[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]


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Part XVI


Department of Veterans Affairs


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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 33674]]



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 2002. 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.

 Roland Halstead,

Acting Director, Office of Regulatory Law.

                                  Department of Veterans Affairs--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2659       Loan Guaranty: Availability of Vendee Financing for VA-Acquired Properties...........     2900-AL16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Department of Veterans Affairs--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2660       Waivers..............................................................................     2900-AK29
2661       Enrollment Priority Category Status Changes..........................................     2900-AK38
2662       Loan Guaranty: Multifamily Transitional Housing for Homeless Veterans Program........     2900-AK58
2663       Enrollment--Provision of Hospital and Outpatient Care to Veterans....................     2900-AK92
2664       Payment for Non-VA Medical Services and Inpatient Care Provided at Non-VA Facilities.     2900-AK94
2665       Reasonable Charges for Medical Care or Services......................................     2900-AL06
2666       Fisher Houses and Other Temporary Lodging............................................     2900-AL13
2667       Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Orthopedic System..............................     2900-AE91
2668       Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders...     2900-AF23
2669       Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Digestive System...................................     2900-AF24
2670       Evidence on File at Date of Death....................................................     2900-AH42
2671       Schedule for Rating Disability: The Spine............................................     2900-AJ60
2672       Education Provisions of the Veterans Programs Enhancement Act of 1998................     2900-AJ68
2673       Definition of Psychosis for Certain VA Purposes......................................     2900-AK21
2674       National Service Life Insurance--Plain English Revision..............................     2900-AK43
2675       Additional Disability or Death Due to Hospital Care, Medical or Surgical Treatment,       2900-AK77
            Examination, Training and Rehabilitation Services, or Compensated Work Therapy
            Program.............................................................................
2676       Veterans and Dependents Education: Topping Up Tuition Assistance and Payment for          2900-AK80
            Licensing and Certification Tests...................................................
2677       Veterans Education: Additional Opportunity To Participate in the Montgomery GI Bill       2900-AK81
            and Other Miscellaneous Issues......................................................
2678       Schedule for Rating Disabilities; Evaluation of Tinnitus.............................     2900-AK86
2679       Time Limit for Request for De Novo Review............................................     2900-AK97
2680       Accelerated Payments Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty Program...............     2900-AL22
2681       Amendments to Training and Rehabilitation Programs...................................     2900-AL24
2682       Universal Product Numbers (UPNs).....................................................     2900-AJ45
2683       Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulations Plain Language Rewrite........     2900-AK78
2684       Board of Veterans' Appeals: Rules of Practice--Appeal Withdrawal.....................     2900-AK71
2685       Board of Veterans' Appeals: Speeding Appellate Review for Aging Veterans.............     2900-AL08
2686       State Cemetery Grants: Aid to States for Establishment, Expansion, and Improvement of     2900-AH46
            Veterans Cemeteries.................................................................
2687       Eligibility for Burial of Dependent Adult Children of Eligible Veterans; and              2900-AI95
            Eligibility for Burial of Certain Filipino Veterans.................................
2688       Standards for Collection, Compromise, Suspension, or Termination of Collection            2900-AK10
            Effort; Regional Office Committee on Waiver and Compromises.........................

[[Page 33675]]


2689       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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2690       Provision of Drugs and Medicines Prescribed by Non-VA Physicians.....................     2900-AJ24
2691       Advanced Health Care Planning........................................................     2900-AJ28
2692       Provision of Drugs and Medicines to Certain Veterans in State Nursing Homes..........     2900-AJ34
2693       Grants to States for Construction and Acquisition of State Home Facilities...........     2900-AJ43
2694       Payment or Reimbursement for Emergency Treatment Furnished at Non-VA Facilities......     2900-AK08
2695       Medical Benefits Package; Copayments for Extended Care Services......................     2900-AK32
2696       Reasonable Charges for Medical Care or Services......................................     2900-AK39
2697       Copayments for Inpatient Hospital Care and Outpatient Medical Care...................     2900-AK50
2698       Reasonable Charges for Medical Care or Services......................................     2900-AK73
2699       Health Care for Children Born With One or More Covered Birth Defects to Vietnam           2900-AK88
            Veterans............................................................................
2700       Civilian Health and Medical Program of Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA)......     2900-AK89
2701       Reasonable Charges for Medical Care or Services......................................     2900-AL05
2702       Filipino Veterans Eligible for Hospital Care, Nursing Home Care, and Medical Services     2900-AL18
2703       Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Skin...........................................     2900-AF00
2704       Revised Definition of Net Value and Revised Criteria for Pre-Foreclosure Debt Waivers     2900-AG20
2705       Total Disability Evaluations Based on Inability of the Individual To Engage in            2900-AH21
            Substantially Gainful Employment....................................................
2706       Vision...............................................................................     2900-AH43
2707       Intervertebral Disc Syndrome.........................................................     2900-AI22
2708       Ankylosis and Limitation of Motion of Digits of the Hands............................     2900-AI44
2709       Exclusions From Income...............................................................     2900-AJ52
2710       Accelerated Benefits Option for Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance and Veterans'        2900-AJ80
            Group Life Insurance................................................................
2711       State Department as Agent of Department of Veterans Affairs..........................     2900-AK03
2712       Finality of Decisions................................................................     2900-AK18
2713       Renouncement of Benefits.............................................................     2900-AK23
2714       Independent Medical Opinions.........................................................     2900-AK31
2715       Evidence From Foreign Countries......................................................     2900-AK37
2716       Veterans Vocational Rehabilitation and Education: Title Change.......................     2900-AK46
2717       Filipino Veterans Benefit Improvements...............................................     2900-AK65
2718       Monetary Allowances for Certain Children of Vietnam Veterans; Identification of           2900-AK67
            Covered Birth Defects...............................................................
2719       Loan Guaranty: Pre-Purchase Counseling Requirements..................................     2900-AK76
2720       Vocational Training for Certain Children of Vietnam Veterans--Covered Birth Defects       2900-AK90
            and Spina Bifida....................................................................
2721       Extension of the Presumptive Period for Compensation for Gulf War Veterans'               2900-AK98
            Undiagnosed Illnesses...............................................................
2722       Increase in Rates Payable Under the Educational Assistance Test Program..............     2900-AL02
2723       Plain Language (Reader Focused Writing) Initiative; National Service Life Insurance       2900-AL09
            (NSLI)..............................................................................
2724       Adjudication, Fiduciary Activities...................................................     2900-AL10
2725       Exceptions to Definition of Date of Receipt Based on Special or Unforeseen                2900-AL12
            Circumstances.......................................................................
2726       Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty and Survivors'        2900-AL17
            and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program......................................
2727       Cross Reference Change in Forms To Be Furnished......................................     2900-AL19
2728       Service Connection by Presumption of Aggravation of a Chronic Preexisting Disease....     2900-AL20
2729       Duty Periods; Inactive Duty for Training.............................................     2900-AL21
2730       Loan Guaranty: Implementation of Public Law 107-103..................................     2900-AL23
2731       Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation--Simplified Acquisition             2900-AI71
            Procedures for Health Care Resources................................................
2732       Sealed Bidding and Competitive Proposals.............................................     2900-AI99
2733       Construction and Architect-Engineer Contracts........................................     2900-AJ56
2734       Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation: Revisions to VA Acquisition Regulations          2900-AK75
            Parts 801 Through 805...............................................................
2735       Board of Veterans' Appeals--Rules of Practice--Attorney Fee Matters..................     2900-AI98
2736       The Board of Veterans' Appeals; Rules of Practice--Motion for Review of Decisions on      2900-AJ85
            Grounds of Clear and Unmistakable Error: Content of Record; Advancement on the
            Docket..............................................................................

