The Federal Register

Clinical Science Research and Development Service; Cooperative Studies Scientific Evaluation Committee; Notice of

Mon, Dec 1 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that a meeting of the Clinical Science Research and Development Service Cooperative Studies Scientific Evaluation Committee will be held on January 7, 2009, at the St. Gregory Hotel, 2033 M Street, NW., Washington, DC. The session is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. and end at 4 p.m.

The Committee advises the Chief Research and Development Officer through the Director of the Clinical Science Research and Development Service on the relevance and feasibility of proposed projects and the scientific validity and propriety of technical details, including protection of human subjects.

The session will be open to the public for approximately 30 minutes at the start of the meeting for the discussion of administrative matters and the general status of the program. The remaining portion of the session will be closed to the public for the Committee's review, discussion and evaluation of rese

Per Diem for Nursing Home Care of Veterans in State Homes

Fri, Nov 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its regulations which set forth a mechanism for paying per diem to State homes providing nursing home care to eligible veterans. More specifically, we are proposing to update the basic per diem rate, to implement provisions of the Veterans Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006, and to make several other changes to better ensure that veterans receive quality care in State homes.

Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is issuing this interim final rule to amend the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance traumatic injury protection program (TSGLI) regulations in order to add losses that would be covered under the program and to define terms relevant to these new losses. This rulemaking also clarifies language in and reorganizes existing provisions.

Community Residential Care Program

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its Community Residential Care regulations to update the standards for VA approval of facilities, including standards that would be adopted for fire safety and heating and cooling systems. This rule would also establish a single 12month duration for VA approvals and would authorize provisional approval of certain facilities. Finally, this rule would eliminate the VA statement of needed care requirement in current regulations and clarify that it is the care providers at the facility that determine the services needed by a particular veteran. VA intends that the proposed amendments would help ensure that veterans are provided appropriate care at facilities that receive VA referrals.

Agency Information Collection (Regulation on Application for Fisher Houses and Other Temporary Lodging and VHA Fisher

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 350121), this notice announces that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Department of Veterans Affairs, has submitted the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden; it includes the actual data collection instrument.

Proposed Information Collection (Claim for Credit of Annual Leave) Activity: Comment Request

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Human Resources Management (HRM), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to this notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to process current and former employee's claims for restored annual leave charged on a nonworkday while on military active duty.

Proposed Information Collection (Procedures, and Security for Government Financing) Activity; Comment Request

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Office of Management (OM), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to reduce or suspend contract payments and to determine if the contractor has adequate security to warrant payment in advance.

Proposed Information Collection (Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI)) Activity; Comment Request; Withdrawal

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 35013521), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) published a collection of information notice in the Federal Register on October 23, 2008, at 73 FR 63229, announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. The notice solicited comments on information needed to determine servicemembers' eligibility requirements for payment of traumatic injury protection benefits covered under Servicemembers' Group Live Insurance. With respect to the collection of information in that notice, we are withdrawing our request for comments because it was necessary to seek an immediate OMB approval on an emergency basis under 44 U.S.C. 3507(j). VA has submitted a copy of the amended TSGLI form (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Application for TSGLI Benefits) to OMB for an emergency approval. This document withdraws the October 23, 2008 notice.

Privacy Act of 1974

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Privacy Act of 1974

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552(e)(4)) requires that all agencies publish in the Federal Register a notice of the existence and character of their systems of records. Notice is hereby given that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending the system of records entitled ``Individual Correspondence RecordsVA'' (05VA026) as set forth in the Federal Register on January 13, 1982 [47 FR 1462]. VA is amending the system by revising the routine uses of records maintained in the system, and adding seven new routine uses. VA is also making minor editorial changes to reflect the transition of Office of General Counsel from District Offices to Regional Offices, and to revise the list of those covered by the system of records to reflect current OGC correspondence. VA is republishing the system notice in its entirety.

Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

Wed, Nov 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Advisory Committee on Disability Compensation; Notice of Meeting

Thu, Nov 20 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that the Advisory Committee on Disability Compensation will meet on December 8, 2008. The meeting will be held at the St. Regis Washington DC, 923 16th and K Streets, NW., in the Carlton Room, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The meeting is open to the public.

