[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 XVII





Department of Veterans Affairs





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 38108]]



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 in the spring 2004. 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, Regulations Management 
(00REG1), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20420.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gloria Armstrong at (202) 273-9515.

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.

 Robert C. McFetridge,

Director, Regulations Management.

                               Department of Veterans Affairs--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2927        Patients Rights.......................................................................    2900-AL66
2928        Use of VA Form 10-10EZR and Signature of Requirements for Certain VA Forms............    2900-AL91
2929        Beneficiary Travel Under 38 U.S.C. 111................................................    2900-AM02
2930        Eligibility for Health Care Benefits for Certain Filipino Veterans in the United          2900-AM03
            States................................................................................
2931        Education Provisions of the Veterans Programs Enhancement Act of 1998.................    2900-AJ68
2932        Veterans and Dependents Education: Topping-Up Tuition Assistance; Licensing and           2900-AK80
            Certification Tests; Duty To Assist Education Claimants...............................
2933        Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program Eligibility Period for          2900-AL44
            Eligible Children and Other Miscellaneous Issues......................................
2934        Loan Guaranty: Assistance to Certain Disabled Veterans in Acquiring Specially Adapted     2900-AL58
            Housing...............................................................................
2935        Loan Guaranty; Loan Servicing and Claims Procedures Modification......................    2900-AL65
2936        Presumptions of Service Connection for Certain Disabilities, and Related Matters......    2900-AL70
2937        Adjudication: Accrued Benefits and Death Compensation Benefits........................    2900-AL71
2938        Burial Benefits.......................................................................    2900-AL72
2939        Rules on Apportionments to Dependents, Payments to Fiduciaries and Incarcerated           2900-AL74
            Beneficiaries.........................................................................
2940        Regulations Related to Payments and Adjustments to Payments...........................    2900-AL75
2941        Claims Based on Service in the Philippine Armed Forces................................    2900-AL76
2942        Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program--Statutory Amendments, U.S. Court of     2900-AL78
            Appeals for Veterans Claims Decisions, Policy Revisions, and Reader-focused Plain
            English Regulations...................................................................
2943        Duties of VA; Rights and Responsibilities of Claimants and Beneficiaries..............    2900-AL82
2944        Elections of Improved Pension; Old Law and Section 306 Pension........................    2900-AL83
2945        Special and Ancillary Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors.................    2900-AL84
2946        Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: Surviving Spouse's Rate; Payments Based on         2900-AL86
            Veterans Entitlement to Compensation for Service-Connection Disability Rated Totally
            Disabling for Specified Periods.......................................................
2947        General Provisions....................................................................    2900-AL87
2948        Special Ratings.......................................................................    2900-AL88
2949        Dependency and Indemnify Compensation Benefits........................................    2900-AL89
2950        Loan Guaranty: Amendments to Hybrid Adjustable Rate Mortgages.........................    2900-AL92
2951        Dependents of Veterans................................................................    2900-AL94
2952        Payments to Beneficiaries Who Are Eligible for More Than One Benefit..................    2900-AL95
2953        General Evidence Requirements, Effective Dates, Revision of Decisions, and Protection     2900-AM01
            of Existing Ratings...................................................................
2954        Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulations Plain Language Rewrite.........    2900-AK78
2955        Audits of States, Local Governments, and Nonprofit Organizations; Grants and              2900-AJ62
            Agreements With Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Nonprofit
            Organizations.........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 38109]]


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2956        Advanced Health Care Planning.........................................................    2900-AJ28
2957        Grants to States for Construction and Acquisition of State Home Facilities............    2900-AJ43
2958        Waivers...............................................................................    2900-AK29
2959        Payment for Non-VA Physician Services Associated With Either Outpatient or Inpatient      2900-AK94
            Care Provided at Non-VA Facilities....................................................
2960        Priorities for Outpatient Medical Services and Inpatient Hospital Care................    2900-AL39
2961        Copayments for Extended Care Services.................................................    2900-AL49
2962        Enrollment-Provision of Hospital and Outpatient Care to Veterans--Subpriorities of        2900-AL51
            Priority Categories 7 and 8 and Enrollment Level Decision.............................
2963        Sensori-Neural Aids...................................................................    2900-AL60
2964        VA Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program; Religious Organizations.............    2900-AL63
2965        Medication Prescribed by Non-VA Physicians............................................    2900-AL68
2966        Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects Technical Amendment...............    2900-AL99
2967        Total Disability Evaluations Based on Inability of the Individual To Engage in            2900-AH21
            Substantially Gainful Employment......................................................
2968        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Eye.............................................    2900-AH43
2969        Claims Based on Aggravation of Nonservice-Connected Disability........................    2900-AI42
2970        Definition of Psychosis for Certain VA Purposes.......................................    2900-AK21
2971        Filipino Veterans' Benefit Improvements...............................................    2900-AK65
2972        Loan Guaranty: Prepurchase Counseling Requirements....................................    2900-AK76
2973        Additional Disability or Death Due to Hospital Care, Medical or Surgical Treatment,       2900-AK77
            Examination, Training and Rehabilitation Services, or Compensated Work Therapy Program
2974        Time Limit for Request for De Novo Review.............................................    2900-AK97
2975        Exceptions to Definition of Date of Receipt Based on Special or Unforeseen                2900-AL12
            Circumstances.........................................................................
2976        Loan Guaranty: Implementation of Public Law 107-103...................................    2900-AL23
2977        Schedule for Rating Disabilities; Guidelines for Application of Evaluation Criteria       2900-AL26
            for Certain Respiratory and Cardiovascular Conditions; Evaluation of Hypertension With
            Heart Disease.........................................................................
2978        Veterans Education: Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001.............    2900-AL28
2979        Schedule for Rating Disabilities; Evaluation of Multiple Scars........................    2900-AL32
2980        Administration of VA Education Benefits--Centralized Certification....................    2900-AL43
2981        Loan Guaranty: Hybrid Adjustable Rate Mortgages.......................................    2900-AL54
2982        Compensation for Certain Cases of Bilateral Deafness..................................    2900-AL59
2983        Increase Rates Payable Under the Survivor's and Dependent's Education Assistant           2900-AL64
            Program...............................................................................
2984        Service Requirements for Veterans.....................................................    2900-AL67
2985        Reservists' Education: Revision of Eligibility Requirements for the Montgomery GI Bill-   2900-AL69
            Selected Reserve......................................................................
2986        Veterans Education: Nonpayment of VA Educational Assistance to Fugitive Felons........    2900-AL79
2987        Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Selected Reserve..............    2900-AL80
2988        Veterans Education: Increased Allowances for the Educational Assistance Text Program..    2900-AL81
2989        Presumption of Sound Condition: Aggravation of a Disability by Active Service.........    2900-AL90
2990        Changes to 38 CFR 3.809 for Specially Adapted Housing Eligibility for Recipients for      2900-AL98
            Compensation Under 38 CFR 3.358.......................................................
2991        Board of Veterans' Appeals: Obtaining Evidence and Curing Procedural Defects..........    2900-AL77
2992        Board of Veterans Appeals: Appeal Regulations; Rules of Practice; Delegations of          2900-AL96
            Authority.............................................................................
2993        Board of Veterans' Appeals: Clarification of A Notice of Disagreement.................    2900-AL97
2994        Eligibility for Burial in National Cemetery for Surviving Spouses Who Remarry and New     2900-AM00
            Philippine Scouts.....................................................................
2995        Standards for Collection, Compromise, Suspension, or Termination of Collection Effort,    2900-AK10
            and Referral of Civil Claims for Money or Property; Regional Office Committees on
            Waivers and Compromises; Salary.......................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Department of Veterans Affairs--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2996        Reasonable Charges for Medical Care or Services; 2003 Methodology Changes.............    2900-AL06
2997        Charges Used for Recovery From Tortiously Liable Third Parties for Medical Care or        2900-AL48
            Services Provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs...............................
2998        Reasonable Charges for Medical Care or Services; 2003 Update..........................    2900-AL57
2999        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--The Musculoskeletal System..........................    2900-AE91
3000        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders....    2900-AF23