[[Page 33676]]


2737       Rules of Practice: Medical Opinions From the Veterans Health Administration..........     2900-AK52
2738       Appeals Regulations: Title for Members of the Board of Veterans Appeals..............     2900-AK62
2739       Board of Veterans Appeals: Rules of Practice--Effect of Procedural Defects in Motions     2900-AK74
            for Revision of Decisions on Grounds of Clear and Unmistakable Error................
2740       Board of Veterans' Appeals: Rules of Practice--Attorney Fee Matters; Notice of            2900-AL25
            Disagreement Matters................................................................
2741       Interment or Memorialization in VA National Cemeteries and Certain State Cemeteries--     2900-AJ77
            Federal or State Capital Crime......................................................
2742       Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Race, Color, or National Origin; Handicap; and Age      2900-AK13
            in Programs and Activities Receiving Federal Assistance.............................
2743       Release of Information From Department of Veterans Affairs Records...................     2900-AH98
2744       Recognition of Organizations and Accreditation of Representatives....................     2900-AI93
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2745       Protection of Human Subjects.........................................................     2900-AJ08
2746       Claims Based on Aggravation of Nonservice-Connected Disability.......................     2900-AI42
2747       Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Requirement for Drug-        2900-AK16
            Free Workplace (Assistance).........................................................
2748       Recoupment of Nondisability Severance Pay From VA Compensation.......................     2900-AK95
2749       Appeals Regulations; Rules of Practice...............................................     2900-AE78
2750       Operation of Child Care Centers at VA Facilities.....................................     2900-AD48
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2751       Per Diem for Adult Day Health Care of Veterans in State Homes........................     2900-AJ74
2752       Policy Regarding Participation in National Practitioner Data Bank....................     2900-AJ76
2753       Compensated Work Therapy/Transitional Residences Program.............................     2900-AK01
2754       Copayments for Medications...........................................................     2900-AK85
2755       Amendments to Training and Rehabilitation Programs...................................     2900-AG00
2756       Veterans Education: Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements at Flight Schools.......     2900-AJ23
2757       Loan Guaranty: Advertising and Solicitation Disclosure Requirements..................     2900-AJ86
2758       Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Claims Based on Personal Assault......................     2900-AK00
2759       Diseases Specific to Radiation-Exposed Veterans......................................     2900-AK64
2760       Special Monthly Compensation for Women Veterans Who Lose a Breast as a Result of a        2900-AK66
            Service-Connected Disability........................................................
2761       Duty To Assist.......................................................................     2900-AK69
2762       Exclusion From Countable Income of Expenses Paid for Veteran's Last Illness               2900-AK84
            Subsequent to Veteran's Death but Prior to Date of Death Pension Entitlement........
2763       Claims Based on Exposure to Ionizing Radiation.......................................     2900-AK87
2764       Certification for Eligibility for Adaptive Equipment for Automobiles or Other             2900-AK96
            Conveyances.........................................................................
2765       Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Selected Reserve.............     2900-AK99
2766       Increase in Rates Payable Under the Dependents' Educational Assistance Program.......     2900-AL00
2767       Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty..................     2900-AL01
2768       Notice of Appeal in Simultaneously Contested Claims..................................     2900-AJ73
2769       Board of Veterans' Appeals: Obtaining Evidence and Curing Procedural Defects Without      2900-AK91
            Remanding...........................................................................
2770       Board of Veterans' Appeals Rules of Practice: Claim for Death Benefit by Survivor....     2900-AL11
2771       Board of Veterans' Appeals--Title Change.............................................     2900-AL15
2772       Delegation of Authority--Decisionmaking Regarding Discrimination.....................     2900-AJ63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 33677]]


                                                  Department of Veterans Affairs--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2900-AG07       Rules of Practice; Hearings                                                                     03/06/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AG90       Rules of Practice: Medical Opinions; Appeal Processing and Submission of Additional             03/06/2002   Withdrawn
                 Evidence
2900-AH45       Headstone and Marker Inscription Policy                                                         03/06/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AJ19       Dependents Education: Eligibility and Entitlement Standards                                     02/27/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AJ20       Medical Care and Treatment for Which VA Will Not Seek Reimbursement                             03/06/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AJ21       Clothing Allowance                                                                              02/27/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AJ48       Use of the Secretary's Authority as Provided by 38 U.S.C. 2402(6)                               03/06/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AJ66       Delegations of Authority--Appeals Regulations and Rules of Practice                             03/06/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AJ82       Evidence of Permanent and Total Disability                                                      03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AJ84       Schedule for Rating Disabilities: Global Assessment of Functioning Scale in the Evaluation      03/05/2002   Withdrawn
                 of Mental Disorders
2900-AJ91       Loan Guaranty: Revision to VA Work Rules for Credit Scored Loans                                12/18/2001   Withdrawn
2900-AJ92       Loan Guaranty: Credit Standards Revision                                                        12/18/2001   Withdrawn
2900-AJ93       Benefit of the Doubt                                                                            03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AJ95       Permanent Incapacity for Self-Support                                                           12/31/2001   Withdrawn
2900-AJ96       Presumptive Service Connection for Hepatitis C Infection                                        04/30/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK02       Minimum Active Duty Requirement                                                                 03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK05       Medication Prescribing Authority                                                                04/03/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK09       Commencement of the Period of Payment                                                           03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK11       Service Connection and Chronic Disability                                                       03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK17       Time Limits, Extensions, and Computation of Time Limits                                         03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK19       Delegation of Authority To Issue Decisions on Benefits Claims                                   03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK20       Individuals and Groups Considered To Have Performed Active Military, Naval, or Air Service      03/04/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK22       Change of Law--Effect on Benefits                                                               03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK24       Testimony in Support of Benefit Claims                                                          03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK26       Acceptable Evidence of Marriage, Divorce, Birth, Age, Biological Relationship, Child's          03/05/2002   Withdrawn
                 Relationship, and Death
2900-AK27       Acceptable Evidence of Void and Annulled Marriages                                              03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK33       Appeal Regulations, Rules of Practice: Use of Supplemental Statement of the Case                02/13/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK35       Acceptable Evidence of Termination of Marital Relationship or Conduct                           03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK49       Acceptable Evidence of Unexplained Absence for 7 Years                                          03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK59       Validity of Enlistments                                                                         03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK60       Computation of Service                                                                          03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK70       Acceptable Evidence of Change in Status or Number of Dependents                                 03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK82       Mandatory Disclosure of Social Security Number                                                  03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK83       Presumption of Service Connection for Cirrhosis of the Liver in Former Prisoners of War         03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AK93       Conditional Discharge                                                                           03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AL03       Evidence Requirements for Service and Character of Discharge                                    03/05/2002   Withdrawn
2900-AL07       Veterans Education: Streamlining Approval of Courses                                            03/04/2002   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 33678]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)                       Prerule Stage