The purpose of the Committee is to advise the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on establishing and supervising a schedule to conduct periodic reviews of the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities.

The Committee will receive briefings about studies on compensation for veterans with serviceconnected disabilities and other veteran benefits programs. An open forum for verbal statements from the public will be available in the afternoon. People wishing to make verbal statements before the Committee will be accommodated on a firstcome, firstserved basis and will be provided three minutes per statement.

Interested persons may submit written

Schedule for Rating Disabilities; Evaluation of Residuals of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI); Correction

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document contains a minor correction to the final rulemaking that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) published at 73 FR 54693 on September 23, 2008. The rulemaking relates to a revision of the portion of VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities that addresses neurological conditions and convulsive disorders to provide detailed and updated criteria for evaluating residuals of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Proposed Information Collection (Application for Work-Study Allowance) Activity: Comment Request

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to determine a claimant's eligibility for workstudy benefits.

Proposed Information Collection (National Acquisition Center Customer Response Survey) Activity; Comment Request

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Office of Management (OM), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on the information needed to measure customer satisfaction with delivered products and services.

Agency Information Collection (Operation Enduring Freedom/ Operation Iraqi Freedom Veterans Health Needs Assessment)

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 350121), this notice announces that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Department of Veterans Affairs, will submit the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden and includes the actual data collection instrument.

Proposed Information Collection (Request for Change of Program or Place of Training) Activity: Comment Request

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on the information needed to determine a claimant's eligibility for continued educational assistance when he or she requests a program change or place of training.

Proposed Information Collection (State Application for Interment Allowance) Activity: Comment Request

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on the information needed to determine a State's eligibility for plot or interment allowances.

Agency Information Collection Activities (Survey of Post- Deployment Adjustment Among OEF and OIF Veterans) Under OMB

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 35013521), this notice announces that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Department of Veterans Affairs, has submitted the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden and includes the actual data collection instrument.
[[Page 69723]]

Increase in Mileage Reimbursement Rate and Deductible Amounts in the Beneficiary Travel Program

Tue, Nov 18 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This Notice is to inform the public of the Secretary's decision to increase the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Beneficiary Travel program mileage reimbursement rate under 38 U.S.C. 111 for travel of eligible beneficiaries in connection with VA health care and for other purposes. Effective November 17, 2008, the beneficiary travel mileage reimbursement rate is increased from 28.5 cents to 41.5 cents based upon mileage traveled to or from a Department facility or other place in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling required by the Secretary pursuant to 38 U.S.C. Chapter 34, ``Educational Assistance'' or Chapter 35, ``Survivors and Dependents' Education Assistance'' or for the
[[Page 68499]]
purpose of examination, treatment or care. The deductible requirements for purposes of beneficiary travel of mileage reimbursement will remain at $7.77 oneway; $15.54 round trip; with a monthly cap of $46.62.

Proposed Information Collection (Notice of Change in Student Status) Activity: Comment Request

Wed, Nov 12 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed revision of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to report changes in students' enrollment status.

Proposed Information Collection (Clarification of a Notice of Disagreement) Activity Comment Request

Wed, Nov 12 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on the information needed to clarify actions taken by the agency of original jurisdiction regarding a claimant's disagreement with his or her rating decision.

Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans; Notice of Meeting

Wed, Nov 12 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans will be held on December 1516, 2008, at the Ritz Carlton New Orleans, 921 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, in room Union Terrace A. The sessions will start at 8 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. each day. The meeting is open to the public.

The purpose of the Committee is to provide the Secretary of Veterans Affairs with an ongoing assessment of the effectiveness of the policies, organizational structures, and services of the Department in assisting homeless veterans. The Committee shall assemble and review information relating to the needs of homeless veterans and provide advice on the most appropriate means of offering assistance to homeless veterans. The Committee will make recommendations to the Secretary regarding such activities.

On December 15, the Committee will receive briefings from VA and other federal departmen

Schedule for Rating Disabilities; Eye

Mon, Nov 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document amends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Schedule for Rating Disabilities (Rating Schedule) by updating the portion of the schedule that addresses disabilities of the eye. These amendments ensure that the schedule uses current medical terminology, provides unambiguous criteria for evaluating disabilities, and [[Page 66544]]
incorporates pertinent medical advances.

