,,ii ,cal5d> ,no4 #dfg #aad? ,,congress #b;d ,session ,s4 #biba ,,9 ,,! ,,s5ate ,,( ,,! ,,unit$ ,,/ates ,may #aa1 #bjaf,mr4 ,isakson 7= himself1 ,mr4 ,blum5?al1 ,mr4 ,tillis1 ,mr4 ,te/]1 ,mr4 ,udall1 ,mr4 ,b5net1 ,mr4 ,r\nds1 ,mrs4 ,fe9/e91 ,mr4 ,boozman1 ,mr4 ,hell]1 ,mrs4 ,murray1 ,mr4 ,man*91 ,ms4 ,hirono1 ,mr4 ,br[n1 ,mr4 ,leahy1 ,mr4 ,da9es1 ,mr4 ,sullivan1 ,mrs4 ,%ahe51 ,mr4 ,durb91 ,mr4 ,nelson1 ,ms4 ,cantwell1 ,ms4 ,baldw91 ,mr4 ,casey1 ,mr4 ,ka9e1 ,mr4 ,book]1 ,mr4 ,s*atz1 ,mr4 ,moran1 ,mr4 ,blunt1 ,mr4 ,frank51 ,ms4 ,klobu*>1 ,mr4 ,he9ri*1 ,mrs4 ,mc,caskill1 ,mr4 ,murphy1 & ,mr4 ,:iteh\se7 introduc$ ! foll[+ bill2 :i* 0 read twice & ref]r$ to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ,may #af1 #bjaf,report$ by ,mr4 ,isakson1 )\t am5dm5t ,a ,,bill ,to am5d title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 to improve ! acc\ntability ( employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 to improve heal? c>e & b5efits = vet]ans1 & = o!r purposes4 #a4 ,%ort title2 table ( cont5ts 7a7 ,%ort title ,?is ,act may be cit$ z ! ,vet]ans ,fir/ ,act4 7b7 ,table ( cont5ts ,! table ( cont5ts = ?is ,act is z foll[s3 ,sec4 #a4 ,%ort title2 table ( cont5ts4,,title ,i--,p]sonnel & acc\ntability matters,subtitle ,a--,(fice ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection,sec4 #aja4 ,(fice ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection4,sec4 #ajb4 ,protection ( :i/lebl[]s 9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #ajc4 ,treatm5t ( congressional te/imony by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs employees z (ficial duty4,sec4 #ajd4 ,report on me?ods us$ to inve/igate employees ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,subtitle ,b--,sup]visors & s5ior executives,sec4 #aaa4 ,treatm5t ( ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks4,sec4 #aab4 ,pay = ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks4,sec4 #aac4 ,improv$ au?orities ( ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to improve acc\ntability ( s5ior executives4,sec4 #aad4 ,r$uction ( b5efits = memb]s ( ! ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice )9 ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs convict$ ( c]ta9 crimes4,sec4 #aae4 ,indep5d5t review & assessm5t ( managem5t tra9+ & appraisal at ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #aaf4 ,acc\ntability ( lead]s = manag+ ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #aag4 ,acc\ntability ( sup]visors at ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = hir+ well-qualifi$ p4,sec4 #aah4 ,acc\ntability ( sup]visors at ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = address+ p]=mance ( employees4,sec4 #aai4 ,improvem5t ( tra9+ = sup]visors4,sec4 #abj4 ,assessm5t & report on effect on s5ior executives at ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,subtitle ,c--,employees,sec4 #aba4 ,removal ( employees ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs bas$ on p]=mance or misconduct4,sec4 #abb4 ,prohibition on aw>d ( bonuses to employees ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs "u consid]ation = adv]se actions or subject ( adv]se f9d+s4,sec4 #abc4 ,ret5tion ( records ( reprim&s & admoni%m5ts receiv$ by employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #abd4 ,limitation on adm9i/rative leave = employees ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #abe4 ,measurem5t ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs discipl9>y process outcomes & effectiv5ess4,subtitle ,d--,o!r p]sonnel & acc\ntability matters,sec4 #aca4 ,writt5 op9ion on c]ta9 employm5t re/rictions aft] t]m9at+ employm5t ) ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #acb4 ,requirem5t = contractors ( ! ,dep>tm5t employ+ c]ta9 rec5tly sep>at$ ,dep>tm5t employees4,sec4 #acc4 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs program ( int]nal audits4,,title ,,ii--,heal? c>e matters,sec4 #bjj4 ,%ort title4,subtitle ,a--,expansion & improvem5t ( heal? c>e benefits,sec4 #bja4 ,improv$ access to appropriate immunizations = vet]ans4,sec4 #bjb4 ,expansion ( provision ( *iropractic c>e & s]vices to vet]ans4,sec4 #bjc4 ,priority ( m$al ( honor recipi5ts 9 heal? c>e sy/em ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,subtitle ,b--,m5tal heal? care,sec4 #baa4 ,vet]ans ,exp$it$ ,recov]y ,commission4,sec4 #bab4 ,m5tal heal? treatm5t = vet]ans :o s]v$ 9 classifi$ missions4,sec4 #bac4 ,inclusion ( m5tal heal? pr(essionals 9 education & tra9+ program = heal? p]sonnel ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bad4 ,expansion ( qualifications = lic5s$ m5tal heal? c\nselors ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to include doctoral degrees4,subtitle ,c--,improvem5t ( m$ical workforce,sec4 #bba4 ,modification ( h\rs ( employm5t = physicians & physician assi/ants employ$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bbb4 ,requirem5t t physician assi/ants employ$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs receive competitive pay4,sec4 #bbc4 ,ext5sion ( p]iod = increase 9 graduate m$ical education resid5cy positions at m$ical facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bbd4 ,additional requirem5ts = hir+ ( heal? c>e provid]s by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bbe4 ,provision ( in=mation on heal? c>e provid]s ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to ,/ate m$ical bo>ds4,sec4 #bbf4 ,report on m$ical work=ce ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bbg4 ,report on compliance by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ) reviews ( heal? c>e provid]s leav+ ! ,dep>tm5t or transf]r+ to o!r facilities4,subtitle ,d--,family caregivers,sec4 #bca4 ,expansion ( family c>egiv] program ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bcb4 ,implem5tation ( in=mation te*nology sy/em ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to assess & improve ! family c>egiv] program4,sec4 #bcc4 ,modifications to annual evaluation report on c>egiv] program ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bcd4 ,advisory committee on c>egiv] policy4,sec4 #bce4 ,compreh5sive /udy on s]i\sly injur$ vet]ans & _! c>egiv]s4,subtitle ,e--,heal? c>e administration,sec4 #bda4 ,requirem5t t ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs collect heal?-plan contract in=mation f vet]ans4,sec4 #bdb4 ,expansion ( availability ( pro/hetic & or?otic c>e = vet]ans4,sec4 #bdc4 ,revival ( ,int]m$iate ,c>e ,te*nician ,pilot ,program ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bdd4 ,transf] ( heal? c>e provid] cr$5tial+ data f ,secret>y ( ,def5se to ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bde4 ,au?ority to place c]ta9 vet]ans 9 non-,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs m$ical fo/] homes ^u reque/4,sec4 #bdf4 ,exam9ation & treatm5t by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = em]g5cy m$ical conditions & wom5 9 labor4,sec4 #bdg4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al audit ( budget ( ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration4,sec4 #bdh4 ,annual report on ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration & furni%+ ( hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & nurs+ home c>e4,subtitle ,f--,opioid !rapy & pa9 management,sec4 #bea4 ,guidel9es on managem5t ( opioid !rapy by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se & implem5tation ( su* guidel9es by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #beb4 ,improvem5t ( opioid safety measures by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bec4 ,enhancem5t ( jo9t work+ gr\p on pa9 managem5t ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se4,sec4 #bed4 ,review1 inve/igation1 & report on use ( opioids 9 treatm5t by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bee4 ,elim9ation ( copaym5t requirem5t = vet]ans receiv+ opioid antagoni/s or education on use ( opioid antagoni/s4,subtitle ,g--,pati5t advocacy & outreach,sec4 #bfa4 ,e/abli%m5t ( ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bfb4 ,community meet+s on improv+ c>e f ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bfc4 ,outrea* to vet]ans reg>d+ effect ( c]ta9 delay$ paym5ts by ,*ief ,bus9ess ,(fice ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bfd4 ,improvem5t ( aw>5ess ( pati5t advocacy program & pati5t bill ( rights ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bfe4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al ,report on ,pati5t ,advocacy ,program ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,subtitle ,h--,adm9i/ration ( non-,dep>tm5t heal? care,sec4 #bga4 ,paym5t ( non-,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs heal? c>e provid]s4,sec4 #bgb4 ,au?orization ( agreem5ts betwe5 ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & non-,dep>tm5t provid]s4,sec4 #bgc4 ,elim9ation ( requirem5t to act z second>y pay] = c>e relat+ to non-s]vice-connect$ disabilities "u ,*oice ,program4,sec4 #bgd4 ,requirem5t = advance appropriations = ! ,m$ical ,community ,c>e acc\nt ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bge4 ,annual transf] ( am\nts )9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to pay = heal? c>e f non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s4,sec4 #bgf4 ,au?orization ( use ( c]ta9 am\nts appropriat$ to ! ,vet]ans ,*oice ,fund = o!r non-,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs c>e4,sec4 #bgg4 ,applicability ( ,directive ( ,(fice ( ,f$]al ,contract ,compliance ,programs4,subtitle ,i--,rese>* on toxic exposure,sec4 #bha4 ,def9itions4,sec4 #bhb4 ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e assessm5t on rese>* relat+ to ! desc5dants ( individuals ) toxic exposure4,sec4 #bhc4 ,advisory bo>d on rese>* relat+ to heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure :ile s]v+ 9 ! ,arm$ ,=ces4,sec4 #bhd4 ,rese>* relat+ to heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure :ile s]v+ 9 ! ,arm$ ,=ces4,subtitle ,j--,o!r heal? c>e matters,sec4 #bia4 ,au?orization ( c]ta9 major m$ical facility projects ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #bib4 ,id5tification & track+ ( biological implants us$ 9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs m$ical facilities4,sec4 #bic4 ,procurem5t ( biological implants us$ 9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs m$ical facilities4,sec4 #bid4 ,expansion ( rese>* & education on & deliv]y ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? to vet]ans4,sec4 #bie4 ,pilot program on integration ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? )9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs m$ical c5t]s4,sec4 #bif4 ,report on public access to rese>* by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,,title ,,iii--,disability comp5sation & pension,sec4 #cja4 ,exp$it$ paym5t ( survivor's b5efits4,sec4 #cjb4 ,increase 9 special p5sion = ,m$al ( ,honor recipi5ts4,sec4 #cjc4 ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals video he>+s4,sec4 #cjd4 ,improvem5ts to au?ority = p]=mance ( m$ical disabilities exam9ations by contract physicians4,sec4 #cje4 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs pilot program on fully develop$ appeals4,sec4 #cjf4 ,requirem5t t ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs publi% ! av]age "t requir$ to adjudicate timely & untimely appeals4,sec4 #cjg4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al review ( claims process+ p]=mance ( regional (fices ( ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration4,sec4 #cjh4 ,report on p>ticipation ( vet]ans s]vice organizations 9 ,transition ,assi/ance ,program4,sec4 #cji4 ,inclusion 9 annual budget submission ( in=mation on capacity ( ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration to process b5efits claims4,sec4 #caj4 ,report on /aff+ levels at regional (fices ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs aft] transition to ,national ,"w ,queue4,sec4 #caa4 ,annual report on progress 9 implem5t+ ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,managem5t ,sy/em4,sec4 #cab4 ,report on plans ( ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to r$uce inv5tory ( non-rat+ workload4,sec4 #cac4 ,s5se ( ,congress on increas$ transp>5cy relat+ to claims = b5efits & appeals ( decisions relat+ to b5efits 9 ,monday ,morn+ ,workload ,report4,sec4 #cad4 ,s5se ( ,congress reg>d+ ,am]ican vet]ans disabl$ = life4,sec4 #cae4 ,s5se ( ,congress on submittal ( in=mation relat+ to claims = disabilities incurr$ or aggravat$ by milit>y sexual trauma4,,title ,,iv--,education,subtitle ,a--,educational assi/ance & vocational rehabilitation,sec4 #dja4 ,cl>ification ( eligibility = ,m>9e ,gunn]y ,s]geant ,john ,david ,fry ,s*ol>%ip4,sec4 #djb4 ,re/oration ( entitlem5t to ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance = vet]ans affect$ by closures ( educational in/itutions4,sec4 #djc4 ,consid]ation ( eligibility = ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance = c]ta9 "t on active duty 9 res]ve compon5ts ( ,arm$ ,=ces4,sec4 #djd4 ,approval ( c\rses ( education & tra9+ = purposes ( ! vocational rehabilitation program ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #dje4 ,au?ority to prioritize vocational rehabilitation s]vices bas$ on ne$4,sec4 #djf4 ,codification & improvem5t ( election process = ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance ,program4,sec4 #djg4 ,"w-/udy all[ance4,sec4 #djh4 ,ret5tion ( entitlem5t to educational assi/ance dur+ c]ta9 additional p]iods ( active duty4,sec4 #dji4 ,eligibility = ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance = c]ta9 memb]s ( res]ve compon5ts ( ,arm$ ,=ces :o lo/ entitlem5t to educational assi/ance "u ,res]ve ,educational ,assi/ance ,program4,sec4 #daj4 ,reports on progress ( /ud5ts receiv+ ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance4,subtitle ,b--,adm9i/ration ( educational assistance,sec4 #dba4 ,c5traliz$ report+ ( vet]an enrollm5t by c]ta9 gr\ps1 di/ricts1 & consortiums ( educational in/itutions4,sec4 #dbb4 ,provision ( in=mation reg>d+ vet]an entitlem5t to educational assi/ance4,sec4 #dbc4 ,role ( ,/ate approv+ ag5cies4,sec4 #dbd4 ,crit]ia us$ to approve c\rses4,sec4 #dbe4 ,modification ( requirem5ts = approval = purposes ( educational assi/ance provid$ by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ( programs design$ to prep>e individuals = lic5sure or c]tification4,sec4 #dbf4 ,compliance surveys4,sec4 #dbg4 ,survey ( individuals us+ _! entitlem5t to educational assi/ance "u ! educational assi/ance programs adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #dbh4 ,te*nical am5dm5t relat+ to 9-,/ate tuition rate = individuals to :om entitlem5t is transf]r$ "u ,all-,volunte] ,=ce ,educational ,assi/ance ,program & ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance4,,title ,v--,employm5t & transition,sec4 #eja4 ,requir$ coord9ation betwe5 ,directors = ,vet]ans' ,employm5t & ,tra9+ ) ,/ate dep>tm5ts ( labor & vet]ans affairs4,sec4 #ejb4 ,longitud9al /udy ( job c\nsel+1 tra9+1 & placem5t s]vice = vet]ans4,,title ,,vi--,homeless veterans,subtitle ,a--,homeless matt]s generally,sec4 #fja4 ,expansion ( def9ition ( homeless vet]an = purposes ( b5efits "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #fjb4 ,increas$ p] diem paym5ts = transitional h\s+ assi/ance t becomes p]man5t h\s+ = homeless vet]ans4,sec4 #fjc4 ,cl>ification ( eligibility = s]vices "u homeless vet]ans re9tegration programs4,sec4 #fjd4 ,program to improve ret5tion ( h\s+ by =m]ly homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( becom+ homeless4,sec4 #fje4 ,pilot program on provision ( int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions to homeless vet]ans :o receive ! mo/ heal? c>e f ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #fjf4 ,e/abli%m5t ( ,national ,c5t] on ,homelessness ,among ,vet]ans4,sec4 #fjg4 ,adm9i/rative improvem5ts to grant & p] diem programs ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #fjh4 ,p>tn]%ips ) public & private entities to provide legal s]vices to homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( homelessness4,sec4 #fji4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates /udy on homeless vet]ans programs ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #faj4 ,requirem5t = ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to assess compreh5sive s]vice programs = homeless vet]ans4,sec4 #faa4 ,report on outrea* relat+ to increas+ ! am\nt ( h\s+ available to vet]ans4,subtitle ,b--,eligibility ( homeless vet]ans = benefits,sec4 #fba4 ,waiv] ( m9imum p]iod ( cont9u\s active duty 9 ,arm$ ,=ces = c]ta9 b5efits = homeless vet]ans4,sec4 #fbb4 ,au?orization to furni% c]ta9 b5efits to homeless vet]ans ) dis*>ges or releases "u o!r ?an honorable conditions4,sec4 #fbc4 ,modification ( def9ition ( vet]an = purposes ( provid+ c]ta9 b5efits to homeless vet]ans4,sec4 #fbd4 ,tra9+ ( p]sonnel ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & grant recipi5ts4,sec4 #fbe4 ,au?orization ( p] diem paym5ts = furni%+ c>e to dep5d5ts ( c]ta9 homeless vet]ans4,sec4 #fbf4 ,regulations4,sec4 #fbg4 ,effective date4,,title ,,vii--,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims,sec4 #gja4 ,ext5sion ( tempor>y increase 9 numb] ( judges on ,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims4,sec4 #gjb4 ,life insurance program relat+ to judges ( ,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims4,sec4 #gjc4 ,volunt>y contributions to enl>ge survivors' annuity4,sec4 #gjd4 ,selection ( *ief judge ( ,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims4,,title ,,viii--,burial benefits,sec4 #hja4 ,expansion ( eligibility = m$allions4,sec4 #hjb4 ,inurnm5t ( cremat$ rema9s 9 ,arl+ton ,national ,cemet]y ( c]ta9 p]sons ^: s]vice is deem$ to be active s]vice4,sec4 #hjc4 ,report on capacity ( ,arl+ton ,national ,cemet]y4,sec4 #hjd4 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs /udy on matt]s relat+ to burial ( unclaim$ rema9s ( vet]ans 9 national cemet]ies4,,title ,,ix--,o!r matters,sec4 #ija4 ,au?ority to ent] into c]ta9 leases at ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,we/ ,los ,angeles ,campus4,sec4 #ijb4 ,re/oration ( prior report+ fee multipli]s4,sec4 #ijc4 ,repeal inapplicability ( modification ( basic all[ance = h\s+ to b5efits "u laws adm9i/]$ by ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4,sec4 #ijd4 ,obs]vance ( ,vet]ans ,day4,sec4 #ije4 ,honor+ z vet]ans c]ta9 p]sons :o p]=m$ s]vice 9 ! res]ve compon5ts ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces4,sec4 #ijf4 ,ext5sion ( requirem5t = collection ( fees = h\s+ loans gu>ante$ by ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 ,i ,p]sonnel & acc\ntability matt]s ,a ,(fice ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection #aja4 ,(fice ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #c ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #cbc4 ,(fice ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection 7a7 ,e/abli%m5t ,!re is e/abli%$ 9 ! ,dep>tm5t an (fice to be kn[n z ! ,(fice ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! ,(fice74 7b7 ,head ( ,(fice 7#a7 ,! head ( ! ,(fice %all be responsible = ! functions ( ! ,(fice & %all be appo9t$ by ! ,presid5t pursuant to section #cjh7;a7 ( ?is title4 7#b7 ,! head ( ! ,(fice %all be kn[n z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection4 7#c7 ,! ,assi/ant ,secret>y %all report directly to ! ,secret>y on all matt]s relat+ to ! ,(fice4 7#d7 ,not)/&+ section #cjh7;b7 ( ?is title1 ! ,secret>y may only assign to ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y responsibilities relat+ to ! functions ( ! ,(fice set =? 9 subsection 7c74 7c7 ,functions 7#a7 ,! functions ( ! ,(fice are z foll[s3 7,a7 ,advis+ ! ,secret>y on all matt]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t relat+ to acc\ntability1 includ+ acc\ntability ( employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 retaliation aga9/ :i/lebl[]s1 & su* matt]s z ! ,secret>y consid]s simil> & affect public tru/ 9 ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,b7 ,issu+ reports & provid+ recomm5dations relat$ to ! duties describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a74 7,c7 ,receiv+ :i/lebl[] disclosures4 7,d7 ,ref]r+ :i/lebl[] disclosures receiv$ "u subp>agraph 7,c7 = inve/igation to ! ,(fice ( ! ,m$ical ,inspector1 ! ,(fice ( ,inspector ,g5]al1 or o!r inve/igative entity1 z appropriate1 if ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y has reason to believe ! :i/lebl[] disclosure is evid5ce ( a violation ( a provision ( law1 mismanagem5t1 gross wa/e ( funds1 abuse ( au?ority1 or a sub/antial & specific dang] to public heal? & safety4 7,e7 ,receiv+ & ref]r+ disclosures f ! ,special ,c\nsel = inve/igation to ! ,m$ical ,inspector ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! ,inspector ,g5]al ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 or su* o!r p]son ) inve/igatory au?ority1 z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7,f7 ,record+1 track+1 review+1 & confirm+ implem5tation ( recomm5dations f audits & inve/igations c>ri$ out by ! ,inspector ,g5]al ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! ,m$ical ,inspector ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! ,special ,c\nsel1 & ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 includ+ ! imposition ( discipl9>y actions & o!r corrective actions conta9$ 9 su* recomm5dations4 7,g7 ,analyz+ data f ! ,(fice & ! ,(fice ( ,inspector ,g5]al telephone hotl9es1 o!r :i/lebl[] disclosures1 disaggregat$ by facility & area ( heal? c>e if appropriate1 & relevant audits & inve/igations to id5tify tr5ds & issue reports to ! ,secret>y bas$ on analysis conduct$ "u ?is subp>agraph4 7,h7 ,receiv+1 review+1 & inve/igat+ allegations ( misconduct1 retaliation1 or poor p]=mance involv+-- 7i7 an individual 9 a s5ior executive position 7z def9$ 9 section #gac7;d7 ( ?is title7 9 ! ,dep>tm5t2 7ii7 an individual employ$ 9 a confid5tial1 policy-mak+1 policy-det]m9+1 or policy-advocat+ position 9 ! ,dep>tm5t2 or 7iii7 a sup]visory employee1 if ! allegation involves retaliation aga9/ an employee = mak+ a :i/lebl[] disclosure4 7,i7 ,mak+ su* recomm5dations to ! ,secret>y = discipl9>y action z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y consid]s appropriate aft] sub/antiat+ any allegation ( misconduct or poor p]=mance pursuant to an inve/igation c>ri$ out z describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,f7 or 7,h74 7#b7 ,9 c>ry+ out ! functions ( ! ,(fice1 ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y %all ensure t ! ,(fice ma9ta9s a toll-free telephone numb] & ,int]net website to receive anonym\s :i/lebl[] disclosures4 7#c7 ,9 any case 9 :i* ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y receives a :i/lebl[] disclosure f an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t "u p>agraph 7#a77;,c71 ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y may n disclose ! id5tity ( ! employee )\t ! cons5t ( ! employee1 except 9 accordance ) ! provisions ( section #eeb;a ( title #e1 or z requir$ by any o!r applicable provision ( ,f$]al law4 7d7 ,/aff & res\rces ,! ,secret>y %all ensure t ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y has su* /aff1 res\rces1 & access to in=mation z may be necess>y to c>ry out ! functions ( ! ,(fice4 7e7 ,relation to ,(fice ( ,g5]al ,c\nsel ,! ,(fice %all n be e/abli%$ z an elem5t ( ! ,(fice ( ! ,g5]al ,c\nsel & ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y may n report to ! ,g5]al ,c\nsel4 7f7 ,reports 7#a7 7,a7 ,n lat] ?an ,june #cj ( ea* cal5d> ye>1 beg9n+ ) ,june #cj1 #bjag1 ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! activities ( ! ,(fice dur+ ! cal5d> ye> 9 :i* ! report is submitt$4 7,b7 ,ea* report submitt$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 %all include1 = ! p]iod cov]$ by ! report1 ! foll[+3 7i7 ,a full & sub/antive analysis ( ! activities ( ! ,(fice1 includ+ su* /ati/ical in=mation z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7ii7 ,id5tification ( any issues report$ to ! ,secret>y "u subsection 7c77#a77;,g71 includ+ su* data z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y consid]s relevant to su* issues & any tr5ds ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y may h id5tifi$ ) respect to su* issues4 7iii7 ,id5tification ( su* conc]ns z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y may h reg>d+ ! size1 /aff+1 & res\rces ( ! ,(fice & su* recomm5dations z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y may h = legislative or adm9i/rative action to address su* conc]ns4 7iv7 ,su* recomm5dations z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y may h = legislative or adm9i/rative action to improve-- 7,i7 ! process by :i* conc]ns are report$ to ! ,(fice2 & 7,,ii7 ! protection ( :i/lebl[]s )9 ! ,dep>tm5t4 7v7 ,su* o!r matt]s z ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y consid]s appropriate reg>d+ ! functions ( ! ,(fice or o!r matt]s relat+ to ! ,(fice4 7#b7 ,if ! ,secret>y receives a recomm5dation = discipl9>y action "u subsection 7c77#a77;,i7 & does n take or initiate ! recomm5d$ discipl9>y action be=e ! date t is #fj days aft] ! date on :i* ! ,secret>y receiv$ ! recomm5dation1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a detail$ ju/ification = n tak+ or initiat+ su* discipl9>y action4 7g7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m sup]visory employee means an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t :o is a sup]visor z def9$ 9 section #gajc7;a7 ( title #e4 7#b7 ,! t]m :i/lebl[] means "o :o makes a :i/lebl[] disclosure4 7#c7 ,! t]m :i/lebl[] disclosure means any disclosure ( in=mation by an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t or individual apply+ to become an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t :i* ! employee or individual reasonably believes evid5ces-- 7,a7 a violation ( a provision ( law2 or 7,b7 gross mismanagem5t1 a gross wa/e ( funds1 an abuse ( au?ority1 or a sub/antial & specific dang] to public heal? or safety4 4 7b7 ,con=m+ am5dm5t ,section #cjh7;b7 ( su* title is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#ab7 ,! functions set =? 9 section #cbc7;c7 ( ?is title4 4 7c7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #c ( su* title is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new item3 #cbc4 ,(fice ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection4 4 #ajb4 ,protection ( :i/lebl[]s 9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new sections3 #gbj4 ,protection ( :i/lebl[]s z crit]ia 9 evaluation ( sup]visors 7a7 ,developm5t & use ( crit]ia requir$ ,! ,secret>y1 9 consultation ) ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection1 %all develop crit]ia t-- 7#a7 ! ,secret>y %all use z a critical elem5t 9 any evaluation ( ! p]=mance ( a sup]visory employee2 & 7#b7 promotes ! protection ( :i/lebl[]s4 7b7 ,pr9ciples = protection ( :i/lebl[]s ,! crit]ia requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all include pr9ciples = ! protection ( :i/lebl[]s1 su* z ! degree to :i* sup]visory employees respond con/ructively :5 employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t report conc]ns1 take responsible action to resolve su* conc]ns1 & fo/] an environm5t 9 :i* employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t feel com=table report+ conc]ns to sup]visory employees or to ! appropriate au?orities4 7c7 ,sup]visory employee & :i/lebl[] def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]ms sup]visory employee & :i/lebl[] h ! mean+s giv5 su* t]ms 9 section #cbc ( ?is title4 #gba4 ,tra9+ reg>d+ :i/lebl[] disclosures 7a7 ,tra9+ ,n less frequ5tly ?an once e two ye>s1 ! ,secret>y1 9 coord9ation ) ! ,:i/lebl[] ,protection ,ombudsman designat$ "u section #c7;d77#a77;,c7 ( ! ,inspector ,g5]al ,act ( #aigh 7#e ,u4,s4,c4 ,app471 %all provide to ea* employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t tra9+ reg>d+ :i/lebl[] disclosures1 includ+-- 7#a7 an explanation ( ea* me?od e/abli%$ by law 9 :i* an employee may file a :i/lebl[] disclosure2 7#b7 ! "r ( ! employee to petition ,congress reg>d+ a :i/lebl[] disclosure 9 accordance ) section #gbaa ( title #e2 7#c7 an explanation t ! employee may n be prosecut$ or repris$ aga9/ = disclos+ in=mation to ,congress1 ! ,inspector ,g5]al1 or ano!r inve/igatory ag5cy 9 in/ances :]e su* disclosure is p]mitt$ by law1 includ+ "u sections #egja1 #egje1 & #ggcb ( ?is title1 "u section #eeb;a ( title #e 7commonly ref]r$ to z ! ,privacy ,act71 "u *apt] #ic ( title #ah1 & pursuant to regulations promulgat$ "u section #bfd7;c7 ( ! ,heal? ,insurance ,portability & ,acc\ntability ,act ( #aiif 7,public ,law #ajd-aia72 7#d7 an explanation ( ! language t is requir$ to be includ$ 9 all nondisclosure policies1 =ms1 & agreem5ts pursuant to section #aae7;a77#a7 ( ! ,:i/lebl[] ,protection ,enhancem5t ,act ( #bjab 7#e ,u4,s4,c4 #bcjb note72 & 7#e7 ! "r ( contractors to be protect$ f reprisal = ! disclosure ( c]ta9 in=mation "u section #dgje or #dgab ( title #da4 7b7 ,mann] tra9+ is provid$ ,! ,secret>y %all ensure1 to ! maximum ext5t practicable1 t tra9+ provid$ "u subsection 7a7 is provid$ 9 p]son4 7c7 ,c]tification ,n less frequ5tly ?an once e two ye>s1 ! ,secret>y %all provide tra9+ on m]it sy/em protection 9 a mann] t ! ,special ,c\nsel c]tifies z be+ satisfactory4 7d7 ,publication ,! ,secret>y %all publi% on ! ,int]net website ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 & display prom95tly at ea* facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! rights ( an employee to make a :i/lebl[] disclosure1 includ+ ! in=mation describ$ 9 p>agraphs 7#a7 ?r\gh 7#e7 ( subsection 7a74 7e7 ,:i/lebl[] disclosure def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m :i/lebl[] disclosure has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #cbc ( ?is title4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt]1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new items3 #gbj4 ,protection ( :i/lebl[]s z crit]ia 9 evaluation ( sup]visors4#gba4 ,tra9+ reg>d+ :i/lebl[] disclosures4 4 #ajc4 ,treatm5t ( congressional te/imony by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs employees z (ficial duty 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #ajb1 is fur!r am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #gbb4 ,congressional te/imony by employees3 treatm5t z (ficial duty 7a7 ,congressional te/imony ,an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t is p]=m+ (ficial duty dur+ ! p]iod ) respect to :i* ! employee is te/ify+ 9 an (ficial capacity 9 front ( ei!r *amb] ( ,congress1 a committee ( ei!r *amb] ( ,congress1 or a jo9t or select committee ( ,congress4 7b7 ,travel exp5ses ,! ,secret>y %all provide travel exp5ses1 includ+ p] diem 9 lieu ( subsi/5ce1 9 accordance ) applicable provisions "u sub*apt] ,i ( *apt] #eg ( title #e1 to any employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs p]=m+ (ficial duty describ$ "u subsection 7a74 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt]1 z am5d$ by section #ajb1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gba ! foll[+ new item3 ,sec4 #gbb4 ,congressional te/imony by employees3 treatm5t z (ficial duty4 4 #ajd4 ,report on me?ods us$ to inve/igate employees ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,report requir$ ,n lat] ?an #edj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection %all submit to ! ,secret>y1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on me?ods us$ to inve/igate employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & :e!r su* me?ods are us$ to retaliate aga9/ :i/lebl[]s4 7b7 ,cont5ts ,! report requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,an assessm5t ( ! use ( adm9i/rative inve/igation bo>ds1 pe] review1 se>*es ( m$ical records1 & o!r me?ods = inve/igat+ employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,a det]m9ation ( :e!r & to :at degree ! me?ods describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 are be+ us$ to retaliate aga9/ :i/lebl[]s4 7#c7 ,recomm5dations = legislative or adm9i/rative action to implem5t safegu>ds to prev5t ! retaliation describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b74 7c7 ,:i/lebl[] def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m :i/lebl[] has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #cbc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by section #aja4 ,b ,sup]visors & s5ior executives #aaa4 ,treatm5t ( ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks 7a7 ,e/abli%m5t ( ,,visn ,directors 9 ,(fice ( ,"u ,secret>y = ,heal? ,subsection 7a77#d7 ( section #gcjf ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ ,su* ,m$ical ,directors & ins]t+ ,su* ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks2 & 7#b7 by /rik+ 1 :o %all be ei!r a qualifi$ doctor ( m$ic9e or a qualifi$ doctor ( d5tal surg]y or d5tal m$ic9e4 7b7 ,qualifications ,su* section is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7g7 ,not)/&+ any provision ( law t requires ! ,(fice ( ,p]sonnel ,managem5t to det]m9e qualifications or c]tify a c&idate = appo9tm5t "u ?is section1 ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks may be appo9t$ "u subsection 7a77#d7 9 accordance ) qualifications e/abli%$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section4 4 7c7 ,ability to transf] 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,subject to su* regulations z ! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,p]sonnel ,managem5t may prescribe1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,director %all ent] into an agreem5t t p]mits employees appo9t$ "u section #gcjf7;a77#d7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by subsection 7a71 to transf] to ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice positions 9 o!r ,f$]al ag5cies & to be deem$ c>e] appo9tees :o are n subject to competition or c]tification by a qualifications review bo>d "u section #ccic ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#b7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]ms ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice position & c>e] appo9tee h ! mean+s giv5 ^? t]ms 9 section #cacb7;a7 ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #aab4 ,pay = ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #gd ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new sub*apt]3 ,,vii ,pay = ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks #gdha4 ,pay = ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks 7a7 ,elem5ts ( pay ,pay = a ,m$ical ,c5t] ,director or ,director ( a ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network appo9t$ "u section #gcjf7;a77#d7 ( ?is title 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z a ,director7 %all consi/ ( basic pay set =? "u section #gdjd7;a7 ( ?is title & m>ket pay det]m9$ "u subsection 7b74 7b7 ,m>ket pay 7#a7 ,ea* ,director is eligible = m>ket pay det]m9$ "u ?is subsection4 7#b7 ,! am\nt ( m>ket pay payable to a ,director "u ?is section %all be det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y on a case-by-case basis & %all consi/ ( pay int5d$ to reflect ne$s ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) respect to ! recruitm5t & ret5tion 7z det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y7 ( su* ,director4 7#c7 ,9 det]m9+ ! am\nt ( m>ket pay payable to a ,director "u ?is section1 ! ,secret>y %all-- 7,a7 consult n few] ?an two national surveys on pay = hospital directors1 m$ical facility directors1 or o!r simil> positions1 :e!r prep>$ by private1 public1 or quasi-public entities1 to make a g5]al assessm5t ( ! range ( pot5tial pay = ! ,director2 & 7,b7 take into acc\nt-- 7i7 ! exp]i5ce ( ! ,director 9 manag+ facilities or program (fices ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ ! complexity ( su* facilities or (fices2 7ii7 ! complexity ( ! facility or facilities to be manag$ by ! ,director2 7iii7 ! labor m>ket1 9 su* geographic area z ! ,secret>y consid]s relevant1 = hospital directors1 m$ical facility directors1 & o!r simil> positions2 7iv7 ! exp]i5ce ( ! ,director 9 manag+ m$ical facilities = o!r ,f$]al ag5cies1 private entities1 or non-pr(it entities2 & 7v7 su* o!r consid]ations z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7#d7 7,a7 ,! ,secret>y %all evaluate ! am\nt ( m>ket pay payable to a ,director "u ?is section n less frequ5tly ?an once e two ye>s & may adju/ ! m>ket pay payable to su* ,director z a result ( su* evaluation4 7,b7 ,a ,director ^: m>ket pay is evaluat$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 %all receive writt5 notice ( ! results ( su* evaluation4 7c7 ,requirem5ts & limitations on total pay 7#a7 ,n less frequ5tly ?an once e two ye>s1 ! ,secret>y %all set =? a dep>tm5twide m9imum & maximum am\nt = total annual pay "u subsection 7a7 t may be paid to a ,director & %all publi% ea* su* am\nt 9 ! ,f$]al ,regi/]4 7#b7 ,! m9imum & maximum am\nts set =? "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all take effect n e>li] ?an ! date t is #fj days aft] ! publication ( su* am\nts "u su* p>agraph4 7#c7 ,! sum ( ! basic pay set =? "u section #gdjd7;a7 ( ?is title & m>ket pay det]m9$ "u subsection 7b7 = a ,director = a cal5d> ye>-- 7,a7 may n be less ?an ! mo/ rec5t m9imum am\nt set =? "u p>agraph 7#a7 be=e ! beg9n+ ( su* cal5d> ye>2 & 7,b7 may n be m ?an ! mo/ rec5t maximum am\nt set =? "u su* p>agraph be=e ! beg9n+ ( su* cal5d> ye>4 7#d7 ,! total am\nt ( comp5sation paid to a ,director "u ?is title 9 any cal5d> ye> may n exce$ ! am\nt ( annual comp5sation 7exclud+ exp5ses7 ( ! ,presid5t "u section #ajb ( title #c4 7#e7 ,! ,secret>y may n delegate to an (fic] or employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t ! requirem5t ( ! ,secret>y to set =? a dep>tm5twide m9imum & maximum am\nt "u p>agraph 7#a74 7d7 ,treatm5t ( pay ,pay "u ?is section %all be consid]$ pay = all purposes1 includ+ retirem5t b5efits "u *apt]s #hc & #hd ( title #e & o!r b5efits4 7e7 ,ancill>y effects ( decreases 9 pay 7#a7 ,a decrease 9 pay ( a ,director result+ f an adju/m5t 9 ! am\nt ( m>ket pay ( ! ,director "u subsection 7b7 %all n be treat$ z an adv]se action4 7#b7 ,a decrease 9 ! am\nt ( pay ( a ,director result+ f an involunt>y reassignm5t 9 connection ) a discipl9>y action tak5 aga9/ ! ,director is n subject to appeal or judicial review4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #gd ( su* title is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+3 ,sub*apt] ,,vii4 ,pay = ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks#gdha4 ,pay = ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors & ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks4 4 7c7 ,effective date ,! am5dm5ts made by ?is section %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #aac4 ,improv$ au?orities ( ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to improve acc\ntability ( s5ior executives 7a7 ,acc\ntability ( s5ior executives 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #gac ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ to read z foll[s3 #gac4 ,acc\ntability ( s5ior executives 7a7 ,au?ority 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y may1 z provid$ 9 ?is section1 reprim& or susp5d1 involunt>ily reassign1 demote1 or remove a cov]$ individual f a s5ior executive position at ! ,dep>tm5t if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t ! misconduct or p]=mance ( ! cov]$ individual w>rants su* action4 7#b7 ,if ! ,secret>y s removes su* an individual1 ! ,secret>y may remove ! individual f ! civil s]vice 7z def9$ 9 section #baja ( title #e74 7b7 ,rights & proc$ures 7#a7 ,a cov]$ individual :o is ! subject ( an action "u subsection 7a7 is entitl$ to-- 7,a7 be repres5t$ by an attorney or o!r repres5tative ( ! cov]$ individual's *oice2 7,b7 n few] ?an #aj bus9ess days advance writt5 notice ( ! *>ges & evid5ce support+ ! action & an opportunity to respond1 9 a mann] prescrib$ by ! ,secret>y1 be=e a decision is made reg>d+ ! action2 & 7,c7 grieve ! action 9 accordance ) an int]nal grievance process t ! ,secret>y1 9 consultation ) ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection1 %all e/abli% = purposes ( ?is subsection4 7#b7 7,a7 ,! ,secret>y %all ensure t ! grievance process e/abli%$ "u p>agraph 7#a77;,c7 takes few] ?an #ba days4 7,b7 ,! ,secret>y %all ensure t1 "u ! process e/abli%$ pursuant to p>agraph 7#a77;,c71 grievances are review$ only by employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#c7 ,a decision or grievance decision "u p>agraph 7#a77;,c7 %all be f9al & conclusive4 7#d7 ,a cov]$ individual adv]sely affect$ by a f9al decision "u p>agraph 7#a77;,c7 may obta9 judicial review ( ! decision4 7#e7 ,9 any case 9 :i* judicial review is s\ght "u p>agraph 7#d71 ! c\rt %all review ! record & may set aside any ,dep>tm5t action f\nd to be-- 7,a7 arbitr>y1 caprici\s1 an abuse ( discretion1 or o!rwise n 9 accordance ) a provision ( law2 7,b7 obta9$ )\t proc$ures requir$ by a provision ( law hav+ be5 foll[$2 or 7,c7 unsupport$ by sub/antial evid5ce4 7c7 ,relation to o!r provisions ( law 7#a7 ,! au?ority provid$ by subsection 7a7 is 9 addition to ! au?ority provid$ by section #ceib or sub*apt] ,v ( *apt] #ge ( title #e4 7#b7 ,section #ceib7;b77#a7 ( title #e & ! proc$ures "u section #gedc7;b7 ( su* title d n apply to an action "u subsection 7a74 7d7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m cov]$ individual means-- 7,a7 a c>e] appo9tee 7z t t]m is def9$ 9 section #cacb7;a77#d7 ( title #e72 or 7,b7 any individual :o occupies an adm9i/rative or executive position & :o 0 appo9t$ "u section #gcjf7;a7 or section #gdja7a7 ( ?is title4 7#b7 ,! t]m misconduct includes neglect ( duty1 malfeasance1 or failure to accept a direct$ reassignm5t or to accompany a position 9 a transf] ( function4 7#c7 ,! t]m s5ior executive position means-- 7,a7 ) respect to a c>e] appo9tee 7z t t]m is def9$ 9 section #cacb7;a7 ( title #e71 a ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice position 7z su* t]m is def9$ 9 su* section72 & 7,b7 ) respect to a cov]$ individual appo9t$ "u section #gcjf7;a7 or section #gdja7a7 ( ?is title1 an adm9i/rative or executive position4 4 7#b7 ,con=m+ am5dm5t ,section #gdfa7;c77#a7 ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ employees 9 s5ior executive positions 7z def9$ 9 section #gac7;d7 ( ?is title7 & be=e int]ns4 7b7 ,p]=mance managem5t 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all e/abli% a p]=mance managem5t sy/em = employees 9 s5ior executive positions1 z def9$ 9 section #gac7;d7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by subsection 7a71 t ensures p]=mance rat+s & aw>ds giv5 to su* employees-- 7,a7 mean+fully diff]5tiate extraord9>y f satisfactory contributions2 & 7,b7 sub/antively reflect organizational a*ievem5ts ov] :i* ! employee has responsibility & control4 7#b7 ,regulations ,! ,secret>y %all prescribe regulations to c>ry out p>agraph 7#a74 #aad4 ,r$uction ( b5efits = memb]s ( ! ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice )9 ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs convict$ ( c]ta9 crimes 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by subtitle ,a1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #gac ! foll[+ new section3 #gad4 ,s5ior executives3 r$uction ( b5efits ( individuals convict$ ( c]ta9 crimes 7a7 ,r$uction ( annuity = remov$ individual ,! cov]$ s]vice ( an individual remov$ f a s5ior executive position at ! ,dep>tm5t by ! ,secret>y = p]=mance or misconduct %all n be consid]$ cr$itable s]vice "u section #hccb or section #hdaa ( title #e = purposes ( calculat+ an annuity ) respect to su* individual "u *apt] #hc or *apt] #hd ( su* title if ! individual is convict$ ( a felony 7& ! conviction is f9al7 t 0 relat$1 z det]m9$ by ! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,p]sonnel ,managem5t1 to ! individual's p]=mance :ile employ$ 9 su* s5ior executive position4 7b7 ,r$uction ( annuity = retir$ individual 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y may ord] t ! cov]$ s]vice ( an individual :o is subject to a removal or transf] f a s5ior executive position at ! ,dep>tm5t by ! ,secret>y = p]=mance or misconduct b :o leaves employm5t at ! ,dep>tm5t prior to ! issuance ( a f9al decision ) respect to su* removal or transf] %all n be consid]$ cr$itable s]vice "u section #hccb or section #hdaa ( title #e = purposes ( calculat+ an annuity ) respect to su* individual "u *apt] #hc or *apt] #hd ( su* title if ! individual is convict$ ( a felony 7& ! conviction is f9al7 t 0 relat$1 z det]m9$ by ! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,p]sonnel ,managem5t1 to ! individual's p]=mance :ile employ$ 9 su* s5ior executive position4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y %all make su* an ord] n lat] ?an sev5 days aft] ! date on :i* su* individual is convict$ ( su* felony4 7#c7 ,n lat] ?an #cj days aft] ! ,secret>y issues any ord] ) respect to an individual "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,p]sonnel ,managem5t %all recalculate ! annuity ( ! individual4 7c7 ,lump-sum annuity cr$it ,any individual ) respect to :om an annuity is r$uc$ "u subsection 7a7 or 7b7 %all be entitl$ to be paid s mu* ( su* individual's lump-sum cr$it z is attributable to ! p]iod ( cov]$ s]vice4 7d7 ,review ( r$uction ( annuity ,any individual ) respect to :om an annuity is r$uc$ "u subsection 7a7 or 7b7 may appeal ! r$uction to ! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,p]sonnel ,managem5t pursuant to su* regulations z ! ,director may prescribe = purposes ( ?is section4 7e7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m cov]$ s]vice means1 ) respect to an individual subject to a removal or transf] f a s5ior executive position at ! ,dep>tm5t = p]=mance or misconduct1 ! p]iod ( s]vice beg9n+ on ! date t ! ,secret>y det]m9es "u su* section t su* individual engag$ 9 activity t gave rise to su* action & end+ on ! date t su* individual is remov$ f ! civil s]vice or leaves employm5t at ! ,dep>tm5t prior to ! issuance ( a f9al decision ) respect to su* action1 z ! case may be4 7#b7 ,! t]m lump-sum cr$it has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #hcca or #hdja ( title #e1 z ! case may be4 7#c7 ,! t]m s5ior executive position has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #gac7;d7 ( ?is title4 7#d7 ,! t]m s]vice has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #hcca or #hdja ( title #e1 z ! case may be4 4 7b7 ,application ,section #gad ( su* title1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 %all apply to any action ( removal or transf] f a s5ior executive position 7z def9$ 9 section #gac7;d7 ( su* title7 at ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs comm5c+ on or aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is title4 7c7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt]1 z am5d$ by subtitle ,a1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gac ! foll[+ new item3 #gad4 ,s5ior executives3 r$uction ( b5efits ( individuals convict$ ( c]ta9 crimes4 4 #aae4 ,indep5d5t review & assessm5t ( managem5t tra9+ & appraisal at ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,review & assessm5t 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is title1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all ent] into a contract ) a nongov]nm5tal entity to review & assess ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! managem5t tra9+ program = individuals employ$ 9 s5ior executive positions ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs t is be+ provid$ z ( ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is title4 7,b7 ,! p]=mance appraisal sy/em ( ! ,dep>tm5t 9 effect on ! day be=e ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is title = individuals employ$ 9 s5ior executive positions4 7#b7 ,elem5ts ,! review & assessm5t requir$ by p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,a comp>ison ( ! tra9+ provid$ by ! ,dep>tm5t to ! managem5t tra9+ provid$ = s5ior executives ( o!r ,f$]al dep>tm5ts & ag5cies & to ! managem5t tra9+ provid$ to s5ior executives 9 ! private sector4 7,b7 ,recomm5dations = improv+ ! program describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a77;,a74 7,c7 ,recomm5dations = improv+ ! sy/em describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a77;,b74 7,d7 ,an assessm5t ( ! ability ( ! ,dep>tm5t to attract & develop employees suitable = s5ior executive s]vice positions ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,e7 ,an assessm5t ( ! lead]%ip & managem5t actions ( ! ,dep>tm5t result+ f ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,p]=mance & ,acc\ntability ,reports submitt$ 9 ! two mo/ rec5t fiscal ye>s end+ be=e ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is title4 7,f7 ,a review ( ! /rategy ( ! ,secret>y call$ ,lean ,managem5t4 7,g7 ,an assessm5t ( ! compliance ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) provisions ( law add$ or am5d$ by ! ,,gpra ,mod]nization ,act ( #bjaj 7,public ,law #aaa-ceb7 & an explanation ( ! *anges made to ! ,dep>tm5t & ! activities c>ri$ out by ! ,secret>y 9 response to ! enactm5t ( su* ,act4 7,h7 ,an assessm5t ( ! results ( ! mo/ rec5t ,annual ,employee ,survey c>ri$ out pursuant to "p #bej ( title #e1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations4 7,i7 ,an assessm5t ( ! ef=ts ( ! ,secret>y to conduct data-driv5 reviews & develop a results-ori5t$ culture pursuant to "p #f ( ,circul> ,a-#aa ( ! ,(fice ( ,managem5t & ,budget4 7,j7 ,an assessm5t ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,f$]al ,p]=mance ,improvem5t ,(fic] role & ov]sight function4 7,k7 ,a survey ( ! morale ( employees & _! satisfaction ) _! "w & "w environm5t 9 ea* ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs /aff organization1 /aff (fice1 & adm9i/ration z describ$ by ,directive #jbaa ( ! ,dep>tm5t & provid$ = 9 v]sion #c4j;a ( ! ,functional ,organization ,manual ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#c7 ,report to ,secret>y ,! contract requir$ by p>agraph 7#a7 %all provide t ! nongov]nm5tal entity mu/ complete & submit to ! ,secret>y a report conta9+ ! f9d+s & conclusions ( ! review by n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date on :i* ! ,secret>y & ! nongov]nm5tal entity ent] into ! contract4 7b7 ,report to ,congress ,n lat] ?an #fj days aft] ! date on :i* ! ,secret>y receives ! report "u subsection 7a77#c71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives ! report toge!r ) a plan = c>ry+ out ! recomm5dations conta9$ 9 ! report or1 z ! case may be1 a detail$ explanation & ju/ification = ! ,secret>y's det]m9ation n to implem5t any ( ! recomm5dations conta9$ 9 ! report4 7c7 ,s5ior executive position def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m s5ior executive position has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #gac7;d7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #aaf4 ,acc\ntability ( lead]s = manag+ ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #gji ! foll[+ new section3 #gaj4 ,annual p]=mance plan = political appo9tees 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y %all conduct an annual p]=mance plan = ea* political appo9tee ( ! ,dep>tm5t t is simil> to ! annual p]=mance plan conduct$ = an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t :o is appo9t$ z a c>e] appo9tee 9 a ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice position at ! ,dep>tm5t4 7b7 ,elem5ts ( plan ,ea* annual p]=mance plan conduct$ "u subsection 7a7 ) respect to a political appo9tee ( ! ,dep>tm5t %all include1 to ! ext5t applicable1 an assessm5t ( :e!r ! appo9tee is meet+ ! foll[+ goals3 7#a7 ,recruit+1 select+1 & reta9+ well-qualifi$ individuals = employm5t at ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,engag+ & motivat+ employees4 7#c7 ,tra9+ & develop+ employees & prep>+ ^? employees = future lead]%ip roles )9 ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#d7 ,hold+ ea* employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t t is a sup]visor acc\ntable = address+ issues relat+ to p]=mance1 9 p>ticul> issues relat+ to ! p]=mance ( employees t report to ! sup]visor4 7#e7 ,promot+ a positive culture ( s]vice t-- 7,a7 reflects ! mission ( ! ,dep>tm5t & ! values ( integrity1 commitm5t1 advocacy1 respect1 & excell5ce2 & 7,b7 emphasizes ! greate/ degree ( p]=mance & conduct4 7c7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]ms c>e] appo9tee & ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice position h ! mean+s giv5 su* t]ms 9 section #cacb7;a7 ( title #e4 7#b7 ,! t]m sup]visor has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #gajc7;a7 ( su* title4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #g ( su* title is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gji ! foll[+ new item3 #gaj4 ,annual p]=mance plan = political appo9tees4 4 #aag4 ,acc\ntability ( sup]visors at ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = hir+ well-qualifi$ p 7a7 ,assessm5t dur+ probation>y p]iod 7#a7 ,det]m9ation requir$ ,) respect to any employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs :o is requir$ to s]ve a probation>y p]iod 9 a position 9 ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all require ! sup]visor ( su* employee to det]m9e1 dur+ ! #cj-;day p]iod end+ on ! date on :i* ! probation>y p]iod ends1 :e!r ! employee-- 7,a7 has demon/rat$ successful p]=mance2 & 7,b7 %\ld cont9ue pa/ ! probation>y p]iod4 7#b7 ,limitation on employm5t aft] probation>y p]iod 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,except z provid$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 no employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t s]v+ a probation>y p]iod z describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 may complete t probation>y p]iod unless & until ! sup]visor ( ! employee1 or ano!r sup]visor capable ( mak+ ! requisite det]m9ation1 has made an affirmative det]m9ation "u su* p>agraph4 7,b7 ,probation>y p]iod deem$ complet$ 7i7 ,no det]m9ation ,if no det]m9ation "u p>agraph 7#a7 is made ) respect to an employee be=e ! end ( ! #fj-;day p]iod foll[+ ! end ( ! #cj-;day p]iod specifi$ 9 su* p>agraph1 ! employee %all be deem$ to h complet$ ! probation>y p]iod ( ! employee effective z ( ! end ( t #fj-;day p]iod4 7ii7 ,retroactive effect ( det]m9ation ,if an affirmative det]m9ation "u p>agraph 7#a7 is made ) respect to an employee aft] ! end ( ! #cj-;day p]iod specifi$ 9 su* p>agraph1 ! employee %all be deem$ to h complet$ ! probation>y p]iod ( ! employee effective z ( ! end ( t #cj-;day p]iod4 7#c7 ,notification to ,congress reg>d+ det]m9ations ,n less frequ5tly ?an mon?ly1 ! ,secret>y %all notify ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives reg>d+-- 7,a7 ea* in/ance dur+ su* mon? 9 :i* a sup]visor did n make a det]m9ation requir$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 dur+ ! p]iod requir$ 9 su* p>agraph2 & 7,b7 ea* su* in/ance includ$ 9 a previ\s notification "u ?is p>agraph = :i* ! sup]visor /ill has n made su* a det]m9ation4 7b7 ,sup]visors ,) respect to any employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t :o is s]v+ a probation>y p]iod 9 a sup]visory position at ! ,dep>tm5t1 successful p]=mance "u subsection 7a7 %all include demon/rat+ managem5t compet5cies 9 addition to ! te*nical skills requir$ = su* position4 7c7 ,p]=mance plan ,ea* annual p]=mance plan conduct$ = a sup]visor ( an employee s]v+ a probation>y p]iod %all hold ! sup]visor acc\ntable =-- 7#a7 provid+ regul> fe$back to su* employee dur+ su* p]iod be=e mak+ a det]m9ation "u subsection 7a7 reg>d+ ! probation>y /atus ( su* employee2 & 7#b7 mak+ a timely det]m9ation "u subsection 7a7 reg>d+ ! probation>y /atus ( su* employee4 7d7 ,sup]visor def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m sup]visor has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #gajc7;a7 ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #aah4 ,acc\ntability ( sup]visors at ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = address+ p]=mance ( employees 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all ensure t1 z a "p ( ! annual p]=mance plan ( a sup]visor 9 ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! sup]visor is evaluat$ on ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,tak+ action to address poor p]=mance & misconduct among ! employees t report to ! sup]visor4 7#b7 ,tak+ /eps to improve or su/a9 high levels ( employee engagem5t4 7#c7 ,promot+ a positive culture ( s]vice t-- 7,a7 reflects ! mission ( ! ,dep>tm5t & ! values ( integrity1 commitm5t1 advocacy1 respect1 & excell5ce2 & 7,b7 emphasizes ! greate/ degree ( p]=mance & conduct4 7b7 ,sup]visor def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m sup]visor has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #gajc7;a7 ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #aai4 ,improvem5t ( tra9+ = sup]visors 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all provide to ea* employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs :o is employ$ z a sup]visor p]iodic tra9+ on ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,! rights ( :i/lebl[]s & h[ to address a report by an employee ( a ho/ile "w environm5t1 reprisal1 or h>assm5t4 7#b7 ,h[ to effectively motivate1 manage1 & rew>d ! employees :o report to ! sup]visor4 7#c7 ,h[ to effectively manage employees :o are p]=m+ at an unacceptable level & access assi/ance f ! human res\rces (fice ( ! ,dep>tm5t & ! ,(fice ( ! ,g5]al ,c\nsel ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) respect to ^? employees4 7b7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,sup]visor ,! t]m sup]visor has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #gajc7;a7 ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#b7 ,:i/lebl[] ,! t]m :i/lebl[] has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #cbc7;g7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by section #aja4 #abj4 ,assessm5t & report on effect on s5ior executives at ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an two ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all-- 7#a7 measure & assess ! effect ( ! enactm5t ( ?is title on ! morale1 engagem5t1 hir+1 promotion1 ret5tion1 discipl9e1 & productivity ( individuals 9 s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs2 & 7#b7 submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! f9d+s ( ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! measurem5t & assessm5t c>ri$ out "u p>agraph 7#a74 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! assessm5t requir$ by subsection 7a77#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,) respect to engagem5t1 tr5ds 9 morale ( individuals 9 s5ior executive positions & individuals aspir+ to s5ior executive positions4 7#b7 ,) respect to promotions-- 7,a7 :e!r ! ,dep>tm5t is exp]i5c+ an increase or decrease 9 ! numb] ( employees p>ticipat+ 9 lead]%ip developm5t & c&idate developm5t programs ) ! int5tion ( becom+ c&idates = s5ior executive positions2 & 7,b7 tr5ds 9 applications to s5ior executive positions )9 ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#c7 ,) respect to ret5tion-- 7,a7 tr5ds 9 retirem5t rates ( individuals 9 s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,b7 tr5ds 9 quit rates ( individuals 9 s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,c7 rates ( transf] (-- 7i7 individuals f o!r ,f$]al ag5cies into s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t2 & 7ii7 individuals f s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t to o!r ,f$]al ag5cies2 & 7,d7 tr5ds 9 total loss rates by job function4 7#d7 ,) respect to discipl9>y processes-- 7,a7 reg>d+ individuals 9 s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t :o are ! subject ( discipl9>y action-- 7i7 ! l5g? ( ! discipl9>y process 9 days = su* individuals bo? be=e ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act & "u ! provisions ( ?is ,act describ$ 9 subsection 7a77#a72 & 7ii7 ! ext5t to :i* appeals by su* individuals are upheld "u su* provisions z comp>$ to be=e ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act2 7,b7 ! compon5ts or (fices ( ! ,dep>tm5t :i* exp]i5ce ! greate/ numb] ( propos$ adv]se actions aga9/ individuals 9 s5ior executive positions & compon5ts & (fices :i* exp]i5ce ! lea/ relative to ! size ( ! compon5ts or (fices' total numb] ( s5ior executive positions2 7,c7 ! t5ure ( individuals 9 s5ior executive positions :o are ! subject ( discipl9>y action2 7,d7 :e!r ! individuals 9 s5ior executive positions :o are ! subject ( discipl9>y action h previ\sly be5 discipl9$2 & 7,e7 ! numb] ( in/ances ( discipl9>y action tak5 by ! ,secret>y aga9/ individuals 9 s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t z comp>$ to gov]nm5twide discipl9e aga9/ individuals 9 ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice positions 7z def9$ 9 section #cacb7;a7 ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code7 z a p]c5tage ( ! total numb] ( individuals 9 s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t & ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice positions 7z s def9$74 7#e7 ,) respect to hir+-- 7,a7 ! degree to :i* ! skills ( newly hir$ individuals 9 s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t are appropriate ) respect to ! ne$s ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,b7 ! types ( s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t mo/ commonly fill$ "u ! au?orities 9 ! provisions describ$ 9 subsection 7a77#a72 7,c7 ! numb] ( s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t fill$ by hires outside ( ! ,dep>tm5t comp>$ to hires f )9 ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,d7 ! l5g? ( "t to fill a s5ior executive position at ! ,dep>tm5t & = a new hire to beg9 work+ 9 a new s5ior executive position2 7,e7 ! mission-critical defici5cies fill$ by newly hir$ individuals 9 s5ior executive positions & ! connection betwe5 mission-critical defici5cies fill$ "u ! provisions describ$ 9 subsection 7a7 & annual p]=mance ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,f7 ! satisfaction ( applicants = s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t ) ! hir+ process1 includ+ ! cl>ity ( job ann\ncem5ts1 reasons = )drawal ( applications1 communication reg>d+ /atus ( applications1 & timel9ess ( hir+ decision2 & 7,g7 ! satisfaction ( newly hir$ individuals 9 s5ior executive positions at ! ,dep>tm5t ) ! hir+ process & ! process ( jo9+ & becom+ ori5t$ ) ! ,dep>tm5t4 7c7 ,s5ior executive position def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m s5ior executive position has ! mean+ giv5 su* t]m 9 section #gac ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 ,c ,employees #aba4 ,removal ( employees ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs bas$ on p]=mance or misconduct 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by subtitles ,a & ,b1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #gad1 z add$ by section #aad1 ! foll[+ new section3 #gae4 ,employees3 removal bas$ on p]=mance or misconduct 7a7 ,9 g5]al 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y may remove a cov]$ individual :o is an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t-- 7,a7 ! p]=mance or misconduct ( ! cov]$ individual w>rants su* removal2 & 7,b7 9 ! case ( removal = p]=mance1 a portion ( su* p]=mance occurr$ dur+ ! two-ye> p]iod end+ on ! date ( ! det]m9ation4 7#b7 ,if ! ,secret>y removes a cov]$ individual "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y may remove ! cov]$ individual f ! civil s]vice 7z def9$ 9 section #baja ( title #e74 7#c7 ,no?