_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2659.  LOAN GUARANTY: AVAILABILITY OF VENDEE FINANCING FOR 
VA-ACQUIRED PROPERTIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is requesting 
comments concerning whether VA should discontinue offering vendee 
(direct) loan financing on the sale of single-family residential real 
property VA acquires following the foreclosure of guaranteed and direct 
home loans made to veterans. VA wants to determine the impact that such 
action would have on real estate professionals, inventors, lenders, and 
the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/00/02

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: 202 273-7368
Fax: 202 275-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL16
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)                 Proposed Rule Stage






_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2660. 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                            10/00/02

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: 202 273-4897
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK29
_______________________________________________________________________




2661. 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 Health Care and 
Benefits Act, amended the priority categories to include veterans 
awarded the Purple Heart in priority category three. Public Law No. 
107-135, the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs 
Enhancement Act of 2001, requires the Secretary to amend Priority Group 
7 and establish Priority Group 8. To be enrolled in Priority Group 7, a 
veteran's family income must be above a means test category 5 veteran, 
but below the family income criteria used by Housing and Urban 
Development for low-income housing. A veteran can be enrolled into 
Priority Group 8 if the veteran is required to complete a means test 
and the veteran's income and assets are above the Housing and Urban 
Development low-income criteria. Accordingly, we intend to change our 
medical care regulation at 38 CFR 17.35 to reflect these changes. We 
further propose to amend the regulations by removing ``Chief Network 
Officer'' wherever it appears and adding in its place ``Assistant 
Deputy Under Secretary for Health.'' 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) and (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 10-10EZ, and the veteran failed to return the completed form to 
the address on the return envelope within 60 days from receipt of the 
form. We propose to continue their enrollment by changing their 
enrollment priority group to Priority Group 6 for conditions relating 
to exposure to Agent Orange, Ionizing Radiation, or Gulf War 
contaminants or to Priority Group 8.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/02

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

[[Page 33679]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2662. 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                            10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2663. ENROLLMENT--PROVISION OF HOSPITAL AND OUTPATIENT CARE TO VETERANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1705; PL 104-262

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA has established a national enrollment system to manage the 
delivery of health care services. Veterans are eligible to be enrolled 
based on seven categories of priority. This document announces that VA 
will enroll all seven priority categories of veterans for the period 
October 1, 2001 through September 30, 2002.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Amy Hertz, Program Analyst, Office of Policy and 
Planning (105), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8412

RIN: 2900-AK92
_______________________________________________________________________




2664. PAYMENT FOR NON-VA MEDICAL SERVICES AND INPATIENT CARE PROVIDED AT 
NON-VA FACILITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs (VA) medical regulations to establish a payment methodology for 
inpatient care and outpatient medical services provided to eligible VA 
beneficiaries at non-VA facilities. It is proposed that when there is 
an amount already calculated under the Medicare Payment Systems for 
services, VA would pay the lesser of the actual billed charge, an 
amount negotiated with the provider or the provider's agent, or the 
calculated amount. It appears that the adoption of the proposal would 
help ensure that amounts paid for these services would better reflect 
the resource inputs used to furnish a service and better reflect the 
true value of services. Further, it is proposed that the regulations 
would continue to require that VA payment constitute payment in full. 
In our view, this is required by statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK94
_______________________________________________________________________




2665. 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 the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
medical regulations concerning ``reasonable charges'' for medical care 
or services provided or furnished by VA to veterans for nonservice-
connected disabilities. This document amends the regulations to revise 
the charge structure and update other provisions for the purpose of 
providing more precise charges.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

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: 202 273-4897

Related RIN: Related To 2900-AJ30, Related To 2900-AK39, Related To 
2900-AK73, Related To 2900-AL05
RIN: 2900-AL06
_______________________________________________________________________




2666.  FISHER HOUSES AND OTHER TEMPORARY LODGING

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-414, sec 221

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 60 (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to establish 
requirements regarding the use of Fisher Houses and other temporary 
lodging by veterans receiving VA medical care or Compensation and 
Pension (C&P) examinations and by family members or other persons 
accompanying veterans to provide the equivalent of familial support. 
This is necessary to implement provisions of the Veterans Benefits and 
Health Care Improvement Act of 2000.

[[Page 33680]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/30/02                    67 FR 21191
NPRM Comment Period End         07/01/02
Final Action                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jill E. Manske, Director, Social Work Service (110B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8549
Fax: 202 273-8385
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL13



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2667. 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                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AE91
_______________________________________________________________________




2668. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS AND 
CONVULSIVE DISORDERS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments will contain additions, deletions, and 
revisions of terminology resulting from a systematic review of the 
medical criteria used to evaluate disabilities of the neurological 
system.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/02/91                    56 FR 20169
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/01/91
NPRM                            08/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AF23
_______________________________________________________________________




2669. 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                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AF24
_______________________________________________________________________




2670. 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: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its 
adjudication regulations dealing with accrued benefits, those benefits 
to which an individual was entitled under existing ratings or 
decisions, or those based on ``evidence in the file at date of death'' 
which were due and unpaid at the time the individual died. ``Evidence 
in the file at date of death'' would be interpreted as evidence in VA's 
possession on or before the date of the beneficiary's death, even if 
such evidence was not physically located in VA claims folder on or 
before the date of death. Further, ``evidence necessary to complete the 
application'' for accrued benefits would be interpreted as information 
necessary to establish that the claimant is with the category of 
eligible persons and that circumstances exist which make the claimant 
the specific person entitled to the accrued benefits. These amendments 
reflect our interpretation of the governing statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/04/02                     67 FR 9638
NPRM Comment Period End         05/03/02
Final Rule                      10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service, Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420

