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS: RULES OF PRACTICE--SUBPOENAS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 5711; 38 USC 5713; 38 USC 
7102(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.711

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA has the authority to issue subpoenas to compel the 
attendance of witnesses and/or the production of evidence. This 
authority has been delegated to Members of the Board through Rule of 
Practice 711 (38 CFR 20.711), which also sets forth the relevant 
procedures and generally provides that subpoenas will be issued 
pursuant to a motion filed with the Board, which is in turn decided by 
a Board Member or panel of Members.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/15/00                     65 FR 7468
NPRM Comment Period End         04/17/00
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ58
_______________________________________________________________________




3020. NOTICE OF APPEAL IN SIMULTANEOUSLY CONTESTED CLAIMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.192; 38 CFR 20.502

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans Appeals is amending its Appeals 
Regulation and a Rule of Practice concerning simultaneously contested 
claims to make them more consistent with an authorizing statute and 
with each other. The statutory provision is currently implemented in 
two regulations. 38 U.S.C. 7105A(b) provides that when one contesting 
party files his or her ``formal appeal'' the ``substance'' of the 
formal appeal will be communicated to the other contesting parties who 
then have 30 days to file an answering brief or argument.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ73
_______________________________________________________________________




3021.  RULES OF PRACTICE; JURSIDICTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 511(a); 38 USC 7104; 38 USC 
7105; 38 USC 7108

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.101; 38 CFR 20.203

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans Appeals is responsible for ensuring 
that it has jurisdiction over cases before it prior to adjudicating 
those cases on their merits. The proposed regulatory amendments would 
make it clear that the Board may raise jurisdictional issues sua sponte 
and they provide procedural protections for parties (permit a hearing 
and submission of argument and evidence) when it does so.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven L. Keller, Senior Deputy Vice Chairman (01C),

[[Page 23399]]

Department of Veterans Affairs, Board of Veterans Appeals, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-5978

RIN: 2900-AJ97



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



3022. HEADSTONE AND MARKER INSCRIPTION POLICY

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 2306

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1.630; 38 CFR 1.632

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule revises 38 CFR 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 implementation of an all-inclusive inscription 
policy. This policy change provides for the payment at Government 
expense of text only, space permitting, for optional inscriptions on 
all Government headstones or markers. The rule is published as a 
proposed rule in the Federal Register to provide information to the 
public on specific changes to VA's inscription policy for Government 
furnished headstones or markers. A 60-day public comment period is 
provided. 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                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Deanna L Wilson, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5154
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AH45
_______________________________________________________________________




3023. STATE CEMETERY GRANTS: AID TO STATES FOR ESTABLISHMENT, EXPANSION, 
AND IMPROVEMENT OF VETERANS CEMETERIES

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 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 not 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                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Deanna L Wilson, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5154
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AH46
_______________________________________________________________________




3024. ELIGIBILITY FOR BURIAL OF DEPENDENT ADULT CHILDREN OF ELIGIBLE 
VETERANS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 2402(5)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1.620(c)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend 
regulations to specify that the eligibility of veterans' adult children 
for burial in a national cemetery is only for those who have become 
permanently incapable of self support before attaining the age of 21 
years due to a physical or mental disability. Current regulations do 
not clearly express this requirement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Deanna L Wilson, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5154
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AI95
_______________________________________________________________________




3025. USE OF THE SECRETARY'S AUTHORITY AS PROVIDED BY 38 U.S.C. 2402(6)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 2402(6)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1.620(d)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is issuing a proposed 
rule to define individuals and groups of individuals, who are otherwise 
not eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery, that would be 
considered under the Secretary's authority in 38 U.S.C. 2402(6). These 
new regulations establish a consistent basis for VA to determine those 
individuals or groups of individuals that VA may consider for 
eligibility under 38 U.S.C. 2402(6).