+ 9 ?is section may be con/ru$ to au?orize a f9aliz$ p]=mance appraisal ( an employee to be retroactively am5d$4 7b7 ,notice to ,congress ,n lat] ?an #cj days aft] remov+ a cov]$ individual "u subsection 7a71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committees on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives notice 9 writ+ ( su* removal & ! reason = su* removal4 7c7 ,proc$ure 7#a7 ,an employee remov$ "u subsection 7a7 is entitl$1 be=e removal1 to-- 7,a7 at lea/ #aj bus9ess days writt5 notice 7:i*1 9 ! case ( removal = p]=mance1 %all id5tify specific in/ances z describ$ 9 clause 7i7 ( section #dcjc7;b77#a77;,a7 ( title #e & critical elem5ts z describ$ 9 clause 7ii7 ( su* section71 unless !re is reasonable cause to believe t ! employee committ$ a crime = :i* a s5t5ce ( imprisonm5t c be impos$-- 7i7 /at+ ! specific reasons = ! propos$ action2 & 7ii7 includ+ a file conta9+ all evid5ce 9 support ( ! propos$ action2 7,b7 #aj bus9ess days to answ] ! *>ges orally & 9 writ+ & to furni% affidavits & o!r docum5t>y evid5ce 9 support ( ! answ]2 7,c7 be repres5t$ by an attorney or o!r repres5tative2 7,d7 a review ( ! case by ! ,secret>y be=e a decision adv]se to ! employee is made f9al2 7,e7 z soon z practicable1 a decision ( ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! *>ges ( ! employee2 & 7,f7 a writt5 /atem5t ( ! decision ( ! ,secret>y t-- 7i7 includes ! specific reasons ( ! decision2 & 7ii7 9 ! case ( a removal bas$ on p]=mance1 complies ) section #dcjc7;b77#a77;,d7 ( title #e4 7#b7 7,a7 ,subject to subp>agraph 7,b7 & subsection 7e71 any f9al decision ( ! ,secret>y reg>d+ removal "u subsection 7a7 may be appeal$ to ! ,m]it ,sy/ems ,protection ,bo>d4 7,b7 ,an appeal "u subp>agraph 7,a7 ( a removal may only be made if su* appeal is made n lat] ?an #aj bus9ess days aft] ! date ( su* removal4 7,c7 7i7 ,subject to clause 7ii71 ! decision ( ! ,secret>y %all be su/a9$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 only if ! ,secret>y's decision-- 7,i7 9 ! case ( an action bas$ on p]=mance1 is support$ by sub/antial evid5ce2 or 7,,ii7 9 any o!r case1 is support$ by a prepond]ance ( ! evid5ce4 7ii7 ,not)/&+ clause 7i71 ! ,secret>y's decision may n be su/a9$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 if ! cov]$ individual-- 7,i7 %[s h>mful error 9 ! application ( ! ,secret>y's proc$ures 9 arriv+ at su* decision2 7,,ii7 %[s t ! decision 0 bas$ on any prohibit$ p]sonnel practice describ$ 9 section #bcjb7;b7 ( title #e2 or 7,,iii7 %[s t ! decision 0 n 9 accordance ) law4 7#c7 ,! proc$ures "u section #geac7;b7 ( title #e & *apt] #dc ( su* title %all n apply to a removal "u ?is section4 7d7 ,exp$it$ review 7#a7 ,! ,m]it ,sy/ems ,protection ,bo>d %all promulgate su* rules z ! ,bo>d consid]s appropriate to exp$ite appeals "u subsection 7c77#b74 7#b7 ,! ,bo>d %all ensure t a f9al decision on an appeal describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 is issu$ n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! appeal is made4 7#c7 ,dur+ ! p]iod beg9n+ on ! date on :i* a cov]$ individual appeals a removal f ! civil s]vice "u subsection 7c77#b7 & end+ on ! date t ! ,bo>d issues a f9al decision on su* appeal1 su* cov]$ individual may n receive any pay1 aw>ds1 bonuses1 inc5tives1 all[ances1 diff]5tials1 /ud5t loan repaym5ts1 special paym5ts1 or b5efits4 7#d7 ,to ! maximum ext5t practicable1 ! ,secret>y %all provide to ! ,m]it ,sy/ems ,protection ,bo>d su* in=mation & assi/ance z may be necess>y to ensure an appeal "u subsection 7c77#b7 is exp$it$4 7e7 ,relation to title #e ,! au?ority provid$ by ?is section is 9 addition to ! au?ority provid$ by sub*apt] ,v ( *apt] #ge ( title #e & *apt] #dc ( su* title4 7f7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m cov]$ individual means an individual occupy+ a position at ! ,dep>tm5t b does n include-- 7,a7 an individual1 z t t]m is def9$ 9 section #gac7;d72 or 7,b7 a political appo9tee4 7#b7 ,! t]m misconduct includes a violation ( p>agraph 7#h7 or 7#i7 ( section #bcjb7;b7 ( title #e1 neglect ( duty1 malfeasance1 or failure to accept a direct$ reassignm5t or to accompany a position 9 a transf] ( function4 7#c7 ,! t]m political appo9tee means an individual :o is-- 7,a7 employ$ 9 a position describ$ "u sections #ecab ?r\gh #ecaf ( title #e 7relat+ to ! ,executive ,s*$ule72 7,b7 a limit$ t]m appo9tee1 limit$ em]g5cy appo9tee1 or nonc>e] appo9tee 9 ! ,s5ior ,executive ,s]vice1 z def9$ "u p>agraphs 7#e71 7#f71 & 7#g71 respectively1 ( section #cacb7;a7 ( title #e2 or 7,c7 employ$ 9 a position ( a confid5tial or policy-det]m9+ "* "u s*$ule ,c ( subp>t ,c ( "p #bac ( title #e ( ! ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical & con=m+ am5dm5ts 7#a7 ,cl]ical ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt] is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gad1 z add$ by section #aad1 ! foll[+ new item3 #gae4 ,employees3 removal bas$ on p]=mance or misconduct4 4 7#b7 ,con=m+ 7,a7 ,title #e ,section #dcjc7;f7 ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7i7 9 p>agraph 7#b71 by /rik+ or at ! end2 7ii7 9 p>agraph 7#c71 by /rik+ ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ 1 or2 & 7iii7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+3 7#d7 any removal "u section #gae ( title #ch4 4 7,b7 ,title #ch ,sub*apt] ,v ( *apt] #gd ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7i7 9 section #gdfa7;b77#a71 by /rik+ ,if ! & ins]t+ ,except z provid$ 9 section #gae ( ?is title1 if !2 & 7ii7 9 section #gdfb-- 7,i7 9 subsection 7a77#a71 by /rik+ ,discipl9>y & ins]t+ ,except z provid$ 9 section #gae ( ?is title1 ! ,discipl9>y2 & 7,,ii7 9 subsection 7b77#a71 by /rik+ ,9 any case & ins]t+ ,except z provid$ 9 section #gae ( ?is title1 9 any case4 #abb4 ,prohibition on aw>d ( bonuses to employees ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs "u consid]ation = adv]se actions or subject ( adv]se f9d+s 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #gae1 z add$ by section #aba1 ! foll[+ new section3 #gaf4 ,prohibition on aw>d ( bonuses to employees "u consid]ation = adv]se actions or subject ( adv]se f9d+s 7a7 ,"u consid]ation = adv]se action ,not)/&+ any o!r provision ( law1 ! ,secret>y may n pay any bonus to any employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ an employee 9 a s5ior executive position 7z def9$ 9 section #gac7;d7 ( ?is title71 :ile ! ,secret>y is consid]+ c>ry+ out an adv]se p]sonnel action ) respect to ! employee "u ?is title or title #e4 7b7 ,subject ( adv]se f9d+ 7#a7 ,not)/&+ any o!r provision ( law1 9 a case 9 :i* ! ,secret>y makes an adv]se f9d+ relat+ to an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! ,secret>y may n aw>d a bonus to su* employee until ! e>li] (-- 7,a7 su* date z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate1 b n soon] ?an ! date t is two ye>s aft] ! end ( ! fiscal ye> 9 :i* ! adv]se f9d+ 0 made & n m ?an five ye>s aft] ! end ( su* fiscal ye>2 or 7,b7 ! date t ! f9d+ is f\nd to h be5 made 9 error4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y may base an adv]se f9d+ "u p>agraph 7#a7 on an inve/igation by1 det]m9ation (1 or in=mation provid$ by ! ,inspector ,g5]al ( ! ,dep>tm5t or ano!r s5ior e?ics (ficial ( ! ,dep>tm5t or ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates 9 connection ) ! c>ry+ out by su* (ficial ( an activity1 au?ority1 or function "u a provision ( law o!r ?an ?is section4 7c7 ,previ\sly aw>d$ bonuses 7#a7 ,if ! ,secret>y makes an adv]se f9d+ relat+ to an employee "u subsection 7b71 ! ,secret>y1 aft] notice & an opportunity = a he>+1 %all issue an ord] direct+ ! employee to repay ! am\nt ( any bonus aw>d$ to ! employee dur+ ! ye> dur+ :i* ! adv]se f9d+ is made1 unless su* f9d+ is f\nd to h be5 made 9 error4 7#b7 ,a he>+ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be conduct$ 9 accordance ) regulations relat+ to he>+s promulgat$ by ! ,secret>y "u *apt] #ge ( title #e4 7d7 ,condition ( receipt ,z a condition ( receiv+ a bonus aw>d$ aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is section1 an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t %all sign a c]tification /at+ t ! employee %all repay ! bonus 9 accordance ) a f9al ord] issu$ 9 accordance ) subsection 7c74 7e7 ,appeal ,an employee det]m9$ to be ineligible = a bonus "u subsection 7b7 or aga9/ :om an ord] is issu$ "u subsection 7c7 may appeal to ! ,m]it ,sy/ems ,protection ,bo>d "u section #ggja ( title #e4 7f7 ,rulemak+ ,! ,secret>y may promulgate su* rules z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate to c>ry out ?is section4 7g7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m adv]se f9d+ relat+ to an employee means a det]m9ation t ! conduct ( ! employee-- 7,a7 violat$ a policy ( ! ,dep>tm5t = :i* ! employee may be remov$ or susp5d$ = a p]iod ( n less ?an #ad days2 or 7,b7 violat$ a law = :i* ! employee may be imprison$ = m ?an #a ye>4 7#b7 ,! t]m adv]se p]sonnel action means any ( ! adv]se actions describ$ 9 section #gdfa7;c77#b7 ( ?is title4 7#c7 ,! t]m bonus means any bonus or ca% aw>d1 includ+-- 7,a7 an aw>d "u *apt] #de ( title #e2 7,b7 an aw>d "u section #echd ( su* title2 & 7,c7 a ret5tion bonus "u section #eged ( su* title4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt] is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gae1 z add$ by section #aba1 ! foll[+ new item3 #gaf4 ,prohibition on aw>d ( bonuses to employees "u consid]ation = adv]se actions or subject ( adv]se f9d+s4 4 #abc4 ,ret5tion ( records ( reprim&s & admoni%m5ts receiv$ by employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #gaf1 z add$ by section #abb1 ! foll[+ new section3 #gag4 ,record ( reprim&s & admoni%m5ts 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,except z provid$ 9 subsection 7b71 if any employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t receives a reprim& or admoni%m5t f ! ,secret>y1 ! ,secret>y %all reta9 a copy ( su* reprim& or admoni%m5t 9 ! p]man5t record ( ! employee = n less ?an ?ree ye>s aft] ! date on :i* ! employee receiv$ ! reprim& or admoni%m5t4 7b7 ,removal ,aft] ! end ( ! ?ree-ye> p]iod specifi$ 9 subsection 7a7 ) respect to a reprim& or admoni%m5t receiv$ by an employee1 ! ,secret>y %all remove ! reprim& or admoni%m5t1 z ! case may be1 f ! p]man5t record ( ! employee on ! e>li] ( ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,! date on :i* ! ,secret>y det]m9es t ! reprim& or admoni%m5t m]its removal f ! p]man5t record ( ! employee4 7#b7 ,! date t is five ye>s aft] ! date on :i* ! employee receiv$ ! reprim& or admoni%m5t4 7c7 ,appeals ,if an employee receives a reprim& or admoni%m5t t ! employee believes he or %e receiv$ improp]ly1 ! employee may imm$iately appeal ! reprim& or admoni%m5t4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt] is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gaf1 z add$ by section #abb1 ! foll[+ new item3 #gag4 ,record ( reprim&s & admoni%m5ts4 4 #abd4 ,limitation on adm9i/rative leave = employees ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #gag1 z add$ by section #abc1 ! foll[+ new section3 #gah4 ,adm9i/rative leave limitation & report 7a7 ,limitation applicable to employees )9 ! ,dep>tm5t 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y may n place any cov]$ individual on adm9i/rative leave = m ?an a total ( #ad bus9ess days dur+ any #cfe-;day p]iod4 7#b7 7,a7 ,! ,secret>y may waive ! limitation "u p>agraph 7#a7 & ext5d ! p]iod ( adm9i/rative leave ( a cov]$ individual if ! ,secret>y submits to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a detail$ explanation ( ! reasons ! cov]$ individual 0 plac$ on adm9i/rative leave & ! reasons = ! ext5sion ( su* leave4 7,b7 ,su* explanation %all include ! position ( ! cov]$ individual & ! location :]e ! cov]$ individual is employ$4 7#c7 ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m cov]$ individual means an employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ an employee 9 a s5ior executive position 7z def9$ 9 section #gac7;d7 ( ?is title7-- 7,a7 :o is subject to an inve/igation = purposes ( det]m9+ :e!r su* individual %\ld be subject to any discipl9>y action "u ?is title or title #e2 or 7,b7 aga9/ :om any discipl9>y action is propos$ or initiat$ "u ?is title or title #e4 7b7 ,report on adm9i/rative leave 7#a7 ,n lat] ?an #cj days aft] ! end ( ea* fiscal ye>1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report li/+ ! position ( ea* employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t 7if any7 :o has be5 plac$ on adm9i/rative leave = a p]iod long] ?an #ad bus9ess days dur+ su* fiscal ye>4 7#b7 ,ea* report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include1 ) respect to ea* employee li/$ 9 su* report1 ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! position occupi$ by ! employee4 7,b7 ,! numb] ( bus9ess days ( su* leave4 7,c7 ,! reason t su* employee 0 plac$ on su* leave4 7#c7 ,9 submitt+ ea* report "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all take su* measures to protect ! privacy ( ! employees li/$ 9 ! report z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7c7 ,adm9i/rative leave def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m adm9i/rative leave-- 7#a7 means an adm9i/ratively au?oriz$ abs5ce f duty )\t loss ( pay or *>ge to leave1 = :i* ! employee is plac$-- 7,a7 due to an inve/igation2 or 7,b7 :ile discipl9>y action is propos$ or initiat$2 & 7#b7 includes any type ( paid nonduty /atus )\t a *>ge to leave4 4 7b7 ,application 7#a7 ,adm9i/rative leave limitation ,subsection 7a7 ( section #gah ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a7 ( ?is section1 %all apply to any p]iod ( adm9i/rative leave 7z def9$ 9 su* section7 comm5c+ on or aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is title4 7#b7 ,report ,! report "u section #gah7;b7 ( su* title 7z add$ by subsection 7a77 %all apply beg9n+ 9 ! fir/ qu>t] t ends aft] ! date t is #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7c7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #g ( su* title is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gag1 z add$ by section #abc1 ! foll[+ new item3 #gah4 ,adm9i/rative leave limitation & report4 4 #abe4 ,measurem5t ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs discipl9>y process outcomes & effectiv5ess 7a7 ,measur+ & collect+ 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all measure & collect in=mation on ! outcomes ( discipl9>y actions c>ri$ out by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs dur+ ! ?ree-ye> p]iod end+ on ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act & ! effectiv5ess ( su* actions4 7#b7 ,elem5ts ,9 measur+ & collect+ pursuant to p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all measure & collect in=mation reg>d+ ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! av]age "t f ! initiation ( an adv]se action aga9/ an employee at ! ,dep>tm5t to ! f9al resolution ( t action4 7,b7 ,! numb] ( di/9ct /eps & levels ( review )9 ! ,dep>tm5t involv$ 9 ! discipl9>y process & ! av]age l5g? ( "t requir$ to complete ^! /eps4 7,c7 ,! rate ( use ( alt]nate discipl9>y proc$ures comp>$ to traditional discipl9>y proc$ures & ! frequ5cy ) :i* employees :o are subject to alt]native discipl9>y proc$ures commit additional (f5ses4 7,d7 ,! numb] ( appeals f adv]se actions fil$ aga9/ employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! numb] ( appeals upheld1 & ! reasons = :i* ! appeals 7 upheld4 7,e7 ,! use ( paid adm9i/rative leave dur+ ! discipl9>y process & ! l5g? ( su* leave4 7b7 ,report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,decemb] #ca1 #bjaf1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! appropriate committees ( ,congress a report on ! discipl9>y proc$ures & actions ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,cont5ts ,! report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! in=mation collect$ "u subsection 7a74 7,b7 ,! f9d+s ( ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! measurem5t & collection c>ri$ out "u subsection 7a74 7,c7 ,an analysis ( ! discipl9>y proc$ures & actions ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,d7 ,sugge/ions = improv+ ! discipl9>y proc$ures & actions ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,e7 ,su* o!r matt]s z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7#c7 ,appropriate committees ( ,congress ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m appropriate committees ( ,congress means-- 7,a7 ! ,committee on ,appropriations & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate2 & 7,b7 ! ,committee on ,appropriations & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives4 ,d ,o!r p]sonnel & acc\ntability matt]s #aca4 ,writt5 op9ion on c]ta9 employm5t re/rictions aft] t]m9at+ employm5t ) ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by subtitles ,a1 ,b1 & ,c1 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #gah1 z add$ by section #abd1 ! foll[+ new section3 #gai4 ,writt5 op9ion on c]ta9 employm5t re/rictions aft] t]m9at+ employm5t ) ! ,dep>tm5t 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,be=e t]m9at+ employm5t ) ! ,dep>tm5t1 any (ficial ( ! ,dep>tm5t :o has p>ticipat$ p]sonally & sub/antially dur+ ! "o-ye> p]iod end+ on ! date ( ! t]m9ation 9 an acquisition by ! ,dep>tm5t t exce$s #aj1jjj1jjj %all obta9 a writt5 op9ion f an appropriate e?ics c\nselor at ! ,dep>tm5t reg>d+ any re/rictions on activities t ! (ficial may und]take on behalf ( a cov]$ contractor dur+ ! two-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! date on :i* ! (ficial t]m9ates su* employm5t4 7b7 ,cov]$ contractor def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m cov]$ contractor means a contractor c>ry+ out a contract ent]$ into ) ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ pursuant to a subcontract4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #g ( su* title is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gah1 z add$ by section #abd1 ! foll[+ new item3 #gai4 ,writt5 op9ion on c]ta9 employm5t re/rictions aft] leav+ ! ,dep>tm5t4 4 #acb4 ,requirem5t = contractors ( ! ,dep>tm5t employ+ c]ta9 rec5tly sep>at$ ,dep>tm5t employees 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #ha ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #habi4 ,requirem5t = contractors employ+ c]ta9 rec5tly sep>at$ ,dep>tm5t employees 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,a cov]$ contractor may n kn[+ly provide comp5sation to an individual describ$ 9 subsection 7b7 dur+ ! two-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! date on :i* ! individual t]m9ates employm5t ) ! ,dep>tm5t unless ! cov]$ contractor det]m9es t ! individual-- 7#a7 has obta9$ ! writt5 op9ion requir$ "u section #gai7;a7 ( ?is title2 or 7#b7 has reque/$ su* writt5 op9ion n lat] ?an #cj days be=e receiv+ comp5sation f ! cov]$ contractor4 7b7 ,individual describ$ ,an individual describ$ 9 ?is subsection is any (ficial ( ! ,dep>tm5t :o p>ticipat$ p]sonally & sub/antially dur+ ! "o-ye> p]iod end+ on ! date ( ! t]m9ation ( ! individual's employm5t ) ! ,dep>tm5t 9 an acquisition by ! ,dep>tm5t t exce$s #aj1jjj1jjj4 7c7 ,cov]$ contractor def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m cov]$ contractor means a contractor c>ry+ out a contract ent]$ into ) ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ pursuant to a subcontract4 4 7b7 ,application ,! requirem5t "u section #habi7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 %all apply ) respect to any entity t ent]s into a contract ) ! ,dep>tm5t on or aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is title4 7c7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #ha ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #habh ! foll[+ new item3 #habi4 ,requirem5t = contractors employ+ c]ta9 rec5tly sep>at$ ,dep>tm5t employees4 4 #acc4 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs program ( int]nal audits 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #e ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #ebg ! foll[+ new section3 #ebg;,a4 ,program ( int]nal audits 7a7 ,program requir$ 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out a program ( int]nal audits & self-analysis to improve ! furni%+ ( b5efits & heal? c>e to vet]ans & _! families4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out ! program requir$ by p>agraph 7#a7 ?r\gh an (fice ! ,secret>y %all e/abli% = purposes ( ! program )9 ! (fice ( ! ,secret>y t is int]discipl9>y & indep5d5t (-- 7,a7 ! o!r (fices )9 ! (fice ( ! ,secret>y2 & 7,b7 ! cov]$ adm9i/rations 7or functions ( su* adm9i/rations71 /aff organizations1 & /aff (fices id5tifi$ "u subsection 7b77#a77;,a74 7b7 ,program requirem5ts 7#a7 ,9 c>ry+ out ! program requir$ by subsection 7a71 ! ,secret>y %all-- 7,a7 conduct p]iodic risk assessm5ts ( ! ,dep>tm5t to id5tify ^? cov]$ adm9i/rations 7or functions ( su* adm9i/rations71 /aff organizations1 & /aff (fices ( ! ,dep>tm5t ! audit ( :i* w\ld lead t[>ds ! greate/ improvem5t 9 ! furni%+ ( b5efits & heal? c>e to vet]ans & _! families2 7,b7 develop plans t are in=m$ by ! risk assessm5ts conduct$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 to conduct int]nal audits ( ! cov]$ adm9i/rations 7or functions ( su* adm9i/rations71 /aff organizations1 & /aff (fices id5tifi$ "u subp>agraph 7,a72 & 7,c7 conduct int]nal audits 9 accordance ) ! plans develop$ pursuant to subp>agraph 7,b74 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out "u ! program requir$ by subsection 7a7 an audit ( n few] ?an five cov]$ adm9i/rations 7or functions ( su* adm9i/rations71 /aff organizations1 or /aff (fices ( ! ,dep>tm5t ea* ye>4 7#c7 ,9 id5tify+ cov]$ adm9i/rations 7or functions ( su* adm9i/rations71 /aff organizations1 & /aff (fices ( ! ,dep>tm5t "u p>agraph 7#a77;,a71 ! ,secret>y %all accord priority to ! cov]$ adm9i/rations & functions ( su* adm9i/rations4 7#d7 7,a7 ,= purposes ( ?is subsection1 ! cov]$ adm9i/rations ( ! ,dep>tm5t are ! foll[+3 7i7 ,! ,national ,cemet]y ,adm9i/ration4 7ii7 ,! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration4 7iii7 ,! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration4 7,b7 ,= purposes ( ?is subsection1 ! cov]$ /aff organizations ( ! ,dep>tm5t are ! foll[+3 7i7 ,! ,(fice ( ,acquisition1 ,logi/ics1 & ,con/ruction4 7ii7 ,! ,advisory ,committee ,managem5t ,(fice4 7iii7 ,! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals4 7iv7 ,! ,c5t] = ,fai?-,bas$ & ,neighborhood ,p>tn]%ips4 7v7 ,! ,c5t] = ,m9ority ,vet]ans4 7vi7 ,! ,c5t] = ,wom5 ,vet]ans4 7vii7 ,! ,(fice ( ,g5]al ,c\nsel4 7viii7 ,! ,(fice ( ,regulation ,policy & ,managem5t4 7ix7 ,! ,(fice ( ,employm5t ,discrim9ation ,compla9t ,adjudication4 7x7 ,! ,(fice ( ,int]ag5cy ,c>e & ,b5efits ,coord9ation4 7xi7 ,! ,(fice ( ,small & ,disadvantag$ ,bus9ess ,utilization4 7xii7 ,! ,(fice ( ,survivors ,assi/ance4 7xiii7 ,! ,vet]ans' ,s]vice ,organizations ,liaison4 7xiv7 ,! ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy4 7xv7 ,! ,(fice ( ,acc\ntability & ,:i/lebl[] ,protection4 7,c7 ,= purposes ( ?is subsection1 ! cov]$ /aff (fices ( ! ,dep>tm5t are ! foll[+3 7i7 ,! (fice ( ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,congressional & ,legislative ,affairs4 7ii7 ,! (fice ( ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,human ,res\rces & ,adm9i/ration4 7iii7 ,! (fice ( ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,in=mation & ,te*nology4 7iv7 ,! ,(fice ( ,managem5t4 7v7 ,! (fice ( ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,op]ations1 ,security1 & ,prep>$ness4 7vi7 ,! (fice ( ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,policy & ,plann+4 7vii7 ,! (fice ( ! ,assi/ant ,secret>y = ,public & ,int]gov]nm5tal ,affairs4 7c7 ,reports 7#a7 7,a7 ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] complet+ an audit "u ! program requir$ by subsection 7a71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! appropriate committees ( ,congress a report on ! audit4 7,b7 ,ea* report submitt$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 ) respect to an audit %all include ! foll[+3 7i7 ,a summ>y ( ! audit4 7ii7 ,! f9d+s ( ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! audit4 7iii7 ,su* recomm5dations z ! ,secret>y may h = legislative or adm9i/rative action to improve ! furni%+ ( b5efits & heal? c>e to vet]ans & _! families4 7iv7 ,plans to c>ry out ! recomm5dations submitt$ "u clause 7iii71 includ+ timel9es = completion ( su* plans4 7#b7 7,a7 ,n lat] ?an ,septemb] #a ( ea* ye>1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! appropriate committees ( ,congress a report on ! adm9i/ration ( ?is section4 7,b7 ,ea* report submitt$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7i7 ,a detail$ description ( ea* matt] = :i* a recomm5dation 0 submitt$ "u clause 7iii7 ( p>agraph 7#a77;,b7 & ) respect to :i* plans t 7 submitt$ "u clause 7iv7 ( su* p>agraph h n be5 complet$4 7ii7 ,a plan = ! conduct ( audits "u ?is section dur+ ! fir/ fiscal ye> beg9n+ aft] ! fiscal ye> 9 :i* ! report is submitt$1 :i* %all include ! foll[+3 7,i7 ,a description ( any risk assessm5ts ! ,secret>y plans to conduct 9 su* fiscal ye>4 7,,ii7 ,a summ>y ( ea* audit ! ,secret>y plans to conduct 9 su* fiscal ye>1 includ+ a description ( ! subject matt] ( ! audit & id5tification ( ! adm9i/ration1 (fice1 or function to be audit$4 7#c7 ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m appropriate committees ( ,congress includes-- 7,a7 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs1 ! ,committee on ,appropriations1 & ! ,committee on ,homel& ,security & ,gov]nm5tal ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate2 & 7,b7 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs1 ! ,committee on ,appropriations1 & ! ,committee on ,ov]sight & ,gov]nm5t ,re=m ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives4 4 7b7 ,fir/ risk assessm5t ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all complete ! fir/ risk assessm5t requir$ by section #ebg;,a7b77#a77;,a7 ( su* title1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 by n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7c7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #e ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #ebg ! foll[+ new item3 #ebg;,a4 ,program ( int]nal audits4 4 ,,ii ,heal? c>e matt]s #bjj4 ,%ort title ,?is title may be cit$ z ! ,jason ,simcakoski ,memorial ,act4 ,a ,expansion & improvem5t ( heal? c>e b5efits #bja4 ,improv$ access to appropriate immunizations = vet]ans 7a7 ,inclusion ( recomm5d$ adult immunizations z m$ical s]vices 7#a7 ,cov]$ b5efit ,subp>agraph 7,f7 ( section #agja7i7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ to read z foll[s3 7,f7 immunizations aga9/ infecti\s diseases1 includ+ ea* immunization on ! recomm5d$ adult immunization s*$ule at ! "t su* immunization is indicat$ on t s*$ule2 4 7#b7 ,recomm5d$ adult immunization s*$ule def9$ ,section #agja ( su* title is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#aj7 ,! t]m recomm5d$ adult immunization s*$ule means ! s*$ule e/abli%$ 7& p]iodically review$ &1 z appropriate1 revis$7 by ! ,advisory ,committee on ,immunization ,practices e/abli%$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,heal? & ,human ,s]vices & delegat$ to ! ,c5t]s = ,disease ,control & ,prev5tion4 4 7b7 ,inclusion ( recomm5d$ adult immunizations 9 annual report ,section #agjd7a77;,a7 ( su* title is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 clause 7i71 by /rik+ & at ! end2 7#b7 9 clause 7ii71 by /rik+ ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ 2 &2 & 7#c7 by ins]t+ aft] clause 7ii7 ! foll[+ new clause3 7iii7 to provide vet]ans ea* immunization on ! recomm5d$ adult immunization s*$ule at ! "t su* immunization is indicat$ on t s*$ule4 4 7c7 ,report to ,congress 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an two ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! developm5t & implem5tation by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ( quality measures & metrics1 includ+ t>gets = compliance1 to ensure t vet]ans receiv+ m$ical s]vices "u *apt] #ag ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 receive ea* immunization on ! recomm5d$ adult immunization s*$ule at ! "t su* immunization is indicat$ on t s*$ule4 7#b7 ,recomm5d$ adult immunization s*$ule def9$ ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m recomm5d$ adult immunization s*$ule has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #agja7aj7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a77#b74 7d7 ,rule ( con/ruction ,no?