[[Page 33681]]

Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH42
_______________________________________________________________________




2671. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITY: THE SPINE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.71a

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AJ60
_______________________________________________________________________




2672. 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                            06/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2673. DEFINITION OF PSYCHOSIS FOR CERTAIN VA PURPOSES

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                            08/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AK21
_______________________________________________________________________




2674. 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                            10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2675. 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 is at fault or ``an event not 
reasonably foreseeable'' proximately caused the disability or

[[Page 33682]]

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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK77
_______________________________________________________________________




2676. VETERANS AND DEPENDENTS EDUCATION: TOPPING UP TUITION ASSISTANCE 
AND PAYMENT FOR LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION TESTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3014; 38 USC 3015; 38 USC 3032; 38 USC 3232; 38 
USC 3452; 38 USC 3482; 38 USC 3501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4008 to 21.4009; 38 CFR 21.4146; 38 CFR 21.4150 
to 21.4152; 38 CFR 21.4200; 38 CFR 21.4206; 38 CFR 21.4209 to 21.4212; 
38 CFR 21.4216; 38 CFR 21.4230; 38 CFR 21.4234

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Floyd D. Spence National Defense Authorization Act 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.
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 and the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational 
Assistance Program. Regulations are needed to allow VA to properly 
implement this new benefit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2677. 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; 
repealing 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                            08/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2678.  SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES; EVALUATION OF TINNITUS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.87 (Diagnostic Code 6260)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Current schedule does not explain how to evaluate tinnitus 
that is bilateral. This would direct that a single evaluation be 
assigned for bilateral or unilateral tinnitus or tinnitus that is 
perceived somewhere in the head. It also directs that objective 
tinnitus (which is audible and has a defined cause) be evaluated as 
part of the underlying condition causing it. There are no costs 
associated with this regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: RIN 2900-AK86 withdrawn

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AK86

[[Page 33683]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2679. TIME LIMIT FOR REQUEST FOR DE NOVO REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.2600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending our regulations concerning the time a 
claimant has in which to request a de novo review of their claim at the 
Veterans Service Center level. (This would reduce the time from the 
current 60 days to 15 days.) We believe this amendment will reduce 
unnecessary delays in the appeals process and will not adversely affect 
claimants.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/11/02                    67 FR 10866
NPRM Comment Period End         05/10/02
Final Rule                      10/00/02

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-AK97
_______________________________________________________________________




2680.  ACCELERATED PAYMENTS UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--ACTIVE 
DUTY PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3013, 3014A; 38 USC 3034; 38 USC 3452; 38 USC 
3501; 38 USC 3684

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4000; 38 CFR 21.7020; 38 CFR 21.7076; 38 CFR 
21.7140; 38 CFR 21.7142

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the education regulations governing 
various aspects of the educational assistance programs the Department 
of Veterans Affairs administers in order to implement some of the 
provisions of the Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 
2001. These provisions include accelerated payments to individuals 
under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty program who are enrolled in 
approved training programs that lead to employment in high tech 
industries and whose charged tuition and fees exceed an amount equal to 
200 percent of the monthly basic rate of educational assistance 
otherwise payable. This document also amends the regulation defining 
educational institution to include certain private technology 
industries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Cossette, Education Advisor (225C), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7294
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL22
_______________________________________________________________________




2681.  AMENDMENTS TO TRAINING AND REHABILITATION PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3100 to 3121; PL 102-568; PL 104-275; PL 106-
419; PL 107-103

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21, subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This complete revision of 38 CFR 21 (subpart A) implements 
changes to the chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment 
Program. Substantive changes are required under the several public laws 
that this revision implements. This revision also implements a number 
of decisions by the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. The 
following changes are representative of the changes proposed: 
Authorizes increases in subsistence allowance; extends eligibility for 
vocational rehabilitation and employment to veterans with 10 percent 
service-connected conditions under certain circumstances; amends 
chapter 31 entitlement criteria; redefines employment handicap and 
serious employment handicap; changes requirements for an independent 
living program; requires veterans who complete training to actively 
participate in a job search to receive an employment adjustment 
allowance; prohibits benefits to fugitive felons; authorizes extensions 
of the period of chapter 31 eligibility and restoration of entitlement 
used by certain reservists recalled to active duty; and increases the 
limit on the number of new entrants into an independent living program 
in a fiscal year. This revision streamlines administrative procedures 
and clarifies the intent of the governing sections of title 38, United 
States Code. In addition, this revision also implements regulatory 
reform and plain-language English.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Albert Graffam, Consultant (282), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7437
Fax: 202 275-5122
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Merged With 2900-AG00
RIN: 2900-AL24



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2682. UNIVERSAL PRODUCT NUMBERS (UPNS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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.

[[Page 33684]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (0495A), 
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
_______________________________________________________________________




2683. 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                            09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (0495A), 
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-AK78



_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



2684. 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 is 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                            02/01/02                     67 FR 4939
NPRM Comment Period End         04/02/02
Final Rule                      10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2685. BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS: SPEEDING APPELLATE REVIEW FOR AGING 
VETERANS

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.900(c)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals may advance a case on its 
docket for earlier consideration for ``sufficient cause shown,'' 38 
U.S.C. section 7107(a)(2). This regulation will expand the regulatory 
definition of ``sufficient cause'' in the Board's Rules of Practice to 
include advanced age. This will permit the Board, on motion, to 
expedite consideration of appeals from veterans and dependents, age 75 
or more, who may be nearing the end of their life expectancy. There is 
now a sizable cohort of veterans of advanced age, particularly 
surviving combat veterans from World War II and the Korean War. No 
other alternatives are available. This amendment will not entail any 
risks or costs to the public or to the Government other than the costs 
normally associated with drafting, Agency review, and publication.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AL08



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



2686. 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 will be published as proposed in the

[[Page 33685]]

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 will be 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                            12/00/02

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: 202 273-5183
Fax: 202 273-6697
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH46
_______________________________________________________________________




2687. ELIGIBILITY FOR BURIAL OF DEPENDENT ADULT CHILDREN OF ELIGIBLE 
VETERANS; AND ELIGIBILITY FOR BURIAL OF CERTAIN FILIPINO VETERANS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 2402(5); PL 106-419

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. It also proposes to amend 
regulations to specify that the eligibility of certain Filipino 
veterans will be eligible for burial in a National Cemetery. Certain 
Filipino veterans of WWII, to include Commonwealth Army veterans and 
veterans of Recognized Guerilla Forces, may be eligible if the veteran 
was a permanent resident of the U.S. and met other enabling conditions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/02

