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


[[Page 26065]]

Part XVI





Department of Veterans Affairs





_______________________________________________________________________



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 26066]]



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 2001. 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3033        Medication Prescribing Authority....................................................     2900-AK05
3034        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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3035        Medical Care and Treatment for Which VA Will Not Seek Reimbursement.................     2900-AJ20
3036        Clothing Allowance..................................................................     2900-AJ21
3037        Priorities for State Home Grants for Construction, Acquisition, or Renovation.......     2900-AJ43
3038        Policy Regarding Participation in National Practitioner Data Bank...................     2900-AJ76
3039        Therapeutic Housing.................................................................     2900-AK01
3040        Reimbursement/Payment for Uninsured Veterans' Non-VA Emergency Medical Care.........     2900-AK08
3041        Waivers.............................................................................     2900-AK29
3042        Copayments for Extended Care Services...............................................     2900-AK32
3043        Enrollment Priority Category Status Changes.........................................     2900-AK38
3044        Copayments for Inpatient Hospital Care, Outpatient Medical Care, and Medications....     2900-AK50
3045        Loan Guaranty: Multifamily Transitional Housing for Homeless Veterans Program.......     2900-AK58
3046        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Orthopedic System.............................     2900-AE91
3047        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders..     2900-AF23
3048        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Digestive System..................................     2900-AF24
3049        Total Disability Evaluations Based on Inability of the Individual To Engage in           2900-AH21
            Substantially Gainful Employment....................................................
3050        Evidence on File at Date of Death...................................................     2900-AH42
3051        Ankylosis and Limitation of Motion of Digits of the Hands...........................     2900-AI44
3052        Dependents Education: Eligibility and Entitlement Standards.........................     2900-AJ19
3053        Schedule for Rating Disability: The Spine...........................................     2900-AJ60
3054        Education Provisions of the Veterans Programs Enhancement Act of 1998...............     2900-AJ68
3055        Evidence of Permanent and Total Disability..........................................     2900-AJ82
3056        Benefit of the Doubt................................................................     2900-AJ93
3057        Permanent Incapacity for Self-Support...............................................     2900-AJ95
3058        Presumptive Service Connection for Hepatitis C Infection............................     2900-AJ96
3059        Minimum Active Duty Requirement.....................................................     2900-AK02
3060        State Department as Agent of Department of Veterans Affairs.........................     2900-AK03
3061        Commencement of the Period of Payment...............................................     2900-AK09
3062        Service Connection and Chronic Disability...........................................     2900-AK11
3063        Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Requirement for Drug-       2900-AK16
            Free Workplace (Assistance).........................................................
3064        Time Limits, Extensions, and Computation of Time Limits.............................     2900-AK17
3065        Finality of Decisions...............................................................     2900-AK18

[[Page 26067]]

 
3066        Delegation of Authority To Issue Decisions on Benefits Claims.......................     2900-AK19
3067        Individuals and Groups Considered To Have Performed Active Military, Naval, or Air       2900-AK20
            Service.............................................................................
3068        Psychosis...........................................................................     2900-AK21
3069        Change of Law-Effect on Benefits....................................................     2900-AK22
3070        Renouncement of Benefits............................................................     2900-AK23
3071        Testimony in Support of Benefit Claims..............................................     2900-AK24
3072        Written and Oral Information on Statements Affecting Entitlement to Benefits........     2900-AK25
3073        Acceptable Evidence of Dependents and Age...........................................     2900-AK26
3074        Acceptable Evidence of Void and Annulled Marriages..................................     2900-AK27
3075        Acceptable Evidence of Marriage.....................................................     2900-AK30
3076        Independent Medical Opinions........................................................     2900-AK31
3077        Acceptable Evidence of Divorce......................................................     2900-AK34
3078        Acceptable Evidence of Termination of Marital Relationship or Conduct...............     2900-AK35
3079        Acceptable Evidence of Birth........................................................     2900-AK36
3080        Evidence From Foreign Countries.....................................................     2900-AK37
3081        National Service Life Insurance--Plain English Revision.............................     2900-AK43
3082        Acceptable Evidence of Child's Relationship.........................................     2900-AK47
3083        Acceptable Evidence of Death........................................................     2900-AK48
3084        Acceptable Evidence of Unexplained Absence for 7 Years..............................     2900-AK49
3085        U.S. Flags for Burials of Certain Members of the Selected Reserve...................     2900-AK56
3086        Validity of Enlistments.............................................................     2900-AK59
3087        Computation of Service..............................................................     2900-AK60
3088        Diseases Specific to Radiation-Exposed Veterans.....................................     2900-AK64
3089        Filipino Veterans Benefit Improvements..............................................     2900-AK65
3090        Special Monthly Compensation for Women Veterans Who Lose a Breast as a Result of a       2900-AK66
            Service-Connected Disability........................................................
3091        Monetary Allowance Under 38 U.S.C. 1815 for a Child With One or More Covered Birth       2900-AK67
            Defects Who Is a Child of a Woman Vietnam Veteran...................................
3092        Duty to Assist......................................................................     2900-AK69
3093        Acceptable Evidence of Change in Status or Number of Dependents.....................     2900-AK70
3094        Loan Guaranty: Pre-Purchase Counseling Requirements.................................     2900-AK76
3095        Additional Disability or Death Due to Hospital Care, Medical or Surgical Treatment,      2900-AK77
            Examination, Training and Rehabilitation Services, or Compensated Work Therapy
            Program.............................................................................
3096        Veterans Education: Topping Up Tuition Assistance...................................     2900-AK79
3097        Veterans and Dependents Education: Licensing and Certification......................     2900-AK80
3098        Veterans Education: Additional Opportunity To Participate in the Montgomery GI Bill      2900-AK81
            and Other Miscellaneous Issues......................................................
3099        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation--Simplified Acquisition            2900-AI71
            Procedures for Health Care Resources................................................
3100        Universal Product Numbers (UPNs)....................................................     2900-AJ45
3101        Construction and Architect-Engineer Contracts.......................................     2900-AJ56
3102        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulations Plain Language Rewrite.......     2900-AK78
3103        Rules of Practice; Jursidiction.....................................................     2900-AJ97
3104        Appeals Regulations: Title for Members of the Board of Veterans Appeals.............     2900-AK62
3105        Board of Veterans' Appeals: Rules of Practice--Appeal Withdrawal....................     2900-AK71
3106        Headstone and Marker Inscription Policy.............................................     2900-AH45
3107        State Cemetery Grants: Aid to States for Establishment, Expansion, and Improvement       2900-AH46
            of Veterans Cemeteries..............................................................
3108        Eligibility for Burial of Dependent Adult Children of Eligible Veterans.............     2900-AI95
3109        Use of the Secretary's Authority as Provided by 38 U.S.C. 2402(6)...................     2900-AJ48
3110        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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3111        Provision of Drugs and Medicines Prescribed by Non-VA Physicians....................     2900-AJ24

[[Page 26068]]