[[Page 38110]]

 
3001        Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Digestive System....................................    2900-AF24
3002        Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Requirement for Drug-Free    2900-AK16
            Workplace (Assistance)................................................................
3003        Schedule for Rating Disabilities; Malignant Neoplasms.................................    2900-AL27
3004        Testimony Certified or Under Oath.....................................................    2900-AL38
3005        Annual Risk Allowance for Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance and Veterans' Group        2900-AL56
            Life Insurance........................................................................
3006        New and Material Evidence.............................................................    2900-AL73
3007        Delegation of Authority--Property Management Contractor...............................    2900-AL85
3008        Changes of Effective Date of Rule Adding a Disease Associated With Exposure to Certain    2900-AL93
            Herbicide Agents: Type 2 Diabetes.....................................................
3009        Implementing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)..........    2900-AL53
3010        Board of Veterans' Appeals Regulations; Rules of Practice.............................    2900-AE78
3011        The Board of Veterans' Appeals; Rules of Practice--Motion for Review of Decisions on      2900-AJ85
            Grounds of Clear and Unmistakable Error...............................................
3012        Rules of Practice: Medical Opinions From the Veterans Health Administration...........    2900-AK52
3013        Board of Veterans' Appeals Rules of Practice: Notice Procedures Relating to Withdrawal    2900-AL45
            of Services by a Representative.......................................................
3014        State Cemetery Grants.................................................................    2900-AH46
3015        Eligibility for Appropriate Government Marker for a Grave Already Marked at Private       2900-AL40
            Expense...............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)                 Proposed Rule Stage






_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2927. PATIENTS RIGHTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.33

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs' medical regulations that set forth patients' rights to clarify 
that it is legally permissible for VA patients to receive medication 
prescribed by any health care professional legally authorized to 
prescribe medication.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Audrey Crenshew Drake, Program Director Nursing (108), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-6740
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL66
_______________________________________________________________________




2928.  USE OF VA FORM 10-10EZR AND SIGNATURE OF 
REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN VA FORMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.36

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to permit already-enrolled veterans to 
use a new, shorter form when they wish to update their enrollment 
information previously reported. The new, shorter form will decrease 
the information collection burden on veterans and will save them time 
when they are updating their financial information for VA. This 
document also proposes an amendment to establish who can sign VA 
administrative health care forms when the veteran is unable to do so. 
Finally, this document proposesto remove the photocopy of VA Form 10-
10EZ, Application for Health Benefits, from parts 17 and 58 of 38 CFR.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Kendra V. Drew, Management and Program Analyst (16), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 254-0329
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL91
_______________________________________________________________________




2929.  BENEFICIARY TRAVEL UNDER 38 U.S.C. 111

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 111

[[Page 38111]]

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.143; 38 CFR 17.144; 38 CFR 17.145; 38 CFR 70 
(new)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to revise its 
beneficiary travel regulations authorized under 38 USC 111. These 
regulations are intended to provide a mechanism for paying travel 
expenses to help veterans and other persons obtain services from the 
Veterans Health Administration.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Tony Guagliardo, Chief Business Office (16), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 254-0406

RIN: 2900-AM02
_______________________________________________________________________




2930.  ELIGIBILITY FOR HEALTH CARE BENEFITS FOR 
CERTAIN FILIPINO VETERANS IN THE UNITED STATES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-170

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.39

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
medical regulations regarding veterans who are eligible to receive 
health care from VA. VA is proposing to amend the regulations to 
include Filipino Commonwealth Army veterans who were recognized by 
authority of the U.S. Army as belonging to organized Filipino guerilla 
forces, and New Philippine Scouts who reside in the U.S., and who are 
citizens, or lawfully admitted for permanent residence as eligible for 
hospital care, nursing home care, and outpatient medical services in 
the United States in the same manner and subject to the same terms and 
conditions as apply to U.S. veterans. This amendment will allow those 
veterans to receive health care. VA is authorized to implement these 
provisions under the ``Veterans Health Care, Capital Asset, and 
Business Improvement Act of 2003,'' Public Law 108-170.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Kendra V. Drew, Management and Program Analyst (16), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 254-0329
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AM03



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2931. 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 proposed rule amendment will bring VA's educational 
assistance regulations into agreement with the Veterans Program 
Enhancement Act of 1998 and Veterans Education and Expansion Act of 
2001. This amendment will include 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. This rule is being amended to reflect 
additional work study opportunities provided under the Veterans 
Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AJ68
_______________________________________________________________________




2932. VETERANS AND DEPENDENTS EDUCATION: TOPPING-UP TUITION ASSISTANCE; 
LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION TESTS; DUTY TO ASSIST EDUCATION CLAIMANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3014; 38 USC 3015; 38 USC 3034; 38 USC 3241; 38 
USC 3471; 38 USC 3513; 38 USC 3501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.1029 to 21.1033; 38 CFR 21.4005; 38 CFR 
21.4008; 38 CFR 21.4009; 38 CFR 21.4146

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulations implementing provisions of the Veterans Benefits 
and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000, Floyd D. Spence National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001, and the Veterans Claims 
Assistance Act of 2000 that affect VA education benefits programs. 
These provisions include payment under Survivors' and Dependents' 
Educational Assistance Program, Post-Vietnam Era Veterans Educational 
Assistance Program, and the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty Program for 
the costs of taking testsneeded to obtain a license or certification. 
They also include payment of benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill-
Active Duty Program of the difference between the portion of tuition 
and fees covered by the tuition assistance program administered by the 
various military departments and the actual charges made by an 
educational institution. The proposed rule also establishes clear 
guidelines consistent with the intent of Congress regarding the timing 
and

[[Page 38112]]

scope of assistance VA will provide to a claimant who files a 
substantially complete application for benefits under any of the 
education programs VA administers or who tries to reopen a previously 
denied claim.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2933. SURVIVORS' AND DEPENDENTS' EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 
ELIGIBILITY PERIOD FOR ELIGIBLE CHILDREN AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS ISSUES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 2141; 38 USC 101(4)(a); 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 
512; 38 USC 3002(3); 38 USC 3500 - 3566; 38 USC 5113; PL 106-419; PL 
107-14; . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.3021; 38 CFR 21.3041; 38 CFR 21.4131

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is proposing to amend its 
education regulations to reflect changes in the eligibility period for 
children due to statutory provisions in Veterans Benefits and Health 
Care Improvement Act of 2000 and the Veterans Benefits and Expansion 
Acts of 2001 and 2002.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AL44
_______________________________________________________________________




2934. LOAN GUARANTY: ASSISTANCE TO CERTAIN DISABLED VETERANS IN 
ACQUIRING SPECIALLY ADAPTED HOUSING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 2101

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is proposing to amend is 
loan guaranty regulations concerning assistance to certain disabled 
veterans in acquiring specially adapted housing. The primary intent is 
to revise these regulations to improve clarity to the reader. 
Additional changes are made to incorporate the provisions of a legal 
decision of the VA Office of General Counsel.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Robert D. 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-AL58
_______________________________________________________________________




2935. LOAN GUARANTY; LOAN SERVICING AND CLAIMS PROCEDURES MODIFICATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 3720; 38 USC 3732; 38 USC 3736

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4301; 38 CFR 36.4306a; 38 CFR 36.4311; 38 CFR 
36.4313 to 4321; 38 CFR 36.4324 to 4325; 38 CFR 36.4330; 38 CFR 
36.4344a; 38 CFR 36.4346