+ 9 ?is section or ! am5dm5ts made by ?is section may be con/ru$ to require a vet]an to receive an immunization t ! vet]an does n want to receive4 #bjb4 ,expansion ( provision ( *iropractic c>e & s]vices to vet]ans 7a7 ,program = provision ( *iropractic c>e & s]vices to vet]ans ,section #bjd7;c7 ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,heal? ,c>e ,programs ,enhancem5t ,act ( #bjja 7,public ,law #ajg-ace2 #aae ,/at4 #bdei2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #agaj note7 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by ins]t+ 7#a7 be=e ,! program2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#b7 ,! program %all be c>ri$ out at n few] ?an two m$ical c5t]s or cl9ics 9 ea* ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network by n lat] ?an two ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ! ,jason ,simcakoski ,memorial ,act1 & at n few] ?an #ej p]c5t ( all m$ical c5t]s 9 ea* ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network by n lat] ?an ?ree ye>s aft] su* date ( enactm5t4 4 7b7 ,exp&$ *iropractor s]vices available to vet]ans 7#a7 ,m$ical s]vices ,p>agraph 7#f7 ( section #agja ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subp>agraph3 7,h7 ,*iropractic s]vices4 4 7#b7 ,rehabilitative s]vices ,p>agraph 7#h7 ( su* section is am5d$ by ins]t+ *iropractic1 aft] c\nsel+14 7#c7 ,prev5tive heal? s]vices ,p>agraph 7#i7 ( su* section is am5d$-- 7,a7 by r$esignat+ subp>agraphs 7,f7 ?r\gh 7,k7 z subp>agraphs 7,g7 ?r\gh 7,l71 respectively2 & 7,b7 by ins]t+ aft] subp>agraph 7,e7 ! foll[+ new subp>agraph 7,f73 7,f7 p]iodic & prev5tive *iropractic exam9ations & s]vices2 4 #bjc4 ,priority ( m$al ( honor recipi5ts 9 heal? c>e sy/em ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,enrollm5t priority 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #agje7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7,a7 9 p>agraph 7#a71 by /rik+ ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ ! foll[+3 & vet]ans :o 7 aw>d$ ! m$al ( honor "u section #cgda1 #fbda1 or #hgda ( title #aj or section #dia ( title #ad42 & 7,b7 9 p>agraph 7#c71 by /rik+ vet]ans :o 7 aw>d$ ! m$al ( honor "u section #cgda1 #fbda1 or #hgda ( title #aj or section #dia ( title #ad14 7#b7 ,application ,! priority ( enrollm5t ( m$al ( honor recipi5ts 9 ! sy/em ( annual pati5t enrollm5t e/abli%$ & op]at$ "u section #agje7;a7 ( su* title1 z am5d$ by p>agraph 7#a71 %all apply to ea* su* recipi5t1 reg>dless ( ! date on :i* ! m$al is aw>d$4 7b7 ,eligibility ,section #agaj7;a77#b77;,d7 ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] w> ! foll[+3 1 :o 0 aw>d$ ! m$al ( honor "u section #cgda1 #fbda1 or #hgda ( title #aj or section #dia ( title #ad14 7c7 ,ext5d$ c>e s]vices ,section #agaj;,b7c77#b7 ( su* title is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 by /rik+ or2 7#b7 9 subp>agraph 7,c71 by /rik+ ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ 2 or2 & 7#c7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subp>agraph3 7,d7 to a vet]an :o 0 aw>d$ ! m$al ( honor "u section #cgda1 #fbda1 or #hgda ( title #aj or section #dia ( title #ad4 4 7d7 ,copaym5t = m$ications ,section #agbb;,a7a77#c7 ( su* title is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 by /rik+ or2 7#b7 9 subp>agraph 7,c71 by /rik+ ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ 2 or2 & 7#c7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subp>agraph3 7,d7 to a vet]an :o 0 aw>d$ ! m$al ( honor "u section #cgda1 #fbda1 or #hgda ( title #aj or section #dia ( title #ad4 4 ,b ,m5tal heal? c>e #baa4 ,vet]ans ,exp$it$ ,recov]y ,commission 7a7 ,e/abli%m5t ,!re is e/abli%$ ! ,vet]ans ,exp$it$ ,recov]y ,commission 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! ,commission74 7b7 ,duties ,! ,commission %all p]=m ! foll[+ duties3 7#a7 ,exam9e ! efficacy ( ! evid5ce-bas$ !rapy model us$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = treat+ m5tal heal? conditions ( vet]ans & id5tify areas to improve wellness-bas$ outcomes4 7#b7 ,conduct a pati5t-c5t]$ survey )9 ea* ( ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks to exam9e-- 7,a7 ! exp]i5ce ( vet]ans ) ! ,dep>tm5t :5 seek+ m$ical assi/ance = m5tal heal? conditions ?r\gh ! heal? c>e sy/em ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,b7 ! exp]i5ce ( vet]ans ) non-,dep>tm5t m$ical facilities & heal? pr(essionals = treat+ m5tal heal? conditions2 7,c7 ! pref]5ces ( vet]ans reg>d+ available treatm5ts = m5tal heal? conditions & :i* me?ods ! vet]ans believe to be mo/ effective2 7,d7 ! exp]i5ce1 if any1 ( vet]ans ) respect to ! complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices describ$ 9 subp>agraphs 7,a7 ?r\gh 7,i7 ( p>agraph 7#c72 7,e7 ! preval5ce ( prescrib+ prescription m$ication among vet]ans seek+ treatm5t ?r\gh ! heal? c>e sy/em ( ! ,dep>tm5t z rem$ies = address+ m5tal heal? conditions2 & 7,f7 ! outrea* ef=ts ( ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs reg>d+ ! availability ( b5efits & treatm5ts = vet]ans = address+ m5tal heal? conditions1 includ+ by id5tify+ ways to r$uce b>ri]s to & gaps 9 su* b5efits & treatm5ts4 7#c7 ,exam9e available rese>* on complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices = m5tal heal? conditions & id5tify :at b5efits c\ld be made ) ! inclusion ( su* treatm5ts = vet]ans1 includ+ ) respect to-- 7,a7 music !rapy2 7,b7 equ9e !rapy2 7,c7 tra9+ & c>+ = s]vice dogs2 7,d7 yoga !rapy2 7,e7 acupuncture !rapy2 7,f7 m$itation !rapy2 7,g7 outdoor sports !rapy2 7,h7 hyp]b>ic oxyg5 !rapy2 & 7,i7 su* o!r !rapies z ! ,commission det]m9es appropriate4 7#d7 ,/udy ! pot5tial increase ( claims relat+ to m5tal heal? conditions submitt$ to ! ,secret>y by vet]ans :o s]v$ 9 ,op]ation ,endur+ ,fre$om1 ,op]ation ,iraqi ,fre$om1 or ,op]ation ,new ,dawn1 includ+ an assessm5t ( ! res\rces available )9 ! ,dep>tm5t to ensure t quality heal? c>e dem&s relat+ to su* claims c be deliv]$ 9 a timely mann]4 7c7 ,memb]%ip 7#a7 ,numb] & appo9tm5t 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,commission %all be compos$ ( #aj memb]s1 appo9t$ z foll[s3 7i7 ,two memb]s appo9t$ by ! ,speak] ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 at lea/ "o ( :om %all be a vet]an4 7ii7 ,two memb]s appo9t$ by ! ,m9ority ,lead] ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 at lea/ "o ( :om %all be a vet]an4 7iii7 ,two memb]s appo9t$ by ! ,majority ,lead] ( ! ,s5ate1 at lea/ "o ( :om %all be a vet]an4 7iv7 ,two memb]s appo9t$ by ! ,m9ority ,lead] ( ! ,s5ate1 at lea/ "o ( :om %all be a vet]an4 7v7 ,two memb]s appo9t$ by ! ,presid5t1 at lea/ "o ( :om %all be a vet]an4 7,b7 ,qualifications ,memb]s ( ! ,commission %all be individuals :o-- 7i7 are ( recogniz$ /&+ & di/9ction )9 ! m$ical community ) a backgr\nd 9 treat+ m5tal heal?2 7ii7 h exp]i5ce work+ ) ! milit>y & vet]an population2 & 7iii7 d n h a f9ancial int]e/ 9 any ( ! complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices review$ by ! ,commission4 7#b7 ,*air ,! ,presid5t %all designate a memb] ( ! ,commission to be ! ,*air4 7#c7 ,p]iod ( ,appo9tm5t ,memb]s ( ! ,commission %all be appo9t$ = ! life ( ! ,commission4 7#d7 ,vacancy ,a vacancy 9 ! ,commission %all be fill$ 9 ! mann] 9 :i* ! orig9al appo9tm5t 0 made4 7#e7 ,appo9tm5t ,deadl9e ,! appo9tm5t ( memb]s ( ! ,commission 9 ?is section %all be made n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7d7 ,p[]s ( ,commission 7#a7 ,meet+ 7,a7 ,initial meet+ ,! ,commission %all hold its fir/ meet+ n lat] ?an #cj days aft] a majority ( memb]s are appo9t$ to ! ,commission4 7,b7 ,meet+ ,! ,commission %all regul>ly meet at ! call ( ! ,*air4 ,su* meet+s may be c>ri$ out ?r\gh ! use ( telephonic or o!r appropriate telecommunication te*nology if ! ,commission det]m9es t su* te*nology w all[ ! memb]s to communicate simultane\sly4 7#b7 ,he>+s ,! ,commission may hold su* he>+s1 sit & act at su* times & places1 take su* te/imony1 & receive su* evid5ce z ! ,commission consid]s advisable to c>ry out ! responsibilities ( ! ,commission4 7#c7 ,in=mation f ,f$]al ,ag5cies ,! ,commission may secure directly f any ,f$]al ag5cy su* in=mation z ! ,commission consid]s necess>y to c>ry out ! duties ( ! ,commission "u subsection 7b74 7#d7 ,in=mation f nongov]nm5tal organizations ,9 c>ry+ out ! duties ( ! ,commission "u subsection 7b71 ! ,commission may seek guidance ?r\gh consultation ) f\ndations1 vet]ans s]vice organizations1 nonpr(it gr\ps1 fai?-bas$ organizations1 private & public in/itutions ( high] education1 & su* o!r organizations z ! ,commission det]m9es appropriate4 7#e7 ,commission ,records ,! ,commission %all keep an accurate & complete record ( ! actions & meet+s ( ! ,commission4 ,su* record %all be made available = public inspection & ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates may audit & exam9e su* record4 7#f7 ,p]sonnel ,matt]s ,^u reque/ ( ! ,*air ( ! ,commission1 ! head ( any ,f$]al ag5cy may detail1 on a reimbursable basis1 any p]sonnel ( t ag5cy to assi/ ! ,commission 9 c>ry+ out ! duties ( ! ,commission4 7#g7 ,comp5sation ( ,memb]s2 ,travel ,exp5ses ,ea* memb] %all s]ve )\t pay1 except t ea* memb] %all receive travel exp5ses to p]=m ! duties ( ! ,commission "u subsection 7b71 includ+ p] diem 9 lieu ( subsi/5ce1 at rates au?oriz$ "u sub*apt] ,i ( *apt] #eg ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#h7 ,/aff ,! ,*air1 9 accordance ) rules agre$ ^u by ! ,commission1 may appo9t & fix ! comp5sation ( a /aff director & su* o!r p]sonnel z may be necess>y to enable ! ,commission to c>ry out its functions1 )\t reg>d to ! provisions ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 gov]n+ appo9tm5ts 9 ! competitive s]vice or *apt] #ea & sub*apt] ,,iii ( *apt] #ec ( su* title relat+ to classification & ,g5]al ,s*$ule pay rates1 except t no rate ( pay fix$ "u ?is subsection may exce$ ! equival5t ( ! rate payable = a position at level ,,iv ( ! ,executive ,s*$ule "u section #ecae ( su* title4 7#i7 ,p]sonnel z ,f$]al employees 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,! executive director & any p]sonnel ( ! ,commission are employees "u section #baje ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 = purposes ( *apt]s #fc1 #ha1 #hc1 #hd1 #he1 #hg1 #hi1 & #ij ( su* title4 7,b7 ,memb]s ( ! ,commission ,subp>agraph 7,a7 %all n be con/ru$ to apply to memb]s ( ! ,commission4 7#aj7 ,contract+ ,! ,commission may1 to su* ext5t & 9 su* am\nts z are provid$ 9 appropriations ,acts1 ent] into contracts to enable ! ,commission to dis*>ge ! duties ( ! ,commission "u ?is section4 7#aa7 ,exp]t & ,consultant ,s]vices ,! ,commission may procure ! s]vices ( exp]ts & consultants 9 accordance ) section #caji ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 at rates n to exce$ ! daily rate paid to a p]son occupy+ a position at level ,,iv ( ! ,executive ,s*$ule "u section #ecae ( su* title4 7#ab7 ,po/al ,s]vice ,! ,commission may use ! ,unit$ ,/ates mails 9 ! same mann] & "u ! same conditions z a ,f$]al ag5cy4 7#ac7 ,physical ,facilities & ,equipm5t ,^u ! reque/ ( ! ,commission1 ! ,adm9i/rator ( ,g5]al ,s]vices %all provide to ! ,commission1 on a reimbursable basis1 ! adm9i/rative support s]vices necess>y = ! ,commission to c>ry out its responsibilities "u ?is section4 ,^! adm9i/rative s]vices may include human res\rce managem5t1 budget1 leas+1 acc\nt+1 & payroll s]vices4 7e7 ,reports 7#a7 ,int]im ,reports 7,a7 ,coop]ation by heads ( ,f$]al ag5cies ,n lat] ?an #fj days aft] ! date on :i* ! ,commission fir/ meets1 & n less frequ5tly ?an once dur+ ea* #cj-;day p]iod !reaft] end+ on ! date on :i* ! ,commission submits ! f9al report "u p>agraph 7#b71 ! ,commission %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ! ,presid5t a report detail+ ! level ( coop]ation ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7& ! heads ( o!r ,f$]al ag5cies7 has provid$ to ! ,commission4 7,b7 ,o!r reports ,9 c>ry+ out ! duties ( ! ,commission "u subsection 7b71 at times t ! ,commission det]m9es appropriate1 ! ,commission %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & su* o!r entities z ! ,commission det]m9es appropriate an int]im report ) respect to ! f9d+s id5tifi$ by ! ,commission4 7#b7 ,f9al report 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #ah mon?s aft] ! date on :i* ! ,commission fir/ meets1 ! ,commission %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 ! ,presid5t1 & ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs a f9al report on ! f9d+s ( ! ,commission4 7,b7 ,elem5ts ,! report requir$ by subp>agraph 7,a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7i7 ,recomm5dations to implem5t 9 a feasible1 timely1 & co/-effective mann] any solutions & rem$ies id5tifi$ by ! ,commission 9 c>ry+ out ! duties ( ! ,commission "u subsection 7b74 7ii7 ,an analysis ( ! evid5ce-bas$ !rapy model us$ by ! ,secret>y = treat+ vet]ans ) m5tal heal? conditions & an exam9ation ( ! preval5ce & efficacy ( prescription drugs z a means ( treatm5t4 7iii7 ,! f9d+s ( ! pati5t-c5t]$ survey conduct$ )9 ea* ( ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks "u subsection 7b77#b74 7iv7 ,an exam9ation ( ! complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices describ$ 9 subsection 7b77#c7 & ! pot5tial b5efits ( incorporat+ su* s]vices 9 ! !rapy model us$ by ! ,secret>y = treat+ vet]ans ) m5tal heal? conditions4 7#c7 ,plan ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! date on :i* ! ,commission submits ! f9al report "u p>agraph 7#b71 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,an action plan = implem5t+ ! recomm5dations set =? by ! ,commission 9 su* report reg>d+ solutions & rem$ies = improv+ wellness-bas$ outcomes = vet]ans ) m5tal heal? conditions4 7,b7 ,a feasible timeframe on :5 complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices describ$ 9 subsection 7b77#c7 c be implem5t$ ?r\gh\t ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,c7 ,) respect to ea* recomm5dation set =? by ! ,commission1 includ+ reg>d+ any complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vice1 t ! ,secret>y det]m9es is n appropriate or feasible to implem5t1 a ju/ification = ea* su* det]m9ation & an alt]native solution to improve ! efficacy ( ! !rapy model us$ by ! ,secret>y = treat+ vet]ans ) m5tal heal? conditions4 7f7 ,t]m9ation ( ,commission ,! ,commission %all t]m9ate #cj days aft] ! ,commission submits ! f9al report "u subsection 7e77#b74 7g7 ,complem5t>y & integrative heal? def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m complem5t>y & integrative heal? has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m or any subsequ5t simil> t]m by ! ,national ,in/itutes ( ,heal?4 #bab4 ,m5tal heal? treatm5t = vet]ans :o s]v$ 9 classifi$ missions 7a7 ,s5se ( ,congress ,x is ! s5se ( ,congress t vet]ans :o exp]i5ce combat-relat$ m5tal heal? w\nds %\ld h imm$iate1 appropriate1 & consi/5t access to compreh5sive m5tal heal? c>e4 7b7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #ag ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #agbj;,h4 ,m5tal heal? treatm5t = vet]ans :o s]v$ 9 classifi$ missions 7a7 ,e/abli%m5t ( /&>ds 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all e/abli% /&>ds & proc$ures to ensure t ea* eligible vet]an may access m5tal heal? c>e furni%$ by ! ,secret>y 9 a mann] t fully accommodates ! obligation ( ! vet]an to n improp]ly disclose classifi$ in=mation4 7#b7 ,9 e/abli%+ /&>ds & proc$ures "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all consult ) ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se to ensure t su* /&>ds & proc$ures are consi/5t ) ! policies on classifi$ in=mation ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se4 7#c7 ,! ,secret>y %all dissem9ate guidance to employees ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration1 includ+ m5tal heal? pr(essionals1 on ! /&>ds & proc$ures e/abli%$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 & h[ to be/ engage eligible vet]ans dur+ ! c\rse ( m5tal heal? treatm5t ) respect to classifi$ in=mation4 7b7 ,id5tification ,9 c>ry+ out ?is section1 ! ,secret>y %all ensure t a vet]an may elect to id5tify z an eligible vet]an on an appropriate =m4 7c7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m classifi$ in=mation means any in=mation or mat]ial t has be5 det]m9$ by an (ficial ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates pursuant to law to require protection aga9/ unau?oriz$ disclosure = reasons ( national security4 7#b7 ,! t]m eligible vet]an means a vet]an :o-- 7,a7 is enroll$ 9 ! sy/em ( annual pati5t enrollm5t e/abli%$ & op]at$ "u section #agje7;a7 ( ?is title2 7,b7 is seek+ m5tal heal? treatm5t2 & 7,c7 9 ! c\rse ( s]v+ 9 ! ,arm$ ,=ces1 p>ticipat$ 9 a s5sitive mission or s]v$ 9 a s5sitive unit4 7#c7 ,! t]m s5sitive mission means a mission ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces t1 at ! "t at :i* a eligible vet]an seeks treatm5t1 is classifi$4 7#d7 ,! t]m s5sitive unit has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #acj;b7c77#d7 ( title #aj4 4 7c7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #ag ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #agbj;,g ! foll[+ new item3 #agbj;,h4 ,m5tal heal? treatm5t = vet]ans :o s]v$ 9 classifi$ missions4 4 #bac4 ,inclusion ( m5tal heal? pr(essionals 9 education & tra9+ program = heal? p]sonnel ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 c>ry+ out ! program ( education & tra9+ requir$ "u section #gcjb7;a77#a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all include education & tra9+ ( m>riage & family !rapi/s & lic5s$ pr(essional m5tal heal? c\nselors4 7b7 ,effective date ,subsection 7a7 %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #bad4 ,expansion ( qualifications = lic5s$ m5tal heal? c\nselors ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to include doctoral degrees ,section #gdjb7;b77#aa77;,a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by ins]t+ or doctoral degree aft] ma/]'s degree4 ,c ,improvem5t ( m$ical work=ce #bba4 ,modification ( h\rs ( employm5t = physicians & physician assi/ants employ$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,section #gdbc7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ 7a7 ,! h\rs & ins]t+ 7a77#a7 ,except z provid$ 9 p>agraph 7#b71 ! h\rs2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y may modify ! h\rs ( employm5t = a physician or physician assi/ant appo9t$ 9 ! ,adm9i/ration "u any provision ( ?is *apt] on a full-"t basis to be m ?an or less ?an #hj h\rs 9 a biweekly pay p]iod if ! total h\rs ( employm5t = su* employee 9 a cal5d> ye> does n exce$ #b1jhj h\rs4 4 #bbb4 ,requirem5t t physician assi/ants employ$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs receive competitive pay 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #gdea7;a77#b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by r$esignat+ subp>agraph 7,b7 z subp>agraph 7,c72 7#b7 by ins]t+ aft] subp>agraph 7,a7 ! foll[+ new subp>agraph 7,b73 7,b7 ,physician assi/ant4 2 & 7#c7 9 subp>agraph 7,c71 z r$esignat$ by p>agraph 7#a71 by /rik+ & regi/]$ nurse & ins]t+ regi/]$ nurse1 & physician assi/ant4 7b7 ,effective date ,! am5dm5ts made by subsection 7a7 %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #bbc4 ,ext5sion ( p]iod = increase 9 graduate m$ical education resid5cy positions at m$ical facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,p>agraph 7#b7 ( section #cja7;b7 ( ! ,vet]ans ,access1 ,*oice1 & ,acc\ntability ,act ( #bjad 7,public ,law #aac-adf2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #gcjb note7 is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 ! p>agraph head+1 by /rik+ ,five-ye> & ins]t+ ,t5-ye>2 & 7#b7 9 subp>agraph 7,a71 by /rik+ #e-ye> p]iod & ins]t+ #aj-ye> p]iod4 7b7 ,report ,p>agraph 7#c77;,a7 ( su* section is am5d$ by /rik+ until #bjai & ins]t+ until #bjbd4 #bbd4 ,additional requirem5ts = hir+ ( heal? c>e provid]s by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all1 z "p ( ! hir+ process = ea* heal? c>e provid] consid]$ = a position at ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs aft] ! date specifi$ 9 subsection 7c71 require f ! m$ical bo>d ( ea* ,/ate 9 :i* ! heal? c>e provid] holds or has held a m$ical lic5se-- 7#a7 in=mation on any violation ( ! requirem5ts ( ! m$ical lic5se ( ! heal? c>e provid]2 & 7#b7 in=mation on :e!r ! heal? c>e provid] has ent]$ into any settlem5t agreem5t = a discipl9>y *>ge relat+ to ! practice ( m$ic9e by ! heal? c>e provid]4 7b7 ,regulations ,! ,secret>y %all prescribe regulations to c>ry out ?is section4 7c7 ,date specifi$ 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! date specifi$ 9 ?is subsection is ! date on :i* ! ,secret>y prescribes regulations to c>ry out ?is section4 7#b7 ,publication ,! ,secret>y %all publi% 9 ! ,f$]al ,regi/] ! date specifi$ 9 ?is subsection n lat] ?an #cj days be=e su* date4 #bbe4 ,provision ( in=mation on heal? c>e provid]s ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to ,/ate m$ical bo>ds 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,not)/&+ section #eeb;a ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all1 ) respect to ea* heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs t violates a requirem5t ( ! m$ical lic5se ( ! heal? c>e provid] aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 provide to ! m$ical bo>d ( ea* ,/ate 9 :i* ! heal? c>e provid] is lic5s$ or practices all relevant in=mation conta9$ 9 ! ,/ate ,lic5s+ ,bo>d ,report+ ,file or any successor file ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) respect to su* violation4 7b7 ,no reque/ requir$ ,! ,secret>y %all provide ! in=mation requir$ 9 subsection 7a7 to a m$ical bo>d describ$ 9 su* subsection not)/&+ t su* bo>d may n h =mally reque/$ su* in=mation f ! ,dep>tm5t4 #bbf4 ,report on m$ical work=ce ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #abj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! m$ical work=ce ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! report requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,) respect to lic5s$ pr(essional m5tal heal? c\nselors & m>riage & family !rapi/s ( ! ,dep>tm5t-- 7,a7 h[ _m su* c\nselors & !rapi/s are curr5tly enroll$ 9 ! m5tal heal? pr(essionals tra9ee program ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,b7 h[ _m su* c\nselors & !rapi/s are expect$ to enroll 9 ! m5tal heal? pr(essionals tra9ee program ( ! ,dep>tm5t dur+ ! #ahj-;day p]iod beg9n+ on ! date ( ! submittal ( ! report2 7,c7 a description ( ! eligibility crit]ia = su* c\nselors & !rapi/s z comp>$ to o!r behavioral heal? pr(essions 9 ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,d7 a description ( ! objectives1 goals1 & tim+ ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) respect to increas+ ! repres5tation ( su* c\nselors & !rapi/s 9 ! behavioral heal? work=ce ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 & 7,e7 a description ( ! actions tak5 by ! ,secret>y1 9 consultation ) ! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,p]sonnel ,managem5t1 to create an occupational s]ies = su* c\nselors & !rapi/s & a timel9e = ! creation ( su* an occupational s]ies4 7#b7 ,a breakd[n ( sp5d+ by ! ,dep>tm5t 9 connection ) ! education debt r$uction program ( ! ,dep>tm5t "u sub*apt] ,,vii ( *apt] #gf ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 includ+-- 7,a7 ! am\nt sp5t by ! ,dep>tm5t 9 debt r$uction paym5ts dur+ ! ?ree-ye> p]iod prec$+ ! submittal ( ! report disaggregat$ by ! m$ical pr(ession ( ! individual receiv+ ! paym5ts2 7,b7 a description ( h[ ! ,dep>tm5t prioritizes su* sp5d+ by m$ical pr(ession1 includ+ an assessm5t ( :e!r su* priority reflects ! five occupations id5tifi$ 9 ! mo/ rec5t det]m9ation by ! ,inspector ,g5]al ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs z hav+ ! l>ge/ /aff+ %ortages 9 ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration2 & 7,c7 a description ( ! actions tak5 by ! ,secret>y to increase ! effectiv5ess ( su* sp5d+ = purposes ( recruitm5t ( heal? c>e provid]s to ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ ef=ts to m consi/5tly include eligibility = ! education debt r$uction program 9 vacancy ann\ncem5ts ( positions = heal? c>e provid]s at ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#c7 ,a description ( any imp$im5ts to ! deliv]y by ! ,dep>tm5t ( telem$ic9e s]vices to vet]ans & any actions tak5 by ! ,dep>tm5t to address su* imp$im5ts1 includ+ ) respect to-- 7,a7 re/rictions "u ,f$]al or ,/ate law2 7,b7 lic5s+ or cr$5tial+ issues = heal? c>e provid]s1 includ+ non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s1 practic+ telem$ic9e ) a vet]an locat$ 9 a diff]5t ,/ate2 7,c7 ! effect ( limit$ broadb& access or limit$ in=mation te*nology capabilities on ! deliv]y ( heal? c>e2 7,d7 ! di/ance a vet]an is requir$ to travel1 if ! vet]an is requir$ to travel1 to access a facility or cl9ic ) telem$ic9e capabilities2 7,e7 ! effect on ! provision ( telem$ic9e s]vices to vet]ans ( policies ( & limit$ liability protection = c]ta9 entities2 & 7,f7 issues relat+ to reimbursem5t & travel limitations = vet]ans t affect ! p>ticipation ( non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s 9 ! telem$ic9e program4 7#d7 ,an update on ! ef=ts ( ! ,secret>y to (f] tra9+ opportunities 9 telem$ic9e to m$ical resid5ts 9 m$ical facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t t use telem$ic9e1 consi/5t ) m$ical resid5cy program requirem5ts e/abli%$ by ! ,accr$itation ,c\ncil = ,graduate ,m$ical ,education1 z requir$ 9 section #ajh7;b7 ( ! ,honor+ ,am]ica's ,vet]ans & ,c>+ = ,camp ,lejeune ,families ,act ( #bjab 7,public ,law #aab-aed2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #gdjf note74 7#e7 ,an assessm5t ( ! developm5t & implem5tation by ! ,secret>y ( succession plann+ policies to address ! preval5ce ( vacancies 9 positions 9 ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration ( m ?an #ahj days1 includ+ ! developm5t ( an ent]prise position managem5t sy/em to m effectively id5tify1 track1 & resolve su* vacancies4 7#f7 ,a description ( ! actions tak5 by ! ,secret>y1 9 consultation ) ! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,p]sonnel ,managem5t1 to address any imp$im5ts to ! timely appo9tm5t & det]m9ation ( qualifications = ,directors ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks & ,m$ical ,c5t] ,directors ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 #bbg4 ,report on compliance by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ) reviews ( heal? c>e provid]s leav+ ! ,dep>tm5t or transf]r+ to o!r facilities ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! compliance by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ) ! policy ( ! ,dep>tm5t-- 7#a7 to conduct a review ( ea* heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t :o transf]s to ano!r m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t or leaves ! ,dep>tm5t to det]m9e :e!r !re are any conc]ns1 compla9ts1 or allegations ( violations relat+ to ! m$ical practice ( ! heal? c>e provid]2 & 7#b7 to take appropriate action ) respect to any su* conc]n1 compla9t1 or allegation4 ,d ,family c>egiv]s #bca4 ,expansion ( family c>egiv] program ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,family c>egiv] program 7#a7 ,expansion ( eligibility 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,subsection 7a77#b77;,b7 ( section #agbj;,g ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ to read z foll[s3 7,b7 = assi/ance provid$ "u ?is subsection-- 7i7 be=e ! date on :i* ! ,secret>y submits to ,congress a c]tification t ! ,dep>tm5t has fully implem5t$ ! in=mation te*nology sy/em requir$ by section #bcb7;a7 ( ! ,jason ,simcakoski ,memorial ,act1 has a s]i\s injury 7includ+ traumatic bra9 injury1 psy*ological trauma1 or o!r m5tal disord]7 incurr$ or aggravat$ 9 ! l9e ( duty 9 ! active milit>y1 naval1 or air s]vice on or aft] ,septemb] #aa1 #bjja2 7ii7 dur+ ! two-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! date specifi$ 9 clause 7i71 has a s]i\s injury 7includ+ traumatic bra9 injury1 psy*ological trauma1 or o!r m5tal disord]7 incurr$ or aggravat$ 9 ! l9e ( duty 9 ! active milit>y1 naval1 or air s]vice-- 7,i7 on or be=e ,may #g1 #aige2 or 7,,ii7 on or aft] ,septemb] #aa1 #bjja2 or 7iii7 aft] ! date t is two ye>s aft] ! date specifi$ 9 clause 7i71 has a s]i\s injury 7includ+ traumatic bra9 injury1 psy*ological trauma1 or o!r m5tal disord]7 incurr$ or aggravat$ 9 ! l9e ( duty 9 ! active milit>y1 naval1 or air s]vice2 & 4 7,b7 ,publication 9 ,f$]al ,regi/] ,n lat] ?an #cj days aft] ! date on :i* ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs submits to ,congress ! c]tification describ$ 9 subsection 7a77#b77;,b77i7 ( section #agbj;,g ( su* title1 z am5d$ by subp>agraph 7,a7 ( ?is p>agraph1 ! ,secret>y %all publi% ! date specifi$ 9 su* subsection 9 ! ,f$]al ,regi/]4 7#b7 ,expansion ( ne$$ s]vices 9 eligibility crit]ia ,subsection 7a77#b77;,c7 ( su* section is am5d$-- 7,a7 9 clause 7ii71 by /rik+ 2 or & ins]t+ a semicolon2 7,b7 by r$esignat+ clause 7iii7 z clause 7iv72 & 7,c7 by ins]t+ aft] clause 7ii7 ! foll[+ new clause 7iii73 7iii7 a ne$ = regul> or ext5sive in/ruction or sup]vision )\t :i* ! ability ( ! vet]an to function 9 daily life w\ld be s]i\sly impair$2 or 4 7#c7 ,expansion ( s]vices provid$ ,subsection 7a77#c77;,a77ii7 ( su* section is am5d$-- 7,a7 9 subclause 7,,iv71 by /rik+ 2 & & ins]t+ a semicolon2 7,b7 9 subclause 7,v71 by /rik+ ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ 2 &2 & 7,c7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subclause3 7,,vi7 ?r\gh ! use ( contracts )1 or ! provision ( grants to1 public or private entities-- 7aa7 f9ancial plann+ s]vices relat+ to ! ne$s ( injur$ vet]ans & _! c>egiv]s2 & 7bb7 legal s]vices1 includ+ legal advice & consultation1 relat+ to ! ne$s ( injur$ vet]ans & _! c>egiv]s4 4 7#d7 ,modification ( /ip5d calculation ,subsection 7a77#c77;,c7 ( su* section is am5d$-- 7,a7 by r$esignat+ clause 7iii7 z clause 7iv72 & 7,b7 by ins]t+ aft] clause 7ii7 ! foll[+ new clause 7iii73 7iii7 ,9 det]m9+ ! am\nt & degree ( p]sonal c>e s]vices provid$ "u clause 7i7 ) respect to an eligible vet]an ^: ne$ = p]sonal c>e s]vices is bas$ 9 :ole or 9 "p on a ne$ = sup]vision or protection "u p>agraph 7#b77;,c77ii7 or regul> or ext5sive in/ruction or sup]vision "u p>agraph 7#b77;,c77iii71 ! ,secret>y %all take into acc\nt ! foll[+3 7,i7 ,! assessm5t by ! family c>egiv] ( ! ne$s & limitations ( ! vet]an4 7,,ii7 ,! ext5t to :i* ! vet]an c function safely & indep5d5tly 9 ! abs5ce ( su* sup]vision1 protection1 or in/ruction4 7,,iii7 ,! am\nt ( "t requir$ = ! family c>egiv] to provide su* sup]vision1 protection1 or in/ruction to ! vet]an4 4 7#e7 ,p]iodic evaluation ( ne$ = c]ta9 s]vices ,subsection 7a77#c7 ( su* section is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subp>agraph3 7,d7 ,9 provid+ in/ruction1 prep>ation1 & tra9+ "u subp>agraph 7,a77i77,i7 & te*nical support "u subp>agraph 7,a77i77,,ii7 to ea* family c>egiv] :o is approv$ z a provid] ( p]sonal c>e s]vices = an eligible vet]an "u p>agraph 7#f71 ! ,secret>y %all p]iodically evaluate ! ne$s ( ! eligible vet]an & ! skills ( ! family c>egiv] ( su* vet]an to det]m9e if additional in/ruction1 prep>ation1 tra9+1 or te*nical support "u ^? subp>agraphs is necess>y4 4 7#f7 ,use ( prim>y c>e teams ,subsection 7a77#e7 ( su* section is am5d$1 9 ! matt] prec$+ subp>agraph 7,a71 by ins]t+ 79 collaboration ) ! prim>y c>e team = ! eligible vet]an to ! maximum ext5t practicable7 aft] evaluate4 7#g7 ,assi/ance = family c>egiv]s ,subsection 7a7 ( su* section is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#aa7 7,a7 ,9 provid+ assi/ance "u ?is subsection to family c>egiv]s ( eligible vet]ans1 ! ,secret>y may ent] into contracts1 provid] agreem5ts1 & memor&a ( und]/&+ ) ,f$]al ag5cies1 ,/ates1 & private1 nonpr(it1 & o!r entities to provide su* assi/ance to su* family c>egiv]s4 7,b7 ,! ,secret>y may provide assi/ance "u ?is p>agraph only if su* assi/ance is reasonably accessible to ! family c>egiv] & is sub/antially equival5t or bett] 9 quality to simil> s]vices provid$ by ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,c7 ,! ,secret>y may provide fair comp5sation to ,f$]al ag5cies1 ,/ates1 & o!r entities t provide assi/ance "u ?is p>agraph4 4 7b7 ,modification ( def9ition ( p]sonal c>e s]vices ,subsection 7d77#d7 ( su* section is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subp>agraph 7,a71 by /rik+ indep5d5t2 7#b7 by r$esignat+ subp>agraph 7,b7 z subp>agraph 7,d72 & 7#c7 by ins]t+ aft] subp>agraph 7,a7 ! foll[+ new subp>agraphs3 7,b7 ,sup]vision or protection bas$ on symptoms or residuals ( neurological or o!r impairm5t or injury4 7,c7 ,regul> or ext5sive in/ruction or sup]vision )\t :i* ! ability ( ! vet]an to function 9 daily life w\ld be s]i\sly impair$4 4 #bcb4 ,implem5tation ( in=mation te*nology sy/em ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to assess & improve ! family c>egiv] program 7a7 ,implem5tation ( new sy/em 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,decemb] #ca1 #bjaf1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all implem5t an in=mation te*nology sy/em t fully supports ! ,program & all[s = data assessm5t & compreh5sive monitor+ ( ! ,program4 7#b7 ,elem5ts ( sy/em ,! in=mation te*nology sy/em requir$ to be implem5t$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! ability to easily retrieve data t w all[ all aspects ( ! ,program 7at ! m$ical c5t] & aggregate levels7 & ! workload tr5ds = ! ,program to be assess$ & compreh5sively monitor$4 7,b7 ,! ability to manage data ) respect to a numb] ( c>egiv]s t is m ?an ! numb] ( c>egiv]s t ! ,secret>y expects to apply = ! ,program4 7,c7 ,! ability to integrate ! sy/em ) o!r relevant in=mation te*nology sy/ems ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration4 7b7 ,assessm5t ( ,program ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] implem5t+ ! sy/em describ$ 9 subsection 7a71 ! ,secret>y %all1 ?r\gh ! ,"u ,secret>y = ,heal?1 use data f ! sy/em & o!r relevant data to conduct an assessm5t ( h[ key aspects ( ! ,program are /ructur$ & c>ri$ out4 7c7 ,ongo+ monitor+ ( & modifications to ,program 7#a7 ,monitor+ ,! ,secret>y %all use ! sy/em implem5t$ "u subsection 7a7 to monitor & assess ! workload ( ! ,program1 includ+ monitor+ & assessm5t ( data on-- 7,a7 ! /atus ( applications1 appeals1 & home visits 9 connection ) ! ,program2 & 7,b7 ! use by c>egiv]s p>ticipat+ 9 ! ,program ( o!r support s]vices "u ! ,program su* z respite c>e4 7#b7 ,modifications ,bas$ on ! monitor+ & assessm5t conduct$ "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all id5tify & implem5t su* modifications to ! ,program z ! ,secret>y consid]s necess>y to ensure ! ,program is function+ z int5d$ & provid+ vet]ans & c>egiv]s p>ticipat+ 9 ! ,program ) s]vices 9 a timely mann]4 7d7 ,reports 7#a7 ,initial report 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates a report t includes-- 7i7 ! /atus ( ! plann+1 developm5t1 & deploym5t ( ! sy/em requir$ to be implem5t$ "u subsection 7a71 includ+ any *anges 9 ! timel9e = ! implem5tation ( ! sy/em2 & 7ii7 an assessm5t ( ! ne$s ( family c>egiv]s ( vet]ans describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 ! res\rces ne$$ = ! inclusion ( su* family c>egiv]s 9 ! ,program1 & su* *anges to ! ,program z ! ,secret>y consid]s necess>y to ensure ! successful expansion ( ! ,program to include su* family c>egiv]s4 7,b7 ,vet]ans describ$ ,vet]ans describ$ 9 ?is subp>agraph are vet]ans :o are eligible = ! ,program "u clause 7ii7 or 7iii7 ( section #agbj;,g7a77#b77;,b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #bca7;a77#a7 ( ?is ,act1 solely due to a s]i\s injury 7includ+ traumatic bra9 injury1 psy*ological trauma1 or o!r m5tal disord]7 incurr$ or aggravat$ 9 ! l9e ( duty 9 ! active milit>y1 naval1 or air s]vice be=e ,septemb] #aa1 #bjja4 7#b7 ,notification by ,comptroll] ,g5]al ,! ,comptroll] ,g5]al %all review ! report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 & notify ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives ) respect to ! progress ( ! ,secret>y 9-- 7,a7 fully implem5t+ ! sy/em requir$ "u subsection 7a72 & 7,b7 implem5t+ a process = us+ su* sy/em to monitor & assess ! ,program "u subsection 7c77#a7 & modify ! ,program z consid]$ necess>y "u subsection 7c77#b74 7#c7 ,f9al report 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,decemb] #ca1 #bjag1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al a report on ! implem5tation ( subsections 7a7 ?r\gh 7c74 7,b7 ,elem5ts ,! report requir$ by subp>agraph 7,a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7i7 ,a c]tification by ! ,secret>y ) respect to :e!r ! in=mation te*nology sy/em describ$ 9 subsection 7a7 has be5 implem5t$4 7ii7 ,a description ( h[ ! ,secret>y has implem5t$ su* sy/em4 7iii7 ,a description ( ! modifications to ! ,program1 if any1 t 7 id5tifi$ & implem5t$ "u subsection 7c77#b74 7iv7 ,a description ( h[ ! ,secret>y is us+ su* sy/em to monitor ! workload ( ! ,program4 7e7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,active milit>y1 naval1 or air s]vice ,! t]m active milit>y1 naval1 or air s]vice has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #aja ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#b7 ,program ,! t]m ,program means ! program ( compreh5sive assi/ance = family c>egiv]s "u section #agbj;,g7a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #bca ( ?is ,act4 #bcc4 ,modifications to annual evaluation report on c>egiv] program ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,b>ri]s to c>e & s]vices ,subp>agraph 7,a77iv7 ( section #aja7;c77#b7 ( ! ,c>egiv]s & ,vet]ans ,omnibus ,heal? ,s]vices ,act ( #bjaj 7,public ,law #aaa-afc2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #agbj;,g note7 is am5d$ by ins]t+ 1 includ+ a description ( any b>ri]s to access+ & receiv+ c>e & s]vices "u su* programs be=e ! semicolon4 7b7 ,suffici5cy ( tra9+ = family c>egiv] program ,subp>agraph 7,b7 ( su* section is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 clause 7i71 by /rik+ 2 & & ins]t+ a semicolon2 7#b7 9 clause 7ii71 by /rik+ ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ 2 &2 & 7#c7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new clause3 7iii7 an evaluation ( ! suffici5cy & consi/5cy ( ! tra9+ provid$ to family c>egiv]s "u su* program 9 prep>+ family c>egiv]s to provide c>e to vet]ans "u su* program4 4 #bcd4 ,advisory committee on c>egiv] policy 7a7 ,e/abli%m5t ,!re is e/abli%$ 9 ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs an advisory committee on policies relat+ to c>egiv]s ( vet]ans 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! ,committee74 7b7 ,composition ,! ,committee %all be compos$ ( ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,a ,*air select$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#b7 ,a repres5tative f ea* ( ! foll[+ ag5cies or organizations select$ by ! head ( su* ag5cy or organization3 7,a7 ,! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7,b7 ,! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se4 7,c7 ,! ,dep>tm5t ( ,heal? & ,human ,s]vices4 7,d7 ,! ,dep>tm5t ( ,labor4 7,e7 ,! ,c5t]s = ,m$ic>e & ,m$icaid ,s]vices4 7#c7 ,n few] ?an sev5 individuals :o are n employees ( ! ,f$]al ,gov]nm5t select$ by ! ,secret>y f among ! foll[+ individuals3 7,a7 ,academic exp]ts 9 fields relat+ to c>egiv]s4 7,b7 ,cl9icians4 7,c7 ,c>egiv]s4 7,d7 ,individuals 9 receipt ( c>egiv] s]vices4 7,e7 ,su* o!r individuals ) exp]tise t is relevant to ! duties ( ! ,committee z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7c7 ,duties ,! duties ( ! ,committee are z foll[s3 7#a7 ,to regul>ly review & recomm5d policies ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs relat+ to c>egiv]s ( vet]ans4 7#b7 ,to exam9e & advise ! implem5tation ( su* policies4 7#c7 ,to evaluate ! effectiv5ess ( su* policies4 7#d7 ,to recomm5d /&>ds ( c>e = c>egiv] s]vices & respite c>e s]vices provid$ to a c>egiv] or vet]an by a nonpr(it or private sector entity4 7#e7 ,to develop recomm5dations = legislative or adm9i/rative action to enhance ! provision ( s]vices to c>egiv]s & vet]ans1 includ+ elim9at+ gaps 9 su* s]vices & elim9at+ disp>ities 9 eligibility = su* s]vices4 7#f7 ,to make recomm5dations on coord9ation ) ,/ate & local ag5cies & relevant nonpr(it organizations on maximiz+ ! use & effectiv5ess ( res\rces = c>egiv]s ( vet]ans4 7d7 ,reports 7#a7 ,annual report to ,secret>y 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,septemb] #a1 #bjag1 & n less frequ5tly ?an annually !reaft] until ! t]m9ation date specifi$ 9 subsection 7e71 ! ,*air ( ! ,committee %all submit to ! ,secret>y a report on policies & s]vices ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs relat+ to c>egiv]s ( vet]ans4 7,b7 ,elem5ts ,ea* report requir$ by subp>agraph 7,a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7i7 ,an assessm5t ( ! policies ( ! ,dep>tm5t relat+ to c>egiv]s ( vet]ans & s]vices provid$ pursuant to su* policies z ( ! date ( ! submittal ( ! report4 7ii7 ,a description ( any recomm5dations made by ! ,committee to improve ! coord9ation ( s]vices = c>egiv]s ( vet]ans betwe5 ! ,dep>tm5t & ! entities specifi$ 9 subp>agraphs 7,b7 ?r\gh 7,e7 ( subsection 7b77#b7 & to elim9ate b>ri]s to ! effective use ( su* s]vices1 includ+ ) respect to eligibility crit]ia4 7iii7 ,an evaluation ( ! effectiv5ess ( ! ,dep>tm5t 9 provid+ s]vices = c>egiv]s ( vet]ans4 7iv7 ,an evaluation ( ! quality & suffici5cy ( s]vices = c>egiv]s ( vet]ans available f nongov]nm5tal organizations4 7v7 ,a description ( any gaps id5tifi$ by ! ,committee 9 c>e or s]vices provid$ by c>egiv]s to vet]ans & recomm5dations = legislative or adm9i/rative action to address su* gaps4 7vi7 ,su* o!r matt]s or recomm5dations z ! ,*air consid]s appropriate4 7#b7 ,transmittal to ,congress ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! receipt ( a report "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all transmit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a copy ( su* report1 toge!r ) su* comm5ts & recomm5dations conc]n+ su* report z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7e7 ,t]m9ation ,! ,committee %all t]m9ate on ,decemb] #ca1 #bjbb4 #bce4 ,compreh5sive /udy on s]i\sly injur$ vet]ans & _! c>egiv]s 7a7 ,/udy requir$ ,dur+ ! p]iod specifi$ 9 subsection 7d71 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all provide = ! conduct by an indep5d5t entity ( a compreh5sive /udy on ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,vet]ans :o h incurr$ a s]i\s injury or illness1 includ+ a m5tal heal? injury or illness4 7#b7 ,individuals :o are act+ z c>egiv]s = vet]ans4 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! compreh5sive /udy requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all include ! foll[+ ) respect to ea* vet]an includ$ 9 su* /udy3 7#a7 ,! heal? ( ! vet]an &1 if applicable1 ! impact ( ! c>egiv] ( su* vet]an on ! heal? ( su* vet]an4 7#b7 ,! employm5t /atus ( ! vet]an &1 if applicable1 ! impact ( ! c>egiv] ( su* vet]an on ! employm5t /atus ( su* vet]an4 7#c7 ,! f9ancial /atus & ne$s ( ! vet]an4 7#d7 ,! use by ! vet]an ( b5efits available to su* vet]an f ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#e7 ,su* o!r in=mation z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7c7 ,contract ,! ,secret>y %all ent] into a contract ) an appropriate indep5d5t entity to conduct ! /udy requir$ by subsection 7a74 7d7 ,p]iod specifi$ ,! p]iod specifi$ 9 ?is subsection is ! "o-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! date t is f\r ye>s aft] ! date specifi$ 9 section #agbj;,g7a77#b77;,b77i7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #bca7;a77#a7 ( ?is ,act4 7e7 ,report ,n lat] ?an #cj days aft] ! end ( ! p]iod specifi$ 9 subsection 7d71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! results ( ! /udy requir$ by subsection 7a74 ,e ,heal? c>e adm9i/ration #bda4 ,requirem5t t ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs collect heal?-plan contract in=mation f vet]ans 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,i ( *apt] #ag is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #agje ! foll[+ new section3 #agje;,a4 ,managem5t ( heal? c>e3 in=mation reg>d+ heal?-plan contracts 7a7 ,9 g5]al 7#a7 ,any individual :o seeks hospital c>e or m$ical s]vices "u ?is *apt] %all provide to ! ,secret>y su* curr5t in=mation z ! ,secret>y may require to id5tify any heal?-plan contract "u :i* su* individual is cov]$4 7#b7 ,! in=mation requir$ to be provid$ to ! ,secret>y "u p>agraph 7#a7 ) respect to a heal?-plan contract %all include1 z applicable1 ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! "n ( ! entity provid+ cov]age "u ! heal?-plan contract4 7,b7 ,if cov]age "u ! heal?-plan contract is 9 ! "n ( an individual o!r ?an ! individual requir$ to provide in=mation "u ?is section1 ! "n ( ! policy hold] ( ! heal?-plan contract4 7,c7 ,! id5tification numb] = ! heal?-plan contract4 7,d7 ,! gr\p code = ! heal?-plan contract4 7b7 ,action ,to collect in=mation ,! ,secret>y may take su* action z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate to collect ! in=mation requir$ "u subsection 7a74 7c7 ,effect on s]vices f ,dep>tm5t ,! ,secret>y may n d5y any s]vices "u ?is *apt] to an individual solely due to ! fact t ! individual fails to provide in=mation requir$ "u subsection 7a74 7d7 ,heal?-plan contract def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m heal?-plan contract has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #agbe7;f7 ( ?is title4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #ag ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #agje ! foll[+ new item3 #agje;,a4 ,managem5t ( heal? c>e3 in=mation reg>d+ heal?-plan contracts4 4 #bdb4 ,expansion ( availability ( pro/hetic & or?otic c>e = vet]ans 7a7 ,e/abli%m5t or expansion ( advanc$ degree programs ,to exp& availability ( c>e ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all "w ) in/itutions ( high] education to develop p>tn]%ips = ! e/abli%m5t or expansion ( programs ( advanc$ degrees 9 pro/hetics & or?otics 9 ord] to improve & enhance ! availability ( high quality pro/hetic & or?otic c>e = vet]ans4 7b7 ,report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! effective date specifi$ 9 subsection 7d71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report sett+ =? a plan = c>ry+ out subsection 7a74 7#b7 ,developm5t ( plan ,! ,secret>y %all develop ! plan requir$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 9 consultation ) vet]ans s]vice organizations1 in/itutions ( high] education ) accr$it$ degree programs 9 pro/hetics & or?otics1 & repres5tatives ( ! pro/hetics & or?otics field4 7c7 ,fund+ 7#a7 ,au?orization ( appropriations ,!re is au?oriz$ to be appropriat$ = fiscal ye> #bjag = ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 #e1jjj1jjj to c>ry out ?is section4 7#b7 ,availability ,! am\nt au?oriz$ to be appropriat$ by p>agraph 7#a7 %all rema9 available = exp5diture until ,septemb] #cj1 #bjai4 7d7 ,effective date ,?is section %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #bdc4 ,revival ( ,int]m$iate ,c>e ,te*nician ,pilot ,program ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,revival ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all revive ! ,int]m$iate ,c>e ,te*nician ,pilot ,program ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs t 0 c>ri$ out by ! ,secret>y betwe5 ,janu>y #bjac & ,febru>y #bjad4 7b7 ,te*nicians 7#a7 ,selection ,! ,secret>y %all select n few] ?an #gb int]m$iate c>e te*nicians to p>ticipate 9 ! pilot program4 7#b7 ,facilities 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,any int]m$iate c>e te*nician hir$ pursuant to p>agraph 7#a7 may be assign$ to a m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t z det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section4 7,b7 ,priority ,9 assign+ int]m$iate c>e te*nicians "u subp>agraph 7,a71 ! ,secret>y %all give priority to facilities at :i* vet]ans h ! longe/ wait times = appo9tm5ts = ! receipt ( hospital c>e or m$ical s]vices f ! ,dep>tm5t1 z det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section4 7c7 ,t]m9ation ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out ! pilot program "u subsection 7a7 dur+ ! ?ree-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! effective date specifi$ 9 subsection 7e74 7d7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section1 ! t]ms hospital c>e & m$ical s]vices h ! mean+s giv5 ^? t]ms 9 section #agja ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7e7 ,effective date ,?is section %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #bdd4 ,transf] ( heal? c>e provid] cr$5tial+ data f ,secret>y ( ,def5se to ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 a case 9 :i* ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs hires a cov]$ heal? c>e provid]1 ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se %all1 aft] receiv+ a reque/ f ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = ! cr$5tial+ data ( ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se relat+ to su* heal? c>e provid]1 transf] to ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs su* cr$5tial+ data4 7b7 ,cov]$ heal? c>e provid]s ,= purposes ( ?is section1 a cov]$ provid] is a heal? c>e provid] :o-- 7#a7 is or 0 employ$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se2 7#b7 provides or provid$ heal? c>e relat$ s]vices z "p ( su* employm5t2 & 7#c7 0 cr$5tial$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se4 7c7 ,policies & regulations ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se %all e/abli% su* policies & prescribe su* regulations z may be necess>y to c>ry out ?is section4 7d7 ,cr$5tial+ def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m cr$5tial+ means ! sy/ematic process ( scre5+ & evaluat+ qualifications & o!r cr$5tials1 includ+ lic5sure1 requir$ education1 relevant tra9+ & exp]i5ce1 & curr5t compet5ce & heal? /atus4 7e7 ,effective date ,?is section %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #bde4 ,au?ority to place c]ta9 vet]ans 9 non-,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs m$ical fo/] homes ^u reque/ 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #agbj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7h7 7#a7 ,subject to p>agraph 7#b71 at ! reque/ ( a vet]an = :om ! ,secret>y is requir$ to provide nurs+ home c>e "u section #agaj;,a ( ?is title1 ! ,secret>y may place ! vet]an 9 a m$ical fo/] home t meets ,dep>tm5t /&>ds1 at ! exp5se ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 pursuant to a contract or agreem5t ent]$ into betwe5 ! ,secret>y & ! m$ical fo/] home = su* purpose4 ,a vet]an :o is plac$ 9 a m$ical fo/] home "u ?is subsection %all agree1 z a condition ( su* placem5t1 to accept home heal? s]vices furni%$ by ! ,secret>y "u section #agag ( ?is title4 7#b7 ,n m ?an #ijj vet]ans plac$ 9 a m$ical fo/] home1 :e!r plac$ be=e1 on1 or aft] ! enactm5t ( ! ,jason ,simcakoski ,memorial ,act1 may h _! c>e cov]$ at ! exp5se ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates "u p>agraph 7#a74 7#c7 ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m m$ical fo/] home means a home design$ to provide non9/itutional1 long-t]m1 supportive c>e = vet]ans :o are unable to live indep5d5tly & pref] a family sett+4 7#d7 ,! au?ority ( ! ,secret>y "u ?is subsection t]m9ates on ,septemb] #cj1 #bjai4 4 7b7 ,effective date ,subsection 7h7 ( su* section1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 %all take effect on ,octob] #a1 #bjaf4 #bdf4 ,exam9ation & treatm5t by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = em]g5cy m$ical conditions & wom5 9 labor 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,viii ( *apt] #ag ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #aghd ! foll[+ new section3 #aghd;,a4 ,exam9ation & treatm5t = em]g5cy m$ical conditions & wom5 9 labor 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 ! case ( a hospital ( ! ,dep>tm5t t has an em]g5cy dep>tm5t1 if any individual comes to ! hospital or ! campus ( ! hospital & a reque/ is made on behalf ( ! individual = exam9ation or treatm5t = a m$ical condition1 ! hospital mu/ provide = an appropriate m$ical scre5+ exam9ation )9 ! capability ( ! em]g5cy dep>tm5t1 includ+ ancill>y s]vices r\t9ely available to ! em]g5cy dep>tm5t1 to det]m9e :e!r or n an em]g5cy m$ical condition exi/s4 7b7 ,necess>y /abiliz+ treatm5t = em]g5cy m$ical conditions & labor 7#a7 ,if any individual comes to a hospital ( ! ,dep>tm5t t has an em]g5cy dep>tm5t or ! campus ( su* a hospital & ! hospital det]m9es t ! individual has an em]g5cy m$ical condition1 ! hospital mu/ provide ei!r-- 7,a7 )9 ! /aff & facilities available at ! hospital1 = su* fur!r m$ical exam9ation & su* treatm5t z may be requir$ to /abilize ! m$ical condition2 or 7,b7 = transf] ( ! individual to ano!r m$ical facility 9 accordance ) subsection 7c74 7#b7 ,a hospital is deem$ to meet ! requirem5t ( p>agraph 7#a77;,a7 ) respect to an individual if ! hospital (f]s ! individual ! fur!r m$ical exam9ation & treatm5t describ$ 9 t p>agraph & in=ms ! individual 7or a p]son act+ on behalf ( ! individual7 ( ! risks & b5efits to ! individual ( su* exam9ation & treatm5t1 b ! individual 7or a p]son act+ on behalf ( ! individual7 refuses to cons5t to ! exam9ation & treatm5t4 ,! hospital %all take all reasonable /eps to secure ! writt5 in=m$ cons5t ( ! individual 7or p]son7 to refuse su* exam9ation & treatm5t4 7#c7 ,a hospital is deem$ to meet ! requirem5t ( p>agraph 7#a77;,b7 ) respect to an individual if ! hospital (f]s to transf] ! individual to ano!r m$ical facility 9 accordance ) subsection 7c7 & in=ms ! individual 7or a p]son act+ on behalf ( ! individual7 ( ! risks & b5efits to ! individual ( su* transf]1 b ! individual 7or a p]son act+ on behalf ( ! individual7 refuses to cons5t to ! transf]4 ,! hospital %all take all reasonable /eps to secure ! writt5 in=m$ cons5t ( ! individual 7or p]son7 to refuse su* transf]4 7c7 ,re/rict+ transf]s until individual /abiliz$ 7#a7 ,if an individual at a hospital ( ! ,dep>tm5t has an em]g5cy m$ical condition t has n be5 /abiliz$1 ! hospital may n transf] ! individual unless-- 7,a7 7i7 ! individual 7or a legally responsible p]son act+ on behalf ( ! individual71 aft] be+ in=m$ ( ! obligations ( ! hospital "u ?is section & ( ! risk ( transf]1 reque/s1 9 writ+1 transf] to ano!r m$ical facility2 7ii7 a physician ( ! ,dep>tm5t has sign$ a c]tification t1 bas$ ^u ! in=mation available at ! "t ( transf]1 ! m$ical b5efits reasonably expect$ f ! provision ( appropriate m$ical treatm5t at ano!r m$ical facility outweigh ! increas$ risks to ! individual &1 9 ! case ( labor1 to ! unborn *ild f effect+ ! transf]2 or 7iii7 if a physician ( ! ,dep>tm5t is n physically pres5t 9 ! em]g5cy dep>tm5t at ! "t an individual is transf]r$1 a qualifi$ m$ical p]son 7z def9$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section7 has sign$ a c]tification describ$ 9 clause 7ii7 aft] a physician ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 9 consultation ) ! p]son1 has made ! det]m9ation describ$ 9 su* clause1 & subsequ5tly c\nt]signs ! c]tification2 & 7,b7 ! transf] is an appropriate transf] to t facility4 7#b7 ,a c]tification describ$ 9 clause 7ii7 or 7iii7 ( p>agraph 7#a77;,a7 %all include a summ>y ( ! risks & b5efits ^u :i* ! c]tification is bas$4 7#c7 ,= purposes ( p>agraph 7#a77;,b71 an appropriate transf] to a m$ical facility is a transf]-- 7,a7 9 :i* ! transf]r+ hospital provides ! m$ical treatm5t )9 its capacity t m9imizes ! risks to ! heal? ( ! individual &1 9 ! case ( a woman 9 labor1 ! heal? ( ! unborn *ild2 7,b7 9 :i* ! receiv+ facility-- 7i7 has available space & qualifi$ p]sonnel = ! treatm5t ( ! individual2 & 7ii7 has agre$ to accept transf] ( ! individual & to provide appropriate m$ical treatm5t2 7,c7 9 :i* ! transf]r+ hospital s5ds to ! receiv+ facility all m$ical records 7or copies !re(7 available at ! "t ( ! transf] relat+ to ! em]g5cy m$ical condition = :i* ! individual has pres5t$1 includ+-- 7i7 obs]vations ( signs or symptoms2 7ii7 prelim9>y diagnosis2 7iii7 treatm5t provid$2 7iv7 ! results ( any te/s2 & 7v7 ! in=m$ writt5 reque/ or c]tification 7or copy !re(7 provid$ "u p>agraph 7#a77;,a72 7,d7 9 :i* ! transf] is effect$ ?r\gh qualifi$ p]sonnel & transportation equipm5t1 includ+ ! use ( necess>y & m$ically appropriate life support measures dur+ ! transf]2 & 7,e7 t meets su* o!r requirem5ts z ! ,secret>y consid]s necess>y 9 ! int]e/ ( ! heal? & safety ( ! individual or individuals transf]r$4 7d7 ,paym5t to ! ,dep>tm5t ,! ,secret>y %all *>ge = any c>e or s]vices provid$ "u ?is section 9 accordance ) bill+ & reimbursem5t au?orities available to ! ,secret>y "u o!r provisions ( law4 7e7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m campus means1 ) respect to a hospital ( ! ,dep>tm5t-- 7,a7 ! physical area imm$iately adjac5t to ! ma9 build+s ( ! hospital2 7,b7 o!r areas & /ructures t are n /rictly contigu\s to ! ma9 build+s b are locat$ n m ?an #bej y>ds f ! ma9 build+s2 & 7,c7 any o!r areas det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y to be "p ( ! campus ( ! hospital4 7#b7 ,! t]m em]g5cy m$ical condition means-- 7,a7 a m$ical condition manife/+ itself by acute symptoms ( suffici5t sev]ity 7includ+ sev]e pa97 su* t ! abs5ce ( imm$iate m$ical att5tion c\ld reasonably be expect$ to result 9-- 7i7 plac+ ! heal? ( ! individual 7or1 ) respect to a pregnant woman1 ! heal? ( ! woman or h] unborn *ild7 9 s]i\s jeop>dy2 7ii7 s]i\s impairm5t to bodily functions2 or 7iii7 s]i\s dysfunction ( any bodily organ or "p2 or 7,b7 ) respect to a pregnant woman :o is hav+ contractions-- 7i7 t !re is inadequate "t to effect a safe transf] to ano!r hospital be=e deliv]y2 or 7ii7 t transf] may pose a ?reat to ! heal? or safety ( ! woman or ! unborn *ild4 7#c7 7,a7 ,! t]m to /abilize means-- 7i7 ) respect to an em]g5cy m$ical condition describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b77;,a71 to provide su* m$ical treatm5t ( ! condition z may be necess>y to assure1 )9 reasonable m$ical probability1 t no mat]ial det]ioration ( ! condition is likely to result f or occur dur+ ! transf] ( ! individual f a facility2 or 7ii7 ) respect to an em]g5cy m$ical condition describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b77;,b71 to deliv] 7includ+ ! plac5ta74 7,b7 ,! t]m /abiliz$ means-- 7i7 ) respect to an em]g5cy m$ical condition describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b77;,a71 t no mat]ial det]ioration ( ! condition is likely1 )9 reasonable m$ical probability1 to result f or occur dur+ ! transf] ( ! individual f a facility2 or 7ii7 ) respect to an em]g5cy m$ical condition describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b77;,b71 t ! woman has deliv]$ 7includ+ ! plac5ta74 7#d7 ,! t]m transf] means ! movem5t 7includ+ ! dis*>ge7 ( an individual outside ! facilities ( a hospital ( ! ,dep>tm5t at ! direction ( any p]son employ$ by 7or affiliat$ or associat$1 directly or indirectly1 )7 ! hospital1 b does n include su* a movem5t ( an individual :o-- 7,a7 has be5 decl>$ dead2 or 7,b7 leaves ! facility )\t ! p]mission ( any su* p]son4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #ag ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #aghd ! foll[+ new item3 ,sec4 #aghd;,a4 ,exam9ation & treatm5t = em]g5cy m$ical conditions & wom5 9 labor4 4 #bdg4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al audit ( budget ( ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #gc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #gccj;,b4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al audit ( budget ( ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates %all p]iodically conduct an audit ( elem5ts ( ! budget ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration1 includ+ ! budget =mulation1 execution1 allocation1 & use ( funds4 7b7 ,selection ( elem5ts 7#a7 ,9 select+ elem5ts ( ! budget ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration = purposes ( an audit "u subsection 7a71 ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al %all take into consid]ation-- 7,a7 k ( ! programs ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration2 7,b7 curr5t issues2 