[[Page 23400]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Deanna L Wilson, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5154
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AJ48
_______________________________________________________________________




3026. OUTER BURIAL RECEPTACLES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); PL 104-275

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1.629

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is issuing a proposed 
rule to implement the provisions of Public Law 104-275 regarding outer 
burial receptacles. The proposal establishes new regulations to notify 
individuals that they may choose to privately purchase an outer burial 
receptacle in lieu of using a Government-provided grave liner in VA 
national cemeteries, where such grave liners are authorized. VA will 
provide a monetary allowance for the privately purchased outer burial 
receptacle. The proposed rule establishes the requirements for the 
allowance to be paid and the manner in which it will be paid.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth Greenberg, Program Analyst (402), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5179
TDD Phone: 202 271-6697

RIN: 2900-AJ49
_______________________________________________________________________




3027. INTERMENT OR MEMORIALIZATION IN VA NATIONAL CEMETERIES AND CERTAIN 
STATE CEMETERIES--FEDERAL OR STATE CAPITAL CRIME

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 2411; PL 105-116

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1; 38 CFR 39

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Public Law No. 105-116, 111 Stat. 2381 (codified at 38 U.S.C. 
2411), provides that, under certain circumstances, the remains of 
certain persons who committed Federal or State capital crimes may not 
be interred in a VA national cemetery and the memory of such persons 
may not be memorialized in VA national cemetery. These statutory 
provisions also impose conditions on the receipt by a State of a VA 
grant to the State for veteran's cemetery regarding such interments or 
memorializations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Deanna L Wilson, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5154
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AJ77



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF POLICY AND PLANNING


                    ________________________________



3028. AUDITS OF STATES, LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS; 
GRANTS AND AGREEMENTS WITH INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, HOSPITALS, 
AND OTHER NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 31 USC ch 75; 38 USC 501; PL 98-502

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 41; 38 CFR 49

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend part 41 of VA's regulations 
to add new subparts to codify revised OMB Circular A-133. The Circular 
provides standards for consistency and uniformity among Federal 
agencies for the audits of States, local governments, and nonprofit 
organizations expending Federal awards. Further, this amendment 
proposes to add a new part 49 to VA's regulations to bring VA in step 
with other Federal agencies who have already adopted OMB Circular A-110 
as a common rule. The Circular provides for uniform administrative 
requirements for Federal agencies with grants and agreements with 
institutions of higher education, hospitals, and other nonprofit 
organizations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: David Walton, Office of Planning and Analysis (008), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-5061

RIN: 2900-AJ62

[[Page 23401]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                    Final Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3029. PROVISION OF DRUGS AND MEDICINES PRESCRIBED BY NON-VA PHYSICIANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.96

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the ``Medical'' regulations concerning 
the criteria for provision of drugs and medicines by non-VA physicians 
for certain veterans. It is our view that the statutory framework 
inherently requires that the drugs provided be suitable; i.e., FDA-
approved, high quality, and best value. In this regard, we have 
established a list of suitable drugs and medicines in the VA national 
formulary. Also, we have established a mechanism for allowing the 
provision of drugs and medicines not listed in the formulary. These 
changes are needed to ensure that VA provides only those drugs and 
medicines intended to be provided under the statutory authority. Also, 
this document makes nonsubstantive changes for the purpose of avoiding 
unnecessary duplication.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeff Ramirez, Pharmacy Service (119), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8428

RIN: 2900-AJ24
_______________________________________________________________________




3030. ADVANCED HEALTH CARE PLANNING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.32

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the VA medical regulations to codify VA 
policy regarding advance health care planning. The rule sets forth a 
mechanism for the use of written advance directives; i.e., a VA living 
will, a VA durable power of attorney for health care, and a State-
authorized advance directive. The rule also sets forth a mechanism for 
honoring verbal or nonverbal instructions from a patient when the 
patient is admitted to care when critically ill and loss of capacity 
may be imminent and the patient is not physically able to sign an 
advance directive form or the appropriate form is not readily 
available. This is intended to help ensure that VA acts in compliance 
with patients' wishes concerning future health care.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/02/98                    63 FR 58677
NPRM Comment Period End         01/04/99
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ellen Fox Ph.D., Director, National Center for Ethics 
(10AE), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 
810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6926

RIN: 2900-AJ28
_______________________________________________________________________




3031. PROVISION OF DRUGS AND MEDICINES TO CERTAIN VETERANS IN STATE 
NURSING HOMES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.96

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
medical regulations concerning the provision of drugs and medicines 
prescribed by non-VA physicians for certain veterans who are 
permanently housebound or in need of regular aid and attendance. The 
regulations are amended to allow prescriptions to be filled by non-VA 
pharmacies in State homes under contract with VA for filling 
prescriptions for patients in State homes. This is consistent with VA's 
special relationship with State homes. It will eliminate duplication in 
services and will help improve timeliness for filling prescriptions in 
State homes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/14/98                    63 FR 37941
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeff Ramirez, Pharmacy Service (119), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8428