Proposed Information Collection (Monthly Certification of On-the- Job and Apprenticeship Training) Activity: Comment

Mon, Nov 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to determine a claimant's continued eligibility for educational benefits.

Proposed Information Collection (Certification of Lessons Completed) Activity: Comment Request

Mon, Nov 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to report the number of correspondence course lessons completed and for correspondence schools to report the number of lessons serviced.

Proposed Information Collection (Application for Reimbursement of Licensing or Certification Test Fees) Activity:

Mon, Nov 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed revision of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to determine an applicant's eligibility for reimbursement of licensing and certification test fees.

Board of Veterans' Appeals: Expedited Claims Adjudication Initiative--Pilot Program

Wed, Nov 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is launching an initiative for accelerated claims and appeals processing at four VA facilities, based on voluntary participation by eligible claimants. The purpose of this initiative is to determine whether VA can expedite the processing of claims and appeals by obtaining claimants' waivers of certain statutory and regulatory response periods, and by utilizing the Board of Veterans' Appeals' (Board or BVA) statutory authority to pre screen cases. VA's responsibility to fully develop and decide cases in a fair, accurate, and nonadversarial manner remains unchanged under this initiative. If this initiative is successful at the four trial sites, the data obtained may provide a basis for expanding some, or all, of the program nationwide, and ultimately help accelerate the processing of all claims and appeals. The parameters of the initiative are set forth in these regulations.

Agency Information Collection (Request for Transportation Expense Reimbursement Activities Under OMB Review

Wed, Nov 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 35013521), this notice announces that the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs, will submit the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden; it includes the actual data collection instrument.

Agency Information Collection (Locality Pay System for Nurses and Other Health Care Personnel) Under OMB Review

Wed, Nov 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 350121), this notice announces that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Department of Veterans Affairs, will submit the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden and includes the actual data collection instrument.

Agency Information Collection (Request for Supplies (Chapter 31-- Vocational Rehabilitation)) Activities Under OMB

Wed, Nov 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Privacy Act of 1974: Computer Matching Program

Tue, Nov 4 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. section 552a, the Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Guidelines on the Conduct of Matching Programs, notice is hereby given that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) intends to conduct a computer matching program with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Data from the proposed match will be used to verify the earned income of nonservice connected veterans, and those veterans who are zero percent service connected (noncompensable), whose eligibility for VA medical care is based on their inability to defray the cost of medical care. These veterans supply household income information that includes their spouses and dependents at the time of application for VA health care benefits.

Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA): Expansion of Benefit Coverage for

Tue, Nov 4 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document adopts a final rule amending the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical regulations for the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) to expand benefits by covering any nondental prostheses determined medically necessary for the treatment of certain medical conditions and by removing the exclusion from coverage of enuretic (bedwetting) devices. In addition, this final rule makes changes in delegations of authority, technical changes, and nonsubstantive changes for purposes of clarity in VA's regulations governing CHAMPVA.

Disclosure of Information to Organ, Tissue and Eye Procurement Organizations

Mon, Nov 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document adopts, with changes, a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) interim final rule that implemented provisions of the Veterans Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006 concerning disclosure of information to organ, tissue and eye procurement organizations. The regulation will provide authority for VA to provide individuallyidentifiable VA medical records of veterans or dependents of veterans who are deceased or whose death is imminent to representatives of organ procurement organizations, eye banks, and tissue banks to determine whether the patients are suitable potential donors. This document modifies the interim final rule to clarify the definition of ``near death'' and to correct a grammatical error in the definition of ``procurement organization.'' This document also clarifies that eye bank and tissue bank registration with FDA must have an active status.

Elimination of Co-Payment for Weight Management Counseling

Mon, Nov 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) published a direct final rule amending our medical regulations to designate weight management counseling (individual and group sessions) as a service that is not subject to VA's copayment requirements. VA received no significant adverse comments concerning this rule or its companion substantially identical proposed rule published on the same date. This document confirms that the direct final rule became effective on June 16, 2008. In a companion document in this issue of the Federal Register, we are withdrawing as unnecessary that proposed rule.