 
3112        Advanced Health Care Planning.......................................................     2900-AJ28
3113        Provision of Drugs and Medicines to Certain Veterans in State Nursing Homes.........     2900-AJ34
3114        Per Diem for Adult Day Health Care of Veterans in State Homes.......................     2900-AJ74
3115        Reasonable Charges for Medical Care or Services.....................................     2900-AK39
3116        Delegation of Authority--Loan Guaranty for Multifamily Transitional Housing for          2900-AK51
            Homeless Veterans...................................................................
3117        Provision of Hospital and Outpatient Care to Veterans...............................     2900-AK53
3118        Medical Benefits Package............................................................     2900-AK55
3119        Reasonable Charges for Medical Care or Services.....................................     2900-AK73
3120        Loan Guaranty: Title Evidence Requirements and Occupancy Requirements for Conveyance     2900-AE20
            of Properties to VA.................................................................
3121        Acceptance of Partial Payments; Indemnification of Default..........................     2900-AE60
3122        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Skin..........................................     2900-AF00
3123        Amendments to Training and Rehabilitation Programs..................................     2900-AG00
3124        Revised Definition of Net Value and Revised Criteria for Pre-Foreclosure Debt            2900-AG20
            Waivers.............................................................................
3125        Vision..............................................................................     2900-AH43
3126        Intervertebral Disc Syndrome........................................................     2900-AI22
3127        Claims Based on Aggravation of Nonservice-Connected Disability......................     2900-AI42
3128        Veterans Education: Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements at Flight Schools......     2900-AJ23
3129        Exclusions from Income..............................................................     2900-AJ52
3130        Certification Evidence for Proof of Service.........................................     2900-AJ55
3131        Accelerated Benefits Option for Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance and Veterans'       2900-AJ80
            Group Life Insurance................................................................
3132        Loan Guaranty: Advertising and Solicitation Disclosure Requirements.................     2900-AJ86
3133        Review of Benefit Claims Decisions..................................................     2900-AJ99
3134        Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Claims Based on Personal Assault.....................     2900-AK00
3135        Revised Definition of a Program of Education Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active        2900-AK06
            Duty and Other Miscellaneous Issues.................................................
3136        Signature by Mark...................................................................     2900-AK07
3137        Schedule for Rating Disabilities: Disabilities of the Liver.........................     2900-AK12
3138        Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Selected Reserve............     2900-AK40
3139        Veterans Education: Increased Allowance for the Educational Test Program............     2900-AK41
3140        Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty and Survivors'       2900-AK44
            and Dependents' Educational Assistance..............................................
3141        End of the Service Members Occupational Conversion and Training Program.............     2900-AK45
3142        Veterans Vocational Rehabilitation and Education: Title Change......................     2900-AK46
3143        Disease Associated with Exposure to Certain Herbicide Agents: Type 2 Diabetes            2900-AK63
            Mellitus............................................................................
3144        Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000...........................     2900-AK68
3145        Delegation of Authority--Portfolio Loan Servicing Contractor........................     2900-AK72
3146        Sealed Bidding and Competitive Proposals............................................     2900-AI99
3147        Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation: Revisions to VA Acquisition Regulations         2900-AK75
            Parts 801 through 805...............................................................
3148        Board of Veterans Appeals--Rules of Practice--Attorney Fee Matters..................     2900-AI98
3149        Board of Veterans Appeals: Rules of Practice--Subpoenas.............................     2900-AJ58
3150        Delegations of Authority--Appeals Regulations and Rules of Practice.................     2900-AJ66
3151        Notice of Appeal in Simultaneously Contested Claims.................................     2900-AJ73
3152        Notification of Representatives in Connection With Motions for Revision of Decisions     2900-AJ75
            on Grounds of Clear and Unmistakable Error..........................................
3153        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..............................................................................
3154        Appeal Regulations, Rules of Practice: Use of Supplemental Statement of the Case....     2900-AK33
3155        Rules of Practice: Medical Opinions From the Veterans Health Administration.........     2900-AK52
3156        Board of Veterans Appeals: Rules of Practice--Time for Filing Substantive Appeal....     2900-AK54
3157        Board of Veterans Appeals: Rules of Practice--Effect of Procedural Defects in            2900-AK74
            Motions for Revision of Decisions on Grounds of Clear and Unmistakable Error........
3158        Interment or Memorialization in VA National Cemeteries and Certain State Cemeteries--    2900-AJ77
            Federal or State Capital Crime......................................................
3159        Delegation of Authority--Decisionmaking Regarding Discrimination....................     2900-AJ63
3160        Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Race, Color, or National Origin; Handicap; and Age     2900-AK13
            in Programs and Activities Receiving Federal Assistance.............................
3161        Release of Information From Department of Veterans Affairs Records..................     2900-AH98
3162        Recognition of Organizations and Accreditation of Representatives...................     2900-AI93
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 26069]]


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3163        Protection of Human Subjects........................................................     2900-AJ08
3164        Schedule for Rating Disabilities: Global Assessment of Functioning Scale in the          2900-AJ84
            Evaluation of Mental Disorders......................................................
3165        Loan Guaranty: Revision to VA Work Rules for Credit Scored Loans....................     2900-AJ91
3166        Loan Guaranty: Credit Standards Revision............................................     2900-AJ92
3167        Appeals Regulations; Rules of Practice..............................................     2900-AE78
3168        Rules of Practice; Hearings.........................................................     2900-AG07
3169        Rules of Practice: Medical Opinions; Appeal Processing and Submission of Additional      2900-AG90
            Evidence............................................................................
3170        Operation of Child Care Centers at VA Facilities....................................     2900-AD48
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3171        Exemption from Pharmacy Copay.......................................................     2900-AJ12
3172        Provision of Aids to the Blind......................................................     2900-AJ22
3173        Aids for the Blind..................................................................     2900-AJ83
3174        Copayments for Medication...........................................................     2900-AK28
3175        VA Payment for Non-VA Public or Private Hospital Care and Non-VA Physician Services      2900-AK57
            That Are Associated With Either Outpatient or Inpatient Care........................
3176        New Criteria for Approval of Courses for Educational Assistance Programs............     2900-AI67
3177        Use of Facilities To Provide Training or Work Experience for Veterans...............     2900-AJ01
3178        Well Grounded Claims/Duty To Assist.................................................     2900-AJ44
3179        Revised Criteria for Monetary Allowance for a Child Born With Spina Bifida Who Is a      2900-AJ51
            Child of a Vietnam Veteran..........................................................
3180        Claims Based on Effect of Tobacco Products..........................................     2900-AJ59
3181        Miscellaneous Montgomery GI Bill Eligibility and Entitlement Issues.................     2900-AJ90
3182        Appeals Regulations: Title for Members of the Board of Veterans Appeals-Rescission..     2900-AK61
3183        Outer Burial Receptacles............................................................     2900-AJ49
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                       Prerule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________


VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

                    ________________________________



3033. 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                           10/00/01

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


                    ________________________________



3034. STANDARDS FOR COLLECTION, COMPROMISE, SUSPENSION, OR TERMINATION 
OF COLLECTION EFFORT; REGIONAL OFFICE COMMITTEE ON WAIVER AND 
COMPROMISES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 31 CFR 900 to 904; 38 CFR 1.900 to 1.970

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 26070]]

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 to 
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                           07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter T. Mulhern, Office of Finance (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


                    ________________________________



3035. MEDICAL CARE AND TREATMENT FOR WHICH VA WILL NOT SEEK 
REIMBURSEMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1729

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.107

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                            05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Howard, Senior Program Analyst (174), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8198
Fax: 202 273-6485

RIN: 2900-AJ20
_______________________________________________________________________




3036. 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                            10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3037. 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. 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                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Frank Salvas, Geriactrics and Extended Care (114), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8536

RIN: 2900-AJ43
_______________________________________________________________________




3038. 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 
healthcare 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.