RIN: 2900-AJ34



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3032. LOAN GUARANTY: TITLE EVIDENCE REQUIREMENTS AND OCCUPANCY 
REQUIREMENTS FOR CONVEYANCE OF PROPERTIES TO VA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 3703(c)(1); 38 USC 3720

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4320

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Present regulations give loan holders a choice of various 
forms of title evidence when conveying a property to the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs. The regulations will be amended to authorize the 
Secretary to specify the title documentation necessary for conveyance 
of properties to the Secretary and establish a date by which such title 
evidence must be received.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/06/90                    55 FR 31847
NPRM Comment Period End         10/05/90
NPRM Comment Period Extended    10/05/90                    55 FR 35325
Final Action                    04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Fyne, Assistant Director for Loan Management 
(261), Department of

[[Page 23402]]

Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7380

RIN: 2900-AE20
_______________________________________________________________________




3033. ACCEPTANCE OF PARTIAL PAYMENTS; INDEMNIFICATION OF DEFAULT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 3703; 38 USC 3732

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Public Law 101-237, the Veterans Home Loan Indemnity and 
Restructuring Act of 1989, amended 38 U.S.C. 3732(a) to require holders 
of VA-guaranteed loans that are in default to notify VA if they refuse 
a partial payment of the amount owed when submitted by the veteran 
borrower. Notification may include a statement as to the circumstances 
of the default and the reason for the holder's refusal; these 
regulations will also set out the changed requirements with regard to 
establishing a veteran's liability to the Government in the event of 
foreclosure of a VA-guaranteed loan. In the past, veterans were liable 
if their VA loan foreclosed. Public Law 101-257 liability will only be 
established in the event of fraud, misrepresentation, or bad faith.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/02/94                     59 FR 9944
NPRM Comment Period End         05/02/94
Final Action                    04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Fyne, Assistant Director for Loan Management 
(261), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7380

RIN: 2900-AE60
_______________________________________________________________________




3034. 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.

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                    09/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AF00
_______________________________________________________________________




3035. 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 extended the termination 
date for the program of vocational training for certain pensioners 
through December 31, 1995, and made 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                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David James, Counseling Psychologist (281), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7438
TDD Phone: 202 275-5636

RIN: 2900-AG00
_______________________________________________________________________




3036. 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.

[[Page 23403]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/11/99                    64 FR 25246
NPRM Comment Period End         07/12/99
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AH43
_______________________________________________________________________




3037. 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: This action ensures that veterans diagnosed with 
intervertebral disc syndrome meet uniform criteria and receive 
consistent evaluations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/24/97                     62 FR 8204
NPRM Comment Period End         04/25/97
Final Action                    08/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff 
(211B), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 272-7210

RIN: 2900-AI22
_______________________________________________________________________




3038. 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                            06/04/97                    62 FR 30547
NPRM Comment Period End         08/04/97
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AI42
_______________________________________________________________________




3039. 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                            02/02/00                     65 FR 4914
NPRM Comment Period Extended    04/03/00
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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
_______________________________________________________________________




3040. 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                            03/31/98                    63 FR 15341
NPRM Comment Period End         06/01/98
Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
Department of Veterans Affairs,

[[Page 23404]]

Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI68
_______________________________________________________________________




3041. VETERANS TRAINING: INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER 38 U.S.C. 
CHAPTER 31

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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 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 1999 are changed to show a 1.6 percent increase in 
these rates.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AI74
_______________________________________________________________________




3042. USE OF FACILITIES TO PROVIDE TRAINING OR WORK EXPERIENCE FOR 
VETERANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 103-446

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.299

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 1994 authorized the 
Secretary to use any federally recognized Indian tribe to provide 
training or work experience as part or all of a veteran's vocational 
rehabilitation program without pay or for nominal pay. This change to 
VA regulations implements this Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles A Graffam, Veterans Claims Examiner (28), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7437

RIN: 2900-AJ01
_______________________________________________________________________




3043. ELIGIBILITY REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

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 103-271

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.256

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
adjudication regulations concerning eligibility verification reports 
(EVRs) for recipients of pension under programs in effect prior to 
January 1, 1979. The amendment reduces the number of circumstances 
under which VA requires such pensioners to furnish annual EVRs. The 
intended effect of this amendment is to reduce the reporting burden on 
these beneficiaries, reduce the workload at VA regional offices, and 
enable VA to use its resources more effectively.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/06/98                    63 FR 53593
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/07/98
Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AJ09
_______________________________________________________________________