Increase in Rates Payable Under the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty and Other Miscellaneous Issues

Mon, Nov 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document amends regulations governing education programs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) administers. In accordance with statutory requirements and previously established formulas, it amends the regulations to show increases in the monthly rates of basic educational assistance payable under the Montgomery GI BillActive Duty program, an increase in the percentage
[[Page 65261]]
payable to veterans pursuing apprenticeship or other onjob training, and a change in the formula used to calculate the entitlement charge for individuals pursuing apprenticeship or other onjob training. It also amends procedural provisions and delegations of authority regarding continuation of payments during emergency school closings. Furthermore, this document makes nonsubstantive technical changes for purposes of clarity and to remove obsolete provisions.

Elimination of Co-Payment for Weight Management Counseling

Mon, Nov 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is withdrawing VA's proposal published in the Federal Register at 73 FR 20579 on April 16, 2008, to amend our medical regulations to designate weight management counseling (individual and group sessions) as a service that is not subject to VA's copayment requirements. VA received no significant adverse comments concerning the proposed rule or its companion substantially identical direct final rule published on the same date. In a companion document in this issue of the Federal Register, we are confirming that the direct final rule became effective on June 16, 2008. Accordingly, this document withdraws as unnecessary the proposed rule.

Presumptive Service Connection for Disease Associated With Exposure to Certain Herbicide Agents: AL Amyloidosis

Mon, Nov 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is proposing to amend its adjudication regulations concerning presumptive service connection for a certain disease based on the most recent National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Institute of Medicine committee report, ``Veterans and Agent Orange: Update 2006 (Update 2006).'' This proposed amendment is necessary to implement a decision of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that there is a positive association between exposure to herbicides used in the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam era and the subsequent development of AL amyloidosis. The intended effect of this proposed amendment is to establish presumptive service connection for AL amyloidosis based on herbicide exposure.

Agency Information Collection: Emergency Submission for OMB (Yellow Ribbon) Review; Comment Request

Mon, Nov 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 35013521), this notice announces that the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), has submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) the following emergency proposal for the collection of information under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3507(j)(1)). The reason for the emergency clearance is to determine which institutions of higher learning (IHLs) will be participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program, the maximum number of individuals for whom the IHL will make contributions in any given academic year, and the percentage of outstanding established charges the IHL will agree to waive. OMB has been requested to act on this emergency clearance request by December 31, 2008.

Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses; Notice of Meeting

Fri, Oct 31 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that the Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses will meet on November 17, 2008, in room 230 at the Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC. The meeting will be open to the public and it will start at 8:30 a.m. and adjourn at 12 p.m.

The purpose of the Committee is to provide advice and make recommendations to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on proposed research studies, research plans and research strategies relating to the health consequences of military service in the Southwest Asia theater of operations during the Gulf War.

The Committee will present their 2008 Report and recommendations to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Additionally, there will be a presentation and discussion on pesticide exposure and cognition.

The meeting will include time reserved for public comments. A sign up sheet for fiveminute comments w

Payments and Adjustments to Payments

Fri, Oct 31 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to reorganize and rewrite in plain language provisions applicable to payment of VA benefits and adjustments to payments. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and pension rules in a logical, claimantfocused, and userfriendly format. The intended effect of the proposed revisions is to assist claimants, beneficiaries and VA personnel in locating and understanding these rules.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Wed, Oct 29 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its [[Page 64209]]
adjudication regulations regarding service connection for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by eliminating the requirement of evidence corroborating occurrence of the claimed inservice stressor in claims in which PTSD is diagnosed in service. This amendment is necessary to facilitate the proof of service connection in such claims. By this amendment, we intend to reduce claimprocessing time for such claims.

Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA): Preauthorization for Durable

Tue, Oct 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regulations for the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) related to
preauthorization requirements that apply to the purchase or rental of durable medical equipment. It would increase from $300 to $2,000 the cost of purchase or rental above which preauthorization would be required. This is intended to remove from the CHAMPVA claims process an administratively inefficient requirement.