[[Page 26071]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3039. 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                            03/06/01                    66 FR 13461
NPRM Comment Period End         05/07/01
Final Action                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3040. REIMBURSEMENT/PAYMENT FOR UNINSURED VETERANS' NON-VA EMERGENCY 
MEDICAL CARE

Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

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 by establishing a mechanism for payment or 
reimbursement for certain non-VA emergency services furnished to 
veterans for nonservice-connected conditions. This amendment is 
necessary to implement provisions of ``The Veterans Millennium Health 
Care and Benefits Act.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3041. WAIVERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1722A; PL 106-117

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.105

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this document is to provide regulations to 
formally establish the waiver process for veterans' copayments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Howard, Senior Program Analyst (174), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8198
Fax: 202 273-6485

RIN: 2900-AK29
_______________________________________________________________________




3042. COPAYMENTS FOR EXTENDED CARE SERVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1710; PL 106-117

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.111

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend VA's medical regulations to 
establish a mechanism regarding copayments for extended care services.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Carolyn S. West, Program Analyst (174), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8206
Fax: 202 273-6485
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK32
_______________________________________________________________________




3043. ENROLLMENT PRIORITY CATEGORY STATUS CHANGES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721; PL 106-117

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.36

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Pursuant to the Veteran's Health Care Eligibility Reform Act 
of 1996, VA implemented a national enrollment system to manage the 
delivery of VA hospital and outpatient care. Veterans are eligible to 
be enrolled based on the Secretary's determination concerning which of 
the seven priority categories of veterans to enroll. Section 112 of 
Public Law No. 106-117, the Veteran's Millennium

[[Page 26072]]

Health Care and Benefits Act, amended the priority categories to 
include veterans awarded the Purple Heart in priority category three. 
Accordingly, we intend to change our medical regulations at 38 CFR 
17.36 to reflect this statutory change. We further propose to amend 
VA's Disenrollment requirements set forth under 38 CFR 17.36(d)(4)(iii) 
to allow priority category 5 veterans enrolled in this category based 
on their annual income information to remain enrolled. Currently, under 
38 CFR 17.36(d)(4)(iii), a veteran enrolled under paragraphs (d)(2) or 
(d)(3) will be disenrolled if a VA network or facility director, or the 
Chief Network Officer, determines that a veteran has been enrolled 
based on inclusion in priority category 5, the veteran was sent by mail 
a VA Form 10-1-EZ, and the veteran failed to return the completed form 
to the address on the return envelop within 60 days from receipt of the 
form. We propose to continue their enrollment but only after the 
veteran agrees to co-pay requirements set forth under 38 U.S.C. 1710(f) 
and 1710(g). We also propose to amend the enrollment application form 
to reflect these changes and to add to the form instructions, a consent 
to release information, a statement regarding Paperwork Reduction Act 
changes are necessary to reflect statutory requirements, and to provide 
information to the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

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-AK38
_______________________________________________________________________




3044. COPAYMENTS FOR INPATIENT HOSPITAL CARE, OUTPATIENT MEDICAL CARE, 
AND MEDICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1710; PL 106-117

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.108; 38 CFR 17.110

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend VA's medical regulations to
set forth a mechanism for determining copayments for inpatient hospital 
care, outpatient medical care, and medications. This document is 
necessary to implement provisions of the Veterans Millennium Health 
Care and Benefits Act and to set forth our statutory interpretations 
regarding application of the copayment requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Howard, Senior Program Analyst (174), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8198
Fax: 202 273-6485

RIN: 2900-AK50
_______________________________________________________________________




3045.  LOAN GUARANTY: MULTIFAMILY TRANSITIONAL HOUSING FOR 
HOMELESS VETERANS PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 3772

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.1000 to 17.1020

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to amend its 
medical regulations to add comprehensive regulations to implement the 
pilot program for guaranteed loans for multifamily transitional housing 
projects for homeless veterans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Theresa Hayes, Program Manager (116E), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8445

RIN: 2900-AK58



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3046. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE ORTHOPEDIC SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

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                            07/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AE91
_______________________________________________________________________




3047. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS AND 
CONVULSIVE DISORDERS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

[[Page 26073]]

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                            10/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AF23
_______________________________________________________________________




3048. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

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                            10/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AF24
_______________________________________________________________________




3049. TOTAL DISABILITY EVALUATIONS BASED ON INABILITY OF THE INDIVIDUAL 
TO ENGAGE IN SUBSTANTIALLY GAINFUL EMPLOYMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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                            10/00/01

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: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AH21
_______________________________________________________________________




3050. EVIDENCE ON FILE AT DATE OF DEATH

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.1000

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

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: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AH42
_______________________________________________________________________




3051. 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                            08/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AI44
_______________________________________________________________________




3052. DEPENDENTS EDUCATION: ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENT STANDARDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 90-631, sec 2; 38 USC 3541; 38 USC 3562; 38 USC 
3681; 38 USC 3686; 38 USC 3687; 38 USC 5304; 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

[[Page 26074]]

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.503; 38 CFR 21.3042; 38 CFR 21.3043; 38 CFR 
21.3044; 38 CFR 21.3045; 30 CFR 21.3046; 30 CFR 21.3047; 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; ...

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 implement provisions of the 
Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000 that affect 
children's eligibility periods and the effective date of awards under 
Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance. It will also 
implement recent opinions of the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims 
that affect eligibility 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

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ19
_______________________________________________________________________




3053. 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                            08/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AJ60
_______________________________________________________________________




3054. 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                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ68
_______________________________________________________________________




3055. 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                            05/00/01

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
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AJ82
_______________________________________________________________________




3056. 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                            12/00/01

[[Page 26075]]

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
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ93
_______________________________________________________________________




3057. 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                            12/00/01

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
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ95
_______________________________________________________________________




3058. 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 were exposed to 
blood during combat who underwent certain treatment procedures during 
active duty 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                            05/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AJ96
_______________________________________________________________________




3059. 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                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK02
_______________________________________________________________________




3060. 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                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK03
_______________________________________________________________________




3061. COMMENCEMENT OF THE PERIOD OF PAYMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 5111

[[Page 26076]]

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                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK09
_______________________________________________________________________




3062. SERVICE CONNECTION AND CHRONIC DISABILITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1110; 38 USC 1131

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.303

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Title 38 Code of Federal Regulations section 3.303 concerns 
the basic principles of service connection. This includes provisions on 
chronic disabilities and continuity of symptomatology. Section 3.303 is 
being revised into Reader Focused Writing. In addition, VA plans to 
make substantive changes needed to implement the U.S. Court of Appeals 
for Veterans Claims' holdings in the Savage, McManaway, and Hodges 
cases.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

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: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK11
_______________________________________________________________________




3063. GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT) AND 
REQUIREMENT FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (ASSISTANCE)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 44; 38 CFR 48

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is planning to revise 
its portion of the Governmentwide nonprocurement common rule (NCR) for 
debarment and suspension found at 38 CFR part 44. The proposed changes 
include: Drafting the rule in a plain language style and format; 
reconciling technical differences between the NCR and the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation; enhancing and clarifying the existing rule; and 
establishing a separate part at 38 CFR part 48 for the drug-free 
workplace requirements that are in subpart F of the existing rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Valuation (262), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7369
Fax: 202 273-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK16
_______________________________________________________________________




3064. TIME LIMITS, EXTENSIONS, AND COMPUTATION OF TIME LIMITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5103; 38 USC 7105(c)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.109; 38 CFR 3.110

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This provision explains in ``plain language'' about time 
limits for providing evidence to VA to complete claims, how those time 
limits are computed, and under what circumstances extensions to the 
time limits may be allowed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK17
_______________________________________________________________________




3065. FINALITY OF DECISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 502; 38 USC 511; 38 USC 5104; 38 USC 5109A; 38 
USC 5112(b)(6)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.104

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment informs claimants in ``plain language'' when a 
VA decision is final, how a decision by one VA office affects other VA 
offices, and under what circumstances a VA decision may be changed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK18

[[Page 26077]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3066. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO ISSUE DECISIONS ON BENEFITS CLAIMS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 512

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.100

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This is a plain language restatement of the existing 
delegations of authority to issue decisions on benefit claims.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

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
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK19
_______________________________________________________________________




3067. INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS CONSIDERED TO HAVE PERFORMED ACTIVE 
MILITARY, NAVAL, OR AIR SERVICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101; 38 USC 102; 38 USC 107; 38 USC 501(a); 38 
USC 1152; 38 USC 1504, 5303(c); PL 95-202; ...