7,c7 national priorities2 & 7,d7 priorities express$ by ! appropriate congressional committees4 7#b7 ,n lat] ?an #cj days be=e conduct+ an audit "u subsection 7a71 ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al %all submit to ! appropriate congressional committees notice ( ! elem5ts select$ by ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al = purposes ( ! audit4 7c7 ,appropriate congressional committees ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m appropriate congressional committees means-- 7#a7 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs1 ! ,committee on ,appropriations1 & ! ,committee on ! ,budget ( ! ,s5ate2 & 7#b7 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs1 ! ,committee on ,appropriations1 & ! ,committee on ! ,budget ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #gc ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gccj;,a ! foll[+ new item3 #gccj;,b4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al audit ( budget ( ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration4 4 #bdh4 ,annual report on ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration & furni%+ ( hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & nurs+ home c>e 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #gc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #bdg7;a71 is fur!r am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #gccj;,c4 ,annual report on ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration & furni%+ ( hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & nurs+ home c>e 7a7 ,report requir$ ,n lat] ?an ,m>* #a ( ea* ( ye>s #bjah ?r\gh #bjbb1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on1 = ! cal5d> ye> prec$+ ! cal5d> ye> dur+ :i* ! report is submitt$-- 7#a7 ! furni%+ ( hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & nurs+ home c>e "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y2 & 7#b7 ! adm9i/ration ( ! furni%+ ( su* c>e & s]vices by ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration4 7b7 ,elem5ts ,ea* report requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all include ea* ( ! foll[+ = ! ye> cov]$ by ! report3 7#a7 ,an evaluation ( ! effectiv5ess ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration 9 increas+ ! access ( vet]ans to hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & nurs+ home c>e furni%$ by ! ,secret>y = :i* su* vet]ans are eligible4 7#b7 ,an evaluation ( ! effectiv5ess ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration 9 improv+ ! quality ( heal? c>e provid$ to vet]ans1 )\t increas+ ! co/s incurr$ = su* heal? c>e by ! ,f$]al ,gov]nm5t or vet]ans1 includ+ relevant in=mation = ea* m$ical c5t] & ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network ( ! ,dep>tm5t set =? sep>ately4 7#c7 ,an assessm5t (-- 7,a7 ! workload ( physicians & o!r employees ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration2 7,b7 pati5t demographics & utilization rates2 7,c7 physician comp5sation2 7,d7 ! productivity ( physicians & o!r employees ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration2 7,e7 ! p]c5tage ( hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & nurs+ home c>e provid$ to vet]ans 9 facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t & 9 non-,dep>tm5t facilities & any *anges 9 su* p]c5tages comp>$ to ! ye> prec$+ ! ye> cov]$ by ! report2 7,f7 ph>maceutical prices2 & 7,g7 ?ird-p>ty heal? bill+s ow$ to ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ ! total am\nt ( su* bill+s & ! total am\nt collect$ by ! ,dep>tm5t1 set =? sep>ately = claims great] ?an #a1jjj & = claims equal to or less ?an #a1jjj4 7c7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section1 ! t]ms hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 nurs+ home c>e1 facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 & non-,dep>tm5t facilities h ! mean+s giv5 ^? t]ms 9 section #agja ( ?is title4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #gc ( su* title1 z am5d$ by section #bdg7;b71 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gccj;,b ! foll[+ new item3 #gccj;,c4 ,annual report on ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration & furni%+ ( hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & nurs+ home c>e4 4 ,f ,opioid !rapy & pa9 managem5t #bea4 ,guidel9es on managem5t ( opioid !rapy by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se & implem5tation ( su* guidel9es by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,guidel9es 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se %all jo9tly update ! ,,va_/,,dod ,cl9ical ,practice ,guidel9e = ,managem5t ( ,opioid ,!rapy = ,*ronic ,pa9 to include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,guidel9es develop$ by ! ,c5t]s = ,disease ,control & ,prev5tion = safely prescrib+ opioids = ! treatm5t ( *ronic1 noncanc] relat$ pa9 9 outpati5t sett+s4 7,b7 ,enhanc$ guidance ) respect to absolute contra9dications = opioid !rapy1 includ+ guidance ) respect to ! foll[+3 7i7 ,! coadm9i/ration ( drugs1 includ+ b5zodiazep9es1 t are capable ( induc+ a life-limit+ drug-drug int]action4 7ii7 ,! treatm5t ( pati5ts ) curr5t acute psy*iatric in/ability or sub/ance use disord] or pati5ts at risk ( suicide4 7iii7 ,! use ( opioid !rapy to treat pati5ts )\t any pa91 includ+ to treat m5tal heal? disord]s o!r ?an opioid use disord]4 7,c7 ,enhanc$ guidance ) respect to ! treatm5t ( pati5ts ) behaviors or comorbidities1 su* z po/-traumatic /ress disord]1 psy*iatric disord]s1 or a hi/ory ( sub/ance abuse or addiction1 t require consultation or comanagem5t ( opioid !rapy ) "o or m speciali/s 9 pa9 managem5t1 m5tal heal?1 or addictions4 7,d7 ,enhanc$ guidance ) respect to ! conduct by heal? c>e provid]s ( an effectiv5ess assessm5t = pati5ts receiv+ opioid !rapy1 includ+ pati5ts on long-t]m opioid !rapy1 to det]m9e-- 7i7 :e!r opioid !rapy is meet+ ! expect$ goals ( ! pati5t & heal? c>e provid] ( reliev+ pa9 & improv+ function2 & 7ii7 :e!r opioid !rapy %\ld be cont9u$4 7,e7 ,requirem5ts t ea* heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 be=e initiat+ opioid !rapy to treat a pati5t1 use ! ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ by access+ ! mo/ rec5t pati5t in=mation f ! prescription drug monitor+ program ( ea* ,/ate1 z requir$ to be includ$ 9 su* tool "u section #beb7;d77#a71 to assess ! risk = adv]se outcomes ( opioid !rapy = ! pati5t1 includ+ ! concurr5t use ( controll$ sub/ances su* z b5zodiazep9es1 z "p ( ! compreh5sive assessm5t conduct$ by ! heal? c>e provid]4 7,f7 ,guidel9es to in=m ! me?odologies us$ by heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se to safely titrate & tap] opioid !rapy :5 adju/+ or discont9u+ ! use ( opioid !rapy1 includ+-- 7i7 prescription ( ! l[e/ effective dose bas$ on pati5t ne$2 7ii7 use ( opioids only = a limit$ p]iod ( "t2 & 7iii7 augm5tation ( opioid !rapy ) o!r pa9 managem5t !rapies & modalities4 7,g7 ,enhanc$ recomm5dations ) respect to ! use ( r\t9e & r&om ur9e drug te/s = all pati5ts be=e & dur+ opioid !rapy to help prev5t sub/ance abuse1 dep5d5ce1 & div]sion1 includ+-- 7i7 t su* te/s %\ld occur n less frequ5tly ?an annually or z o!rwise det]m9$ accord+ to pati5t treatm5t protocols2 & 7ii7 t heal? c>e provid]s %\ld appropriately int]pret & respond to ! results f su* te/s to tailor pa9 !rapy1 safegu>ds1 & risk managem5t /rategies to ea* pati5t4 7,h7 ,guidance t heal? c>e provid]s discuss ) pati5ts1 be=e initiat+ opioid !rapy1 options = pa9 managem5t !rapies )\t ! use ( opioids & options to augm5t opioid !rapy ) o!r cl9ical & complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices to m9imize opioid dep5d5ce4 7#b7 ,rule ( con/ruction ,no?+ 9 ?is subsection %all be con/ru$ to prev5t ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se f consid]+ all relevant evid5ce1 z appropriate1 9 updat+ ! ,,va_/,,dod ,cl9ical ,practice ,guidel9e = ,managem5t ( ,opioid ,!rapy = ,*ronic ,pa91 z requir$ "u p>agraph 7#a71 or f ensur+ t ! f9al cl9ical practice guidel9e updat$ "u su* p>agraph rema9s applicable to ! pati5t populations ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se4 7b7 ,consultation be=e update ,be=e updat+ ! cl9ical practice guidel9e "u subsection 7a71 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se %all jo9tly consult ) ! ,pa9 ,managem5t ,work+ ,gr\p ( ! ,heal? ,executive ,committee ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs-,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se ,jo9t ,executive ,committee e/abli%$ "u section #cbj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7c7 ,controll$ sub/ance def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m controll$ sub/ance has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #ajb ( ! ,controll$ ,sub/ances ,act 7#ba ,u4,s4,c4 #hjb74 #beb4 ,improvem5t ( opioid safety measures by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,expansion ( ,opioid ,safety ,initiative ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all exp& ! ,opioid ,safety ,initiative ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to include all m$ical facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7b7 ,pa9 managem5t education & tra9+ 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 c>ry+ out ! ,opioid ,safety ,initiative ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! ,secret>y %all require all employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t responsible = prescrib+ opioids to receive education & tra9+ describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b74 7#b7 ,education & tra9+ ,education & tra9+ describ$ 9 ?is p>agraph is education & tra9+ on pa9 managem5t & safe opioid prescrib+ practices = purposes ( safely & effectively manag+ pati5ts ) *ronic pa91 includ+ education & tra9+ on ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! implem5tation ( & full compliance ) ! ,,va_/,,dod ,cl9ical ,practice ,guidel9e = ,managem5t ( ,opioid ,!rapy = ,*ronic ,pa91 includ+ any update to su* guidel9e4 7,b7 ,! use ( evid5ce-bas$ pa9 managem5t !rapies1 includ+ cognitive-behavioral !rapy1 nonopioid alt]natives1 & non-drug me?ods & proc$ures = manag+ pa9 & relat$ heal? conditions includ+ complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices4 7,c7 ,scre5+ & id5tification ( pati5ts ) sub/ance use disord]1 includ+ drug-seek+ behavior1 be=e prescrib+ opioids1 assessm5t ( ! risk pot5tial = pati5ts develop+ an addiction1 & ref]ral ( pati5ts to appropriate addiction treatm5t pr(essionals if addiction is id5tifi$ or /rongly suspect$4 7,d7 ,communication ) pati5ts on ! pot5tial h>m associat$ ) ! use ( opioids & o!r controll$ sub/ances1 includ+ ! ne$ to safely /ore & dispose ( supplies relat+ to ! use ( opioids & o!r controll$ sub/ances4 7,e7 ,su* o!r education & tra9+ z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate to ensure t vet]ans receive safe & high-quality pa9 managem5t c>e f ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#c7 ,use ( exi/+ program ,9 provid+ education & tra9+ describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b71 ! ,secret>y %all use ! ,int]discipl9>y ,*ronic ,pa9 ,managem5t ,tra9+ ,team ,program ( ! ,dep>tm5t 7or any successor program74 7c7 ,pa9 managem5t teams 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 c>ry+ out ! ,opioid ,safety ,initiative ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! director ( ea* m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t %all id5tify & designate a pa9 managem5t team ( heal? c>e pr(essionals1 :i* may include bo>d c]tifi$ pa9 m$ic9e speciali/s1 responsible = coord9at+ & ov]see+ pa9 managem5t !rapy at su* facility = pati5ts exp]i5c+ acute & *ronic pa9 t is noncanc] relat$4 7#b7 ,e/abli%m5t ( protocols 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 consultation ) ! ,directors ( ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks1 ! ,secret>y %all e/abli% /&>d protocols = ! designation ( pa9 managem5t teams at ea* m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,b7 ,consultation on prescription ( opioids ,ea* protocol e/abli%$ = a m$ical facility "u subp>agraph 7,a7 %all ensure t any heal? c>e provid] )\t exp]tise 9 prescrib+ analgesics or :o has n complet$ ! education & tra9+ "u subsection 7b71 su* z a m5tal heal? c>e provid]1 does n prescribe opioids to a pati5t unless t heal? c>e provid]-- 7i7 consults ) a heal? c>e provid] ) pa9 managem5t exp]tise or :o is on ! pa9 managem5t team ( ! m$ical facility2 & 7ii7 ref]s ! pati5t to t pa9 managem5t team = any subsequ5t prescriptions & relat$ !rapy4 7#c7 ,report 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! director ( ea* m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t %all submit to ! ,"u ,secret>y = ,heal? ( ! ,dep>tm5t & ! ,director ( ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network 9 :i* ! m$ical facility is locat$ a report id5tify+ ! heal? c>e pr(essionals t h be5 designat$ z memb]s ( ! pa9 managem5t team at ! m$ical facility "u p>agraph 7#a74 7,b7 ,elem5ts ,ea* report submitt$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 ) respect to a m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t %all include-- 7i7 a c]tification z to :e!r all memb]s ( ! pa9 managem5t team at ! m$ical facility h complet$ ! education & tra9+ requir$ "u subsection 7b72 7ii7 a plan = ! managem5t & ref]ral ( pati5ts to su* pa9 managem5t team if heal? c>e provid]s )\t exp]tise 9 prescrib+ analgesics prescribe opioid m$ications to treat acute & *ronic pa9 t is noncanc] relat$2 & 7iii7 a c]tification z to :e!r ! m$ical facility-- 7,i7 fully complies ) ! /epp$-c>e model ( pa9 managem5t & o!r pa9 managem5t policies ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 or 7,,ii7 does n fully comply ) ! /epp$-c>e model ( pa9 managem5t & o!r pa9 managem5t policies ( ! ,dep>tm5t b is c>ry+ out a corrective plan ( action to ensure su* full compliance4 7d7 ,track+ & monitor+ ( opioid use 7#a7 ,prescription drug monitor+ programs ( ,/ates ,9 c>ry+ out ! ,opioid ,safety ,initiative & ! ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! ,secret>y %all-- 7,a7 ensure access by heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t to in=mation on controll$ sub/ances1 includ+ opioids & b5zodiazep9es1 prescrib$ to vet]ans :o receive c>e outside ! ,dep>tm5t ?r\gh ! prescription drug monitor+ program ( ea* ,/ate ) su* a program1 includ+ by seek+ to ent] into memor&a ( und]/&+ ) ,/ates to all[ %>$ access ( su* in=mation betwe5 ,/ates & ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,b7 include su* in=mation 9 ! ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 & 7,c7 require heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t to submit to ! prescription drug monitor+ program ( ea* ,/ate ) su* a program in=mation on prescriptions ( controll$ sub/ances receiv$ by vet]ans 9 t ,/ate "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y4 7#b7 ,report on track+ ( data on opioid use ,n lat] ?an #ah mon?s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! feasibility & advisability ( improv+ ! ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool ( ! ,dep>tm5t to all[ = m advanc$ real-"t track+ ( & access to data on-- 7,a7 ! key cl9ical indicators ) respect to ! totality ( opioid use by vet]ans2 7,b7 concurr5t prescrib+ by heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( opioids 9 diff]5t heal? c>e sett+s1 includ+ data on concurr5t prescrib+ ( opioids to treat m5tal heal? disord]s o!r ?an opioid use disord]2 & 7,c7 mail-ord] prescriptions ( opioids prescrib$ to vet]ans "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y4 7e7 ,availability ( opioid receptor antagoni/s 7#a7 ,increas$ availability & use 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y %all increase ! availability ( opioid receptor antagoni/s approv$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration1 su* z naloxone1 to vet]ans4 7,b7 ,availability1 tra9+1 & di/ribution ,9 c>ry+ out subp>agraph 7,a71 ! ,secret>y %all1 n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act-- 7i7 equip ea* ph>macy ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) opioid receptor antagoni/s approv$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration to be disp5s$ to outpati5ts z ne$$2 & 7ii7 exp& ! ,ov]dose ,education & ,naloxone ,di/ribution program ( ! ,dep>tm5t to ensure t all vet]ans 9 receipt ( heal? c>e "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y :o are at risk ( opioid ov]dose may access su* opioid receptor antagoni/s & tra9+ on ! prop] adm9i/ration ( su* opioid receptor antagoni/s4 7,c7 ,vet]ans :o are at risk ,= purposes ( subp>agraph 7,b71 vet]ans :o are at risk ( opioid ov]dose include-- 7i7 vet]ans receiv+ long-t]m opioid !rapy2 7ii7 vet]ans receiv+ opioid !rapy :o h a hi/ory ( sub/ance use disord] or prior in/ances ( ov]dose2 & 7iii7 vet]ans :o are at risk z det]m9$ by a heal? c>e provid] :o is treat+ ! vet]an4 7#b7 ,report ,n lat] ?an #abj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on compliance ) p>agraph 7#a7 t includes an assessm5t ( any rema9+ /eps to be implem5t$ by ! ,secret>y to comply ) su* p>agraph4 7f7 ,inclusion ( c]ta9 in=mation & capabilities 9 ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool 7#a7 ,in=mation ,! ,secret>y %all include 9 ! ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool ( ! ,dep>tm5t-- 7,a7 in=mation on ! mo/ rec5t "t ! tool 0 access$ by a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) respect to ea* vet]an2 & 7,b7 in=mation on ! results ( ! mo/ rec5t ur9e drug te/ = ea* vet]an4 7#b7 ,capabilities ,! ,secret>y %all include 9 ! ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool ! ability ( heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t to det]m9e :e!r a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t prescrib$ opioids to a vet]an )\t *eck+ ! in=mation 9 ! tool ) respect to ! vet]an4 7g7 ,notification ( risk 9 comput]iz$ heal? record ,! ,secret>y %all modify ! ,comput]iz$ ,pati5t ,record ,sy/em ( ! ,dep>tm5t to ensure t any heal? c>e provid] t accesses ! record ( a vet]an1 reg>dless ( ! reason ! vet]an seeks c>e f ! heal? c>e provid]1 w be imm$iately notifi$ :e!r ! vet]an-- 7#a7 is receiv+ opioid !rapy & has a hi/ory ( sub/ance use disord] or prior in/ances ( ov]dose2 7#b7 has a hi/ory ( opioid abuse2 or 7#c7 is at risk ( becom+ an opioid abus] z det]m9$ by a heal? c>e provid] :o is treat+ ! vet]an4 7h7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,controll$ sub/ance ,! t]m controll$ sub/ance has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #ajb ( ! ,controll$ ,sub/ances ,act 7#ba ,u4,s4,c4 #hjb74 7#b7 ,/ate ,! t]m ,/ate means ea* ( ! sev]al ,/ates1 t]ritories1 & possessions ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 ! ,di/rict ( ,columbia1 & ! ,commonweal? ( ,pu]to ,rico4 #bec4 ,enhancem5t ( jo9t work+ gr\p on pa9 managem5t ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se %all ensure t ! ,pa9 ,managem5t ,work+ ,gr\p ( ! ,heal? ,executive ,committee ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs-,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se ,jo9t ,executive ,committee e/abli%$ "u section #cbj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 includes a focus on ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,! opioid prescrib+ practices ( heal? c>e provid]s ( ea* ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,! ability ( ea* ,dep>tm5t to manage acute & *ronic pa9 among individuals receiv+ heal? c>e f t ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ tra9+ heal? c>e provid]s ) respect to pa9 managem5t4 7#c7 ,! use by ea* ,dep>tm5t ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? 9 treat+ su* individuals4 7#d7 ,! concurr5t use by heal? c>e provid]s ( ea* ,dep>tm5t ( opioids = pati5ts :o take prescription drugs1 includ+ b5zodiazep9es1 to treat m5tal heal? disord]s4 7#e7 ,! use ( c>e transition plans by heal? c>e provid]s ( ea* ,dep>tm5t to address case managem5t issues = pati5ts receiv+ opioid !rapy :o transition betwe5 inpati5t & outpati5t sett+s4 7#f7 ,! coord9ation 9 cov]age ( & consi/5t access to m$ications prescrib$ = pati5ts transition+ f receiv+ heal? c>e f ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se to receiv+ heal? c>e f ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#g7 ,! ability ( ea* ,dep>tm5t to prop]ly scre51 id5tify1 & ref] = treatm5t pati5ts ) sub/ance abuse disord]s :o are seek+ treatm5t = acute & *ronic pa9 managem5t conditions4 7b7 ,coord9ation & consultation ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se %all ensure t ! work+ gr\p describ$ 9 subsection 7a7-- 7#a7 coord9ates ! activities ( ! work+ gr\p ) o!r relevant work+ gr\ps e/abli%$ "u section #cbj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 includ+ ! work+ gr\ps on evid5ce bas$ practice1 pati5t safety1 ph>macy1 & psy*ological heal?2 7#b7 consults ) o!r relevant ,f$]al ag5cies1 includ+ ! ,c5t]s = ,disease ,control & ,prev5tion1 ) respect to ! activities ( ! work+ gr\p2 7#c7 consults ) ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se ) respect to ! ,,va_/,,dod ,cl9ical ,practice ,guidel9e = ,managem5t ( ,opioid ,!rapy = ,*ronic ,pa91 or any successor guidel9e1 be=e any update to ! guidel9e is releas$2 & 7#d7 reviews & comm5ts on ! guidel9e describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#c7 be=e any update to su* guidel9e is releas$4 7c7 ,consultation ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se %all ensure t ! work+ gr\p describ$ 9 subsection 7a7 is able to mean+fully consult ) respect to ! updat$ guidel9e requir$ "u subsection 7a7 ( section #bea1 z requir$ by subsection 7b7 ( su* section1 n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #bed4 ,review1 inve/igation1 & report on use ( opioids 9 treatm5t by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,comptroll] ,g5]al report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an two ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! ,opioid ,safety ,initiative ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! opioid prescrib+ practices ( heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,elem5ts ,! report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,an assessm5t ( ! implem5tation & monitor+ by ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration ( ! ,opioid ,safety ,initiative ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ exam9+1 z appropriate1 ! foll[+3 7i7 ,h[ ! ,dep>tm5t monitors ! key cl9ical outcomes ( su* safety initiative 7= example1 ! p]c5tage ( unique vet]ans visit+ ea* m$ical c5t] ( ! ,dep>tm5t t are prescrib$ an opioid or an opioid & b5zodiazep9e concurr5tly7 & h[ ! ,dep>tm5t uses t in=mation-- 7,i7 to improve prescrib+ practices2 & 7,,ii7 to id5tify high prescrib+ or o!rwise inappropriate prescrib+ practices by heal? c>e provid]s4 7ii7 ,h[ ! ,dep>tm5t monitors ! use ( ! ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool ( ! ,dep>tm5t 7z develop$ ?r\gh su* safety initiative7 & compliance ) su* tool by m$ical facilities & heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ any f9d+s by ! ,dep>tm5t ( prescription rates or prescription practices by m$ical facilities or heal? c>e provid]s t are inappropriate4 7iii7 ,! implem5tation ( academic detail+ programs )9 ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks ( ! ,dep>tm5t & h[ su* programs are be+ us$ to improve opioid prescrib+ practices4 7,b7 ,in=mation ) respect to kn[n dea?s result+ f s5t9el ev5ts involv+ vet]ans prescrib$ opioids by a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,c7 ,in=mation made available "u ! ,opioid ,!rapy ,risk ,report tool ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) respect to ! foll[+3 7i7 ,ov]all prescription rates &1 if available1 indications us$ by heal? c>e provid]s = prescrib+ *ronic opioid !rapy to treat noncanc]1 non-palliative c>e1 & non-hospice c>e pati5ts4 7ii7 ,! prescription rates & indications us$ by heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t = prescrib+ b5zodiazep9es & *ronic opioid !rapy concurr5tly4 7iii7 ,! practice by heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( prescrib+ opioids to treat pati5ts )\t any kn[n pa91 includ+ to treat pati5ts ) m5tal heal? disord]s o!r ?an an opioid use disord]4 7,d7 ,an evaluation ( processes ( ! ,dep>tm5t to ov]see opioid use among vet]ans1 includ+ processes to id5tify & rem$y pot5tial ov]prescrib+ ( opioids by heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 & an evaluation ( ! use & effectiv5ess ( su* processes4 7,e7 ,an evaluation ( processes ( ! ,dep>tm5t to ov]see & ensure ! implem5tation by m$ical c5t]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ! ,,va_/,,dod ,cl9ical ,practice ,guidel9e = ,managem5t ( ,opioid ,!rapy1 z updat$ "u section #bea7;a71 includ+ any figures or approa*es us$ by ! ,dep>tm5t to assess implem5tation & compliance ) su* guidel9e by m$ical c5t]s & :e!r any m$ical c5t]s are op]at+ action plans to improve compliance ) su* guidel9e4 7,f7 ,an assessm5t ( ! data t ! ,dep>tm5t has develop$ to review ! opioid prescrib+ practices ( heal? c>e provid]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 z requir$ by ?is subtitle1 includ+ a review ( h[ ! ,dep>tm5t id5tifies ! practices ( individual heal? c>e provid]s t w>rant fur!r review bas$ on-- 7i7 prescrib+ levels2 7ii7 heal? conditions = :i* ! heal? c>e provid] is prescrib+ opioids or opioids & b5zodiazep9es concurr5tly2 or 7iii7 o!r practices ( ! heal? c>e provid]4 7b7 ,review ( prescription rates ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 & n less frequ5tly ?an annually !reaft]1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all1 ) respect to ea* m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 collect & review in=mation on opioids prescrib$ by heal? c>e provid]s at ! facility to treat noncanc]1 non-palliative c>e1 & non-hospice c>e pati5ts1 includ+ in=mation on-- 7#a7 ! prescription rate at :i* ea* heal? c>e provid] at ! facility prescrib$ opioids1 & b5zodiazep9es & opioids concurr5tly1 to su* pati5ts & ! aggregate ( su* prescription rates = all heal? c>e provid]s at ! facility2 7#b7 ! prescription rate at :i* ea* heal? c>e provid] at ! facility prescrib$ b5zodiazep9es or opioids to su* pati5ts to treat conditions = :i* b5zodiazep9es or opioids are n a recomm5d$ treatm5t & ! aggregate ( su* prescription rates = all heal? c>e provid]s at ! facility2 7#c7 ! prescription rate at :i* ea* heal? c>e provid] at ! facility prescrib$ or disp5s$ mail-ord] prescriptions ( opioids to su* pati5ts :ile su* pati5ts 7 be+ treat$ ) opioids on an inpati5t-basis & ! aggregate ( su* prescription rates = all heal? c>e provid]s at ! facility2 & 7#d7 ! prescription rate at :i* ea* heal? c>e provid] at ! facility prescrib$ opioids to su* pati5ts :o 7 also concurr5tly prescrib$ opioids by a heal? c>e provid] :o is n a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t & ! aggregate ( su* prescription rates = all heal? c>e provid]s at ! facility4 7c7 ,inve/igation ( prescription rates ,if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t a prescription rate describ$ 9 subsection 7b7 ) respect to a heal? c>e provid] or m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t conflicts ) or is o!rwise inconsi/5t ) ! /&>ds ( appropriate & safe c>e1 ! ,secret>y %all-- 7#a7 ?r\gh ! ,(fice ( ! ,m$ical ,inspector ( ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration1 conduct a full inve/igation ( ! heal? c>e provid] or m$ical facility1 z ! case may be2 7#b7 imm$iately notify ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ea* ,memb] ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives :o repres5ts ! area 9 :i* ! heal? c>e provid] or m$ical facility1 z ! case may be1 is locat$2 & 7#c7 include in=mation relat+ to su* det]m9ation1 prescription rate1 & heal? c>e provid] or m$ical facility1 z ! case may be1 9 ! report requir$ "u subsection 7d74 7d7 ,report on opioid !rapy 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 & n less frequ5tly ?an annually !reaft] ?r\gh #bjbf1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report t conta9s1 = ! "o-ye> p]iod prec$+ ! submittal ( ! report1 ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! numb] ( pati5ts & ! p]c5tage ( ! pati5t population ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs :o 7 prescrib$ opioids1 & b5zodiazep9es & opioids concurr5tly1 by a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,b7 ,! numb] ( pati5ts & ! p]c5tage ( ! pati5t population ( ! ,dep>tm5t )\t any docum5t$ pa9 :o 7 prescrib$ opioids by a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 includ+ ^? :o 7 prescrib$ b5zodiazep9es & opioids concurr5tly4 7,c7 ,! numb] ( noncanc]1 non-palliative c>e1 & non-hospice c>e pati5ts & ! p]c5tage ( su* pati5ts :o 7 treat$ ) opioids by a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t on an inpati5t-basis & :o 7 also s5t prescription opioids by mail by ! ,dep>tm5t :ile be+ treat$ on an inpati5t-basis4 7,d7 ,! numb] ( noncanc]1 non-palliative c>e1 & non-hospice c>e pati5ts & ! p]c5tage ( su* pati5ts :o 7 prescrib$ opioids concurr5tly by a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t & a heal? c>e provid] :o is n a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,e7 ,) respect to ea* m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! numb] ( times a ph>maci/ at ! facility ov]rode a critical drug int]action w>n+ ) respect to an int]action betwe5 opioids & ano!r m$ication be=e disp5s+ su* o!r m$ication to a vet]an4 7,f7 ,! results ( ! review conduct$ "u subsection 7b7 7includ+ a summ>y ( su* review at ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network level7 & ! inve/igation conduct$ "u subsection 7c7 7includ+ in=mation describ$ 9 subsection 7c77#c771 compil$ 9 su* a mann] z ! ,secret>y det]m9es appropriate to ensure t ! in=mation is easily accessible4 7#b7 ,subsequ5t reports ,ea* report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 aft] ! date t is two ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act %all include an assessm5t ( ! compliance ( ! ,dep>tm5t ) ! ,,va_/,,dod ,cl9ical ,practice ,guidel9e = ,managem5t ( ,opioid ,!rapy = ,*ronic ,pa91 includ+ any update to su* guidel9e4 7e7 ,prescription rate def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m prescription rate means1 ) respect to a heal? c>e provid] or m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ea* ( ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,! numb] ( pati5ts treat$ ) opioids by ! heal? c>e provid] or at ! m$ical facility1 z ! case may be1 divid$ by ! total numb] ( ph>macy us]s ( t heal? c>e provid] or m$ical facility4 7#b7 ,! av]age numb] ( morph9e equival5ts p] day prescrib$ by ! heal? c>e provid] or at ! m$ical facility1 z ! case may be1 to pati5ts be+ treat$ ) opioids4 7#c7 ,( ! pati5ts be+ treat$ ) opioids by ! heal? c>e provid] or at ! m$ical facility1 z ! case may be1 ! av]age numb] ( prescriptions ( opioids p] pati5t4 #bee4 ,elim9ation ( copaym5t requirem5t = vet]ans receiv+ opioid antagoni/s or education on use ( opioid antagoni/s 7a7 ,copaym5t = opioid antagoni/s ,section #agbb;,a7a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#d7 ,p>agraph 7#a7 does n apply to opioid antagoni/s furni%$ "u ?is *apt] to a vet]an :o is at high risk = ov]dose ( a specific m$ication or sub/ance 9 ord] to rev]se ! effect ( su* an ov]dose4 4 7b7 ,copaym5t = education on use ( opioid antagoni/s ,section #agaj7;g77#c7 ( su* title is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ ) respect to home heal? s]vices & ins]t+ 8) respect to ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,home heal? s]vices 2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subp>agraph3 7,b7 ,education on ! use ( opioid antagoni/s to rev]se ! effects ( ov]doses ( specific m$ications or sub/ances4 4 ,g ,pati5t advocacy & outrea* #bfa4 ,e/abli%m5t ( ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,i ( *apt] #gc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #gcji;,a4 ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy 7a7 ,e/abli%m5t ,!re is e/abli%$ 9 ! ,dep>tm5t )9 ! ,(fice ( ! ,"u ,secret>y = ,heal? an (fice to be kn[n z ! ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! ,(fice74 7b7 ,head 7#a7 ,! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy %all be ! head ( ! ,(fice4 7#b7 ,! ,director ( ! ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy %all be appo9t$ by ! ,"u ,secret>y = ,heal? f among individuals qualifi$ to p]=m ! duties ( ! position & %all report directly to ! ,"u ,secret>y = ,heal?4 7c7 ,function 7#a7 ,! function ( ! ,(fice is to c>ry out ! ,pati5t ,advocacy ,program ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,9 c>ry+ out ! ,pati5t ,advocacy ,program ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ! ,director %all ensure t pati5t advocates ( ! ,dep>tm5t-- 7,a7 advocate on behalf ( vet]ans ) respect to heal? c>e receiv$ & s\ght by vet]ans "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y2 7,b7 c>ry out ! responsibilities specifi$ 9 subsection 7d72 & 7,c7 receive tra9+ 9 pati5t advocacy4 7d7 ,pati5t advocacy responsibilities ,! responsibilities ( ea* pati5t advocate at a m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t are ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,to resolve compla9ts by vet]ans ) respect to heal? c>e furni%$ "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y t _c be resolv$ at ! po9t ( s]vice or at a high] level easily accessible to ! vet]an4 7#b7 ,to pres5t at v>i\s meet+s & to v>i\s committees ! issues exp]i5c$ by vet]ans 9 receiv+ su* heal? c>e at su* m$ical facility4 7#c7 ,to express to vet]ans _! rights & responsibilities z pati5ts 9 receiv+ su* heal? c>e4 7#d7 ,to manage ! ,pati5t ,advocate ,track+ ,sy/em ( ! ,dep>tm5t at su* m$ical facility4 7#e7 ,to compile data at su* m$ical facility ( compla9ts made by vet]ans ) respect to ! receipt ( su* heal? c>e at su* m$ical facility & ! satisfaction ( vet]ans ) su* heal? c>e at su* m$ical facility to det]m9e :e!r !re are tr5ds 9 su* data4 7#f7 ,to ensure t a process is 9 place = ! di/ribution ( ! data compil$ "u p>agraph 7#e7 to appropriate lead]s1 committees1 s]vices1 & /aff ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#g7 ,to id5tify1 n less frequ5tly ?an qu>t]ly1 opportunities = improvem5ts 9 ! furni%+ ( su* heal? c>e to vet]ans at su* m$ical facility bas$ on compla9ts by vet]ans4 7#h7 ,to ensure t any significant compla9t by a vet]an ) respect to su* heal? c>e is br\ght to ! att5tion ( appropriate /aff ( ! ,dep>tm5t to trigg] an assessm5t ( :e!r !re ne$s to be a fur!r analysis ( ! problem at ! facility-wide level4 7#i7 ,to support any pati5t advocacy programs c>ri$ out by ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#aj7 ,to ensure t all appeals & f9al decisions ) respect to ! receipt ( su* heal? c>e are ent]$ into ! ,pati5t ,advocate ,track+ ,sy/em ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#aa7 ,to und]/& all laws1 directives1 & o!r rules ) respect to ! rights & responsibilities ( vet]ans 9 receiv+ su* heal? c>e1 includ+ ! appeals processes available to vet]ans4 7#ab7 ,to ensure t vet]ans receiv+ m5tal heal? c>e1 or ! surrogate decision-mak]s = su* vet]ans1 are aw>e ( ! rights ( vet]ans to seek repres5tation f sy/ems e/abli%$ "u section #ajc ( ! ,protection & ,advocacy = ,m5tally ,ill ,individuals ,act ( #aihf 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #ajhjc7 to protect & advocate ! rights ( individuals ) m5tal illness & to inve/igate incid5ts ( abuse & neglect ( su* individuals4 7#ac7 ,to fulfill requirem5ts e/abli%$ by ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! inspection ( controll$ sub/ances4 7#ad7 ,to docum5t pot5tially ?reat5+ behavior & report su* behavior to appropriate au?orities4 7e7 ,tra9+ ,9 provid+ tra9+ to pati5t advocates "u subsection 7c77#b77;,c71 ! ,director %all ensure t su* tra9+ is consi/5t ?r\gh\t ! ,dep>tm5t4 7f7 ,controll$ sub/ance def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m controll$ sub/ance has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #ajb ( ! ,controll$ ,sub/ances ,act 7#ba ,u4,s4,c4 #hjb74 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #gc ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gcji ! foll[+ new item3 #gcji;,a4 ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy4 4 7c7 ,date fully op]ational ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all ensure t ! ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,advocacy e/abli%$ "u section #gcji;,a ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 is fully op]ational n lat] ?an ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #bfb4 ,community meet+s on improv+ c>e f ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,community meet+s 7#a7 ,m$ical c5t]s ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 & n less frequ5tly ?an once e #ij days !reaft]1 ea* m$ical c5t] ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all ho/ a community meet+ op5 to ! public on improv+ heal? c>e f ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,community-bas$ outpati5t cl9ics ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 & n less frequ5tly ?an annually !reaft]1 ea* community-bas$ outpati5t cl9ic ( ! ,dep>tm5t %all ho/ a community meet+ op5 to ! public on improv+ heal? c>e f ! ,dep>tm5t4 7b7 ,att5dance by ,director ( ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network or designee 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,subject to p>agraph 7#b71 ea* community meet+ ho/$ by a m$ical c5t] or community-bas$ outpati5t cl9ic "u subsection 7a7 %all be att5d$ by ! ,director ( ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network 9 :i* ! m$ical c5t] or community-bas$ outpati5t cl9ic1 z ! case may be1 is locat$1 or an employee designat$ by ! ,director :o works 9 ! (fice ( ! ,director4 7#b7 ,att5dance by ,director ,ea* ,director ( a ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network %all att5d n few] ?an "o community meet+ "u subsection 7a7 ho/$ by ea* m$ical c5t] locat$ 9 ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,network ea* ye>4 7c7 ,notice ,) respect to any community meet+ at a m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t "u subsection 7a71 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all notify ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ea* ,memb] ( ,congress :o repres5ts ! area 9 :i* ! m$ical facility is locat$ ( su* meet+ n lat] ?an #aj days be=e su* meet+ occurs4 #bfc4 ,outrea* to vet]ans reg>d+ effect ( c]ta9 delay$ paym5ts by ,*ief ,bus9ess ,(fice ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,outrea* 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all conduct outrea*1 includ+ ?r\gh national & local vet]ans s]vice organizations1 to in=m vet]ans ( h[ to resolve cr$it issues caus$ by delay$ paym5t ( a claim = em]g5cy hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 or o!r em]g5cy heal? c>e furni%$ ?r\gh a non-,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs provid]4 7#b7 ,telephone numb] ,! ,secret>y %all e/abli% a toll-free telephone numb] = vet]ans to report cr$it issues describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 to ! ,*ief ,bus9ess ,(fice ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7b7 ,annual report 7#a7 ,report requir$ 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,dur+ ! five-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y %all annually submit to ,congress a report on ! effectiv5ess ( ! ,*ief ,bus9ess ,(fice ( ! ,dep>tm5t 9 provid+ timely paym5t ( prop] invoices = em]g5cy hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 or o!r em]g5cy heal? c>e furni%$ ?r\gh non-,dep>tm5t provid]s by ! requir$ paym5t date dur+ bo? ! five-ye> p]iod prec$+ ! date ( ! report & ! "o-ye> p]iod prec$+ su* date4 7,b7 ,paym5ts by ,v,i,s,ns ,= any "p ( ! p]iod cov]$ by a report "u ?is subsection t occurr$ be=e ,octob] #a1 #bjad1 ! report %all evaluate ! provision ( paym5ts describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a7 by ! ,vet]ans ,integrat$ ,s]vice ,networks4 7#b7 ,matt]s includ$ ,ea* report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include1 = ea* p]iod cov]$ by ! report1 ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! numb] ( vet]ans :o contact$ ! ,secret>y reg>d+ a delay$ paym5t t negatively affect$1 or w pot5tially negatively affect1 ! cr$it ( ! vet]an4 7,b7 ,! total am\nt ( int]e/ p5alties paid by ! ,secret>y "u section #cijb ( title #ca1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 by reason ( a delay$ paym5t4 7,c7 ,! numb] ( prop] invoices submitt$1 li/$ 9 a table = ea* qu>t] & fiscal ye> ( ea* su* p]iod t includes-- 7i7 ! total am\nt ow$ by ! ,secret>y "u ! prop] invoices2 7ii7 ! paym5t /atus ( ea* prop] invoice1 z ( ! date ( ! report2 & 7iii7 ! p]iod t elaps$ until ea* prop] invoice 0 paid1 includ+ an explanation ( any delay$ paym5t4 7,d7 ,any comm5ts by ! ,secret>y reg>d+ delay$ paym5ts made by heal? c>e provid]s4 7,e7 ,a description ( ! be/ practices t ! ,*ief ,bus9ess ,(fice ( ! ,dep>tm5t uses to provide timely paym5t ( prop] invoices1 includ+ a plan to improve su* timely paym5ts4 7c7 ,qu>t]ly reports on p5d+ claims 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,dur+ ! five-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,*ief ,bus9ess ,(fice ( ! ,dep>tm5t %all submit to ,congress qu>t]ly reports on ! numb] ( p5d+ claims = reimbursem5t = em]g5cy hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & o!r em]g5cy heal? c>e furni%$ ?r\gh non-,dep>tm5t provid]s4 7#b7 ,elem5ts ,ea* report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include1 ) respect to p5d+ claims describ$ 9 su* p>agraph1 ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! total numb] ( su* p5d+ claims = ea* hospital sy/em ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 z ( ! la/ day ( ! qu>t] cov]$ by ! report4 7,b7 ,! total numb] ( vet]ans :o submitt$ su* a p5d+ claim 9 ea* ,/ate1 z ( su* day4 7,c7 ,! aggregate am\nt ( all su* p5d+ claims 9 ea* ,/ate1 z ( su* day4 7,d7 ,z ( su* day-- 7i7 ! numb] ( su* p5d+ claims t h be5 p5d+ = #cj days or long]2 7ii7 ! numb] ( su* p5d+ claims t h be5 p5d+ = #ij days or long]2 & 7iii7 ! numb] ( su* p5d+ claims t h be5 p5d+ = "o ye> or long]4 7,e7 ,= ea* hospital sy/em1 = ! qu>t] cov]$ by ! report-- 7i7 ! numb] ( claims = reimbursem5t = em]g5cy hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & o!r em]g5cy heal? c>e furni%$ ?r\gh non-,dep>tm5t provid]s approv$ dur+ su* qu>t]2 7ii7 ! numb] ( su* claims d5i$ dur+ su* qu>t]2 & 7iii7 ! numb] ( su* claims d5i$ li/$ by ea* d5ial reason gr\p4 7d7 ,comptroll] ,g5]al /udy 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates %all conduct a /udy t evaluates ! effectiv5ess ( ! ,*ief ,bus9ess ,(fice ( ! ,dep>tm5t 9 provid+ timely paym5t ( prop] invoices = em]g5cy hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 or o!r em]g5cy heal? c>e furni%$ ?r\gh non-,dep>tm5t provid]s by ! requir$ paym5t date4 7#b7 ,submittal ,! ,comptroll] ,g5]al %all submit to ,congress a report on ! /udy conduct$ "u p>agraph 7#a71 includ+ ! total am\nt ( int]e/ p5alties paid by ! ,secret>y "u section #cijb ( title #ca1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 by reason ( a delay$ paym5t4 7e7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m delay$ paym5t means a prop] invoice t is n paid by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs until aft] ! requir$ paym5t date4 7#b7 ,! t]m prop] invoice has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #cija7;a7 ( title #ca1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#c7 ,! t]m requir$ paym5t date means ! date t paym5t is due "u a contract pursuant to section #cijc7;a7 ( title #ca1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #bfd4 ,improvem5t ( aw>5ess ( pati5t advocacy program & pati5t bill ( rights ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all1 9 z _m prom95t locations z appropriate to be se5 by ! l>ge/ p]c5tage ( pati5ts & family memb]s ( pati5ts at ea* m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs-- 7#a7 display ! purposes ( ! ,pati5t ,advocacy ,program ( ! ,dep>tm5t & ! contact in=mation = ! pati5t advocate at su* m$ical facility2 & 7#b7 display ! rights & responsibilities (-- 7,a7 pati5ts & family memb]s ( pati5ts at su* m$ical facility2 & 7,b7 ) respect to community liv+ c5t]s & o!r resid5tial facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 resid5ts & family memb]s ( resid5ts at su* m$ical facility4 #bfe4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al ,report on ,pati5t ,advocacy ,program ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ?ree ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! ,pati5t ,advocacy ,program ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! ,program74 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! report requir$ by subsection 7a7-- 7#a7 %all include-- 7,a7 su* recomm5dations & proposals = improv+ or modify+ ! ,program z ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al consid]s appropriate2 & 7,b7 su* o!r in=mation ) respect to ! ,program z ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al consid]s appropriate2 & 7#b7 may include-- 7,a7 a description ( ! ,program1 includ+-- 7i7 ! purposes ( ! ,program2 7ii7 ! activities c>ri$ out "u ! ,program2 & 7iii7 an assessm5t by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ( ! suffici5cy ( ! ,program 9 a*iev+ ! purposes ( ! ,program2 7,b7 an assessm5t ( ! suffici5cy ( /aff+ ( employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t responsible = c>ry+ out ! ,program2 7,c7 an assessm5t ( ! suffici5cy ( ! tra9+ ( su* employees2 & 7,d7 an assessm5t (-- 7i7 aw>5ess ( ! ,program among vet]ans & _! family memb]s2 & 7ii7 ! use ( ! ,program by vet]ans & _! family memb]s4 ,h ,adm9i/ration ( non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e #bga4 ,paym5t ( non-,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs heal? c>e provid]s 7a7 ,paym5t ( provid]s 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,i ( *apt] #ag ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #agjc ! foll[+ new section3 #agjc;,a4 ,paym5t ( non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s 7a7 ,prompt paym5t compliance ,! ,secret>y %all ensure t paym5ts made to non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s pursuant to an agreem5t "u ?is *apt] comply ) *apt] #ci ( title #ca 7commonly ref]r$ to z ! ,prompt ,paym5t ,act7 & ! requirem5ts ( ?is section4 ,if !re is a conflict betwe5 ! requirem5ts ( ! ,prompt ,paym5t ,act & ! requirem5ts ( ?is section1 ! ,secret>y %all comply ) ! requirem5ts ( ?is section4 7b7 ,submittal ( claim 7#a7 ,a non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid] t seeks reimbursem5t "u ?is section = c>e or s]vices furni%$ "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,secret>y a claim = reimbursem5t n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] furni%+ su* c>e or s]vices4 7#b7 ,on & aft] ,janu>y #a1 #bjai1 ! ,secret>y %all n accept any claim "u ?is section t is submitt$ to ! ,secret>y 9 a mann] o!r ?an electronically4 7c7 ,paym5t s*$ule 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all reimburse a non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid] = c>e or s]vices furni%$ "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y-- 7,a7 9 ! case ( a clean claim submitt$ to ! ,secret>y electronically1 n lat] ?an #cj days aft] receiv+ ! claim2 or 7,b7 9 ! case ( a clean claim submitt$ to ! ,secret>y 9 a mann] o!r ?an electronically1 n lat] ?an #de days aft] receiv+ ! claim4 7#b7 7,a7 ,if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t a claim receiv$ f a non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid] = c>e or s]vices furni%$ "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y is a non-clean claim1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! provid]1 n lat] ?an #cj days aft] receiv+ ! claim-- 7i7 a notification t ! claim is a non-clean claim2 7ii7 an explanation ( :y ! claim has be5 det]m9$ to be a non-clean claim2 & 7iii7 an id5tification ( ! in=mation or docum5tation t is requir$ to make ! claim a clean claim4 7,b7 ,if ! ,secret>y does n comply ) ! requirem5ts ( subp>agraph 7,a7 ) respect to a claim1 ! claim %all be deem$ a clean claim = purposes ( p>agraph 7#a74 7#c7 ,^u receipt by ! ,secret>y ( in=mation or docum5tation describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a77iii7 ) respect to a claim1 ! ,secret>y %all reimburse a non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid] = c>e or s]vices furni%$ "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y-- 7,a7 9 ! case ( a claim submitt$ to ! ,secret>y electronically1 n lat] ?an #cj days aft] receiv+ su* in=mation or docum5tation2 or 7,b7 9 ! case ( a claim submitt$ to ! ,secret>y 9 a mann] o!r ?an electronically1 n lat] ?an #de days aft] receiv+ su* in=mation or docum5tation4 7#d7 ,if ! ,secret>y fails to comply ) ! deadl9es = paym5t set =? 9 ?is subsection ) respect to a claim1 int]e/ %all accrue on ! am\nt ow$ "u su* claim 9 accordance ) section #cijb ( title #ca1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7d7 ,in=mation & docum5tation requir$ 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all provide to all non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s t furni% c>e or s]vices "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y a li/ ( in=mation & docum5tation t is requir$ to e/abli% a clean claim "u ?is section4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y %all consult ) entities 9 ! heal? c>e indu/ry1 9 ! public & private sector1 to det]m9e ! in=mation & docum5tation to include 9 ! li/ "u p>agraph 7#a74 7#c7 ,if ! ,secret>y modifies ! in=mation & docum5tation includ$ 9 ! li/ "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all notify all non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s t furni% c>e or s]vices "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y n lat] ?an #cj days be=e su* modifications take effect4 7e7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m clean claim means a claim = reimbursem5t = c>e or s]vices furni%$ by a non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid] "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y1 on a nationally recogniz$ /&>d =mat1 t includes ! in=mation & docum5tation necess>y to adjudicate ! claim4 7#b7 ,! t]m non-clean claim means a claim = reimbursem5t = c>e or s]vices furni%$ by a non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid] "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y1 on a nationally recogniz$ /&>d =mat1 t does n include ! in=mation & docum5tation necess>y to adjudicate ! claim4 7#c7 ,! t]m non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid] means a heal? c>e provid] t is n a heal? c>e provid] ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 4 7#b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #ag ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat$ to section #agjc ! foll[+ new item3 #agjc;,a4 ,paym5t ( non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s4 4 7b7 ,electronic submittal ( claims = reimbursem5t 7#a7 ,prohibition on acceptance ( non-electronic claims 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,except z provid$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 on & aft] ,janu>y #a1 #bjai1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all n accept any claim = reimbursem5t "u section #agjc;,a ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 t is submitt$ to ! ,secret>y 9 a mann] o!r ?an electronically1 includ+ m$ical records 9 connection ) su* a claim4 7,b7 ,exception ,if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t accept+ claims & m$ical records 9 a mann] o!r ?an electronically is necess>y = ! timely process+ ( claims = reimbursem5t "u su* section #agjc;,a due to a failure or malfunction ( ! electronic int]face e/abli%$ "u p>agraph 7#b71 ! ,secret>y-- 7i7 may accept claims & m$ical records 9 a mann] o!r ?an electronically = a p]iod n to exce$ #ij days2 & 7ii7 %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report sett+ =?-- 7,i7 ! reason = accept+ claims & m$ical records 9 a mann] o!r ?an electronically2 7,,ii7 ! duration ( "t t ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs w accept claims & m$ical records 9 a mann] o!r ?an electronically2 & 7,,iii7 ! /eps t ! ,dep>tm5t is tak+ to resolve su* failure or malfunction4 7#b7 ,electronic int]face 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,janu>y #a1 #bjai1 ! ,*ief ,in=mation ,(fic] ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all e/abli% an electronic int]face = heal? c>e provid]s to submit claims = reimbursem5t "u su* section #agjc;,a4 7,b7 ,functions ,! electronic int]face e/abli%$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 %all include ! foll[+ functions3 7i7 ,a function ?r\gh :i* a heal? c>e provid] may input all relevant data requir$ = claims submittal & reimbursem5t4 7ii7 ,a function ?r\gh :i* a heal? c>e provid] may upload m$ical records to accompany a claim = reimbursem5t4 7iii7 ,a function ?r\gh :i* a heal? c>e provid] may asc]ta9 ! /atus ( a p5d+ claim = reimbursem5t t-- 7,i7 indicates :e!r ! claim is a clean claim or a non-clean claim2 & 7,,ii7 9 ! ev5t t a submitt$ claim is indicat$ z a non-clean claim1 provides-- 7aa7 an explanation ( :y ! claim has be5 det]m9$ to be a non-clean claim2 & 7bb7 an id5tification ( ! in=mation or docum5tation t is requir$ to make ! claim a clean claim4 7iv7 ,a function ?r\gh :i* a heal? c>e provid] is notifi$ :5 a claim = reimbursem5t is accept$ or reject$4 7v7 ,su* o!r features z ! ,secret>y consid]s necess>y4 7,c7 ,protection ( in=mation 7i7 ,9 g5]al ,! electronic int]face e/abli%$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 %all be develop$ & implem5t$ bas$ on indu/ry-accept$ in=mation security & privacy eng9e]+ pr9ciples & be/ practices & %all provide = ! foll[+3 7,i7 ,! elicitation1 analysis1 & prioritization ( functional & nonfunctional in=mation security & privacy requirem5ts = su* int]face1 includ+ specific security & privacy s]vices & ar*itectural requirem5ts relat+ to security & privacy bas$ on a ?or\gh analysis ( all reasonably anticipat$ cyb] & noncyb] ?reats to ! security & privacy ( electronic protect$ heal? in=mation made available ?r\gh su* int]face4 7,,ii7 ,! elicitation1 analysis1 & prioritization ( secure developm5t requirem5ts relat+ to su* int]face4 7,,iii7 ,! assurance t ! prioritiz$ in=mation security & privacy requirem5ts ( su* int]face-- 7aa7 are correctly implem5t$ 9 ! design & implem5tation ( su* int]face ?r\gh\t ! sy/em developm5t lifecycle2 & 7bb7 satisfy ! in=mation objectives ( su* int]face relat+ to security & privacy ?r\gh\t ! sy/em developm5t lifecycle4 7ii7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is subp>agraph3 7,i7 ,electronic protect$ heal? in=mation ,! t]m electronic protect$ heal? in=mation has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #afj4ajc ( title #de1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 z 9 effect on ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7,,ii7 ,secure developm5t requirem5ts ,! t]m secure developm5t requirem5ts means1 ) respect to ! electronic int]face e/abli%$ "u subp>agraph 7,a71 activities t are requir$ to be complet$ dur+ ! sy/em developm5t lifecycle ( su* int]face1 su* z secure cod+ pr9ciples & te/ me?odologies4 7#c7 ,analysis ( available te*nology = electronic int]face 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,janu>y #a1 #bjag1 or be=e ent]+ into a contract to procure or design & build ! electronic int]face describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b7 or mak+ a decision to int]nally design & build su* electronic int]face1 :i*ev] occurs fir/1 ! ,secret>y %all-- 7i7 conduct an analysis ( comm]cially available te*nology t may satisfy ! requirem5ts ( su* electronic int]face set =? 9 su* p>agraph2 & 7ii7 submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report sett+ =? su* analysis4 7,b7 ,elem5ts ,! report requir$ "u subp>agraph 7,a77ii7 %all include ! foll[+3 7i7 ,an evaluation ( comm]cially available sy/ems t may satisfy ! requirem5ts ( p>agraph 7#b74 7ii7 ,! e/imat$ co/ ( procur+ a comm]cially available sy/em if a suitable comm]cially available sy/em exi/s4 7iii7 ,if no suitable comm]cially available sy/em exi/s1 an assessm5t ( ! feasibility ( modify+ a comm]cially available sy/em to meet ! requirem5ts ( p>agraph 7#b71 includ+ ! e/imat$ co/ associat$ ) su* modifications4 7iv7 ,if no suitable comm]cially available sy/em exi/s & modify+ a comm]cially available sy/em is n feasible1 an assessm5t ( ! e/imat$ co/ & "t t w\ld be requir$ to contract ) a comm]cial entity to design & build an electronic int]face t meets ! requirem5ts ( p>agraph 7#b74 7v7 ,if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t ! ,dep>tm5t has ! capabilities requir$ to design & build an electronic int]face t meets ! requirem5ts ( p>agraph 7#b71 an assessm5t ( ! e/imat$ co/ & "t t w\ld be requir$ to design & build su* electronic int]face4 7vi7 ,a description ( ! decision ( ! ,secret>y reg>d+ h[ ! ,dep>tm5t plans to e/abli% ! electronic int]face requir$ "u p>agraph 7#b7 & ! ju/ification ( ! ,secret>y = su* decision4 7#d7 ,limitation on use ( am\nts ,! ,secret>y may n sp5d any am\nts to procure or design & build ! electronic int]face describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b7 until ! date t is #fj days aft] ! date on :i* ! ,secret>y submits ! report requir$ "u p>agraph 7#c77;,a77ii74 #bgb4 ,au?orization ( agreem5ts betwe5 ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & non-,dep>tm5t provid]s 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,i ( *apt] #ag ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #bga7;a77#a71 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #agjc;,a ! foll[+ new section3 #agjc;,b4 ,vet]ans ,c>e ,agreem5ts 7a7 ,agreem5ts ,to furni% c>e 7#a7 ,9 addition to ! au?ority ( ! ,secret>y "u ?is *apt] to furni% hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & ext5d$ c>e at facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t & "u contracts or %>+ agreem5ts ent]$ into "u au?orities o!r ?an ?is section1 ! ,secret>y may furni% hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 & ext5d$ c>e ?r\gh ! use ( agreem5ts ent]$ into "u ?is section4 ,an agreem5t ent]$ into "u ?is section may be ref]r$ to z a ,vet]ans ,c>e ,agreem5t4 7#b7 7,a7 ,! ,secret>y may ent] into agreem5ts "u ?is section ) eligible provid]s t are c]tifi$ "u subsection 7d7 if ! ,secret>y is n feasibly able to furni% c>e or s]vices describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 at facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7,b7 ,! ,secret>y is n feasibly able to furni% c>e or s]vices describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 at facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t ! m$ical condition ( ! vet]an1 ! travel involv$1 ! nature ( ! c>e or s]vices requir$1 or a comb9ation ( ^? factors make ! use ( facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t impracticable or inadvisable4 7#c7 ,an eligible provid]1 at its discretion1 may opt to ent] into an agreem5t "u ?is section in/ead ( a contract or %>+ agreem5t "u au?orities o!r ?an ?is section4 7b7 ,receipt ( c>e 7#a7 ,eligibility ( a vet]an "u ?is section = c>e or s]vices describ$ 9 subsection 7a77#a7 %all be det]m9$ z if su* c>e or s]vices 7 furni%$ 9 a facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t & provisions ( ?is title applicable to vet]ans receiv+ su* c>e or s]vices 9 a facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t %all apply to vet]ans receiv+ su* c>e or s]vices "u ?is section4 7#b7 ,9 c>ry+ out ?is section1 ! ,secret>y-- 7,a7 may n direct vet]ans seek+ c>e or s]vices describ$ 9 subsection 7a77#a7 to heal? c>e provid]s t h ent]$ into contracts or %>+ agreem5ts "u au?orities o!r ?an ?is section1 except = agreem5ts "u section #aja ( ! ,vet]ans ,access1 ,*oice1 & ,acc\ntability ,act ( #bjad 7,public ,law #aac-adf2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #agja note72 & 7,b7 %all ensure t vet]ans h ! option to det]m9e :e!r to receive su* c>e or s]vices f a heal? c>e provid] describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a7 or an eligible provid] t has ent]$ into an agreem5t "u ?is section4 7c7 ,eligible provid]s ,= purposes ( ?is section1 an eligible provid] is "o ( ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,a provid] ( s]vices t has enroll$ & ent]$ into a provid] agreem5t "u section #ahff7;a7 ( ! ,social ,security ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acie;cc7a774 7#b7 ,a physician or suppli] t has enroll$ & ent]$ into a p>ticipation agreem5t "u section #ahdb7;h7 ( su* ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acieu7h774 7#c7 ,a provid] ( items & s]vices receiv+ paym5t "u a ,/ate plan "u title ,,xix ( su* ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acif et seq47 or a waiv] ( su* a plan4 7#d7 ,a heal? c>e provid] t is-- 7,a7 an ,ag+ & ,disability ,res\rce ,c5t]1 an area ag5cy on ag+1 or a ,/ate ag5cy 7z def9$ 9 section #ajb ( ! ,old] ,am]icans ,act ( #aife 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #cjjb772 or 7,b7 a c5t] = indep5d5t liv+ 7z def9$ 9 section #gjb ( ! ,rehabilitation ,act ( #aigc 7#bi ,u4,s4,c4 #gif;a774 7#e7 ,a provid] t is locat$ 9-- 7,a7 an area t is designat$ z a heal? pr(essional %ortage area 7z def9$ 9 section #ccb ( ! ,public ,heal? ,s]vice ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #bed;e772 or 7,b7 a c\nty t is n 9 a metropolitan /ati/ical area4 7#f7 ,su* o!r heal? c>e provid]s z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate = purposes ( ?is section4 7d7 ,c]tification ( eligible provid]s 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all e/abli% a process = ! c]tification ( eligible provid]s "u ?is section t %all1 at a m9imum1 set =? ! foll[+4 7,a7 ,proc$ures = ! submittal ( applications = c]tification & deadl9es = actions tak5 by ! ,secret>y ) respect to su* applications4 7,b7 ,/&>ds & proc$ures = approval & d5ial ( c]tification1 duration ( c]tification1 revocation ( c]tification1 & rec]tification4 7,c7 ,proc$ures = assess+ eligible provid]s bas$ on ! risk ( fraud1 wa/e1 & abuse ( su* provid]s simil> to ! level ( scre5+ "u section #ahff7;j77#b77;,b7 ( ! ,social ,security ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acie;cc7j77#b77;,b77 & ! /&>ds set =? "u section #i4ajd ( title #dh1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y %all d5y or revoke c]tification to an eligible provid] "u ?is subsection if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t ! eligible provid] is curr5tly-- 7,a7 exclud$ f p>ticipation 9 a ,f$]al heal? c>e program 7z def9$ 9 section #aabh;,b7f7 ( ! ,social ,security ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acbj;a-#g;b7f777 "u section #aabh or #aabh;,a ( ! ,social ,security ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acbj;a-#g & #acbj;a-#g;a72 or 7,b7 id5tifi$ z an exclud$ s\rce on ! li/ ma9ta9$ 9 ! ,sy/em = ,aw>d ,managem5t1 or any successor sy/em4 7e7 ,t]ms ( agreem5ts ,ea* agreem5t ent]$ into ) an eligible provid] "u ?is section %all include provisions requir+ ! eligible provid] to d ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,to accept paym5t = c>e or s]vices furni%$ "u ?is section at rates e/abli%$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section1 :i* %all be1 to ! ext5t practicable1 ! rates paid by ! ,unit$ ,/ates = su* c>e or s]vices to provid]s ( s]vices & suppli]s "u ! ,m$ic>e program "u title ,,xviii ( ! ,social ,security ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acie et seq474 7#b7 ,to accept paym5t "u p>agraph 7#a7 z paym5t 9 full = c>e or s]vices furni%$ "u ?is section & to n seek any paym5t = su* c>e or s]vices f ! recipi5t ( su* c>e or s]vices4 7#c7 ,to furni% "u ?is section only ! c>e or s]vices au?oriz$ by ! ,dep>tm5t "u ?is section unless ! eligible provid] receives prior writt5 cons5t f ! ,dep>tm5t to furni% c>e or s]vices outside ! scope ( su* au?orization4 7#d7 ,to bill ! ,dep>tm5t = c>e or s]vices furni%$ "u ?is section 9 accordance ) a me?odology e/abli%$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section4 7#e7 ,n to seek to recov] or collect f a heal?