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: 202 273-5183
Fax: 202 273-6697
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI95



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2688. 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

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

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/02

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



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF POLICY AND PLANNING


                    ________________________________



2689. 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                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Judith Jamison, Office of Policy and Planning (008), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 
20420
Phone: 202 273-5117

RIN: 2900-AJ62

[[Page 33686]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)                    Final Rule Stage






_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2690. 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                    08/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2691. 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 advanced 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                    09/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2692. 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                    06/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2693. GRANTS TO STATES FOR CONSTRUCTION AND ACQUISITION OF STATE HOME 
FACILITIES

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 amends 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 
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

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/26/01                    66 FR 33845
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/27/01
Final Action                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Frank Salvas, Geriatrics and Extended Care (114),

[[Page 33687]]

Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8536

RIN: 2900-AJ43
_______________________________________________________________________




2694. PAYMENT OR REIMBURSEMENT FOR EMERGENCY TREATMENT FURNISHED AT NON-
VA FACILITIES

Priority: Economically 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 amends 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.''

Statement of Need: Public Law No. 106-117 ``The Veterans Millennium 
Health Care and Benefits Act'' requires this amendment to implement its 
provisions.

Summary of Legal Basis: 38 U.S.C. 1725 authorizes VA to establish 
provisions for payment or reimbursement for certain non-VA emergency 
services furnished to Veterans for nonservice-connected conditions.

Alternatives: The alternatives that the Department had to consider are 
the amount of reimbursement and the location where claimants can file a 
claim.

Anticipated Cost and Benefits: Cost projection for FY 2001 is $66 to 
$75 million. The FY 2003 budget, in accordance with section 1725 of 
title 38, will provide an updated estimate of the full year impact of 
this legislation expected to be incurred in FY 2003.

Risks: None.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/12/01                    66 FR 36467
Interim Final Rule Effective    05/29/00
Interim Final Rule Effective (38 
CFR 17.004)                     07/19/01
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End (Information 
Collection)                     07/19/01
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/10/01
Final Action                    05/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2695. MEDICAL BENEFITS PACKAGE; COPAYMENTS FOR EXTENDED CARE SERVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1710; PL 106-117

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.36; 38 CFR 17.38; 38 CFR 17.111

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend VA's medical regulations by 
adding the following extended care services to the medical benefits 
package: Noninstitutional adult day health care, noninstitutional 
geriatric evaluation, and noninstitutional respite care. Also, we 
propose to amend VA's medical regulations to establish provisions 
regarding copayments for extended care services. These actions would 
implement provisions of the Veterans Millennium Health Care and 
Benefits Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/04/01                    66 FR 50594
NPRM Comment Period End         12/03/01
Final Action                    05/00/02

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: 202 273-4897
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK32
_______________________________________________________________________




2696. 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) 
medical 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 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                    06/00/02

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

[[Page 33688]]

Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8210
Fax: 202 273-4897

Related RIN: Related To 2900-AJ30, Related To 2900-AK73, Related To 
2900-AL05, Related To 2900-AL06
RIN: 2900-AK39
_______________________________________________________________________




2697. COPAYMENTS FOR INPATIENT HOSPITAL CARE AND OUTPATIENT MEDICAL CARE

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 amends VA's medical regulations to set forth a 
mechanism for determining copayments for inpatient hospital care, 
outpatient medical care. 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

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/06/01                    66 FR 63446
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/04/02
Final Action                    06/00/02

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: 202 273-4897
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK50
_______________________________________________________________________




2698. 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 for nonservice-connected disabilities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/08/01                    66 FR 23326
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/09/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

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: 202 273-4897

Related RIN: Related To 2900-AJ30, Related To 2900-AK39, Related To 
2900-AL05, Related To 2900-AL06
RIN: 2900-AK73
_______________________________________________________________________




2699. HEALTH CARE FOR CHILDREN BORN WITH ONE OR MORE COVERED BIRTH 
DEFECTS TO VIETNAM VETERANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 1721; PL 106-419

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.900 to 1905

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The document proposed to establish regulations regarding 
health care benefits for women Vietnam veterans' children with covered 
birth defects. It would revise the current regulations regarding health 
care for Vietnam veterans' children suffering from spina bifida to also 
encompass health care for women Vietnam veterans' children with certain 
other birth defects. This is necessary to provide health care for such 
children in accordance with recently enacted legislation (Pub. L. 106-
419, November 1, 2000).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/02/02                      67 FR 209
NPRM Comment Period End         02/01/02
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Susan K. Schmetzer, Chief, Policy and Strategic 
Planning, Health Administration Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, 
300 South Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80209
Phone: 303 331-7552
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK88
_______________________________________________________________________




2700. CIVILIAN HEALTH AND MEDICAL PROGRAM OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS 
AFFAIRS (CHAMPVA)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-398; PL 107-14; 38 USC 1713

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.271; 38 CFR 17.272; 38 CFR 17.274

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 1, 2001.

Abstract: This document implements provisions of the Floyd D. Spence 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001 and the 
Veterans' Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2001. These changes 
extend CHAMPVA eligibility to persons age 65 and over who would have 
otherwise lost their CHAMPVA eligibility due to attainment of 
entitlement to hospital insurance benefits under Medicare Part A. This 
rule also implements coverage of physical examinations required in 
connection with school enrollment for beneficiaries through age 17 and 
reduces the catastrophic cap for CHAMPVA dependents and survivors for 
each calendar year. These regulatory changes implement the statutory 
provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/30/02                     67 FR 4357
Interim Final Rule Effective    01/30/02
Correction to Interim Final Rule02/14/02                     67 FR 6874

[[Page 33689]]

Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/01/02                     67 FR 4357
Final Action                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: EFFECTIVE DATES: This document was effective on 
January 30, 2002; except for 38 CFR 17.271(b) and 17.272(a)(31)(x) 
which was effective October 1, 2001, and for 38 CFR 17.274(c) which was 
effective January 1, 2002.

Agency Contact: Susan K. Schmetzer, Chief, Policy and Strategic 
Planning, Health Administration Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, 
300 South Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80209
Phone: 303 331-7552
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK89
_______________________________________________________________________




2701. 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 the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
medical regulations concerning ``reasonable changes'' for medical care 
or services provided or furnished by VA to veterans for nonservice-
connected disabilities. This document 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              08/00/02

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: 202 273-4897

Related RIN: Related To 2900-AJ30, Related To 2900-AK39, Related To 
2900-AK73, Related To 2900-AL06
RIN: 2900-AL05
_______________________________________________________________________




2702.  FILIPINO VETERANS ELIGIBLE FOR HOSPITAL CARE, NURSING 
HOME CARE, AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721; 38 USC 1734; PL 106-377

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.42; 38 CFR 17.39

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends VA's medical regulations to add 
provisions implementing statutory changes made by Public Law 106-377, 
the Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development 
and Independent Agencies Appropriation Act, 2001, providing that 
certain Filipino veterans in receipt of disability compensation at the 
full dollar rate are eligible for hospital care, nursing home care, and 
medical services in the same manner as American veterans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/02

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-AL18



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2703. 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                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AF00
_______________________________________________________________________




2704. 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 pre-foreclosure debt waivers. Note: Because 
the original Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) was published on 
September 22, 1993 (58 FR 49251), VA republished the NPRM to provide 
for a new notice and comment period before proceeding with a final 
rule.