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.7

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment reorganizes the current regulation and 
rewrites it in ``plain language.'' The regulation identifies civilian 
groups and individuals determined to have performed active service 
based on their service to U.S. Armed Forces. We propose to add three 
new groups, under the authority of Public Law No. 95-202, based on the 
recent decision of the Secretary of the Air Force that the service of 
these group members constitutes active military service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK20
_______________________________________________________________________




3068. PSYCHOSIS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.384

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs adjudication regulations to define the term ``psychosis.'' The 
term is used but not defined in certain statutes that provide 
presumptive service connection for compensation or health care 
purposes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AK21
_______________________________________________________________________




3069. CHANGE OF LAW-EFFECT ON BENEFITS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 186; 38 USC 5112(b)(6); 38 USC 5110(g)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.114

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments are plain language restatements of 
adjudication regulations dealing with the effective dates that must be 
assigned when entitlement or non-entitlement to benefits is based on a 
change of law or a change VA rules.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

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
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK22
_______________________________________________________________________




3070. RENOUNCEMENT OF BENEFITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5306

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.106

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This revision explains in ``plain language'' who has the 
right to renounce benefits, how to renounce benefits, and what 
renouncement means to a claimant. It discusses effective dates for the 
termination of renounced benefits, as well as the right to reapply for 
benefits that have been renounced. A substantive change in the 
effective date of a renouncement is proposed to cover the renouncement 
of benefits when an award is already in suspense.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK23
_______________________________________________________________________




3071. TESTIMONY IN SUPPORT OF BENEFIT CLAIMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5711(a)(3)

[[Page 26078]]

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.200

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposal is a rewrite of the current regulation 
concerning the requirements for submitting oral and written testimony. 
We also propose to incorporate two provisions currently found in the 
adjudication procedure manual. The changes will make the regulation 
easier to understand and give claimants more information about the 
requirements for submitting oral and written testimony.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK24
_______________________________________________________________________




3072. WRITTEN AND ORAL INFORMATION ON STATEMENTS AFFECTING ENTITLEMENT 
TO BENEFITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 5104

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.103

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking intends to amend VA's due process regulation 
to allow reporting requirements to be met and allow benefit 
modifications to be based on information provided orally or by 
electronic means (e-mail, facsimile, or other means). This should help 
both beneficiaries and VA since it would allow benefit modifications to 
be done more quickly and reduce overpayments. It would also allow those 
receiving pension or parents' DIC to report promptly the deaths of 
family members, since this could affect entitlement to benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/20/01                    66 FR 20220
NPRM Comment Period End         06/19/01
Final Action                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald England, Chief, Policy and Regulations, C & P 
Service (21), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AK25
_______________________________________________________________________




3073. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF DEPENDENTS AND AGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5124

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.204

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment restates the current regulation in ``plain 
language'' and eliminates the requirement that statements acceptable as 
proof of age or relationship must be written.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK26
_______________________________________________________________________




3074. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF VOID AND ANNULLED MARRIAGES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 103

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.207

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment explains in ``plain language'' what VA 
considers acceptable evidence of a void or annulled marriage.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK27
_______________________________________________________________________




3075. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF MARRIAGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 103

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This revision explains in ``plain language'' what evidence is 
acceptable to VA as proof of marriage.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK30
_______________________________________________________________________




3076. INDEPENDENT MEDICAL OPINIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5109; 38 USC 5701(b)(1); 38 USC 52a(f)(3)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.328

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment is a plain language restatement of the 
existing regulation dealing with independent medical opinions that may 
be requested to resolve complex or controversial medical issues that 
may arise in a claim for veterans' benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/01

[[Page 26079]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: 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
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK31
_______________________________________________________________________




3077. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF DIVORCE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5124

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.206

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This is a plain language restatement of the adjudication 
regulation setting forth what VA will accept as evidence of a valid 
divorce.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK34
_______________________________________________________________________




3078. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF TERMINATION OF MARITAL RELATIONSHIP OR 
CONDUCT

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101(3); 38 USC 103(d); 38 USC 1311(e)(2)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.215

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This a plain language restatement of the adjudication 
regulations that sets forth what VA will accept as evidence that a 
relationship warranting an inference of remarriage has terminated.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK35
_______________________________________________________________________




3079. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF BIRTH

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5124

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.209

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This is a plain language restatement of the adjudication 
regulation that describes what evidence is acceptable to prove birth 
and relationship.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK36
_______________________________________________________________________




3080. EVIDENCE FROM FOREIGN COUNTRIES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5712

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.202

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This is a plain language restatement of the adjudication 
regulation dealing with the authentication requirements for evidence 
given under oath before an official in a foreign country.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK37
_______________________________________________________________________




3081. NATIONAL SERVICE LIFE INSURANCE--PLAIN ENGLISH REVISION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1901 to 1929; 38 USC 1981 to 1988

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 8.0; 38 CFR 8.1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend 38 CFR 8.0 and 8.1 by 
revising the text into a different format to promote better 
communication to policyholders and program administrators. This 
amendment is written in conjunction with VA's plain English (Reader 
Focused Writing) initiative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

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
Fax: 215 381-3502
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK43

[[Page 26080]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3082. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF CHILD'S RELATIONSHIP

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101(4)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.210

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This revision explains in plain language what is acceptable 
evidence of a child's relationship to a veteran.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK47
_______________________________________________________________________




3083. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF DEATH

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5106; 38 USC 5124

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.211

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This is a plain language restatement of the adjudication 
regulation that describes what evidence is acceptable to prove death.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK48
_______________________________________________________________________




3084. ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF UNEXPLAINED ABSENCE FOR 7 YEARS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 108

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.212

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This revision explains in plain language what evidence is 
acceptable for a finding of presumptive death. It incorporates a 
provision from the Adjudication Procedure Manual that explains what 
evidence of search for a missing person must show.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK49
_______________________________________________________________________




3085.  U.S. FLAGS FOR BURIALS OF CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE SELECTED 
RESERVE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 2301

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1.10

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment will implement the Strom Thurmond National 
Defense Authorization Act of 1999, which requires VA to issue burial 
flags for certain members of the Selected Reserve.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Diane Fuller, Assistant Director, Compensation and 
Pension Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7598

RIN: 2900-AK56
_______________________________________________________________________




3086.  VALIDITY OF ENLISTMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101(2)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.14

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This revision explains in plain language what the Department 
of Veterans Affairs considers to be valid service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK59
_______________________________________________________________________




3087.  COMPUTATION OF SERVICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 106(c); 38 USC 5303(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.15

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This revision explains in plain language how the Department 
of Veterans Affairs computes the length of a period of service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK60

[[Page 26081]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3088.  DISEASES SPECIFIC TO RADIATION-EXPOSED VETERANS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1112(c); PL 100-321

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.309(d)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is proposing to amend 
its adjudication regulations concerning presumptive service connection 
for certain diseases for veterans who participated in radiation- risk 
activities during active service or while members of reserve components 
during active duty for training or inactive duty training. This 
proposed amendment would add cancers of the bone, brain, colon, lung, 
and ovary to the list of diseases which may be presumptively service-
connected and amend the definition of the term ``radiation-risk 
activity.'' The intended effect of this amendment is to ensure that 
veterans who may have been exposed to radiation during military service 
have the same burden of proof as civilians exposed to ionizing 
radiation who may be entitled to compensation for these cancers under 
comparable Federal statutes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

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: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK64
_______________________________________________________________________




3089.  FILIPINO VETERANS BENEFIT IMPROVEMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 107

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.8; 38 CFR 3.10; 38 CFR 3.1600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend Department of Veterans 
Affairs (VA) adjudication regulations to reflect changes made by the 
Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and 
Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2001, which changed the rate 
of compensation payments to certain Filipino veterans residing in the 
U.S., and the Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 
2000, which changed the amount of the burial benefit paid to the 
survivors of certain Filipino veterans who were residing in the U.S. at 
the time of their deaths.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

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: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK65
_______________________________________________________________________




3090.  SPECIAL MONTHLY COMPENSATION FOR WOMEN VETERANS WHO LOSE 
A BREAST AS A RESULT OF A SERVICE-CONNECTED DISABILITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1114(k); 38 USC 1155; PL 102-4