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its loan 
guaranty regulations pertaining to the servicing and liquidation of 
guaranteed housing loans in default and submitting of guaranty claims 
by loan holders. These proposed changes regarding loan servicing and 
claims procedures reflect changes in the servicing of VA loans and are 
necessary to implement new servicing and claims procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Robert D. 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-AL65
_______________________________________________________________________




2936. PRESUMPTIONS OF SERVICE CONNECTION FOR CERTAIN DISABILITIES, AND 
RELATED MATTERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1101; 38 USC 1111; 38 USC 1112; 38 
USC 1116; 38 USC 1133; 38 USC 1137; PL 98-542

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

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

[[Page 38113]]

adjudication regulations that concern the presumptions of service 
connection for certain diseases or conditions, currently found in 38 
CFR part 3, and plans to relocate them in new 38 CFR part 5. These 
revisions are proposed as part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of 
all of its compensation and pension regulations in a logical, claimant-
focused, and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL70
_______________________________________________________________________




2937. ADJUDICATION: ACCRUED BENEFITS AND DEATH COMPENSATION BENEFITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 1121 and 1122; 31 USC 3329 and 
3330; 38 USC 5101; 38 USC 5121; . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations relating to accrued and death 
compensation benefits, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and to 
relocate them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as 
part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and 
pension regulations in a logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly 
format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL71
_______________________________________________________________________




2938. BURIAL BENEFITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101(2); 38 USC 501; 38 USC 2301-05; 38 USC 
2307-08; 38 USC 5101; 38 USC 5303(c); 38 USC 6103 -05

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations relating to monetary burial 
benefits, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and to relocate them in new 
38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's rewrite and 
reorganization of all of its compensation and pension regulations in a 
logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL72
_______________________________________________________________________




2939. RULES ON APPORTIONMENTS TO DEPENDENTS, PAYMENTS TO FIDUCIARIES AND 
INCARCERATED BENEFICIARIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 5101; 38 USC 5110; 38 USC 5112; 38 
USC 5307; 38 USC 5313B

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs (VA) adjudication rules that concern the award and 
administration of VA benefits to incarcerated veterans, their 
dependents, and fugitive felons; the award and administration of 
compensation to certain incompetent veterans; and the apportionment of 
benefits to dependents, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and plans to 
relocte them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as part 
of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and 
pension regulations in a logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly 
format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL74
_______________________________________________________________________




2940. REGULATIONS RELATED TO PAYMENTS AND ADJUSTMENTS TO PAYMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1151; 38 USC 1161; 38 USC 1312; 38 
USC 1317; 38 USC 1521; 38 USC 5103; 38 USC 5103; 38 USC 5110; 38 USC 
5112; 38 USC 5301; 38 USC 5304 and, 5305; 42 USC 2210 (note)

[[Page 38114]]

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations that relate to setting the rates 
of payments, adjustments and resumptions of payments, and elections 
between benefits, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and plans to 
relocate them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as 
part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and 
pension regulations in a logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly 
format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL75
_______________________________________________________________________




2941. CLAIMS BASED ON SERVICE IN THE PHILIPPINE ARMED FORCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 107; 38 USC 501; 38 USC 3565; 38 USC 5112

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations that apply to Filipino veterans 
and their survivors, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and plans to 
relocate them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as 
part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and 
pension regulations in a logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly 
format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL76
_______________________________________________________________________




2942.  VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND EMPLOYMENT 
PROGRAM--STATUTORY AMENDMENTS, U.S. COURT OF APPEALS FOR VETERANS CLAIMS 
DECISIONS, POLICY REVISIONS, AND READER-FOCUSED PLAIN ENGLISH 
REGULATIONS

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 document proposes to amend the regulations in 38 CFR 
part 21, subpart A--Vocational Rehabilitation Under 28 U.S.C. chapter 
31. These proposed regulations implement statutory and judicially 
mandated changes. These changes include amended entitlement criteria to 
provide vocational rehabilitation program services to a veteran with a 
10 percent service-connected disability if the veteran has a serious 
employment handicap. Changes to entitlement criteria require that 
service-connected disability contribute in substantial part to a 
veteran's vocational impairment to entitle the veterans or 
servicemember to a program of rehabilitation services to overcome or 
lessen the effect of that impairment. Some proposed revisions correct 
earlier language that did not properly interpret the intent of the 
statute. Other proposed revisions to the regulations are intended to 
simplify program administration. Finally, the document proposes a 
completely rewritten text of subpart A in reader-focusedplain English 
for improved readability.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Catherine Kruger, Supervisor of Regulations & 
Legislative Initiatives (28), Department of Veterans Affairs, 
Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Services, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7412

RIN: 2900-AL78
_______________________________________________________________________




2943.  DUTIES OF VA; RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF 
CLAIMANTS AND BENEFICIARIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1154; 38 USC 1822; 38 USC 5101; 38 USC 5103(a); 
38 USC 5104; 38 USC 5109; 38 USC 5112(a); 38 USC 5125; 38 USC 5304; 38 
USC 5701(b); . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations that apply to the duties of VA and 
the rights and responsibilities of claimants and beneficiaries, 
currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and plans to relocate them in new 38 
CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's rewrite and 
reorganization of all of its compensation and pension regulations in a 
logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 38115]]

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL82
_______________________________________________________________________




2944.  ELECTIONS OF IMPROVED PENSION; OLD LAW AND 
SECTION 306 PENSION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 503; 38 USC 521(f); 38 USC 522; 38 USC 543; 38 
USC 1312(b); 38 USC 1317(b); 38 USC 1521(i); 45 USC 228; PL 86-211; PL 
86-212; PL 87-381; PL 95-588; PL 96-272

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations relating to its ``Old-Law'' and 
``Section 306'' pension programs, as well as its regulations concerning 
elections of improved pension, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and 
plans to relocate them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are 
proposed as part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its 
compensation and pension regulations in a logical, claimant-focused, 
and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL83
_______________________________________________________________________




2945.  SPECIAL AND ANCILLARY BENEFITS FOR VETERANS, 
DEPENDENTS AND SURVIVORS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 10 USC 1448; 10 USC 6160; 38 USC 501(a); 
38 USC 1160; 38 USC 1312; 38 USC 1323; 38 USC 1805; 38 USC 1811 to 
1816; 38 USC 1821 to 1824; 38 USC 2101; 38 USC 2104; 38 USC 3501; 38 
USC 5101; 38 USC 5110 to 5112; 38 USC 5304; PL 425; PL 97-377; . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations that govern the award and 
administration of special benefits for veterans, dependents and 
survivors, including ancillary benefits relating to service connection 
(e.g., financial assistance in purchasing a vehicle and/or adaptive 
equipment), currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and plans to relocate 
them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's 
rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and pension 
regulations in a logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL84
_______________________________________________________________________




2946.  DEPENDENCY AND INDEMNITY COMPENSATION: 
SURVIVING SPOUSE'S RATE; PAYMENTS BASED ON VETERANS ENTITLEMENT TO 
COMPENSATION FOR SERVICE-CONNECTION DISABILITY RATED TOTALLY DISABLING 
FOR SPECIFIED PERIODS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 1311; 38 USC 1314; 38 USC 1321; 
38 USC 7104(b); . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.10; 38 CFR 3.22; 38 CFR 20.1106

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to 
reorganize existing regulations governing surviving spouse's rates of 
dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC and move them to a new CFR 
section. The proposed rules would also clarify circumstances in which a 
survivor may be entitled to DIC under 38 U.S.C. 1311 and 1318 by virure 
of the veteran having been ``entitled to receive'' compensation for a 
disability that was rated totally disabling for a specified period 
prior to the veteran's death. The proposed rules would also reissue 
without change the Board of Veterans' Appeals rule regarding the effect 
of unfavorable decisions during a veteran's lifetime on claims for 
death benefits by the veteran's survivors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: David Joseph Barrans, Staff Attorney (022), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Office of General Counsel, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-6320