[[Page 33690]]

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                    10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2705. 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 amends 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                            10/01/01                    66 FR 49886
NPRM Comment Period End         11/30/01
Final Action                    07/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2706. 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                    07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AH43
_______________________________________________________________________




2707. 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                    07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AI22
_______________________________________________________________________




2708. 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                            11/02/01                    66 FR 55614
NPRM Comment Period End         01/02/02
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AI44
_______________________________________________________________________




2709. 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.

[[Page 33691]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ52
_______________________________________________________________________




2710. ACCELERATED BENEFITS OPTION FOR SERVICEMEMBERS' GROUP LIFE 
INSURANCE AND VETERANS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 105-368, sec 302; PL 107-14; 38 USC 1965; 38 USC 
1967

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 9.1(b); 38 CFR 9.14

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.
Further, this document also reflects a change in the address for 
submitting an application for accelerated benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/20/00                    65 FR 44999
NPRM Comment Period End         08/18/00
Final Action                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ80
_______________________________________________________________________




2711. 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                            08/22/01                    66 FR 44095
NPRM Comment Period End         10/22/01
Final Action                    10/00/02

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 Benefit Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AK03
_______________________________________________________________________




2712. 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                            10/23/01                    66 FR 53565
NPRM Comment Period End         12/24/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

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 Benefit Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AK18
_______________________________________________________________________




2713. 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                            09/24/01                    66 FR 48845
NPRM Comment Period End         11/23/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

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 Benefit Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AK23

[[Page 33692]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2714. 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                            12/07/01                    66 FR 64174
NPRM Comment Period End         02/11/02
Final Rule                      10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2715. 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                            10/19/01                    66 FR 53139
NPRM Comment Period End         12/18/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

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 Benefit Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7210

RIN: 2900-AK37
_______________________________________________________________________




2716. 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                    10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2717. 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 amends the 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

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/27/01                    66 FR 66763
Interim Final Rule Effective    12/27/01
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/25/02
Final Action                    06/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2718. MONETARY ALLOWANCES FOR CERTAIN CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS; 
IDENTIFICATION OF COVERED BIRTH DEFECTS

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)

[[Page 33693]]

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 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                            01/02/02                      67 FR 200
NPRM Comment Period End         02/01/02
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211B), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AK67
_______________________________________________________________________




2719. 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 amending 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                            10/11/01                    66 FR 51893
NPRM Comment Period End         12/10/01
Final Action                    10/00/02

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: 202 273-7368
Fax: 202 275-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK76
_______________________________________________________________________




2720. VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR CERTAIN CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS--
COVERED BIRTH DEFECTS AND SPINA BIFIDA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101; 38 USC 501; 38 USC 512; 38 USC 5112; PL 
106-419, sec 401

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.8010 to 21.8410

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to establish regulations regarding 
provision of vocational training and rehabilitation for women Vietnam 
veterans' children with covered birth defects. It revises the current 
regulations regarding vocational training and rehabilitation for 
Vietnam veterans' children suffering from spina bifida to also 
encompass vocational training and rehabilitation for women Vietnam 
veterans' children with certain other birth defects.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/02/02                      67 FR 215
NPRM Comment Period End         02/01/02
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Albert Graffam, Consultant (282), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7437
Fax: 202 275-5122
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK90
_______________________________________________________________________




2721. EXTENSION OF THE PRESUMPTIVE PERIOD FOR COMPENSATION FOR GULF WAR 
VETERANS' UNDIAGNOSED ILLNESSES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.317

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs extends the period within 
which undiagnosed illnesses due to service in the Gulf War Theater of 
Operations must become manifest to a compensable degree in order for 
service connection to be established, to an ending date of December 31, 
2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/09/01                    66 FR 56614
Interim Final Rule Effective    11/09/01

[[Page 33694]]

Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/08/02
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service, Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK98
_______________________________________________________________________




2722. INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE TEST 
PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 2143 to 2145

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 on 
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 2001-02 academic year 
should be increased by 4.7 percent over the rates payable for the 2000-
01 academic year. The regulations dealing with these rates will be 
amended accordingly.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/02

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-AL02
_______________________________________________________________________




2723. PLAIN LANGUAGE (READER FOCUSED WRITING) INITIATIVE; NATIONAL 
SERVICE LIFE INSURANCE (NSLI)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 8.3 to 8.11

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will amend 38 CFR 8.3 through 8.32 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 Language (Reader Focused Writing) 
Initiative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AL09
_______________________________________________________________________




2724.  ADJUDICATION, FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 14

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
regulations by making nonsubstantive changes. VA is amending its 
adjudication and fiduciary regulations to replace the titles of 
Adjudication Division, Adjudication Officer, Veterans Services 
Division, Veterans Services Officer, and Chief Benefits Director with 
Veterans Service Center, and Veterans Service Center Manager. Other, 
nonsubstantive changes are also made. These changes are made for 
clarity and accuracy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service, Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL10
_______________________________________________________________________




2725.  EXCEPTIONS TO DEFINITION OF DATE OF RECEIPT BASED ON SPECIAL 
OR UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 5110

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.1(r)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
adjudication regulations concerning the definition of ``date of 
receipt'' by authorizing the Under Secretary for Benefits to establish 
exceptions to the general rule when special or unforeseen circumstances 
hinder the normal course by which VA would receive a claim, 
information, or evidence. The intended effect is to ensure that a 
significant number of claimants are not deprived of potential 
entitlement to benefits because of unexpected delays or impediments not 
caused by the claimants.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Beth McCoy, Consultant, Regulations Staff (211A),

[[Page 33695]]

Department of Veterans Affairs, 575 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis, 
IN 46204
Phone: 317 226-5209

RIN: 2900-AL12
_______________________________________________________________________




2726.  INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI 
BILL--ACTIVE DUTY AND SURVIVORS' AND DEPENDENTS' EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE 
PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3015; 38 USC 3032; 38 USC 3532; 38 USC 3686; 38 
USC 3687

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.3045; 38 CFR 21.3131; 38 CFR 21.3300; 38 CFR 
21.3333; 38 CFR 21.7136-7137