3044. DEPENDENTS EDUCATION: ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENT STANDARDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 90-631, sec 2; PL 97-377, sec 156; 38 USC 501(a); 
38 USC 3482; 38 USC 3501; 38 USC 3511; 38 USC 3512; 38 USC 3532; 38 USC 
3533; 38 USC 3541; 38 USC 3562; 38 USC 3681; 38 USC 3686; 38 USC 3687; 
38 USC 5304

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.503; 38 CFR 3.667; 38 CFR 3.707; 38 CFR 3.807; 
38 CFR 21.3020; 38 CFR 21.3021; 38 CFR 21.3023; 38 CFR 21.3040; 38 CFR 
21.3041; 38 CFR 21.3042; 38 CFR 21.3043; 38 CFR 21.3044; 38 CFR 
21.3045; 30 CFR 21.3046; 30 CFR 21.3047; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document will amend Department of Veterans Affairs 
education regulations to provide a new interpretation of when the 
eligibility period ends for children eligible for Survivors' and 
Dependents' Educational Assistance. It will also make changes to 
clarify many of these regulations and other changes to make the 
regulations easier to use.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AJ19
_______________________________________________________________________




3045. VETERANS' BENEFITS ACT OF 1997

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 105-114, sec 404

[[Page 23405]]

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.29; 38 CFR 3.31; 38 CFR 3.114; 38 CFR 3.216; 38 
CFR 3.814

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
adjudication regulations concerning the monetary allowance for children 
suffering from spina bifida who are children of Vietnam veterans. This 
amendment is necessary to implement statutory changes contained in the 
Veterans' Benefits Act of 1997.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald England, Chief Regulations Staff (211), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7217

RIN: 2900-AJ25
_______________________________________________________________________




3046. CASH VALUE FOR NATIONAL SERVICE LIFE INSURANCE (NSLI) TERM CAPPED 
POLICIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1906

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 8.14(a); 38 CFR 8.18

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: National Service Life Insurance regulations are being amended 
to provide for the payment of cash value for all current and future 
term capped policies, either by lump sum cash payment or by the 
purchase of paid-up additions (PUA) or a combination of the two. Under 
current law, policyholders whose policies lapse prior to age 96 do not 
receive any value reserved to their policies. Providing the options of 
cash values for individuals who no longer need insurance or paid-up 
additions for policyholders who want to retain insurance coverage 
without incurring further expense enables policyholders to choose what 
is best for them.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/15/00                     65 FR 7467
NPRM Comment Period End         03/16/00
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Poole, Chief, Program Administration and 
Oversight Staff (Insurance Service), Department of Veterans Affairs, 
Veterans Benefits Administration, P.O. Box 8079, Philadelphia, PA 19101
Phone: 215 842-2000

RIN: 2900-AJ35
_______________________________________________________________________




3047. WELL GROUNDED CLAIMS/DUTY TO ASSIST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.159

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document clarifies VA's policy regarding what action, if 
any, VA should take to develop information pertaining to benefit claims 
in adjudication proceedings when presented with claims that are not 
well grounded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/30/98                    63 FR 58336
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/28/99
NPRM                            12/02/99                    64 FR 67528
NPRM Comment Period Extended    01/31/00
Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AJ44
_______________________________________________________________________




3048. EXCLUSIONS FROM INCOME

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 10602(c)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.261; 38 CFR 3.262; 38 CFR 3.272

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To exclude from countable income for VA purposes amounts 
received under the Victims of Crime Act of 1984.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AJ52
_______________________________________________________________________




3049. CLAIMS BASED ON EFFECT OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1103

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.300; 38 CFR 3.310

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To implement Public Law 105-206, which prohibits service 
connection for injury or disease attributable to the use of tobacco 
products by the veteran during the veteran's military service, except 
for disability or death that is otherwise shown to have been incurred 
or aggravated during service, or that meets the presumptive 
requirements of the law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/16/00                     65 FR 7807
NPRM Comment Period End         04/17/00
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald England, Chief Regulations Staff (211), 
Department of Veterans Affairs,

[[Page 23406]]

Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-7217

RIN: 2900-AJ59
_______________________________________________________________________




3050. MODIFIED ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--ACTIVE 
DUTY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3011; 38 USC 3012; 38 USC 3016

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.7042; 38 CFR 21.7044; 38 CFR 21.7045

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will implement a provision of the Veterans Programs 
Enhancement Act of 1998 that changes the eligibility criteria for the 
Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AJ69
_______________________________________________________________________




3051. NATIONAL SERVICE LIFE INSURANCE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1901 et seq; 38 USC 1981 et seq