RIN: 2900-AL86
_______________________________________________________________________




2947.  GENERAL PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101; 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 4303(16); PL 107-116

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

[[Page 38116]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to amend it 
regulations concerning general provisions applicable to its 
compensation and pension regulations, including definitions, currently 
found in 38 CFR part 3, and plans to relocate them in new 38 CFR part 
5. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's rewrite and 
reorganization of all of its compensation and pension regulations in a 
logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL87
_______________________________________________________________________




2948.  SPECIAL RATINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 2108; 38 USC 101(16); 38 USC 105; 38 USC 501(a); 
38 USC 1110; 38 USC 1114; 38 USC 1115(i)(E); 38 USC 1702; 38 USC 1712; 
38 USC 4331; 38 USC 5110(b); 38 USC 5503; . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposed to amend its 
regulations relating to special ratings and ratings for health care 
eligibility only, currently found in part 3 of title 38 Code of Federal 
Regulations (CFR), and to relocate them in new 38 CFR part 5. We 
propose to reorganize these regulations in a more logical order, add 
new section and paragraph headings, rewrite certain sections and divide 
certain sections into two or more separate new regulations. VA's 
principal goals in rewriting and reorganizing the current regulations 
are to provide readers with clearer language and more easily understood 
regulation requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL88
_______________________________________________________________________




2949.  DEPENDENCY AND INDEMNIFY COMPENSATION BENEFITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101(14); 38 USC 103(b); 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 
1121; 38 USC 1122(b); 38 USC 1141; 38 USC 1304; 38 USC 1310; 38 USC 
1311(c), (d); 38 USC 1313; 38 USC 1315; 38 USC 1318(e), (d); 38 USC 
5110; 38 USC 5312; . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
regulations relating to dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) 
benefits, currently found 38 CFR part 3, and plans to relocate them in 
new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's rewrite 
and reorganization of all of its compensation and pension regulations 
in a logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL89
_______________________________________________________________________




2950.  LOAN GUARANTY: AMENDMENTS TO HYBRID ADJUSTABLE 
RATE MORTGAGES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4212

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
loan guaranty regulations concerning hybrid adjustable rate mortgages. 
Under current regulations, an adjustable rate mortgage may be 
refinanced to a fixed rate loan bearing a higher interest rate. This 
rule would provide that, during the initial fixed rate period of a 
hybrid adjustable rate mortgage, the loan may not be refinanced with a 
fixed rate loan bearing interest at a higher rate than that initially 
charged on the hybrid adjustable rate mortgage, except during the last 
12 months.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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-AL92

[[Page 38117]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2951.  DEPENDENTS OF VETERANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101(3); 38 USC 101(31); 38 USC 103(c); 38 USC 
5110(f); 38 USC 5112; PL 91-376; PL 93-527; PL 101-508; PL 102-86

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations relating to dependents of 
veterans, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and plans to relocate them 
to new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's 
rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and pension rules 
in a logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL94
_______________________________________________________________________




2952.  PAYMENTS TO BENEFICIARIES WHO ARE ELIGIBLE FOR 
MORE THAN ONE BENEFIT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 1174; 10 USC 12316; 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 
1501(a); 38 USC 5104; 38 USC 5110; 38 USC 5304; 42 USC 2210 note

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
adjudication regulations relating to the payments to beneficiaries who 
are eligible for more than one benefit, currently found in 38 CFR part 
3, and plans to relocate them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are 
proposed as part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its 
compensation and pension regulations in a logical, claimant-focused, 
and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL67
RIN: 2900-AL95
_______________________________________________________________________




2953.  GENERAL EVIDENCE REQUIREMENTS, EFFECTIVE DATES, 
REVISION OF DECISIONS, AND PROTECTION OF EXISTING RATINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 111; 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 1110; 38 USC 1117; 
38 CFR 1131; 38 CFR 1155; 38 CFR 1159; 38 CFR 5104; 38 CFR 5110; 38 CFR 
5112; . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs proposes to amend its 
compensation and pension regulations that apply to general evidence 
requirements, general effective dates for new awards, revision of 
decisions, and protection of existing ratings, for purposes of 
compensation and pension benefits, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, 
and plans to relocate them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are 
proposed as part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its 
compensation and pension rules in a logical, claimant-focused, and 
user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AM01



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF ACQUISITION AND MATERIEL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2954. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION REGULATIONS PLAIN 
LANGUAGE REWRITE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 8

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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

[[Page 38118]]

Phone: 202 273-8819
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK78



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF POLICY AND PLANNING


                    ________________________________



2955. 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 Circularprovides 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                            07/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: John A. Corso, Senior Procurement Analyst (95A), 
Acquisition Policy Team, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8818
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ62
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)                    Final Rule Stage






_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2956. 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                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Angela Prudhomme, Chief Ethics Policy Service (10E), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 501-1717
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AJ28
_______________________________________________________________________




2957. 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                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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

RIN: 2900-AJ43

[[Page 38119]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2958. WAIVERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.105

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its 
medical regulations to give Fiscal Officers at VA medical facilities 
the authority to waive veterans' debts arising from the medical care 
copayments. These proposed changes codify an existing 1995 delegation 
of authority to Fiscal Officers from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; 
the purpose of this 1955 delegation was to increase the efficiency of 
the waiver processing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/20/04                    69 FR 21075
NPRM Comment Period End         06/21/04
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Tony Guagliardo, Chief Business Office (16), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 254-0406

RIN: 2900-AK29
_______________________________________________________________________




2959. PAYMENT FOR NON-VA PHYSICIAN SERVICES ASSOCIATED WITH EITHER 
OUTPATIENT OR INPATIENT CARE PROVIDED AT NON-VA FACILITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.56

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
medical regulations concerning payment for non-VA physician services 
that are associated with either outpatient or inpatient care provided 
to eligible VA beneficiaries at non-VA facilities. Currently, 38 CFR 
17.56 requires all VA facilities to reimburse for non-VA physician 
services based upon the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 
(CMS) physician fee schedule in effect at the time the services are 
provided. However, it has been determined that special circumstances 
exist in the State of Alaska. Since a large portion of VA health care 
provided in Alaska is obtained from non-VA sources, this could 
negatively impact the quality of care provided veterans living in that 
State. Therefore, to ensure that the amounts paid to physicians better 
represent the local cost to furnish a service and to achieve program 
cost reduction, VA is proposing through this document that an Alaska-
specific payment methodology be established for inpatient and 
outpatient non-VA physician services with that State.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/29/03                    68 FR 44507
NPRM Comment Period End         09/29/03
Final Action                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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-AK94
_______________________________________________________________________




2960. PRIORITIES FOR OUTPATIENT MEDICAL SERVICES AND INPATIENT HOSPITAL 
CARE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 101; 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1705; 38 USC 1710; PL 
104-262

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.49

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its medical 
regulations to establish that, in scheduling appointments for non-
emergency outpatient medical services and admissions for inpatient 
hospital care, VA will give priority to veterans with service-connected 
disabilities rated 50 percent or greater and veterans needing care for 
a service-connected disability. The Veterans' Eligibility Reform Act of 
1996 authorizes VA to ensure that these two categories of veterans 
receive priority access to this type of care. The intended effect of 
this rule is to carry out that authority.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/17/02                    67 FR 58528
Interim Final Rule Effective    09/17/02
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/18/02
Final Action                    07/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Ruth Hoffman, Office of the Assistant Deputy Secretary 
for Health (10A5A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8934