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.350; 38 CFR 4.116

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to amend its 
adjudication regulations to provide for payment of special monthly 
compensation for a woman veteran who loses one or both breasts as a 
result of service-connected disability. The intended effect of this 
amendment is to implement legislation authorizing VA to provide this 
benefit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AK66
_______________________________________________________________________




3091.  MONETARY ALLOWANCE UNDER 38 U.S.C. 1815 FOR A CHILD WITH 
ONE OR MORE COVERED BIRTH DEFECTS WHO IS A CHILD OF A WOMAN VIETNAM 
VETERAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1805(b)(3); 38 USC 1812; 38 USC 1815; 38 USC 
5110(n); 38 USC 5312(c)(1)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.27; 38 CFR 3.29; 38 CFR 3.114; 38 CFR 3.216; 38 
CFR 3.261

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 401 of the Veterans Benefits and Health Care 
Improvement Act of 2000, Public Law 106-419, amended chapter 18 of 
title 38 United States Code by adding subchapter II authorizing VA to 
provide certain benefits, including a monthly monetary allowance, to 
children born with certain birth defects who are the natural children 
of women veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam during the 
Vietnam era. This document amends existing VA adjudication regulations 
and adds a new section 3.815 to title 38 Code of Federal Regulations to 
implement this new authority. Section 1823 of title 38 United States 
Code specifies that receipt of this allowance shall not affect the 
right of the child, or the right of any individual based on the child's 
relationship to that individual, to receive any other benefit to which 
the child, or that individual, may be entitled under any law 
administered by VA, nor will the allowance be considered income or 
resources in determining eligibility for, or the amount of, benefits 
under any Federal or federally assisted program. We propose to amend 38 
CFR 3.27, 3.29, 3.31, 3.114, 3.216, 3.261 to 263, 3.272, and 3.275 to 
reflect this statutory provision as it applies to VA's income-based 
benefit programs. The statute states that the birth defects identified 
may not include: A familial disorder, a birth-related injury, or a 
fetal or

[[Page 26082]]

neonatal infirmity with well-established causes. The regulation will 
provide non-exclusive lists of included and excluded conditions for 
benefits. It also provides criteria to determine which of four levels 
of monthly monetary payment will be assigned, based on an assessment of 
the day-to-day functioning of affected individuals or to the extent of 
disfigurement of the head, face, or neck due to one or more covered 
birth defects or associated disabilities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AK67
_______________________________________________________________________




3092.  DUTY TO ASSIST

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5103; 38 USC 5108

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.102; 38 CFR 3.156; 38 CFR 3.159; 38 CFR 3.326

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (V) is proposing to amend 
its adjudication regulations to implement the provisions of the 
Veterans Claims Assistance Act of 2000 (the VCAA), which was signed by 
the President on November 9, 2000. The intended effect of this 
regulation is to establish clear guidelines consistent with the intent 
of Congress regarding the timing and the scope of assistance VA will 
provide to a claimant who files a substantially complete application 
for VA benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/04/01                    66 FR 17834
NPRM Comment Period End         05/04/01
Final Action                    07/00/01

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: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AK69
_______________________________________________________________________




3093.  ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE OF CHANGE IN STATUS OR NUMBER OF 
DEPENDENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)(1); 38 USC 1115; 38 USC 1310; 38 USC 
1521; 38 USC 5124

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.213

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This revision explains in plain language what evidence is 
acceptable to VA for the purpose of increasing benefits by adding 
dependents or for decreasing or discontinuing benefits due to a 
reduction in dependents or a change of status.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

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
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK70
_______________________________________________________________________




3094.  LOAN GUARANTY: PRE-PURCHASE COUNSELING REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 3203; 38 USC 3210; 38 USC 3220

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4332

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is proposing to amend its 
loan guaranty regulations to require that all first-time homebuyers 
seeking to obtain VA guaranteed home loans complete 3 hours of 
homeowners' counseling.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Valuation (262), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7369
Fax: 202 273-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK76
_______________________________________________________________________




3095.  ADDITIONAL DISABILITY OR DEATH DUE TO HOSPITAL CARE, 
MEDICAL OR SURGICAL TREATMENT, EXAMINATION, TRAINING AND REHABILITATION 
SERVICES, OR COMPENSATED WORK THERAPY PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1151

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.358; 38 CFR 3.800

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
adjudication regulations concerning awards of compensation or 
dependency and indemnity compensation for additional disability or 
death caused by VA hospital care, medical or surgical treatment, 
examination, training and rehabilitation services, or compensated work 
therapy (CWT) program.
Under the proposed amendment, benefits will be payable for additional 
disability or death caused by hospital care, medical or surgical 
treatment, or examination only if VA fault or ``an event not reasonably 
foreseeable'' proximately caused the disability or death. Benefits will 
also be payable for additional disability or death proximately caused 
by VA's provision of training and rehabilitation services or CWT 
program.

[[Page 26083]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Beth McCoy, Consultant, Regulations Staff, Compensation 
and Pension (211A), Department of Veterans Affairs, 575 N. Pennsylvania 
Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone: 317 226-5209

RIN: 2900-AK77
_______________________________________________________________________




3096.  VETERANS EDUCATION: TOPPING UP TUITION ASSISTANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3014; 38 USC 3015

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Floyd D. Spence National Defense Authorization Action for 
Fiscal Year 2001 contains a provision that permits a service member to 
receive Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty benefits for the difference 
between the service member's tuition and the portion of the tuition 
paid under 10 U.S.C. 2007. Appropriate regulations will be added to 
implement this provision of law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK79
_______________________________________________________________________




3097.  VETERANS AND DEPENDENTS EDUCATION: LICENSING AND 
CERTIFICATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 3032; 38 USC 3232; 38 USC 3452; 38 USC 3482; 38 USC 
3501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act 
provides that veterans and eligible persons may receive educational 
assistance to cover the cost of the tests needed to obtain an 
occupational license or certification. This improved benefit is 
available under the Post-Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance 
Program, the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty, Survivors' and Dependents' 
Educational Assistance. Regulations are needed to properly implement 
this program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK80
_______________________________________________________________________




3098.  VETERANS EDUCATION: ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE 
IN THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS ISSUES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3011 to 3012; 38 USC 3015; 38 USC 3018C; 38 USC 
3080; 38 USC 16132

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4138; 38 CFR 21.7020; 38 CFR 21.7042; 38 CFR 
21.7136; 38 CFR 21.7540

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000 
affects the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty and the Montgomery GI Bill-
Selected Reserve. These include providing an opportunity for some 
service members to participate in the Montgomery GI Bill- Active Duty; 
repeal of the requirement that only the initial period of active duty 
be considered in determining eligibility for the Montgomery GI Bill-
Active Duty; increasing the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty for those 
who contribute additional money; and changing the rules for determining 
when benefits may be paid during the interval between terms. The 
regulations governing Montgomery GI Bill will be revised accordingly.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK81



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



3099. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION--SIMPLIFIED 
ACQUISITION PROCEDURES FOR HEALTH CARE RESOURCES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 8153

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

[[Page 26084]]

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                     06/00/01

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
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI71
_______________________________________________________________________




3100. 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                            09/00/01

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
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ45
_______________________________________________________________________




3101. CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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                            04/00/01

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
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ56
_______________________________________________________________________




3102.  DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATIONS 
PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 48 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking action would amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs acquisition regulation to update position titles, to remove 
obsolete or duplicative material, to delegate authority, and to make 
plain language revisions to the text. In addition, the rule would 
update material to correspond to the requirements of the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and would provide agency procedures for 
compliance with FAR requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (95A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Acquisition & Materiel 
Management,

[[Page 26085]]

810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK78



_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



3103. 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                            04/04/01                    66 FR 17840
NPRM Comment Period End         06/04/01
Final Action                    10/00/01

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-AJ97
_______________________________________________________________________