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 8.2; 38 CFR 8.3; 38 CFR 8.4; 38 CFR 8.6; 38 CFR 
8.9

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: National Service Life Insurance regulations are being amended 
by rewriting and reorganizing the text of four sections into a 
different format to facilitate better communication of the rules to 
policyholders and to those who administer the program. This amendment 
is written in conjunction with Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) 
Plain English initiative and supports an Executive Memorandum, which 
mandates plain language in written Government communications. The 
regulation contains information currently provided under sections 8.2, 
8.3, 8.4, and 8.9, as well as topics covered by the current section 
8.6. The material found in these sections and other related information 
is combined into one new regulation, section 8.2.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/15/00                     65 FR 7436
Final Action Effective          02/15/00
Final Action-Technical Amendment04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Poole, Chief, Program Administration and 
Oversight Staff (Insurance Service), Department of Veterans Affairs, 
Veterans Benefits Administration, P.O. Box 8079, Philadelphia, PA 19101
Phone: 215 842-2000

RIN: 2900-AJ78
_______________________________________________________________________




3052. INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--SELECTED 
RESERVE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 16136

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 
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-Selected Reserve for 
fiscal year 2000 will be changed to show a 1.6 percent increase in 
these rates.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AJ88
_______________________________________________________________________




3053. INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--ACTIVE 
DUTY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3015

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 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 2000 will be 
changed to show a 1.6 percent increase in these rates.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AJ89
_______________________________________________________________________




3054. MISCELLANEOUS MONTGOMERY GI BILL ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENT 
ISSUES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3012

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.7042; 38 CFR 21.7044; 38 CFR 21.7073

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 23407]]

Abstract: This document will revise several regulations dealing with 
eligibility for the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty and entitlement 
under that benefit program. The regulations will be brought into 
agreement with the governing statutory language.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AJ90
_______________________________________________________________________




3055.  REVIEW OF BENEFIT CLAIMS DECISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5109(a); 38 USC 7105(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.105; 38 CFR 3.2100; 38 CFR 3.2600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
adjudication regulations concerning the revision of decisions that are 
not clearly and unmistakably erroneous. This rulemaking authorizes 
designated personnel at VA regional offices to review certain 
adjudicated claims and, if warranted, grant a benefit sought by the 
claimant.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/18/00                     65 FR 8329
NPRM Comment Period End         04/18/00
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert M. White, Team Leader, Plain Language 
Regulations Project, Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7228
Fax: 202 275-4800

RIN: 2900-AJ99
_______________________________________________________________________




3056.  VETERANS MILLENNIUM HEALTH CARE AND BENEFITS ACT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; PL 106-117

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.22; 38 CFR 3.55; 38 CFR 3.309

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On November 30, 1999, the Veterans Millennium Health Care and 
Benefits Act, Public Law 106-117, was enacted. Section 501 of Public 
Law 106-117 authorizes payment of DIC to the survivors of former POWs 
who died after September 30, 1999, and who were continuously rated 
totally disabled due to a service-connected disability for a period of 
not less than 1 year immediately preceding death. Section 502 restores 
eligibility to health care benefits under 38 U.S.C. chapter 17 
(CHAMPVA), education benefits under chapter 35, and housing loans under 
chapter 37, to a surviving spouse if their remarriage has been 
terminated by death or divorce, or if a surviving spouse has ceased 
living with another person and holding himself or herself out openly to 
the public as that person's spouse. Section 503 adds bronchiolo-
alveolar carcinoma to the list of diseases that VA presumes results 
from exposure to radiation during active military service. This rule 
implements these provisions by amending 38 CFR 3.22, 3.55, and 3.309, 
respectively.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Attorney-Advisor, Compensation and Pension 
(211), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7402
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK04
_______________________________________________________________________




3057.  REVISED DEFINITION OF A PROGRAM OF EDUCATION UNDER THE 
MONTGOMERY GI BILL--ACTIVE DUTY AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS ISSUES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3002; 38 USC 3011; 38 USC 3031

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.7020; 38 CFR 21.7050; 38 CFR 21.7131

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will amend its 
educational assistance regulations to reflect statutory changes 
contained in the Veterans Millennium Health Care and Benefits Act of 
1999. These changes set forth a revised definition of a program of 
education under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active duty (MGIB) and new 
eligibility criteria that will allow additional individuals to 
establish eligibility for educational assistance under the MGIB.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Education Advisor (225C), 
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-AK06