RIN: 2900-AL39
_______________________________________________________________________




2961. COPAYMENTS FOR EXTENDED CARE SERVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1710B

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.111

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend VA's medical regulations 
concerning copayments for extended care services provided or furnished 
by VA to veterans for nonservice-connected disabilities. This document 
amends the regulations to enhance the spousal protection provisions 
covering assets. This change would bring VA closer to State medical 
assistance policies in protecting spouses from potential 
impoverishment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/16/03                    68 FR 54557
NPRM Comment Period End         12/15/03
Final Action                    09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 38120]]

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Eileen Downey, Chief Business Office (161), Department 
of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont 
Avenue, Washington, , DC 20420
Phone: 202 254-0347

Daniel Schoeps, Geriatrics and Extended Care (114), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, 
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8540

RIN: 2900-AL49
_______________________________________________________________________




2962. ENROLLMENT-PROVISION OF HOSPITAL AND OUTPATIENT CARE TO VETERANS--
SUBPRIORITIES OF PRIORITY CATEGORIES 7 AND 8 AND ENROLLMENT LEVEL 
DECISION

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 104-262

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.36

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) published in the 
Federal Register on 1/17/2003 an interim final rule amending VA's 
medical regulations at 38 CFR part 17 to establish additional 
subpriorities within enrollment priority categories 7 & 8, and to 
provide that beginning 1/17/03, VA will continue to treat all veterans 
currently enrolled in any category, and will treat new enrollees in 
categories 1 through 7. However, the interim final rule provided that 
VA will suspend the enrollment of additional veterans who are in the 
lowest statutory enrollment category (priority category 8). Based on 
the rationale set forth in the interim final rule and this document, VA 
is adopting the provisions of the interim final rule as a final rule 
without change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/17/03                     68 FR 2670
Interim Final Rule Effective    01/17/03
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/18/03
Final Action                    09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Ruth Hoffman, Office of the Assistant Deputy Secretary 
for Health (10A5A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8934

RIN: 2900-AL51
_______________________________________________________________________




2963. SENSORI-NEURAL AIDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1707

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.149

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
medical regulations concerning sensori-neural aids. 38 CFR section 
17.149 authorizes VA to provide sensori-neural aids (i.e., eyeglasses, 
contact lenses, hearing aids) to seven groups of veterans as identified 
in the regulation in section 17.149, paragraphs (b)(1)-(b)(7). The 
veterans presently identified in section 17.149, paragraph (b)(2), are 
veterans who are former prisoners of war. Section 17.149, paragraph 
(b)(2), will be revisedto include veterans who were awarded the Purple 
Heart. It will also note that the authority for this regulation, 
previously identified as 38 U.S.C. 1701(6)(A)(i), has been recodified 
as 38 U.S.C. 1707 pursuant to Public Law No. 107-135.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/31/03                    68 FR 44913
NPRM Comment Period End         09/29/03
Final Action                    07/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: John G. Clements, Prosthetic Program Manager (113), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8515
Fax: 202 273-9110
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL60
_______________________________________________________________________




2964. VA HOMELESS PROVIDERS GRANT AND PER DIEM PROGRAM; RELIGIOUS 
ORGANIZATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 2002; 38 USC 2011; 38 USC 2061; 38 
USC 7721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 61.64

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its 
regulations concerning the VA Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem 
Program. This document revises provisions that apply to religious 
organizations that receive VA funds under 38 CFR part 61 to ensure that 
VA activities under this program are open to all qualified 
organizations, regardless of their religious character, and to clearly 
establish the proper uses to which funds may be put and the conditions 
for the receipt of such funding.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/30/03                    68 FR 56426
NPRM Comment Period End         10/30/03
Final Action                    06/08/04                    69 FR 31883
Final Action Effective          07/08/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Guy A. Liedke, Program Specialist, Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, Grant and Per Diem 
Field Office, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 877 332-0334
Fax: 813 979-3569
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL63

[[Page 38121]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2965. MEDICATION PRESCRIBED BY NON-VA PHYSICIANS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1706; 38 USC 1710; 38 USC 1712(d); 38 USC 1721

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.96

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its medical 
regulations that govern the provision of medication to veterans when 
the medication is prescribed by non-VA physicians. The rule provides 
that, in limited circumstances, VA may provide medication prescribed by 
a non-VA physician to veterans enrolled in VA's health-care system 
prior to July 25, 2003, if the veterans have requested an initial 
appointment for primary care in a VA health care facility before July 
25, 2003, and were unable to obtain an initial appointment for primary 
care within 30 days. The rule establishes specific requirements that 
veterans must meet to receive such medication, and it establishes 
limits on the types and quantities of medication VA may provide. VA's 
intent is to assist enrolled veterans who have requested primary care 
appointments but who have not been able to obtain one within 30 days.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/25/03                    68 FR 43927
Interim Final Rule Effective    07/25/03
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/25/03
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Kendra V. Drew, Management and Program Analyst (16), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 254-0329
Email: [email protected]

Virginia Torrise, Deputy Chief Consultant (119), Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-8427
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL68
_______________________________________________________________________




2966.  FEDERAL POLICY FOR THE PROTECTION OF HUMAN 
SUBJECTS TECHNICAL AMENDMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 38 CFR 501; 42 USC 289; 42 USC 300v-1(b)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 16

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
regulations for the protection of human subjects by changing all 
references to the Office for Protection from Research Risks (OPRR) to 
the Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP), and revising the 
footnote at the end of 38 CFR 16.101(i) by deleting the references to 
research involving fetuses, pregnant women, or human in vitro 
fertilization. This technical amendments is being made in conjunction 
with the other federal departments and agencies that have promulgated 
the Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Dr. Joan Porter, Associate Director, Office of Research 
Oversight (ORO), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health 
Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 565-7191
Fax: 202 565-9194
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL99



_______________________________________________________________________



VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION


                    ________________________________



2967. 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                    04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Beth McCoy, Consultant, Regulations Staff, Compensation 
and Pension Service (211A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefit Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH21
_______________________________________________________________________




2968. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE EYE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.75

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 38122]]

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending that 
portion of its Schedule for Rating Disabilities that addresses 
disabilities of the eye. The intended effect of this action is to 
update this portion of the rating schedule to ensure that it uses 
current medical terminology and unambiguous criteria and that it 
reflects medical advances that have occurred since the last review.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/11/99                    64 FR 25246
NPRM Comment Period End         07/12/99
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Audrey Tomlinson, Medical Officer (211A), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AH43
_______________________________________________________________________




2969. CLAIMS BASED ON AGGRAVATION OF NONSERVICE-CONNECTED DISABILITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.310

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service (211A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AI42
_______________________________________________________________________




2970. 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 amends 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                            10/11/02                    67 FR 63352
NPRM Comment Period End         12/10/02
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Audrey Tomlinson, Medical Officer (211A), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AK21
_______________________________________________________________________




2971. 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. This also adds the provisions of the Veterans 
Benefits Act of 2003 to change the rate of compensation and burial 
benefits paid to new Filipino scouts residing in the U.S.