3104.  APPEALS REGULATIONS: TITLE FOR MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF 
VETERANS APPEALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals proposes to amend its appeals 
regulations to provide that a Member of the Board of Veterans' Appeals 
(Board) may also be known as a ``Veteran Law Judge.'' This duplicates, 
in proposed rule format, a final rule previously published in the 
Federal Register on September 14, 2000 (65 FR 55461). Individuals 
deciding appeals in other parts of the Federal Government are typically 
known as ``judges''; e.g., ``administrative law judges'' and 
``administrative judges.'' Giving Board Members the title of ``veteran 
law judges'' would provide a more accurate title than ``member'' and 
would enhance confidence in the system through recognition that appeals 
are being adjudicated by legal professionals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/06/01                    66 FR 13463
NPRM Comment Period End         05/07/01
Final Action                    10/00/01

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-AK62
_______________________________________________________________________




3105.  BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS: RULES OF PRACTICE--APPEAL 
WITHDRAWAL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 7105(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.204

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals proposes removing a 
restriction in its Rules of Practice (Rule of Practice 204; 38 CFR 
20.204) that bars an appellant's representative from withdrawing a 
Notice of Disagreement or a Substantive Appeal that the appellant filed 
personally without the appellant's written consent. VA believes that 
the restriction, adopted in the early 1960s, is an outdated and 
unnecessary intrusion into the relationship between appellants and 
their representatives, which creates needless delay through unnecessary 
procedural complexity.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

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-AK71



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



3106. HEADSTONE AND MARKER INSCRIPTION POLICY

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 26086]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Karen Barber, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5153
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AH45
_______________________________________________________________________




3107. STATE CEMETERY GRANTS: AID TO STATES FOR ESTABLISHMENT, EXPANSION, 
AND IMPROVEMENT OF VETERANS CEMETERIES

Priority: Other Significant

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                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Karen Barber, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5153
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AH46
_______________________________________________________________________




3108. 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                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Karen Barber, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5153
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AI95
_______________________________________________________________________




3109. 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).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Karen Barber, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5153
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AJ48



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF POLICY AND PLANNING


                    ________________________________



3110. 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 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                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

[[Page 26087]]

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

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

RIN: 2900-AJ62
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                    Final Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3111. 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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3112. 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                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ellen Fox M.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
_______________________________________________________________________




3113. 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 37779
Interim Final Rule Effective    07/14/98
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/14/98
Final Action                    10/00/01

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

[[Page 26088]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3114. 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 52; 38 CFR 58

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to establish a new part 52 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                            06/28/00                    65 FR 39835
NPRM Comment Period End         08/28/00
Final Action                    08/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3115. REASONABLE CHARGES FOR MEDICAL CARE OR SERVICES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721; 38 USC 1729

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
regulations concerning ``reasonable charges'' for medical care
or services provided or furnished by VA to a veteran: For a non-
service-connected disability for which the veteran is entitled to care 
(or the payment of expenses of care) under a health plan contract; for 
a non-service-connected disability incurred incident to the veteran's 
employment and covered under a worker's compensation law or plan that 
provides reimbursement or indemnification for such care and services; 
or for a non-service-connected disability incurred as a result of a 
motor vehicle accident in a State that requires automobile accident 
reparations insurance. This document also amends the regulations to 
update data bases and other provisions for the purpose of providing 
more precise charges.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/02/00                    65 FR 65906
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/02/01
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Cleaver, VHA Revenue Office (174), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8210
Fax: 202 273-6485

RIN: 2900-AK39
_______________________________________________________________________




3116.  DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY--LOAN GUARANTY FOR MULTIFAMILY 
TRANSITIONAL HOUSING FOR HOMELESS VETERANS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 512; 38 USC 3772

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.1000-1010

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs will be amending its 
medical regulations by delegating to the Under Secretary for Health 
authority to make final agency decisions regarding the pilot program 
for guaranteed loans for multifamily transitional housing projects for 
homeless veterans. It will also authorize a limited redelegation of the 
authority to execute documents.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Theresa Hayes, Program Manager (116E), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8445

RIN: 2900-AK51
_______________________________________________________________________




3117.  PROVISION OF HOSPITAL AND OUTPATIENT CARE TO VETERANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721; PL 104-262

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.36

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends VA medical regulations to announce that 
VA will enroll all seven priority categories of veterans for the period 
October 1, 2000, through September 30, 2001, unless it is necessary to 
change this determination by a subsequent rulemaking document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Walter Besecker, Director, Policy and Forecasting 
Service (105D), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8934

RIN: 2900-AK53
_______________________________________________________________________




3118.  MEDICAL BENEFITS PACKAGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1701(10); 38 USC 1710B(a)(5); PL 106-117

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.36; 38 CFR 17.38

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends VA's medical regulations to add the 
following to the medical benefits package: Noninstitutional adult day 
health care, noninstitutional geriatric evaluation, and 
noninstitutional respite care. This implements statutory provisions of 
the Veterans Millennium Health Care and Benefits Act.

[[Page 26089]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marsha Goodwin, Geriatrics and Extended Care (114), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8540

RIN: 2900-AK55
_______________________________________________________________________




3119.  REASONABLE CHARGES FOR MEDICAL CARE OR SERVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721; 38 USC 1729

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends VA's medical regulations concerning 
``reasonable charges'' for medical care or services provided or 
furnished by VA to a veteran.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Cleaver, VHA Revenue Office (174), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8210
Fax: 202 273-6485

RIN: 2900-AK73



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3120. 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                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: 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-AE20
_______________________________________________________________________




3121. 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                    06/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3122. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE SKIN

Priority: Other Significant

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                    10/00/01

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

[[Page 26090]]

Phone: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AF00
_______________________________________________________________________




3123. AMENDMENTS TO TRAINING AND REHABILITATION PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 102-568

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.40; 38 CFR 21.6420; 38 CFR 21.6501; 38 CFR 
21.6503; 38 CFR 21.6505; 38 CFR 21.6507; 38 CFR 21.6523; 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; ...

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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3124. 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                     08/01/00                    65 FR 46882
Second NPRM Comment Period End  10/02/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3125. VISION

Priority: Other Significant

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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/11/99                    64 FR 25246
NPRM Comment Period End         07/12/99
Final Action                    08/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AH43
_______________________________________________________________________




3126. INTERVERTEBRAL DISC SYNDROME

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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                    08/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AI22
_______________________________________________________________________




3127. CLAIMS BASED ON AGGRAVATION OF NONSERVICE-CONNECTED DISABILITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

[[Page 26091]]

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                    10/00/01

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: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AI42
_______________________________________________________________________




3128. 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                            04/03/00                    65 FR 17477
NPRM Comment Period End         06/02/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ23
_______________________________________________________________________




3129. 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                    05/00/01

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: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AJ52
_______________________________________________________________________




3130. 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                            06/27/00                    65 FR 39580
NPRM Comment Period End         08/28/00
Final Action                    05/00/01

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: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ55
_______________________________________________________________________




3131. 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                            07/20/00                    65 FR 44999
NPRM Comment Period End         08/18/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 26092]]

Agency Contact: Gregory C. Hosmer, Senior Attorney/Insurance 
Specialist, Insurance Program Administration & Oversight, Department of 
Veterans Affairs, P.O. Box 13399, Philadelphia, PA 19101
Phone: 215 842-2000
Fax: 215 381-3502
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ80
_______________________________________________________________________




3132. LOAN GUARANTY: ADVERTISING AND SOLICITATION DISCLOSURE 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4227; 38 CFR 36.4365

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is proposing to 
change its regulations by prohibiting advertisements or solicitations 
from lenders that falsely state or imply that they were issued by or at 
the direction of VA or any other entity of the United States. This 
change would also provide that each written advertisement or 
solicitation from a private lender concerning VA-guaranteed loans 
include a statement indicating that the lender is a private lender and 
that the lender does not have an exclusive right to make loans 
guaranteed by VA. These provisions appear to be necessary to ensure 
that lenders do not provide misleading information.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/08/00                    65 FR 76957
NPRM Comment Period End         02/06/01
Final Action                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Valuation (262), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7369
Fax: 202 273-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ86
_______________________________________________________________________