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



3058. VA ACQUISITION REGULATIONS PART 801, LEGAL/TECHNICAL REVIEW 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

[[Page 23408]]

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 801.602-70; 48 CFR 801.602-71; 48 CFR 801.602-72; 
48 CFR 801.602-73; 48 CFR 801.602-74; 48 CFR 801.602-75; 48 CFR 
815.805-4; 48 CFR 816.102(a); 48 CFR 817.102-1; 48 CFR 817.402; 48 CFR 
819.801; 48 CFR 842.000; 48 CFR 842.102; 48 CFR 842.202; 48 CFR 
842.1203; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending the 
Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulations (VAAR) to remove requirements 
from the Code of Federal Regulations that have been determined to be VA 
internal procedures that do not affect the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Acquisition & Materiel 
Management, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8819
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI96
_______________________________________________________________________




3059. SEALED BIDDING AND COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 806

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its 
Acquisition Regulations. Section 806.401 is amended to remove material 
which conflicts with the Federal Acquisition Regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/11/98                    63 FR 11865
NPRM Comment Period End         05/11/98
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Acquisition & Materiel 
Management, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8819
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI99
_______________________________________________________________________




3060. VA ACQUISITION REGULATIONS: PART 802, DEFINITION OF ``HEAD OF 
CONTRACTING ACTIVITY''

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 802

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) concerning the definition of ``Head of 
the Contracting Activity'' (HCA). This amendment is necessary to ensure 
that the VAAR provides a single, consistent definition of HCA in order 
to unambiguously designate such individuals within the Agency, by 
specifying that such individuals be appointed in writing by the 
Procurement Executive, and by amending the definition at 802.100(a), 
which specifies HCAs by position title.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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: Rita Williams, Senior Procurement Analyst (95A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Acquisition & Materiel 
Management, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8774
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ26
_______________________________________________________________________




3061. VA ACQUISITION REGULATIONS: PART 801, VA CONTRACTING OFFICER 
CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) concerning the VA Contracting Officer 
Certification Program (COCP). This amendment is necessary to delete 
information appropriate to an internal directive from the codified 
regulations. The amendment directs the reader's attention to a specific 
agency directive for information on the COCP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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: Rita Williams, Senior Procurement Analyst (95A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Acquisition & Materiel 
Management, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8774
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ33

[[Page 23409]]




_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



3062. BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS--RULES OF PRACTICE--ATTORNEY FEE MATTERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5902; 38 USC 5904; 38 USC 5905

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.3; 38 CFR 20.609; 38 CFR 20.610

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans Appeals is amending its rules of 
practice to end the practice of paying attorney fees from past-due 
benefits, establish safeguards in case of ``disinterested third-party'' 
payees who are individuals, and simplify certain notice procedures. 
These changes are necessary to permit VA to focus on activities more 
directly benefiting veterans and their families, i.e., deciding claims 
and coordinating benefit payments to veterans and their families, and 
to clarify the situations in which third parties may pay a claimants' 
legal fees.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/09/97                    62 FR 64790
NPRM Comment Period End         02/09/98
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AI98
_______________________________________________________________________




3063. DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY--APPEALS REGULATIONS AND RULES OF 
PRACTICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 512; 38 USC 7101(a); 38 USC 
7102; 38 USC 7104

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.2; 38 CFR 19.14; 38 CFR 20.102; 38 CFR 
20.606(d)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans Appeals is amending its Appeals 
Regulation and Rules of Practice to update the delegations of authority 
to Members of the Board and to include the definition of ``Chief 
Members'' to whom some authority is delegated.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ66
_______________________________________________________________________




3064. NOTIFICATION OF REPRESENTATIVES IN CONNECTION WITH MOTIONS FOR 
REVISION OF DECISIONS ON GROUNDS OF CLEAR AND UNMISTAKABLE ERROR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 7104(d); 38 USC 7111

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.1405

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans Appeals is amending its Rules of 
Practice at 38 CFR part 20 to add procedures for notifying 
representatives when parties file motions to challenge final Board 
decisions on the grounds of ``clear and unmistakable error'' (CUE). The 
change is required to help assure that veterans have the benefit of 
representation in connection with CUE motions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/12/99                     64 FR 7090
Interim Final Rule Effective    02/12/99
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/15/99
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ75
_______________________________________________________________________




3065. THE BOARD OF VETERANS APPEAL; RULES OF PRACTICE--MOTION FOR REVIEW 
OF DECISIONS ON GROUNDS OF CLEAR AND UNMISTAKABLE ERROR: CONTENT OF 
RECORD; ADVANCEMENT ON THE DOCKET