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                    09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service (211A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AL76
RIN: 2900-AK65
_______________________________________________________________________




2972. LOAN GUARANTY: PREPURCHASE 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

[[Page 38123]]

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                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Robert D. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




2973. 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 3.154; 38 CFR 3.358; 38 CFR 3.361; 38 CFR 3.362; 
38 CFR 3.363; 38 CFR 3.400; 38 CFR 3.708; 38 CFR 3.800

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending 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 this amendment, benefits are 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 
death. Benefits also are payable for additional disability or death 
proximately caused by VA's provision of training and rehabilitation 
services or CWT program. This amendment reflects amendments to 38 
U.S.C. 1151, the statutory authority for such benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/12/02                    67 FR 76322
NPRM Comment Period End         02/10/03
Final Action                    09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Beth McCoy, Consultant, Regulations Staff, Compensation 
and Pension Service (211A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefit Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK77
_______________________________________________________________________




2974. TIME LIMIT FOR REQUEST FOR DE NOVO REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends VA 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 Action                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service (211A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AK97
_______________________________________________________________________




2975. 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                    07/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Beth McCoy, Consultant, Regulations Staff, Compensation 
and Pension Service (211A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefit Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL12

[[Page 38124]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2976. 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 is incorporating into the 
regulations the following statutory 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              02/10/03                     68 FR 6625
Interim Final Rule Effective    02/10/03
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/11/03
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




2977. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES; GUIDELINES FOR APPLICATION OF 
EVALUATION CRITERIA FOR CERTAIN RESPIRATORY AND CARDIOVASCULAR 
CONDITIONS; EVALUATION OF HYPERTENSION WITH HEART DISEASE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.104

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 
Schedule for Rating Disabilities, 38 CFR part 4, in order to clarify 
the evaluation of certain respiratory and cardiovascular conditions and 
to explain that hypertension and hypertensive or other heart diseases 
will be separately evaluated. The intended effect of this amendment is 
to clarify the use of the current criteria for evaluating respiratory 
and cardiovascular conditions, particularly in cases where alternative 
criteria are provided, in order to ensure that veterans receive 
consistent evaluations and are not required to undergo unnecessary 
tests.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/22/02                    67 FR 54394
NPRM Comment Period End         10/21/02
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Audrey Tomlinson, Medical Officer (211A), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AL26
_______________________________________________________________________




2978. VETERANS EDUCATION: VETERANS EDUCATION AND BENEFITS EXPANSION ACT 
OF 2001

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3511; 38 USC 3512; 38 USC 3540; 38 USC 3543; 38 
USC 3672; 38 USC 3675; 38 USC 3680A; 38 USC 3011(c)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.3045; 38 CFR 21.3046; 38 CFR 21.3104; 38 CFR 
21.3300; 38 CFR 21.3301; 38 CFR 21.3302; 38 CFR 21.3303; 38 CFR 
21.3305; 38 CFR 21.3306

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Final regulations implementing some of the provisions in the 
Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001. The provisions 
are: Restoring benefits for individuals ordered to active duty on or 
after September 11, 2001; an additional opportunity for Vietnam Era 
Veterans to qualify for benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill program; 
establishing an ending date to the eligibility period for spouses under 
the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance program; 
expanding special restorative training benefits to include certain 
disabled spouses and surviving disabled spouses; allowing payment of 
education benefits for distance learning courses that are part of a 
certificate program offered by institutions of higher learning; and 
increasing the amount of scholarship funds someone in a Senior Reserve 
Officer Training Corps program can receive and remain eligible under 
the Montgomery GI Bill.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AL28
_______________________________________________________________________




2979. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES; EVALUATION OF MULTIPLE SCARS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1155

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.118

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 38125]]

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its Schedule 
for Rating Disabilities; Multiple Scars. The current rating schedule 
provides an evaluation level of 10% under Diagnostic Code 7803 for 
multiple superficial unstable scars and an evaluation level of 10% 
under Diagnostic Code 7804 for multiple superficial painful scars. The 
current rating schedule provides no guidance on whether each painful or 
each unstable scar no matter how small or close together should be 
separately evaluated. The current rating schedule is silent as to 
whether one scar can be rated more than once under diagnostic codes 
7802, 7803 and/or 7804. This regulatory amendment replaces the concept 
of ``widely separated areas'' by defining and using the concept of 
``separate anatomical location.'' This regulatory amendment instructs 
adjudicators in the following: how to evaluate scars which traverse 
separate anatomical locations; how to evaluate multiple scars in a 
separate anatomical locations; how to evaluate scars which satisfy 
evaluation criteria for two or more of the following diagnostic codes: 
7802, 7803 and 7804; and how to evaluate multiple scars of the head, 
face and neck where there is also disfigurement in this area. Each 
diagnostic code has been retitled; within Diagnostic Code 7800, we have 
included all aspects of scars and/or disfigurement of the head face and 
neck; therefore, the titles to the remaining scar codes now include the 
words ``Scars, other than those of the head, face and neckregion.``

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/29/02                    67 FR 65915
NPRM Comment Period End         12/30/02
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Audrey Tomlinson, Medical Officer (211A), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue 
NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AL32
_______________________________________________________________________




2980. ADMINISTRATION OF VA EDUCATION BENEFITS--CENTRALIZED CERTIFICATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 3672; 38 USC 3675; 38 USC 3676

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.4266

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs (VA) rules governing certification of enrollment in approved 
courses for the training of veterans and other eligible persons under 
education benefit programs VA administers. As part of the approval 
requirements, educational institutions designate an official of the 
institution (a VA certifying official) to certify the enrollment of 
veterans and other eligible persons to VA. As a general rule, VA rules 
currently require that each branch or extension of an educational 
institution must perform the certifications and maintain records for 
veterans and other eligible persons at the branch or extension. The 
proposed rule would expand current regulations to allow an educational 
institution to combine the certification functions at one or more of 
its locations, to include branches and extensions not located with the 
same State.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/30/03                    68 FR 38657
NPRM Comment Period End         09/29/03
Final Action                    04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AL43
_______________________________________________________________________




2981. LOAN GUARANTY: HYBRID ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4212; 38 CFR 36.4254; 38 CFR 36.4311; 38 CFR 
36.4312

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its loan 
guaranty regulations to implement sections 303 and 308 of Public Law 
No. 107-330, the Veterans Benefits Act of 2002. VA is incorporating 
into the regulations the following changes: The addition of hybrid 
adjustable rate mortgages that will allow VA to guarantee loans with 
interest rates that remain fixed for a period of not less than the 
first 3 years of the loan after which the rate can be adjusted annually 
and an increase in the fee paid for assuming a VA guaranteed loan from 
.50 percent to 1.00 percent of the loan amount.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/09/03                    68 FR 58293
NPRM Comment Period End         11/10/03
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Robert D. 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-AL54
_______________________________________________________________________




2982. COMPENSATION FOR CERTAIN CASES OF BILATERAL DEAFNESS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1160(a)(3)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.383(a)(3)

Legal Deadline: None

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

[[Page 38126]]

adjudication regulations concerning the level of hearing loss at which 
VA may pay disability compensation as if the combination of 
disabilities in both ears were service-connected, even though 
disability in one ear is service connected and disability in the other 
ear is not. This amendment liberalizes the ``paired organ'' rule for 
bilateral deafness and provides a definition for the term ``deafness.'' 
This amendment is necessary to implement a recent legislative change. 
Rather than requiring total deafness in both ears to trigger the paired 
organ rule, the proposed amendment would allow VA to consider partial 
nonservice-connected hearing loss in one ear when evaluating disability 
caused by compensable service-connected hearing loss in the other ear.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Beth McCoy, Consultant, Regulations Staff, Compensation 
and Pension Service (211A), Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans 
Benefit Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL59
_______________________________________________________________________




2983. INCREASE RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE SURVIVOR'S AND DEPENDENT'S 
EDUCATION ASSISTANT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 3534(b); 5 USC 3564; 5 USC 3686(a); 5 USC 
3541(b) and 3542

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the regulations governing rates of 
education assistance payable under the Survivors' and Dependents' 
Educational Assistance (DEA) program to reflect increases required by 
statutory provisions. The rates of education assistance payable under 
the DEA program are changed to show a 1.5 percent increase for fiscal 
year 2003 (October 1, 2002, through September 30, 2003) and 2.2 percent 
increase for fiscal year 2004 (October 1, 2003, through September 30, 
2004).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AL64
_______________________________________________________________________




2984. SERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR VETERANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 101(21), (22); 38 USC 106; 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 
1152; 38 USC 1301; 38 USC 1504; 38 USC 1832(b)(2); 38 USC 5101(i); 38 
USC 5303(a), (b), (e); PL 95-126; PL 95-202; PL 102-40; . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3; 38 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its 
compensation and pension regulations relating to service requirements 
for veterans, currently found in 38 CFR part 3, and plans to relocate 
them in new 38 CFR part 5. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's 
rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and pension 
regulations in a logical, claimant-focused, and user-friendly format.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/30/04                     69 FR 4820
NPRM Comment Period End         03/30/04
Final Action                    06/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Bill Russo, Chief, Regulation Rewrite Project (OOREG2), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-9216
Fax: 202 275-9026
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL67
_______________________________________________________________________




2985. RESERVISTS' EDUCATION: REVISION OF ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR 
THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL-SELECTED RESERVE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 1606; 10 USC 16133; 38 USC 501; 38 USC 501(a); 
38 USC 3031(d); 38 USC 3033(c); 38 USC 3232(a); 38 USC 3512; . . .