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: By statute, the rates of basic educational assistance under 
the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty and Survivors' and Dependents' 
Educational Assistance programs must be adjusted each fiscal year. In 
accordance with the statutory formula, the regulations governing these 
programs for fiscal year 2003 are changed to show a 3.4 percent 
increase in these rates. In addition, the regulations are changed to 
show a separate increase for both programs effective January 1, 2002, 
due to an increase provided for in the Veterans Education and Benefits 
Expansion Act of 2001, Public Law No. 107-103. Public Law No. 107-103 
also provides an increase in Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty program 
rates for October 1, 2003, and October 1, 2004. The regulations are 
amended to show these two additional statutory rate increases.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Cossette, Education Advisor (225C), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7294
Fax: 202 275-2636
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL17
_______________________________________________________________________




2727.  CROSS REFERENCE CHANGE IN FORMS TO BE FURNISHED

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.150

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
adjudication regulations by updating a cross-reference listed at the 
end of a regulation. This amendment is necessary to ensure the 
regulation's cross-reference properly cites the new title of the 
changed regulation's subparagraph. The intended effect of this 
amendment is to ensure the accuracy of the cross-reference.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service, Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL19
_______________________________________________________________________




2728.  SERVICE CONNECTION BY PRESUMPTION OF AGGRAVATION OF A 
CHRONIC PREEXISTING DISEASE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1112; 38 USC 1116

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.307; 38 CFR 3.309

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
adjudication regulations concerning presumptive service connection to 
provide for service connection for aggravation of a chronic disease 
which preexisted the veteran's entry into military service. The United 
States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has concluded that the 
current prohibition against granting service connection for aggravation 
of disability that preexisted the veteran's entry into active military 
service is not in accordance with the statute. This document also 
amends a VA adjudication regulation to conform to a recently enacted 
Public Law which eliminated the requirement that a Vietnam veteran must 
develop a disease associated with herbicide agents before the VA will 
presume exposure to herbicides during the veteran's service in Vietnam. 
This amendment is necessary to make the regulations conform with the 
statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service, Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL20
_______________________________________________________________________




2729.  DUTY PERIODS; INACTIVE DUTY FOR TRAINING

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101; 38 USC 106

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.6

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its 
adjudication regulations regarding service connection for disabilities 
incurred or aggravated during inactive duty for training. This 
amendment is necessary to ensure the regulations accurately reflect the 
wording and intent of the statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service, Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420

[[Page 33696]]

Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL21
_______________________________________________________________________




2730.  LOAN GUARANTY: IMPLEMENTATION OF PUBLIC LAW 107-103

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 2102; 38 USC 3703(a)(1) and 
(c)(1); 38 USC 3714(d); 38 USC 3761

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4302; 38 CFR 36.4308; 38 CFR 36.4404; 38 CFR 
36.4527

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: VA is amending its loan guaranty regulations to implement 
certain provisions of Public Law 107-103, the Veterans Education and 
Benefits Expansion Act of 2001. VA proposes to incorporate into the 
regulations the following changes: (1) An increase in the maximum 
amount of entitlement from $50,750 to $60,000; (2) a revision of the 
requirements for direct housing loans to Native American veterans; (3) 
a revision of the loan assumption notice requirement; and (4) an 
increase in the amount of assistance for specially adapted housing from 
$43,000 to $48,000 for severely disabled veterans and from $8,250 to 
$9,250 for less severely disabled veterans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Anne DeSena, Assistant Director for Loan Policy and 
Valuation (262), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7368
Fax: 202 275-3523

RIN: 2900-AL23



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2731. 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 withdrew the proposed rule concerning simplified 
acquisition procedures for health care resources published in the 
Federal Register on November 9, 1998 (63 FR 60256), and promulgated a 
new proposed rule concerning simplified acquisition procedures for 
health care resources. The new proposed rule document amends 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 rule prescribes those procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/09/98                    63 FR 60256
NPRM Comment Period End         01/08/99
Second NPRM                     06/07/01                    66 FR 30659
Second NPRM Comment Period End  08/06/01
Final Action                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (0495A), 
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
_______________________________________________________________________




2732. 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 
that 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                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (0495A), 
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]

Related RIN: Merged With 2900-AK78
RIN: 2900-AI99
_______________________________________________________________________




2733. 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 amends 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

[[Page 33697]]

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                            09/27/01                    66 FR 49331
NPRM Comment Period End         11/26/01
Final Action                    07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (0495A), 
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
_______________________________________________________________________




2734. 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              09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donald E. Kaliher, Senior Procurement Analyst (0495A), 
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



_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



2735. 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                    07/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2736. THE BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS; 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                    12/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2737. 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)

[[Page 33698]]

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              07/23/01                    66 FR 38158
Interim Final Rule Effective    07/23/01
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/21/01
Final Action                    10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2738. 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                    10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2739. 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 amends 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              07/10/01                    66 FR 35902
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/10/01
Final Action                    10/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2740.  BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS: RULES OF PRACTICE--ATTORNEY FEE 
MATTERS; NOTICE OF DISAGREEMENT MATTERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.609

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals is amending its appeals 
regulations relating to attorney fees. We are removing the requirement 
that, in order to charge a fee, there must have been a notice of 
disagreement associated with the case filed on or after November 18, 
1988. This change is required by section 603 of the Veterans Education 
and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001, Public Law No. 107-103 (December 
27, 2001), which removed the referenced requirement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/02

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-AL25



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



2741. 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

[[Page 33699]]

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                    12/00/02

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: 202 273-5183
Fax: 202 273-6697
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ77



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY


                    ________________________________



2742. 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                    12/00/02

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



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL


                    ________________________________



2743. 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                    09/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2744. 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                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 2900-AI93

[[Page 33700]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)                   Long-Term Actions






_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2745. 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


                    ________________________________



2746. CLAIMS BASED ON AGGRAVATION OF NONSERVICE-CONNECTED DISABILITY

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.310

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/04/97                    62 FR 30547
NPRM Comment Period End         08/04/97
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt
Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI42
_______________________________________________________________________




2747. GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT) AND 
REQUIREMENT FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (ASSISTANCE)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 44; 38 CFR 48 (New)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/23/02                     67 FR 3099
NPRM Comment Period End         03/25/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran
Phone: 202 273-7368
Fax: 202 275-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK16
_______________________________________________________________________




2748. RECOUPMENT OF NONDISABILITY SEVERANCE PAY FROM VA COMPENSATION

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.700

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt
Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK95



_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



2749. 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



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR ACQUISITION AND FACILITIES


                    ________________________________



2750. 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

[[Page 33701]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)                   Completed Actions