3133. 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                    05/00/01

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: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ99
_______________________________________________________________________




3134. 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                            10/16/00                    65 FR 61132
NPRM Comment Period End         12/15/00
Final Action                    10/00/01

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: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK00
_______________________________________________________________________




3135. 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                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William G. Susling Jr., Assistant Director for Policy 
and Program Development (225),

[[Page 26093]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3136. 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 amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
adjudication regulation that explains how a claimant can use a
mark or a thumbprint in place of a signature. This amendment is 
necessary to present the existing regulation in plain language and to 
remove an obsolete manual provision from VA's Adjudication Procedural 
Manual, M21-1.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/26/00                    65 FR 45952
NPRM Comment Period End         09/25/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Bisset Jr., Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7213

RIN: 2900-AK07
_______________________________________________________________________




3137. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES: DISABILITIES OF THE LIVER

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.114

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs Schedule for Rating Disabilities by revising the portion of the 
Digestive System that addresses disabilities of the liver.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/07/00                    65 FR 48205
NPRM Comment Period End         10/06/00
Final Action                    08/00/01

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: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AK12
_______________________________________________________________________




3138. INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--SELECTED 
RESERVE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 16131

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 2001 will be changed to show a 3.0 percent increase in 
these rates.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK40
_______________________________________________________________________




3139. VETERANS EDUCATION: INCREASED ALLOWANCE FOR THE EDUCATIONAL TEST 
PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 2143; 10 USC 2144

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.5820; 38 CFR 21.5822

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The law provides that rates of subsistence allowance and 
educational assistance payable under the Educational Assistance test 
program shall be adjusted annually by the Secretary of Defense based 
upon the average actual cost of attendance at public institutions of 
higher education in the 12-month period since the rates were last 
adjusted. After consultation with the Department of Education, the 
Department of Defense has concluded that the rates for the 2000-2001 
academic year should be increased by 4 percent over the rates payable 
for the 1999-2000 academic year. The regulations dealing with these 
rate will be amended accordingly.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK41
_______________________________________________________________________




3140. INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--ACTIVE 
DUTY AND SURVIVORS' AND DEPENDENTS' EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3015; 38 USC 3032

[[Page 26094]]

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.7136; 38 CFR 21.7137

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: By statute, the monthly rate of basic educational assistance 
payable 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 2001 will be changed to 
show a 3 percent increase in these rates.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK44
_______________________________________________________________________




3141. END OF THE SERVICE MEMBERS OCCUPATIONAL CONVERSION AND TRAINING 
PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 1143

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4131; 38 CFR 21.4135; 38 CFR 21.4800; 38 CFR 
21.4802; 38 CFR 21.4810; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Veterans are no longer training under the Service Members 
Occupational Conversion and Training Program. The program has not been 
funded. Regulations governing the program are obsolete and will be 
rescinded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional CFR Citations: 38 CFR 21.4812; 38 
CFR 21.4820; 38 CFR 21.4822; 38 CFR 21.4823

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

RIN: 2900-AK45
_______________________________________________________________________




3142. VETERANS VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND EDUCATION: TITLE CHANGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 512

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.50; 38 CFR 21.53; 38 CFR 21.60; 38 CFR 21.68; 
38 CFR 21.4250; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA administers a vocational rehabilitation program that 
provides eligible veterans, with compensable service-connected 
disabilities, all service and assistance necessary to enable them to 
achieve maximum independence in daily living and, to the maximum extent 
feasible, to become employable and to obtain and maintain suitable 
employment. Due to an increased emphasis on helping these veterans 
obtain and maintain suitable employment, VA has decided to change the 
title of those employees who deal principally with this program. All 
appropriate rules will be changed to show that these employees deal 
with vocational rehabilitation and employment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional CFR Citations: 38 CFR 21.74; 38 CFR 
21.98; 38 CFR 21.100; 38 CFR 21.155

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

RIN: 2900-AK46
_______________________________________________________________________




3143.  DISEASE ASSOCIATED WITH EXPOSURE TO CERTAIN HERBICIDE 
AGENTS: TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 102-4; 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 1116

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.309(e)

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, January 8, 2001, See Agent Orange Act 
of 1991.

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is proposing to amend its 
adjudication regulations concerning presumptive service connection for 
certain diseases for which there is no record during service. This 
proposed amendment is necessary to implement a decision of the 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, under the authority granted by the Agent 
Orange Act of 1991, that there is a positive association between 
exposure to herbicides used in the Republic of Vietnam during the 
Vietnam era and the subsequent development of Type 2 diabetes. The 
intended effect of this proposed amendment is to establish presumptive 
service connection for that condition based on herbicide exposure.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/11/01                     66 FR 2376
NPRM Comment Period End         03/12/01
Final Action                    06/00/01

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: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK63

[[Page 26095]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3144.  VETERANS BENEFITS AND HEALTH CARE IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2000

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1114(j); 38 USC 5503(f)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.6; 38 CFR 3.353; 38 CFR 3.557; 38 CFR 3.558; 38 
CFR 3.1604

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
adjudication regulations concerning the definition of the term ``active 
military, naval, or air service,'' the payment limitation based on the 
value of an incompetent veteran's estate, the plot allowance for 
certain individuals buried in State veterans' cemeteries, and the 
limitation on pension for certain recipients of Medicaid-covered 
nursing home care. This amendment is necessary to implement statutory 
changes contained in the Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement 
Act of 2000.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/01

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
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK68
_______________________________________________________________________




3145.  DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY--PORTFOLIO LOAN SERVICING 
CONTRACTOR

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4342

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its 
regulations to delegate to certain officers, of the entity performing 
loan servicing functions under a contract with the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs, authority to execute all documents necessary for the 
servicing and termination of a loan made or acquired by the Secretary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran, Assistant Director for Policy and 
Valuation (262), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7369
Fax: 202 273-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK72



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



3146. SEALED BIDDING AND COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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                    10/00/01

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
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI99
_______________________________________________________________________




3147.  VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATION: REVISIONS TO VA 
ACQUISITION REGULATIONS PARTS 801 THROUGH 805

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 801 to 805; 48 CFR 842; 48 CFR 849; 48 CFR 852

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking action would amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs Acquisition Regulation to update position titles, to make minor 
grammatical corrections and revisions, to revise and update section 
numbers and titles and to relocate material to correspond to the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation, to remove obsolete or duplicative 
material, to make plain language revisions, and to delegate authority. 
In addition, the rule would update material regarding various internal 
VA administrative programs such as the VA's acquisition review, 
contracting officer's certification, and head of the contracting 
activity programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK75

[[Page 26096]]




_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



3148. 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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3149. 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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3150. DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY--APPEALS REGULATIONS AND RULES OF 
PRACTICE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3151. 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                            10/01/99                    64 FR 53302
NPRM Comment Period End         11/30/99
Final Action                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3152. 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

[[Page 26097]]

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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3153. 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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3154. APPEAL REGULATIONS, RULES OF PRACTICE: USE OF SUPPLEMENTAL 
STATEMENT OF THE CASE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 7105(d)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.31; 38 CFR 20.302(c); 38 CFR 20.501(c)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals is amending its appeals 
regulations and Rules of Practice to clarify that a ``Supplemental 
Statement of the Case'' (SSOC) is to be used only to inform an 
appellant of material changes in, or additions to, the information 
included in the Statement of the Case (SOC) or a prior SSOC. The prior 
rule permitted new issues to be added to the SOC, resulting in 
confusion for appellants, regional offices, and the Board as to what 
issues were actually on appeal. Since 1966, the manual provisions 
governing the regional office have prohibited using an SSOC to reply to 
new issues. This rule will conform the Board's rules with agency 
practice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/01