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 7104(d); 38 USC 7111

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.1403; 38 CFR 20.1405(a); 38 CFR 20.1405(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans Appeals is amending its Rules of 
Practice at 38 CFR part 20 to add procedures which would (1) eliminate 
a provision relating to ``constructive notice'' as to the record to be 
reviewed in connection with challenges to Board decisions on the 
grounds of clear and unmistakable error (CUE) and (2) add a provision 
to provide for advancing CUE motions on the docket.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ85



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY


                    ________________________________



3066. NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEX IN EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND 
ACTIVITIES RECEIVING OR BENEFITING FROM FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 2000d

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 23

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 23410]]

Abstract: In response to President Clinton's request to strengthen 
enforcement of title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the 
Department of Justice (DOJ) has prepared a draft notice of proposed 
rulemaking of a common rule for implementing title IX of the Education 
Amendments of 1972. DOJ prepared the text for VA's adoption of this 
rule, which will become a new part 23 of title 38 CFR 
``Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs of the Department of 
Veterans Affairs--Effectuation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 
1964.'' The amendment to 38 CFR will ensure VA's compliance with the 
requirement to publish its regulations to prohibit discrimination based 
on sex in education programs or activities that receive Federal 
financial assistance.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/29/99                    64 FR 58571
NPRM Comment Period End         12/28/99
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ellis Jones Hodges, Director, Affirmative Employment 
Service (06A), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7632

RIN: 2900-AJ11
_______________________________________________________________________




3067. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY--DECISIONMAKING REGARDING DISCRIMINATION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 553

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document delegates to certain Department of Veterans 
Affairs officials authority to make final Agency decisions regarding 
the procedural acceptability of equal employment opportunity 
discrimination complaints. It also delegates authority to those 
officials to make final Agency decisions which determine whether a 
breach of an equal employment opportunity complaint settlement 
agreement has occurred.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ventris C. Gibson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for 
Resolution Management (08), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9437
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ63



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL


                    ________________________________



3068. RELEASE OF INFORMATION FROM DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS RECORDS

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: 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 U.S.C. 552a, the Freedom of Information 
Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552, and the veterans' records confidentiality 
statute (section 5701), 38 U.S.C. 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                            09/10/98                    63 FR 48455
NPRM Comment Period End         11/09/98
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lorraine M. Johnson, Deputy Assistant General Counsel 
(024A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of General Counsel, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6381

RIN: 2900-AH98
_______________________________________________________________________




3069. RECOGNITION OF ORGANIZATIONS AND ACCREDITATION OF REPRESENTATIVES

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: 5 USC 301; 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 5901 to 5905

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 14.626 to 14.635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to revise and 
clarify existing procedures and requirements regarding certification or 
recognition of service organizations and their representatives and 
other individuals, agents, and attorneys representing claimants for 
benefits administered by VA. The revisions are designed to improve VA's 
ability to assure high quality representation of claimants.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/04/98                    63 FR 59495
NPRM Comment Period End         01/04/99
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Richard J. Hipolit, Deputy Assistant General Counsel 
(022), Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of General Counsel, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6329

RIN: 2900-AI93

[[Page 23411]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                   Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3070. PROTECTION OF HUMAN SUBJECTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 16

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judy Williams
Phone: 202 273-8284

RIN: 2900-AJ08



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3071. CHILD CUSTODY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald England
Phone: 202 273-7217

RIN: 2900-AI10
_______________________________________________________________________




3072. LOAN GUARANTY: ADVERTISING AND SOLICITATION DISCLOSURE 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4227; 38 CFR 36.4365

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran
Phone: 202 273-7368

RIN: 2900-AJ86
_______________________________________________________________________




3073. LOAN GUARANTY: REVISION TO VA WORK RULES FOR CREDIT SCORED LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4346; 38 CFR 3702(c)(1)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Fyne
Phone: 202 273-7380

RIN: 2900-AJ91
_______________________________________________________________________




3074. LOAN GUARANTY: CREDIT STANDARDS REVISION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4337

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran
Phone: 202 273-7368

RIN: 2900-AJ92



_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



3075. 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                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AE78
_______________________________________________________________________




3076. RULES OF PRACTICE; HEARINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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