Proposed Information Collection (Obtaining Supplemental Information From Hospital or Doctor); Comment Request

Tue, Oct 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to this notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to determine the insured's eligibility for continued disability insurance benefits.

Proposed Information Collection (Trainee Request for Leave-- Chapter 31, Title 38, U.S.C.) Activity: Comment Request

Tue, Oct 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to evaluate a trainee's request for leave from Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program training.

Proposed Information Collection (FSC Product Line Surveys) Activity; Comment Request

Tue, Oct 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Office of Management (OM), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for
[[Page 64016]]
public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to obtain customers satisfaction on Financial Services Center (FSC) business process and system features.

Genomic Medicine Program Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

Mon, Oct 27 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that the Genomic Medicine Program Advisory Committee will meet on November 20, 2008 at the Almas Conference Center, Oasis Room, 1315 K Street, NW., Washington, DC. The meeting will convene at 8 a.m. and adjourn at 5 p.m. The meeting is open to the public.

The purpose of the Committee is to provide advice and make recommendations to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on using genetic information to optimize medical care of veterans and to enhance development of tests and treatments for diseases particularly relevant to veterans.

The Committee will receive program updates including planned responses to recommendations, and will be asked to continue to provide insight into optimal ways for VA to incorporate genomic information into its health care program while applying appropriate ethical oversight and protecting the privacy of veterans. The meeting focus will include discussion

Joint Biomedical Laboratory Research and Development and Clinical Science Research and Development Services Scientific

Mon, Oct 27 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs gives notice under the Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that the subcommittees of the Joint Biomedical Laboratory Research and Development and Clinical Science Research and Development Services Scientific Merit Review Board will meet from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. as indicated below:
Subcommittee for Date(s) Location Surgery..................... November 10, 2008... Embassy Suites Chevy Chase. Mental Hlth & Behav SciB... November 13, 2008... DoubleTree Hotel. Immunology.................. November 14, 2008... Embassy Suites Chevy Chase. Hematology.................. November 14, 2008... Embassy Suites Chevy Chase. Cardiovascular Studies...... November 17, 2008... Embassy Suites Crystal City. Cellular & Molecul

Veterans' Advisory Committee on Education; Notice of Meeting

Mon, Oct 27 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Education will meet on November 1213, 2008, at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Building, 200 Maryland Avenue, NE., Washington, DC. The November 12 session will be begin at 8 a.m. and end at 4:30 p.m. The November 13 session will begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 12 noon. The meeting is open to the public.

[[Page 63768]]

The purpose of the Committee is to advise the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on the administration of education and training programs for veterans, servicepersons, reservists, and dependents of veterans under Chapters 30, 32, 35, and 36 of title 38, and Chapter 1606 of title 10, United States Code.

The meeting will begin with opening remarks and a summary of recent activities by Mr. James Bombard, Committee Chair. The agenda for the meeting will include an overview of new legislation and an update on VA outreach efforts pertaining to

Proposed Information Collection (Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI)) Activity; Comment Request

Thu, Oct 23 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a current collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to determine servicemembers' eligibility requirements for payment of traumatic injury protection benefits covered under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance.

Proposed Information Collection (Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation by Parent(s), (Including

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on the information needed to determine a claimant's eligibility for dependency and indemnity compensation, death compensation, and/or accrued benefits.

Agency Information Collection (Survey of Veteran Enrollees (Quality and Efficiency of VA Health Care)) Under OMB

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 350121), this notice announces that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Department of Veterans Affairs, will submit the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden and includes the actual data collection instrument.

Advisory Committee on Prosthetics and Special Disabilities Programs; Notice of Meeting

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Prosthetics and Special Disabilities Programs will be held November 56, 2008 in Room 230, at VA Central Office, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC. The sessions will begin at 8:30 a.m. each day and will end at 4:30 p.m. on November 5 and at 12 noon on November 6. The meeting is open to the public.