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-AK33
_______________________________________________________________________




3155.  RULES OF PRACTICE: MEDICAL OPINIONS FROM THE VETERANS 
HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.901(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals (Board) is amending its 
appeals regulations to clarify that it may obtain medical opinions from 
VA's Veterans Health Administration (VHA). The current rule, 38 CFR 
20.901(a), makes an obsolete reference to the ``Chief Medical 
Director,'' a title eliminated in 1992 and replaced by ``Under 
Secretary for Health.'' The revised rule would clarify that the Board 
may obtain opinions from VHA, not from the individual who happens to be 
the Under Secretary for Health.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/00/01

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-AK52
_______________________________________________________________________




3156.  BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS: RULES OF PRACTICE--TIME FOR 
FILING SUBSTANTIVE APPEAL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 7105(b)(1) and (d)(3)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.302(b); 38 CFR 30.304

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals is amending its appeals 
regulations relating to the time limit for filing a substantive appeal. 
It supplements an opinion by VA's General Counsel that, in some cases, 
when a claimant files additional evidence, the deadline for filing a 
``substantive appeal'' may be extended.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

[[Page 26098]]

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

RIN: 2900-AK54
_______________________________________________________________________




3157.  BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS: RULES OF PRACTICE--EFFECT OF 
PROCEDURAL DEFECTS IN MOTIONS FOR REVISION OF DECISIONS ON GROUNDS OF 
CLEAR AND UNMISTAKABLE ERROR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 7111; PL 105-111

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.1404(b); 38 CFR 20.1409(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans Appeals is amending its Rules of 
Practice regulations to provide that, when a motion to revise a Board 
decision on the grounds of clear and unmistakable error fails to 
provide specific allegations of error, the Board will dismiss the 
motion without prejudice to refiling. This amendment is made necessary 
by a decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal 
Circuit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/00/01

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-AK74



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



3158. 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 a 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                            07/21/00                    65 FR 45332
NPRM Comment Period End         09/19/00
Final Action                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Karen Barber, Program Analyst (402B1), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-5153
TDD Phone: 202 273-6697

RIN: 2900-AJ77



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY


                    ________________________________



3159. 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                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James S. Jones, Deputy Assistant Secretary for 
Resolution Management (08), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 501-2800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ63
_______________________________________________________________________




3160. NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, OR NATIONAL ORIGIN; 
HANDICAP; AND AGE IN PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES RECEIVING FEDERAL 
ASSISTANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 29 USC 794; 42 USC 2000d-1; 42 USC 6101

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 18

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Justice, pursuant to Executive Order 12250, 
is requesting that Federal agencies with title VI, section 504, and Age 
Discrimination Act regulations jointly issue amendments to their 
regulations to incorporate the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 
revisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/06/00                    65 FR 76460
NPRM Comment Period End         01/05/01
Final Action                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tyrone Eddins, External Affairs Manager, Office of 
Resolution Management (08), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 501-2801
Fax: 202 501-2885

RIN: 2900-AK13

[[Page 26099]]




_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL


                    ________________________________



3161. RELEASE OF INFORMATION FROM DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS RECORDS

Priority: Other Significant

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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3162. RECOGNITION OF ORGANIZATIONS AND ACCREDITATION OF REPRESENTATIVES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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                    10/00/01

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
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                   Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



3163. 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


                    ________________________________



3164. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES: GLOBAL ASSESSMENT OF FUNCTIONING 
SCALE IN THE EVALUATION OF MENTAL DISORDERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.125

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine
Phone: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AJ84
_______________________________________________________________________




3165. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3166. LOAN GUARANTY: CREDIT STANDARDS REVISION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4337

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

[[Page 26100]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran
Phone: 202 273-7369
Fax: 202 273-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ92



_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



3167. APPEALS REGULATIONS; RULES OF PRACTICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.3 (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); 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); ...

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3168. RULES OF PRACTICE; HEARINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.702; 38 CFR 2.1; 38 CFR 19.75; 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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3169. 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


                    ________________________________



3170. 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
Phone: 410 605-7388

RIN: 2900-AD48
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)                   Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3171. EXEMPTION FROM PHARMACY COPAY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.96

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/07/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard E. Rhoades
Phone: 202 273-8205

RIN: 2900-AJ12
_______________________________________________________________________




3172. PROVISION OF AIDS TO THE BLIND

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.810

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/14/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Frederick Downs
Phone: 202 273-8515

RIN: 2900-AJ22
_______________________________________________________________________




3173. AIDS FOR THE BLIND

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17; 37 CFR 17.154

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/14/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Don Garner
Phone: 202 273-8481

Rose Mary McMahon
Phone: 202 273-8482

RIN: 2900-AJ83

[[Page 26101]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3174. COPAYMENTS FOR MEDICATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.110

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       12/12/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Howard
Phone: 202 273-8198
Fax: 202 273-6485

RIN: 2900-AK28
_______________________________________________________________________




3175.  VA PAYMENT FOR NON-VA PUBLIC OR PRIVATE HOSPITAL CARE AND 
NON-VA PHYSICIAN SERVICES THAT ARE ASSOCIATED WITH EITHER OUTPATIENT OR 
INPATIENT CARE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 7121

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.55; 38 CFR 17.56

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends VA's medical regulations concerning VA 
payment for non-VA public or private hospital care provided to eligible 
VA beneficiaries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/07/00                    65 FR 66636
Final Action Effective          11/07/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tony Guagliardo, Health Administration Service (10C3), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8307

RIN: 2900-AK57
_______________________________________________________________________




3176. NEW CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF COURSES FOR EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE 
PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/27/00                    65 FR 81740
Final Action Effective          12/27/00

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-AI67
_______________________________________________________________________




3177. USE OF FACILITIES TO PROVIDE TRAINING OR WORK EXPERIENCE FOR 
VETERANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.299

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/08/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Agency Contact: Charles A Graffam
Phone: 202 273-7437

RIN: 2900-AJ01
_______________________________________________________________________




3178. WELL GROUNDED CLAIMS/DUTY TO ASSIST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.159

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/26/01                    66 FR 11549

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AJ44
_______________________________________________________________________




3179. REVISED CRITERIA FOR MONETARY ALLOWANCE FOR A CHILD BORN WITH 
SPINA BIFIDA WHO IS A CHILD OF A VIETNAM VETERAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.814

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/06/01                    66 FR 13435
Final Action Effective          04/05/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine
Phone: 202 272-7211

RIN: 2900-AJ51
_______________________________________________________________________




3180. CLAIMS BASED ON EFFECT OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.300; 38 CFR 3.310

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/06/01                    66 FR 18195

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bill Russo
Phone: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 275-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ59
_______________________________________________________________________




3181. MISCELLANEOUS MONTGOMERY GI BILL ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENT 
ISSUES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/09/00                    65 FR 67265
Final Action Effective          11/09/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ90

[[Page 26102]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3182.  APPEALS REGULATIONS: TITLE FOR MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF 
VETERANS APPEALS-RESCISSION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals is rescinding its amendment to 
its appeals regulations, which provide that a Member of the Board may 
also be known as a ``Veteran Law Judge.'' Although this amendment was 
properly published, we have decided to provide the public an 
opportunity to comment on this change. Concurrent with this rescission 
is the republication of the former Federal Register document as a 
notice of proposed rulemaking.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/06/01                    66 FR 13437
Final Action Effective          03/06/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: See related amendment at 65 FR 55461 (September 
14, 2000).

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-AK61
_______________________________________________________________________




3183. OUTER BURIAL RECEPTACLES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1.629

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/08/00                    65 FR 76937
Final Action Effective          12/08/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth Greenberg
Phone: 202 273-5179
TDD Phone: 202 271-6697

RIN: 2900-AJ49
[FR Doc. 01-6925 Filed 05-11-01; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8320-01-S
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