RIN: 2900-AG07
_______________________________________________________________________




3077. RULES OF PRACTICE: MEDICAL OPINIONS; APPEAL PROCESSING AND 
SUBMISSION OF ADDITIONAL EVIDENCE

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.36; 38 CFR 20.800; 38 CFR 20.801; 38 CFR 
20.802; 38 CFR 20.901; 38 CFR 20.1304

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AG90



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR ACQUISITION AND FACILITIES


                    ________________________________



3078. OPERATION OF CHILD CARE CENTERS AT VA FACILITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Renee Bruce

[[Page 23412]]

Phone: 410 605-7388

RIN: 2900-AD48
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                   Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3079. PER DIEM FOR NURSING HOME CARE OF VETERANS IN STATE HOMES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.190 to 17.222

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/06/00                      65 FR 962
Final Action Effective          02/07/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: L. Nan Stout
Phone: 202 273-8538
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AE87
_______________________________________________________________________




3080. MEDICAL EVIDENCE THAT A DISABILITY HAS IMPROVED

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.344

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/13/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald England
Phone: 202 273-7217

RIN: 2900-AH82
_______________________________________________________________________




3081. NEW ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--ACTIVE DUTY, 
OTHER MISCELLANEOUS ISSUES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/07/00                     65 FR 5785
Final Action Effective          02/07/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: William G. Susling
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI63
_______________________________________________________________________




3082. REVISION OF DECISION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.7; 38 CFR 3.103(a); 38 CFR 3.105(b); 38 CFR 
3.321; 38 CFR 3.400; 38 CFR 3.401; 38 CFR 3.800

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/11/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald England
Phone: 202 273-7217

RIN: 2900-AI64
_______________________________________________________________________




3083. AMENDED CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF FLIGHT TRAINING COURSES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4200; 38 CFR 21.4263

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/08/00                    65 FR 12117
Final Action Effective          03/08/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI76
_______________________________________________________________________




3084. CHILD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.57

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/08/00                    65 FR 12116
Final Action Effective          03/08/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald England
Phone: 202 273-7217

RIN: 2900-AJ54
_______________________________________________________________________




3085. DIC BENEFITS FOR SURVIVORS OF CERTAIN VETERANS RATED TOTALLY 
DISABLED AT TIME OF DEATH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.22; 38 CFR 3.54

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/21/00                     65 FR 3388
Final Action Effective          01/21/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald England
Phone: 202 273-7217

RIN: 2900-AJ65
_______________________________________________________________________




3086. RATE INCREASE FOR THE EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE TEST PROGRAM; 1999-
2000 ACADEMIC YEAR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.5820; 38 CFR 21.5822

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/14/00                    65 FR 13693
Final Action Effective          03/14/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling
Phone: 202 273-7187
Fax: 202 275-2636

[[Page 23413]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ87
_______________________________________________________________________




3087. VA ACQUISITION REGULATIONS: SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION PROCEDURES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 813; 48 CFR 852; 48 CFR 853

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/15/99                    64 FR 69934
Final Action Effective          12/15/99

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher
Phone: 202 273-8819
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ16
_______________________________________________________________________




3088. APPLICATION OF LABOR LAWS TO GOVERNMENT ACQUISITIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 822; 48 CFR 852

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/25/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ramona Jones
Phone: 202 273-8821
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ81
_______________________________________________________________________




3089. APPEALS REGULATIONS, RULES OF PRACTICE: TITLE CHANGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.608; 38 CFR 20.609; 38 CFR 20.610; 38 CFR 
20.711

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/11/00                     65 FR 1544
Final Action Effective          01/11/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ57
_______________________________________________________________________




3090. CASE DOCKETING--APPEALS REGULATIONS AND RULES OF PRACTICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.75; 38 CFR 20.704; 38 CFR 20.900

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/17/00                    65 FR 14471
Final Action Effective          03/17/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ72
_______________________________________________________________________




3091.  BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS: RULES OF PRACTICE--REVISION OF 
DECISIONS ON GROUNDS OF CLEAR AND UNMISTAKABLE ERROR; CLARIFICATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.1400(b)(1)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document clarifies a changes to the Board's rules 
relating to challenges to Board decisions on the grounds of ``clear and 
unmistakable error (CUE).'' The CUE rules prohibit challenging a Board 
decision which has been subsequently decided by a court of competent 
jurisdiction--usually the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. 
The reason for this rule is that it would be inappropriate for an 
inferior tribunal to review the work of a superior.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action Effective          02/12/99                    64 FR 73413
Final Action                    12/30/99

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ98
[FR Doc. 00-5298 Filed 04-21-00; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8320-01-F