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.1032; 38 CFR 21.7540; 38 CFR 21.7550; 38 CFR 
21.7551

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends the regulations governing the 
administration of the Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) 
program. The amendments implement provisions in the Veterans Benefits 
and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000 and the Bob Stump National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003. The Veterans Benefits 
and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000 contained a provision that 
changed an eligibility criterion concerning the time for obtaining a 
high school diploma. The Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act 
for Fiscal Year 2003 expanded the MGIB-SR eligibility period from 10 
years to 14 years for reservists who first become eligible after 
September 30, 1992.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

[[Page 38127]]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AL69
_______________________________________________________________________




2986.  VETERANS EDUCATION: NONPAYMENT OF VA 
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE TO FUGITIVE FELONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 5315B

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.3135; 38 CFR 21.4131; 38 CFR 21.4135; 38 CFR 
21.4200; 38 CFR 21.7020; 38 CFR 21.7131; 38 CFR 21. 7135

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its education 
regulations to reflect a provision in the Veterans Education and 
Benefits Expansion Act of 2001. The Act contains a provision in section 
505 that prohibits VA from awarding educational assistance to 
individuals during any period that they are fugitive felons. The 
prohibition applies to the following VA educational assistance 
programs: Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty Program, Post Vietnam Era 
Veteran's Educational Assistance Program, and Survivors' and 
Dependents' Educational Assistance Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AL79
_______________________________________________________________________




2987.  INCREASE IN RATES PAYABLE UNDER THE MONTGOMERY 
GI BILL--SELECTED RESERVE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 16131(b)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.7636

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document amends VA regulations to reflect the monthly 
rates of basic educational assistance payable to reservists under the 
Montgomery GI Bill--Selected Reserve during FY 2004. In accordance with 
the statutory formula, the rates payable during FY 2003 were increased 
2.2 percent. The rates increase is required by 10 U.S.C. 16131(b).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AL80
_______________________________________________________________________




2988.  VETERANS EDUCATION: INCREASED ALLOWANCES FOR 
THE EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE TEXT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 16131(b)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 21.7636

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its education 
regulations to reflect rates of subsistence allowance and educational 
allowance payable under the Educational Assistance Text Program. The 
Secretary of Defense has concluded that the rates for the 2003-04 
academic year should be increased by 9.6 percent over the rates payable 
for the 2002-03 academic year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Lynn M. Nelson, 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-AL81
_______________________________________________________________________




2989.  PRESUMPTION OF SOUND CONDITION: AGGRAVATION OF 
A DISABILITY BY ACTIVE SERVICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 1111

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.304

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its 
adjudication regulations regarding the presumption of soundness of a 
veteran by adding a requirement that before VA may rebut the 
presumption of soundness of a veteran on entrance into active service, 
VA must prove that the condition existed prior to entrance on active 
service and was not aggravated by the veteran's active service. This 
amendment is necessary to ensure VA's regulations comply with a 
recently released General Counsel Opinion, VAOPGCPREC 3-2003, 
Requirements for Rebutting the Presumption of Sound Condition under 38 
U.S.C. 1111 and 38 CFR 3.304. The intended effect of this amendment is 
to require that VA, not the claimant, prove that the disability 
preexisted entrance into military service and that the disability was 
not aggravated by such service before the presumption of soundness on 
entrance onto active duty is overcome.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 38128]]

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service (211A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL90
_______________________________________________________________________




2990.  CHANGES TO 38 CFR 3.809 FOR SPECIALLY ADAPTED 
HOUSING ELIGIBILITY FOR RECIPIENTS FOR COMPENSATION UNDER 38 CFR 3.358

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1151

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.358; 38 CFR 3.809

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its 
adjudication regulations to provide entitlement to specially adapted 
housing for veterans who are permanently and totally disabled and 
entitled to compensation as if service-connected due to disability from 
hospitalization or surgical treatment, examination or vocational 
rehabilitation training and are otherwise eligible. This amendment is 
necessary to implement the decision of the United State Court of 
Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Kilpatrick v. Principi, 16 Vet. App. 
1 (2002). The effect of this amendment is to allow veterans who are 
permanently and totally disabled as a result of medical treatment or 
vocational rehabilitation to obtain specially adapted housing benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service (211A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL98



_______________________________________________________________________



BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS


                    ________________________________



2991. BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS: OBTAINING EVIDENCE AND CURING 
PROCEDURAL DEFECTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501(a); 38 USC 7102; 38 USC 7103(c); 38 USC 
7104(a); 38 USC 7105; 38 USC 7105A; 38 USC 7109(c)

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.9; 38 CFR 19.38; 38 CFR 20.3; 38 CFR 20.903; 38 
CFR 20.1304; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its Board of 
Veterans' Appeals regulations and the Board's Rules of Practice to make 
changes with respect to the Board's authority to develop evidence for 
initial consideration. By way of this rulemaking, we are removing the 
invalidated portions of the Board's development regulations and 
changing those regulations to provide that, with certain exceptions, 
the Board will remand a case to the agency of original jurisdiction 
when there is a need to clarify the evidence, correct a procedural 
defect, or take any other action deemed essential for a proper 
appellate decision.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/11/03                    68 FR 69062
NPRM Comment Period End         01/12/04
Final Action                    08/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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-AL77
_______________________________________________________________________




2992.  BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS: APPEAL REGULATIONS; 
RULES OF PRACTICE; DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 7101; 38 USC 7102; PL 103-271

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.14; 38 CFR 20.102; 38 CFR 20.606; 38 CFR 20.608

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its Appeals 
Regulations and Rules of Practice of the Board of Veterans' Appeals to 
update delegations of authority. This amendment is necessary in order 
to reflect statutory and regulatory changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/04

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-AL96
_______________________________________________________________________




2993.  BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS: CLARIFICATION OF A 
NOTICE OF DISAGREEMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 7105

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 19.26; 38 CFR 19.29

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its 
regulations pertaining to agency action upon receipt from a claimant of 
a Notice of Disagreement of a decision made by VA on a claimant's 
application for a VA benefit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/00/04

[[Page 38129]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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-AL97



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM


                    ________________________________



2994.  ELIGIBILITY FOR BURIAL IN NATIONAL CEMETERY FOR 
SURVIVING SPOUSES WHO REMARRY AND NEW PHILIPPINE SCOUTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 CFR 107; PL 108-183

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1.620

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule amends the Department of Veterans Affairs 
regulations to implement sections 212 and 502 of the statutory 
provisions of the Veterans Benefits Act of 2003 (Pub L. No. 108-183). 
The provisions of the Veterans Benefits Act of 2003 allow VA to extend 
eligibility for burial in a national cemetery to a remarried surviving 
spouse, based on his or her marriage to an eligible veteran, whose 
death occurred on or after January 1, 2000. Additionally, the amendment 
recognizes the eligibility for burial of New Philippine Scouts, who 
lawfully resided in the United States, and whose death occurred on or 
after December 16, 2003. We are also adding 38 U.S.C. 107 as an 
authority citation to 38 CFR 1.620, which defines active service 
eligibility for Philippine veterans. Further, we are making changes to 
the format of 38 CFR 1.620(e) and (h) to provide better organization 
and clarity.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Karen Barber, Program Analyst (41C3), 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-AM00