The purpose of the Committee is to advise the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on VA's prosthetic programs designed to provide stateofthe art prosthetics and the associated rehabilitation research, development, and evaluation of such technology. The Committee also provides advice to the Secretary on special disability programs which are defined as any program administered by the Secretary to serve veterans with spinal cord injury, blindness or visual impairment, loss of extremities or loss of function, deafness or hearing impairment, and othe

Accrued Benefits; Correction

Fri, Oct 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document contains a minor correction to the final regulations that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) published in 71 FR 78368 on December 29, 2006. The regulation relates to the Payment of Benefits to Survivors of Estates of Deceased Beneficiaries. No substantive change to the content of the regulation is being made by correcting this amendment.

Special Ratings

Fri, Oct 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to reorganize and rewrite in plain language regulations relating to special ratings and ratings for health care eligibility only. These revisions are proposed as part of VA's rewrite and reorganization of all of its compensation and pension rules in a logical, claimantfocused, and userfriendly format. The intended effect of the proposed revisions is to assist claimants and VA personnel in locating and understanding these provisions.

Proposed Information Collection (Application for Annual Clothing Allowance) Activity: Comment Request

Wed, Oct 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to determine a veteran's eligibility for clothing allowance.

Proposed Information Collection (Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes) Activity: Comment Request

Wed, Oct 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on the information needed to determine eligibility for issuance of a burial flag for a deceased veteran.

Proposed Information Collection (Architect--Engineer Fee Proposal) Activity; Comment Request

Wed, Oct 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each new collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information used to notify contractors of available work, solicit and evaluate bids, and monitor work in progress.

Proposed Information Collection (Fiduciary Statement in Support of Appointment) Activity: Comment Request

Wed, Oct 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to determine a claimant qualification as a fiduciary.

Proposed Information Collection (Pilot Study for the National Survey of Veterans, Active Duty Service Members,

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Office of Policy and Planning, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed new collection of information, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to conduct a pilot study for the National Survey of Veterans, Active Duty Service Members, Activated National Guard and Reserve Members, Family Members and Survivors (NSV).

Proposed Information Collection (Board of Veterans' Appeals Customer Satisfaction With Hearing Survey) Activity;

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information used by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information
[[Page 60407]]
needed to assess the effectiveness of current procedures used in conducting hearings.

Proposed Information Collection (Conversion From Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance to Veterans' Group Life

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed new collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to this notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to ensure that separating service members, especially service members with disabilities are informed about their life insurance option, including converting from Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance to Veterans' Group Life Insurance.

Performance Review Board Members

Thu, Oct 9 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Under the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 4314(c)(4) agencies are required to publish a notice in the Federal Register of the appointment of Performance Review Board (PRB) members. This notice updates the VA Performance Review Board of the Department of Veterans Affairs that was published in the Federal Register on October 30, 2007 (72 FR 61421).

Dental Care--Provision of One-Time Outpatient Dental Care for Certain Veterans

Wed, Oct 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its regulations regarding the authority to provide onetime outpatient dental treatment to eligible veterans following discharge or release from active duty. In section 1709 of Public Law 110181, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, Congress amended the eligibility criteria for the onetime dental treatment benefit. This rule is necessary to incorporate the statutory amendments into VA regulations.

Grants to States for Construction and Acquisition of State Home Facilities

Wed, Oct 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document affirms as final, with changes, an interim final rule that amended regulations regarding grants to States for the construction or acquisition of State homes for furnishing domiciliary and nursing home care to veterans, or for the expansion, remodeling, or alteration of existing State homes for furnishing domiciliary, nursing home, or adult day health care to veterans. This rule is necessary to update the regulations and to implement statutory provisions, including provisions of the Veterans Millennium Health Care and Benefits Act. This document also incorporates some nonsubstantive changes to the regulations in the interim final rule and recognizes a change made to 38 CFR 59.50(b) on February 14, 2007.

Proposed Information Collection (Report Transfer of Custody Event) Activity: Comment Request

Fri, Oct 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Proposed Information Collection (Application in Acquiring Specially Adapted Housing or Special Home Adaptation Grant)

Fri, Oct 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Agency Information Collection (Exam for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance) Activities

Fri, Oct 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Advisory Committee on Former Prisoners of War; Notice of Meeting

Fri, Oct 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that the Advisory Committee on Former Prisoners of War has scheduled a meeting for October 2729, 2008, in Jackson, Mississippi. On October 2728, the meeting will be held at the Sonny Montgomery Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1500 E. Woodrow Wilson Drive. On October 29, it will be held at the Hilton Jackson Hotel, 1001 E. County Line Road. The meeting will be held each day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The meeting is open to the public.