_______________________________________________________________________




2751. PER DIEM FOR ADULT DAY HEALTH CARE OF VETERANS IN STATE HOMES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 51; 38 CFR 52; 38 CFR 58

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/07/02                      67 FR 660
Final Action Effective          02/06/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 2900-AJ74
_______________________________________________________________________




2752. POLICY REGARDING PARTICIPATION IN NATIONAL PRACTITIONER DATA BANK

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 46

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/23/02                    67 FR 19678
Final Action Effective          04/23/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kathryn W. Enchelmayer
Phone: 202 273-8936

RIN: 2900-AJ76
_______________________________________________________________________




2753. COMPENSATED WORK THERAPY/TRANSITIONAL RESIDENCES PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/31/02                     67 FR 4667
Final Action Effective          01/31/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Christine Woods
Phone: 757 722-9961
Fax: 757 728-3143

RIN: 2900-AK01
_______________________________________________________________________




2754. COPAYMENTS FOR MEDICATIONS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/06/01                    66 FR 63449
Final Action Effective          02/04/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Howard
Phone: 202 273-8198
Fax: 202 273-4897
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK85
_______________________________________________________________________




2755. AMENDMENTS TO TRAINING AND REHABILITATION PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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; ...

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 2900-AL24 Proposed 
Rule                            03/06/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Albert Graffam
Phone: 202 273-7437
Fax: 202 275-5122
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AG00
_______________________________________________________________________




2756. VETERANS EDUCATION: REPORTING AND RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS AT 
FLIGHT SCHOOLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4235; 38 CFR 21.4263

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/19/02                    67 FR 12473
Final Action Effective          03/19/02

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-AJ23
_______________________________________________________________________




2757. LOAN GUARANTY: ADVERTISING AND SOLICITATION DISCLOSURE 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4227; 38 CFR 36.4365

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/01/02                     67 FR 9402
Final Action Effective          03/01/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Finneran
Phone: 202 273-7368
Fax: 202 275-3523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ86
_______________________________________________________________________




2758. POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER CLAIMS BASED ON PERSONAL ASSAULT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.304

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/07/02                    67 FR 10330
Final Action Effective          03/07/02

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-AK00
_______________________________________________________________________




2759. DISEASES SPECIFIC TO RADIATION-EXPOSED VETERANS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.309(d)

[[Page 33702]]

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/25/02                     67 FR 3612
Final Action Effective          03/26/02

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-AK64
_______________________________________________________________________




2760. SPECIAL MONTHLY COMPENSATION FOR WOMEN VETERANS WHO LOSE A BREAST 
AS A RESULT OF A SERVICE-CONNECTED DISABILITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.350; 38 CFR 4.116

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/14/02                     67 FR 6872
Final Action Effective          03/18/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Caroll McBrine
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AK66
_______________________________________________________________________




2761. DUTY TO ASSIST

Priority: Other Significant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/29/01                    66 FR 45620

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janice Jacobs
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AK69
_______________________________________________________________________




2762. EXCLUSION FROM COUNTABLE INCOME OF EXPENSES PAID FOR VETERAN'S 
LAST ILLNESS SUBSEQUENT TO VETERAN'S DEATH BUT PRIOR TO DATE OF DEATH 
PENSION ENTITLEMENT

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.272(h)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      02/28/02                     67 FR 9209
Final Rule Effective            02/28/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Beth McCoy
Phone: 317 226-5209

RIN: 2900-AK84
_______________________________________________________________________




2763. CLAIMS BASED ON EXPOSURE TO IONIZING RADIATION

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.311(b)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/14/02                     67 FR 6870
Final Action Effective          02/14/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Beth McCoy
Phone: 317 226-5209

RIN: 2900-AK87
_______________________________________________________________________




2764. CERTIFICATION FOR ELIGIBILITY FOR ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR 
AUTOMOBILES OR OTHER CONVEYANCES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.808

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/24/01                    66 FR 44527
Final Action Effective          08/24/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt
Phone: 202 273-7138
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK96
_______________________________________________________________________




2765. INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--SELECTED 
RESERVE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.7636

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/13/02                     67 FR 6654
Final Action Effective          02/13/02

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-AK99
_______________________________________________________________________




2766. INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE DEPENDENTS' EDUCATIONAL 
ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.3045; 38 CFR 21.3131; 38 CFR 21.3300; 38 CFR 
21.3333

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 2900-AL17           02/06/02

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-AL00
_______________________________________________________________________




2767. INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL--ACTIVE 
DUTY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.7136 to 21.7137

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 2900-AL17           02/06/02

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-AL01

[[Page 33703]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2768. NOTICE OF APPEAL IN SIMULTANEOUSLY CONTESTED CLAIMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.192; 38 CFR 20.502

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/03/01                    66 FR 60152
Final Action Effective          01/02/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ73
_______________________________________________________________________




2769. BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS: OBTAINING EVIDENCE AND CURING 
PROCEDURAL DEFECTS WITHOUT REMANDING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.31; 38 CFR 20.903; 38 CFR 20.1304

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/23/02                     67 FR 3099
Final Action Effective          03/25/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK91
_______________________________________________________________________




2770.  BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS RULES OF PRACTICE: CLAIM FOR DEATH 
BENEFIT BY SURVIVOR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 1311; 38 USC 1318

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.1106

Legal Deadline: Final, Judicial, April 8, 2002, Court Ordered.

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
Rules of Practice at the Board of Veterans Appeals (Board) to clarify 
that the general rule that the Board is not bound by prior dispositions 
during the veteran's lifetime of issues involved in the survivor's 
claim does not include claims for ``enhanced'' Dependency and Indemnity 
Compensation (DIC). This amendment is necessary to eliminate confusion 
between the Board's current rule and another rule relating to DIC for 
survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at the time of 
death.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/21/01                    66 FR 65861
NPRM Comment Period End         01/22/02
Final Action                    04/05/02                    67 FR 16309
Final Action Effective          05/06/02

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-AL11
_______________________________________________________________________




2771.  BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS--TITLE CHANGE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR ch 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Board of Veterans' Appeals is amending 38 CFR chapter 1 
to reflect a change in the title of a Board official with whom various 
documents are filed. Inasmuch as this change only deals with a 
nonsubstantive management matter, VA is dispensing with prior notice 
and comment and a delayed effective date.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/04/02                    67 FR 16023
Final Action Effective          04/04/02

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-AL15
_______________________________________________________________________




2772. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY--DECISIONMAKING REGARDING DISCRIMINATION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 2

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/24/02                     67 FR 3433
Final Action Effective          01/24/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James S. Jones
Phone: 202 501-2800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ63
[FR Doc. 02-7664 Filed 05-10-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8320-01-S
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