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



2995. STANDARDS FOR COLLECTION, COMPROMISE, SUSPENSION, OR TERMINATION 
OF COLLECTION EFFORT, AND REFERRAL OF CIVIL CLAIMS FOR MONEY OR 
PROPERTY; REGIONAL OFFICE COMMITTEES ON WAIVERS AND COMPROMISES; SALARY

Priority: Other Significant

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) is amending its 
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 are updated to comply with the Debt Collection Improvement 
Act of 1996. In addition, VA is amending those regulations pertaining 
to the administration of our Regional Office Committees on Waivers and 
Compromises.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/29/03                    68 FR 74893
NPRM Comment Period End         02/27/04
Final Action                    12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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

RIN: 2900-AK10
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)                   Completed Actions






_______________________________________________________________________




2996. REASONABLE CHARGES FOR MEDICAL CARE OR SERVICES; 2003 METHODOLOGY 
CHANGES

Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.101

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/02/03                    68 FR 56876
Final Action                    12/19/03                    68 FR 70714
Final Action Effective          12/19/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Cleaver
Phone: 202 254-0361

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AJ30, Related to 2900-AK39, Related to 
2900-AK73
RIN: 2900-AL06

[[Page 38130]]

_______________________________________________________________________




2997. CHARGES USED FOR RECOVERY FROM TORTIOUSLY LIABLE THIRD PARTIES FOR 
MEDICAL CARE OR SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.101; 38 CFR 17.102

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/07/04                     69 FR 1060
Final Action Effective          01/07/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Cleaver
Phone: 202 254-0361

RIN: 2900-AL48
_______________________________________________________________________




2998. REASONABLE CHARGES FOR MEDICAL CARE OR SERVICES; 2003 UPDATE

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 17.101

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/19/03                    68 FR 70714

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Cleaver
Phone: 202 254-0361

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AK39, Related to 2900-AK73
RIN: 2900-AL57
_______________________________________________________________________




2999. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.71(a)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       04/27/04                    69 FR 22757

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Audrey Tomlinson
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AE91
_______________________________________________________________________




3000. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS AND 
CONVULSIVE DISORDERS

Priority: Other Significant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/28/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Audrey Tomlinson
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AF23
_______________________________________________________________________




3001. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES--DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4.114

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/28/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Audrey Tomlinson
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AF24
_______________________________________________________________________




3002. GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT) AND 
REQUIREMENT FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (ASSISTANCE)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/26/03                    68 FR 66618
Final Action Effective          11/26/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

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

RIN: 2900-AK16
_______________________________________________________________________




3003. SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES; MALIGNANT NEOPLASMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 4

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/09/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Audrey Tomlinson
Phone: 202 273-7211

RIN: 2900-AL27
_______________________________________________________________________




3004. TESTIMONY CERTIFIED OR UNDER OATH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.200

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/10/04                     69 FR 6223

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert M. White
Phone: 202 273-7228
Fax: 202 275-4800
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Duplicate of 2900-AK24
RIN: 2900-AL38
_______________________________________________________________________




3005. ANNUAL RISK ALLOWANCE FOR SERVICEMEMBERS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE AND 
VETERANS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 9.15 (new)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       03/04/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 38131]]

Agency Contact: Jeanne King
Phone: 215 842-2000
Fax: 215 381-3502
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL56
_______________________________________________________________________




3006. NEW AND MATERIAL EVIDENCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.156

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       06/09/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt
Phone: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL73
_______________________________________________________________________




3007.  DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY--PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 
CONTRACTOR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 501; 38 USC 3720; 38 USC 3732

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 36.4342

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs is amending its delegation 
of authority regulation with respect to the loan guaranty program. This 
amendment will permit certain officers of the private contractor 
performing properly management functions to execute all documents 
necessary for the management and sale of single-family properties 
acquired by VA under its housing loan guaranty program. This amendment 
will provide notice to buyers, lenders, and other real estate 
professionals of the contractor'sauthority to sign these documents 
rather than requiring VA to prepare and record powers of attorney, 
thereby increasing the efficiency of the loan guaranty program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/08/04                    69 FR 10618
Final Action Effective          03/08/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: William W. Lutes, Assistant Director for Property 
Management and Strategic Administration, Department of Veterans 
Affairs, Loan Guaranty Service (263), 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, 
DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7379

RIN: 2900-AL85
_______________________________________________________________________




3008.  CHANGES OF EFFECTIVE DATE OF RULE ADDING A 
DISEASE ASSOCIATED WITH EXPOSURE TO CERTAIN HERBICIDE AGENTS: TYPE 2 
DIABETES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 801-808; 38 USC 1116(c)(2); PL 104-121; PL 102-4

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 3.309(e)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) is changing the 
effective date of a final rule published on May 8, 2001, titled 
``Disease Associated With Exposure to Certain Herbicide Agents: Type 2 
Diabetes.'' This action is necessary to conform to the decision of the 
United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Liesegang v. 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, which determined that the correct 
effective date of the amendment was May 8, 2001. The effect of this 
Notice is to insure that the effective date conforms to the decision of 
the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and current 
VA practice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action Effective          05/08/01
Final Action                    06/08/04                    69 FR 31882

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

Agency Contact: Randy A. McKevitt, Consultant, C&P Service (211A), 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration, 810 
Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
Phone: 202 273-7211
Fax: 202 273-1728
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 2900-AK63
RIN: 2900-AL93
_______________________________________________________________________




3009. IMPLEMENTING THE HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY 
ACT (HIPAA)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 824; 48 CFR 852

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       03/10/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Cathy Dailey
Phone: 202 273-8774
Fax: 202 273-9302
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL53
_______________________________________________________________________




3010. BOARD OF VETERANS' 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); . . .

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       03/04/04                    69 FR 10185

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AE78

[[Page 38132]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3011. THE BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS; RULES OF PRACTICE--MOTION FOR 
REVIEW OF DECISIONS ON GROUNDS OF CLEAR AND UNMISTAKABLE ERROR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/14/03                    68 FR 53681
Final Action                    06/04/04                    69 FR 31523
Final Action Effective          06/04/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AJ85
_______________________________________________________________________




3012. RULES OF PRACTICE: MEDICAL OPINIONS FROM THE VETERANS HEALTH 
ADMINISTRATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.901(a)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/15/04                     69 FR19935

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AK52
_______________________________________________________________________




3013. BOARD OF VETERANS' APPEALS RULES OF PRACTICE: NOTICE PROCEDURES 
RELATING TO WITHDRAWAL OF SERVICES BY A REPRESENTATIVE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 20.608(b)(2)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/20/04                    69 FR 21068

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 2900-AL45
_______________________________________________________________________




3014. STATE CEMETERY GRANTS

Priority: Other Significant

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)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/29/04                    69 FR 16344
Final Action Effective          04/28/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: William Jayne
Phone: 202 565-6152
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AH46
_______________________________________________________________________




3015. ELIGIBILITY FOR APPROPRIATE GOVERNMENT MARKER FOR A GRAVE ALREADY 
MARKED AT PRIVATE EXPENSE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 38 CFR 1.632

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/24/03                    68 FR 55317
Final Action                    03/11/04                    69 FR 11531

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: David K. Schettler
Phone: 202 501-3100
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 2900-AL40
[FR Doc. 04-11484 Filed 06-25-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8320-01-S