The purpose of the Committee is to advise the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on the administration of benefits under Title 38, United States Code, for veterans who are former prisoners of war, and to make recommendations on the needs of such veterans for compensation, health care, and rehabilitation.

The meeting will begin with remarks from dignitaries, a review of committee reports, and an update of activities since the last meeting. A town hall meetin

Veterans' Advisory Committee on Environmental Hazards; Notice of Meeting

Fri, Oct 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that a meeting of the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Environmental Hazards will be held on October 2728, 2008, in room 648 at 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC, The meeting will be held from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day. The meeting is open to the public.

The purpose of the Committee is to provide advice to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on adverse health effects that may be associated with exposure to ionizing radiation, and to make recommendations on proposed standards and guidelines regarding VA benefit claims based upon exposure to ionizing radiation.

The major items on the agenda will be discussions of medical and scientific papers concerning the health effects of exposure to ionizing radiation. On the basis of the discussions, the Committee may make recommendations to the Secretary concerning the relationship of certain diseases exposured to ionizing radiation.

Veterans' Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation (VACOR); Notice of Meeting

Thu, Oct 2 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that a meeting of the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation will be held on October 1516, 2008, at the Paralyzed Veterans of American Building, 801 18th Street, NW., Washington, DC. The meeting sessions will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on October 15 and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on October 16. The meeting is open to the public.

[[Page 57410]]

The purpose of the Committee is to present recommendations to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on the rehabilitation needs of veterans with disabilities and on the administration of VA's rehabilitation programs.

During the meeting, Committee members will be provided updated briefings on various VA programs designed to enhance the rehabilitative potential of recentlydischarged veterans. Members will also begin consideration of potential recommendations to be included in the Committee's next annual report.

No time will be alloca

Reasonable Charges for Inpatient DRG and SNF Medical Services; 2009; Fiscal Year Update

Wed, Oct 1 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 17.101 of Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations sets forth the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical regulations concerning ``reasonable charges'' for medical care or services provided or furnished by VA to a veteran:
For a nonserviceconnected disability for which the veteran is entitled to care (or the payment of expenses of care) under a health plan contract;
For a nonserviceconnected disability incurred incident to the veteran's employment and covered under a worker's compensation law or plan that provides reimbursement or indemnification for such care and services; or
For a nonserviceconnected disability incurred as a result of a motor vehicle accident in a State that requires automobile accident reparations insurance.

The regulations include methodologies for establishing billed amounts for the following types of charges: Acute inpatient facility charges; skilled nursing facility/subacute inpatient facility (SNF) charges; partial hospitalization facility charges; out

Advisory Committee on Women Veterans; Notice of Meeting

Tue, Sep 30 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives notice under Public Law 92463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans will meet October 2830, 2008 at the Capital Hilton, 16th and K Street, NW., Washington, DC, from 8:304:30 p.m., each day. The meeting is open to the public.

The purpose of the Committee is to advise the Secretary of Veterans Affairs regarding the needs of women veterans with respect to health care, rehabilitation, compensation, outreach, and other programs and activities administered by the VA designed to meet such needs. The Committee will make recommendations to the Secretary regarding such programs and activities.

On October 28, the agenda will include overviews of the Veterans Health Administration, the Veterans Benefits Administration, the National Cemetery Administration, an update on the 2008 Advisory Committee on Women Veterans Report, and an update on the activities conducted by the
[[Page 56919]]
Center for Women Veterans

Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

Mon, Sep 29 2008 11:00:00 GMT

As required by the Privacy Act of 1974, 5 U.S.C. 552a(e), notice is hereby given that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending the system of records currently entitled ``The Office of Inspector General Management Information System (MIS)VA'' (71VA53) as set forth in the Federal Register at 47 FR 6513. VA is amending the system of records by revising the system location, revising the Categories of Records in the System, adding a Purposes section, adding Routine Uses of Records Maintained in the System, including Categories of Users and the Purposes of Such Uses, and updating Policies and Practices for Storing, Retrieving, Accessing, Retaining and Disposing of Records in the System. VA is republishing the system notice in its entirety.

Program Application and Reports) Activity; Comment Request

Thu, Sep 25 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Office of Management (OM), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each new collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to establish a mentorprot[eacute]g[eacute] program agreement between a large business, veteranowned small business and servicedisabled veteranowned small business and to report the success of the program.

Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Loan Guaranty: Loan Servicing and Claims Procedures Modifications Segment 8 Effective Date

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This publication is to serve as notice that on November 14, 2008, Subpart F of Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 36, will be applicable to industry segment 8. Program participants in the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program's servicing and claims activities were assigned to one of nine industry segments as part of the planned phased implementation of the rules in Subpart F. All program participants were given notice of their respective segments and were afforded opportunity to comment during the regulatory development process (see SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section, below). Segment 8 participants will be under the authority of Subpart F rules on November 14, 2008. VA continues to work with these participants to ensure that all necessary servicing system modifications, defect corrections, interface testing and data transmission are addressed.

Loan Guaranty: Loan Servicing and Claims Procedures Modifications Segment 7 Effective Date

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This publication is to serve as notice that on October 17, 2008, Subpart F of Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 36, will be applicable to industry segment 7. Program participants in the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program's servicing and claims activities were assigned to one of nine industry segments as part of the planned phased implementation of the rules in Subpart F. All program participants were given notice of their respective segments and were afforded opportunity to comment during the regulatory development process (see SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section, below). Segment 7 participants will be under the authority of Subpart F rules on October 17, 2008. VA continues to work with these participants to ensure that all necessary servicing system modifications, defect corrections, interface testing and data transmission are addressed.

Loan Guaranty: Loan Servicing and Claims Procedures Modifications Segment 4 Effective Date

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This publication is to serve as notice that on June 27, 2008, Subpart F of Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 36, will be applicable to industry segment 4. Program participants in the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program's servicing and claims activities were assigned to one of nine industry segments as part of the planned phased implementation of the rules in Subpart F. All program participants were given notice of their respective segments and were afforded opportunity to comment during the regulatory development process (see SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section, below). Segment 4 participants will be under the authority of Subpart F rules on June 27, 2008. VA continues to work with these participants to ensure that all necessary servicing system modifications, defect corrections, interface testing and data transmission are addressed.

Loan Guaranty: Loan Servicing and Claims Procedures Modifications Segment 5 Effective Date

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This publication is to serve as notice that on July 25, 2008, Subpart F of Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 36, will be applicable to industry segment 5. Program participants in the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program's servicing and claims activities were assigned to one of nine industry segments as part of the planned phased implementation of the rules in Subpart F. All program participants were given notice of their respective segments and were afforded opportunity to comment during the regulatory development process (see SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below). Segment 5 participants will be under the authority of Subpart F rules on July 25, 2008. VA continues to work with these participants to ensure that all necessary servicing system modifications, defect corrections, interface testing and data transmission are addressed.

Loan Guaranty: Loan Servicing and Claims Procedures Modifications Segment 6 Effective Date

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This publication is to serve as notice that on September 19, 2008, Subpart F of Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 36, will be applicable to industry segment 6. Program participants in the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program's servicing and claims activities were assigned to one of nine industry segments as part of the planned phased implementation of the rules in Subpart F. All program participants were given notice of their respective segments and were afforded opportunity to comment during the regulatory development process (see SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section, below). Segment 6 participants will be under the authority of Subpart F rules on September 19, 2008. VA continues to work with these participants to ensure that all necessary servicing system modifications, defect corrections, interface testing and data transmission are addressed.

Agency Information Collection (Payment and Reimbursement for Emergency Services for Non Service-Connected Conditions

Tue, Sep 23 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Proposed Information Collection (Accelerated Payment Verification of Completion Letter) Activity: Comment Request

Tue, Sep 23 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to determine whether a claimant received his or her accelerated payment.