-plan contract or ?ird p>ty1 z ^? t]ms are def9$ 9 section #agbi ( ?is title1 = any c>e or s]vices = :i* paym5t is made by ! ,dep>tm5t "u ?is section4 7#f7 ,to provide m$ical records = vet]ans furni%$ c>e or s]vices "u ?is section to ! ,dep>tm5t 9 a "t frame & =mat specifi$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section4 7#g7 ,to meet su* o!r t]ms & conditions1 includ+ quality ( c>e assurance /&>ds1 z ! ,secret>y may specify = purposes ( ?is section4 7f7 ,t]m9ation ( agreem5ts 7#a7 ,an eligible provid] may t]m9ate an agreem5t ) ! ,secret>y "u ?is section at su* "t & ^u su* notice to ! ,secret>y z ! ,secret>y may specify = purposes ( ?is section4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y may t]m9ate an agreem5t ) an eligible provid] "u ?is section at su* "t & ^u su* notice to ! eligible provid] z ! ,secret>y may specify = purposes ( ?is section1 if ! ,secret>y-- 7,a7 det]m9es t ! eligible provid] fail$ to comply sub/antially ) ! provisions ( ! agreem5t or ) ! provisions ( ?is section & ! regulations prescrib$ !reund]2 7,b7 det]m9es t ! eligible provid] is-- 7i7 exclud$ f p>ticipation 9 a ,f$]al heal? c>e program 7z def9$ 9 section #aabh;,b7f7 ( ! ,social ,security ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acbj;a-#g;b7f777 "u section #aabh or #aabh;,a ( ! ,social ,security ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acbj;a-#g & #acbj;a-#g;a72 or 7ii7 id5tifi$ z an exclud$ s\rce on ! li/ ma9ta9$ 9 ! ,sy/em = ,aw>d ,managem5t1 or any successor sy/em2 7,c7 asc]ta9s t ! eligible provid] has be5 convict$ ( a felony or o!r s]i\s (f5se "u ,f$]al or ,/ate law & det]m9es t ! cont9u$ p>ticipation ( ! eligible provid] w\ld be detrim5tal to ! be/ int]e/s ( vet]ans or ! ,dep>tm5t2 or 7,d7 det]m9es t x is reasonable to t]m9ate ! agreem5t bas$ on ! heal? c>e ne$s ( a vet]an or vet]ans4 7g7 ,p]iodic review ( c]ta9 agreem5ts 7#a7 ,n less frequ5tly ?an once e two ye>s1 ! ,secret>y %all review ea* ,vet]ans ,c>e ,agreem5t ( mat]ial size ent]$ into dur+ ! two-ye> p]iod prec$+ ! review to det]m9e :e!r x is feasible & advisable to furni% ! hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 or ext5d$ c>e furni%$ "u su* agreem5t at facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t or ?r\gh contracts or %>+ agreem5ts ent]$ into "u au?orities o!r ?an ?is section4 7#b7 7,a7 ,subject to subp>agraph 7,b71 a ,vet]ans ,c>e ,agreem5t is ( mat]ial size z det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section4 7,b7 ,a ,vet]ans ,c>e ,agreem5t ent]$ into aft] ,septemb] #cj1 #bjaf1 = ! pur*ase ( ext5d$ c>e s]vices is ( mat]ial size if ! pur*ase ( su* s]vices "u ! agreem5t exce$s #a1jjj1jjj annually4 ,! ,secret>y may adju/ su* am\nt to acc\nt = *anges 9 ! co/ ( heal? c>e bas$ ^u recogniz$ heal? c>e m>ket surveys & o!r available data & %all publi% any su* adju/m5ts 9 ! ,f$]al ,regi/]4 7h7 ,treatm5t ( c]ta9 laws 7#a7 ,an agreem5t "u ?is section may be ent]$ into )\t reg>d to any law t w\ld require ! ,secret>y to use competitive proc$ures 9 select+ ! p>ty ) :i* to ent] into ! agreem5t4 7#b7 7,a7 ,except z provid$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 & unless o!rwise provid$ 9 ?is section or section #bgg ( ! ,jason ,simcakoski ,memorial ,act or regulations prescrib$ pursuant to ?is section or su* section #bgg1 an eligible provid] t ent]s into an agreem5t "u ?is section is n subject to1 9 ! c>ry+ out ( ! agreem5t1 any law to :i* an eligible provid] describ$ 9 subsection 7b77#a71 7b77#b71 or 7b77#c7 is n subject "u ! orig9al ,m$ic>e fee-=-s]vice program "u p>ts ,a & ,b ( title ,,xviii ( ! ,social ,security ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acie et seq47 or ! ,m$icaid program "u title ,,xix ( su* ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #acif et seq474 7,b7 ,! exclusion "u subp>agraph 7,a7 does n apply to laws reg>d+ integrity1 e?ics1 fraud1 or t subject a p]son to civil or crim9al p5alties4 7#c7 ,title ,,vii ( ! ,civil ,rights ,act ( #aifd 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #bjjj;e et seq47 %all apply ) respect to an eligible provid] t ent]s into an agreem5t "u ?is section to ! same ext5t z su* title applies ) respect to ! eligible provid] 9 provid+ c>e or s]vices ?r\gh an agreem5t or arrangem5t o!r ?an "u ?is section4 7i7 ,monitor+ ( quality ( c>e ,! ,secret>y %all e/abli% a sy/em or sy/ems1 consi/5t ) survey & c]tification proc$ures us$ by ! ,c5t]s = ,m$ic>e ,m$icaid ,s]vices & ,/ate survey ag5cies to ! ext5t practicable-- 7#a7 to monitor ! quality ( c>e & s]vices furni%$ to vet]ans "u ?is section2 & 7#b7 to assess ! quality ( c>e & s]vices furni%$ by an eligible provid] "u ?is section = purposes ( det]m9+ :e!r to r5ew an agreem5t "u ?is section ) ! eligible provid]4 7j7 ,dispute resolution ,! ,secret>y %all e/abli% adm9i/rative proc$ures = eligible provid]s ) :i* ! ,secret>y has ent]$ into an agreem5t "u ?is section to pres5t any dispute aris+ "u or relat$ to ! agreem5t4 7k7 ,t]m9ation ( au?ority ,! ,secret>y may n ent] into an agreem5t "u ?is section1 o!r ?an = ! provision ( ext5d$ c>e or hospice c>e1 aft] ,septemb] #cj1 #bjag4 7l7 ,rule ( con/ruction ,no?+ 9 ?is section %all be con/ru$ to alt] any contract or agreem5t ent]$ into betwe5 ! ,dep>tm5t & a ,/ate home 7z t t]m is us$ 9 sub*apt] ,v ( ?is *apt]7 be=e ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ! ,jason ,simcakoski ,memorial ,act4 7m7 ,annual report ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ! ,jason ,simcakoski ,memorial ,act1 & n less frequ5tly ?an annually !reaft]1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report t conta9s ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,! total numb] ( agreem5ts ent]$ into ) eligible provid]s "u ?is section4 7#b7 ,a li/ ( ! m$ical c5t]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t t h ent]$ into agreem5ts ) eligible provid]s "u ?is section4 4 7b7 ,regulations ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all prescribe an int]im f9al rule to c>ry out section #agjc;,b ( su* title1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7c7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #ag ( su* title1 z am5d$ by section #bga7;a77#b71 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat$ to section #agjc;,a ! foll[+ new item3 #agjc;,b4 ,vet]ans ,c>e ,agreem5ts4 4 #bgc4 ,elim9ation ( requirem5t to act z second>y pay] = c>e relat+ to non-s]vice-connect$ disabilities "u ,*oice ,program 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #aja7;e7 ( ! ,vet]ans ,access1 ,*oice1 & ,acc\ntability ,act ( #bjad 7,public ,law #aac-adf2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #agja note7 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ p>agraphs 7#b7 & 7#c72 7#b7 by r$esignat+ p>agraph 7#d7 z p>agraph 7#c72 & 7#c7 by ins]t+ aft] p>agraph 7#a7 ! foll[+ new p>agraph 7#b73 7#b7 ,responsibility = co/s ( c]ta9 c>e ,9 any case 9 :i* an eligible vet]an is furni%$ hospital c>e or m$ical s]vices "u ?is section = a non-s]vice-connect$ disability describ$ 9 subsection 7a77#b7 ( section #agbi ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 ! ,secret>y %all recov] or collect reasonable *>ges = su* c>e or s]vices f a heal?-c>e plan describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#c7 9 accordance ) su* section4 4 7b7 ,con=m+ am5dm5t ,p>agraph 7#a7 ( su* section is am5d$ by /rik+ p>agraph 7#d7 & ins]t+ p>agraph 7#c74 7c7 ,em]g5cy designations 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,?is section is designat$ z an em]g5cy requirem5t pursuant to section #d7;g7 ( ! ,/atutory ,pay-,z-,y-,g ,act ( #bjaj 7#b ,u4,s4,c4 #icc7;g774 7#b7 ,designation 9 ,s5ate ,9 ! ,s5ate1 ?is section is designat$ z an em]g5cy requirem5t pursuant to section #djc7;a7 ( ,s4 ,con4 ,res4 #ac 7#aaa? ,congress71 ! concurr5t resolution on ! budget = fiscal ye> #bjaj4 #bgd4 ,requirem5t = advance appropriations = ! ,m$ical ,community ,c>e acc\nt ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #aag7;c7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#g7 ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration1 ,m$ical ,community ,c>e4 4 7b7 ,con=m+ am5dm5t ,section #aaje7;a77#cg7 ( title #ca1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subp>agraph3 7,g7 ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration1 ,m$ical ,community ,c>e4 4 7c7 ,applicability ,! am5dm5ts made by ?is section %all apply to fiscal ye>s beg9n+ on & aft] ,octob] #a1 #bjaf4 #bge4 ,annual transf] ( am\nts )9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to pay = heal? c>e f non-,dep>tm5t heal? c>e provid]s ,section #ajf ( ! ,vet]ans ,access1 ,*oice1 & ,acc\ntability ,act ( #bjad 7,public ,law #aac-adf2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #agja note7 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7c7 ,transf] ( am\nts ,dur+ a fiscal ye>1 to accommodate any v>iances 9 dem& = hospital c>e1 m$ical s]vices1 or o!r heal? c>e ?r\gh non-,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs heal? c>e provid]s1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs may transf] am\nts betwe5 ! ,m$ical ,s]vices appropriations acc\nt ( ! ,dep>tm5t & ! appropriations acc\nt ( ! ,dep>tm5t = non-,dep>tm5t provid] programs describ$ 9 section #djjc ( ! ,surface ,transportation & ,vet]ans ,heal? ,c>e ,*oice ,improvem5t ,act ( #bjae 7,public ,law #aad-da2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #agja note74 4 #bgf4 ,au?orization ( use ( c]ta9 am\nts appropriat$ to ! ,vet]ans ,*oice ,fund = o!r non-,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs c>e 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #hjb ( ! ,vet]ans ,access1 ,*oice1 & ,acc\ntability ,act ( #bjad 7,public ,law #aac-adf2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #agja note7 is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subsection 7c7-- 7,a7 9 p>agraph 7#a7-- 7i7 by /rik+ ,except z provid$ by p>agraph 7#c71 any & ins]t+ ,any2 & 7ii7 by /rik+ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & all t foll[s ?r\gh ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ 8by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs-- 7,a7 to c>ry out section #aja1 includ+1 subject to p>agraph 7#b71 any adm9i/rative requirem5ts ( su* section2 & 7,b7 to furni% heal? c>e to individuals "u *apt] #ag ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 at non-,dep>tm5t facilities1 includ+ pursuant to au?ority o!r ?an ! au?ority "u section #aja4 4 7,b7 by /rik+ p>agraph 7#c7 & ins]t+ ! foll[+ new p>agraphs3 7#c7 ,treatm5t ( am\nts ,am\nts made available to ! ,secret>y "u ?is subsection %all be us$ to supplem5t1 n supplant1 am\nts made available to ! ,secret>y 9 appropriations ,acts = ! purpose ( furni%+ heal? c>e at non-,dep>tm5t facilities4 7#d7 ,non-,dep>tm5t facilities def9$ ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m non-,dep>tm5t facilities has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #agja ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 2 & 7#b7 9 subsection 7d77#a71 by /rik+ only = ! program & all t foll[s ?r\gh ! p]iod at ! end & ins]t+ only = ! purposes specifi$ 9 subsection 7c77#a744 7b7 ,em]g5cy designations 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,?is section is designat$ z an em]g5cy requirem5t pursuant to section #d7;g7 ( ! ,/atutory ,pay-,z-,y-,g ,act ( #bjaj 7#b ,u4,s4,c4 #icc7;g774 7#b7 ,designation 9 ,s5ate ,9 ! ,s5ate1 ?is section is designat$ z an em]g5cy requirem5t pursuant to section #djc7;a7 ( ,s4 ,con4 ,res4 #ac 7#aaa? ,congress71 ! concurr5t resolution on ! budget = fiscal ye> #bjaj4 #bgg4 ,applicability ( ,directive ( ,(fice ( ,f$]al ,contract ,compliance ,programs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,not)/&+ ! treatm5t ( c]ta9 laws "u subsection 7h7 ( section #agjc;,b ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by section #bgb7;a7 ( ?is ,act1 ,directive #bjad-ja ( ! ,(fice ( ,f$]al ,contract ,compliance ,programs ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,labor 7effective z ( ,may #g1 #bjad7 %all apply to any entity ent]+ into an agreem5t "u su* section #agjc;,b 9 ! same mann] z su* directive applies to subcontractors "u ! ,,tric>e program = ! duration ( ! moratorium provid$ "u su* directive4 7b7 ,applicability p]iod ,! directive describ$ 9 subsection 7a71 & ! moratorium provid$ "u su* directive1 %all n be alt]$ or resc9d$ be=e ,may #g1 #bjai4 7c7 ,,tric>e program def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m ,,tric>e program has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #ajgb ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 ,i ,rese>* on toxic exposure #bha4 ,def9itions ,9 ?is subtitle3 7#a7 ,arm$ ,=ces ,! t]m ,arm$ ,=ces means ! ,unit$ ,/ates ,army1 ,navy1 ,m>9e ,corps1 ,air ,=ce1 & ,coa/ ,gu>d4 7#b7 ,desc5dant ,! t]m desc5dant means1 ) respect to an individual1 ! biological *ild or gr&*ild ( t individual4 7#c7 ,toxic exposure ,! t]m toxic exposure means a condition 9 :i* an individual inhal$ or +e/$ an ag5t det]m9$ to be haz>d\s to ! heal? ( ! individual or ! ag5t came 9 contact ) ! sk9 or eyes ( ! individual 9 a mann] t c\ld be haz>d\s to ! heal? ( ! individual4 7#d7 ,vet]an ,! t]m vet]an has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #aja ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #bhb4 ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e assessm5t on rese>* relat+ to ! desc5dants ( individuals ) toxic exposure 7a7 ,9 g5]al 7#a7 ,agreem5t ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all seek to ent] into an agreem5t ) ! ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e "u :i* ! ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e conducts an assessm5t on sci5tific rese>* relat+ to ! desc5dants ( individuals ) toxic exposure4 7#b7 ,alt]nate organization 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,if ! ,secret>y is unable )9 ! p]iod prescrib$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 to ent] into an agreem5t describ$ 9 su* p>agraph ) ! ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e on t]ms acceptable to ! ,secret>y1 ! ,secret>y %all seek to ent] into su* an agreem5t ) ano!r appropriate organization t-- 7i7 is n "p ( ! ,f$]al ,gov]nm5t2 7ii7 op]ates z a n-=-pr(it entity2 & 7iii7 has exp]tise & objectivity comp>able to t ( ! ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e4 7,b7 ,treatm5t ,if ! ,secret>y ent]s into an agreem5t ) ano!r organization z describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a71 any ref]5ce 9 ?is section to ! ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e %all be treat$ z a ref]5ce to ! o!r organization4 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! assessm5t conduct$ pursuant to ! agreem5t ent]$ into "u subsection 7a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,a sci5tific review ( ! sci5tific lit]ature reg>d+ toxicological & epidemiological rese>* on desc5dants ( individuals ) toxic exposure4 7#b7 ,an assessm5t ( areas requir+ fur!r sci5tific /udy relat+ to ! desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure4 7#c7 ,an assessm5t ( ! scope & me?odology requir$ to conduct adequate sci5tific rese>* relat+ to ! desc5dants ( individuals ) toxic exposure1 includ+-- 7,a7 ! types ( individuals to be /udi$1 includ+ vet]ans ) toxic exposure & ! desc5dants ( ^? vet]ans2 7,b7 ! numb] ( vet]ans & desc5dants describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a7 to be /udi$2 7,c7 ! pot5tial alt]natives = p>ticipation 9 su* a /udy1 includ+ :e!r x w\ld be necess>y = p>ticipants to travel 9 ord] to p>ticipate2 7,d7 ! approximate am\nt ( "t & res\rces ne$$ to prep>e & conduct ! rese>*2 & 7,e7 ! appropriate ,f$]al ag5cies to p>ticipate 9 ! rese>*1 includ+ ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se & ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#d7 ,! e/abli%m5t ( categories1 includ+ def9itions = ea* su* category1 to be us$ 9 assess+ ! evid5ce t a p>ticul> heal? condition is relat$ to toxic exposure1 su* z-- 7,a7 suffici5t evid5ce ( a causal relation%ip2 7,b7 suffici5t evid5ce ( an association2 7,c7 limit$ or sugge/ive evid5ce ( an association2 7,d7 inadequate or insuffici5t evid5ce to det]m9e :e!r an association exi/s2 & 7,e7 limit$ or sugge/ive evid5ce ( no association4 7#e7 ,an analysis (-- 7,a7 ! feasibility ( conduct+ sci5tific rese>* to address ! areas t require fur!r /udy z describ$ "u p>agraph 7#b72 7,b7 ! value & relevance ( ! in=mation t c\ld result f su* sci5tific rese>*2 & 7,c7 = purposes ( conduct+ fur!r rese>*1 ! feasibility & advisability ( access+ additional in=mation held by a ,f$]al ag5cy t may be s5sitive4 7#f7 ,an id5tification ( a rese>* entity or entities )-- 7,a7 exp]tise 9 conduct+ rese>* on heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( individuals ) toxic exposure2 & 7,b7 an ability to conduct rese>* on ^? heal? conditions to address areas requir+ fur!r sci5tific /udy z describ$ "u p>agraph 7#b74 7c7 ,report ,! agreem5t ent]$ into "u subsection 7a7 %all require ! ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e to submit1 n lat] ?an two ye>s aft] ent]+ into su* agreem5t1 to ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives-- 7#a7 ! results ( ! assessm5t conduct$ pursuant to su* agreem5t1 includ+ su* recomm5dations z ! ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e consid]s appropriate reg>d+ ! scope & me?odology requir$ to conduct adequate sci5tific rese>* relat+ to ! desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure2 & 7#b7 a det]m9ation reg>d+ :e!r ! results ( su* assessm5t indicate t x is feasible to conduct fur!r rese>* reg>d+ heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure1 includ+ an explanation ( ! basis = ! det]m9ation4 7d7 ,c]tification 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] receiv+ ! results ( ! assessm5t & det]m9ation "u subsection 7c71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a c]tification ( ! und]/&+ ( ! ,secret>y1 bas$ on su* results & det]m9ation1 reg>d+ ! feasibility ( conduct+ fur!r rese>* reg>d+ heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure t is express$ by su* results & det]m9ation4 7#b7 ,basis = c]tification ,! c]tification submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include an explanation ( ! basis = ! c]tification4 #bhc4 ,advisory bo>d on rese>* relat+ to heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure :ile s]v+ 9 ! ,arm$ ,=ces 7a7 ,e/abli%m5t ,unless ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs c]tifies "u section #bhb7;d7 t ! results ( ! assessm5t & det]m9ation "u section #bhb7;c7 indicate t x is n feasible to conduct fur!r rese>* reg>d+ heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure1 n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] receiv+ su* results & det]m9ation1 ! ,secret>y %all e/abli% an advisory bo>d 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! ,advisory ,bo>d7 to advise ! ,secret>y 9 ! selection ( a rese>* entity or entities "u section #bhd1 advise su* entity or entities 9 conduct+ rese>* "u su* section1 & advise ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! activities ( su* entity or entities "u su* section4 7b7 ,memb]%ip 7#a7 ,composition ,! ,secret>y1 9 consultation ) ! ,national ,academy ( ,m$ic9e1 ! ,director ( ! ,national ,in/itute ( ,environm5tal ,heal? ,sci5ces1 & su* o!r heads ( ,f$]al ag5cies z ! ,secret>y det]m9es appropriate-- 7,a7 %all select n m ?an #ac vot+ memb]s ( ! ,advisory ,bo>d1 ( :om-- 7i7 n less ?an two %all be memb]s ( organizations exempt f taxation "u section #eja7;c77#ai7 ( ! ,int]nal ,rev5ue ,code ( #aihf2 7ii7 n less ?an two %all be desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure :ile s]v+ z memb]s ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces2 & 7iii7 n less ?an sev5 %all be heal? pr(essionals1 sci5ti/s1 or academics :o are n employees ( ! ,f$]al ,gov]nm5t & h exp]tise 9-- 7,i7 bir? defects2 7,,ii7 developm5tal disabilities2 7,,iii7 epig5etics2 7,,iv7 public heal?2 7,v7 ! sci5ce ( environm5tal exposure or environm5tal exposure assessm5t2 7,,vi7 ! sci5ce ( toxic sub/ances2 or 7,,vii7 m$ical & rese>* e?ics2 & 7,b7 may select n m ?an two nonvot+ memb]s :o are employees ( ! ,f$]al ,gov]nm5t & :o are o!rwise describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a77iii74 7#b7 ,*air ,! ,secret>y %all select a ,*air f among ! memb]s ( ! ,advisory ,bo>d select$ "u p>agraph 7#a77;,a74 7#c7 ,t]ms 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,ea* memb] ( ! ,advisory ,bo>d %all s]ve a t]m ( two or ?ree ye>s z det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y4 7,b7 ,reappo9tm5t ,at ! end ( ! t]m ( a memb] ( ! ,advisory ,bo>d1 ! ,secret>y may reselect ! memb] = ano!r t]m1 except t no memb] may s]ve m ?an f\r consecutive t]ms4 7c7 ,duties ,! ,advisory ,bo>d %all-- 7#a7 advise ! ,secret>y 9 ! selection ( a rese>* entity or entities to conduct rese>* "u section #bhd f among ^? id5tifi$ "u section #bhb7;b77#f72 7#b7 advise su* entity or entities & assess ! activities ( su* entity or entities 9 conduct+ su* rese>*2 7#c7 develop a rese>* /rategy = su* entity or entities bas$ on1 b n limit$ to1 ! results ( ! assessm5t conduct$ "u section #bhb2 7#d7 advise ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! activities ( su* entity or entities "u section #bhd2 7#e7 submit recomm5dations to be includ$ by su* entity or entities 9 ! report "u section #bhd7;d77#b77;,c72 & 7#f7 n less frequ5tly ?an semiannually1 meet ) ! ,secret>y & repres5tatives ( su* entity or entities on ! rese>* conduct$ by su* entity or entities "u section #bhd4 7d7 ,meet+s ,! ,advisory ,bo>d %all meet at ! call ( ! ,*air1 b n less frequ5tly ?an semiannually4 7e7 ,comp5sation ,! memb]s ( ! ,advisory ,bo>d %all s]ve )\t comp5sation4 7f7 ,exp5ses ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all det]m9e ! appropriate exp5ses ( ! ,advisory ,bo>d4 7g7 ,p]sonnel 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,*air may1 )\t reg>d to ! civil s]vice laws & regulations1 appo9t an executive director ( ! ,advisory ,bo>d1 :o %all be a civilian employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 & su* o!r p]sonnel z may be necess>y to enable ! ,advisory ,bo>d to p]=m its duties4 7#b7 ,approval ,! appo9tm5t ( an executive director "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be subject to approval by ! ,advisory ,bo>d4 7#c7 ,comp5sation ,! ,*air may fix ! comp5sation ( ! executive director & o!r p]sonnel )\t reg>d to ! provisions ( *apt] #ea & sub*apt] ,,iii ( *apt] #ec ( title #e1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 except t ! rate ( pay = ! executive director & o!r p]sonnel may n exce$ ! rate payable = level ,v ( ! ,executive ,s*$ule "u section #ecaf ( su* title4 #bhd4 ,rese>* relat+ to heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure :ile s]v+ 9 ! ,arm$ ,=ces 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,unless ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs c]tifies "u section #bhb7;d7 t ! results ( ! assessm5t & det]m9ation "u section #bhb7;c7 indicate t x is n feasible to conduct fur!r rese>* reg>d+ heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure1 n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] receiv+ su* results & det]m9ation1 ! ,secret>y %all 79 consultation ) ! advisory bo>d e/abli%$ "u section #bhc 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! ,advisory ,bo>d77 ent] into an agreem5t ) "o or m rese>* entities id5tifi$ "u section #bhb7;b77#f7 7exclud+ an entity ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs7 to conduct rese>* on heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure :ile s]v+ z memb]s ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces 79 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! rese>* entity or entities74 7b7 ,rese>* 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,to ! ext5t includ$ 9 ! rese>* /rategy develop$ by ! ,advisory ,bo>d "u section #bhc7;c77#c71 ! rese>* entity or entities %all conduct rese>* on heal? conditions ( desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure :ile s]v+ z memb]s ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces4 7#b7 ,/udies ,9 conduct+ rese>* "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! rese>* entity or entities may /udy any vet]an1 at ! election ( ! vet]an1 id5tifi$ "u section #bhb7;b77#c77;,a7 z a type ( individual to be /udi$ 9 ord] to conduct adequate sci5tific rese>* relat+ to ! desc5dants ( vet]ans ) toxic exposure4 7#c7 ,categorization ,9 conduct+ rese>* "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! rese>* entity or entities %all assess1 us+ ! categories e/abli%$ "u section #bhb7;b77#d71 ! ext5t to :i* a heal? condition ( a desc5dant ( a vet]an is relat$ to ! toxic exposure ( ! vet]an :ile s]v+ z a memb] ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces4 7c7 ,availability ( records 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,def5se1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 & ! head ( ea* ,f$]al ag5cy id5tifi$ "u section #bhb7;b77#c77;,e7 %all make available to ! rese>* entity or entities records held by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se1 ! ,arm$ ,=ces1 t ,f$]al ag5cy1 or any o!r s\rce "u ! jurisdiction ( any su* ,f$]al ag5cy or ! ,arm$ ,=ces1 z appropriate1 t ! rese>* entity or entities det]m9e are necess>y to c>ry out ?is section4 7#b7 ,me*anism = access ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se1 & ! head ( ea* ,f$]al ag5cy id5tifi$ "u section #bhb7;b77#c77;,e7 %all jo9tly e/abli% a me*anism = access by ! rese>* entity or entities to records made available "u p>agraph 7#a74 7d7 ,annual report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] comm5c+ ! conduct ( rese>* "u ?is section1 & n lat] ?an ,septemb] #cj ea* ye> !reaft]1 ea* rese>* entity ) :i* ! ,secret>y has ent]$ into an agreem5t "u subsection 7a7 %all1 9 consultation ) ! ,advisory ,bo>d1 submit to ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! functions ( su* entity "u ?is section dur+ ! ye> prec$+ ! submittal ( ! report4 7#b7 ,elem5ts ,ea* report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,a summ>y ( ! rese>* ef=ts t h be5 complet$ dur+ ! ye> prec$+ ! submittal ( ! report & t are ongo+ z ( ! date ( ! submittal ( ! report4 7,b7 ,a description ( any f9d+s made dur+ su* ye> 9 c>ry+ out su* rese>* ef=ts4 7,c7 ,recomm5dations = adm9i/rative or legislative action made by ! ,advisory ,bo>d bas$ on su* f9d+s1 :i* may include recomm5dations = fur!r rese>* "u ?is section4 7#c7 ,^u reque/ ,^u ! reque/ ( any organization exempt f taxation "u section #eja7;c77#ai7 ( ! ,int]nal ,rev5ue ,code ( #aihf1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs may transmit to su* organization a copy ( a report receiv$ by ! ,secret>y "u p>agraph 7#a74 ,j ,o!r heal? c>e matt]s #bia4 ,au?orization ( c]ta9 major m$ical facility projects ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,au?orization ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs may c>ry out ! foll[+ major m$ical facility projects1 ) ea* project to be c>ri$ out 9 an am\nt n to exce$ ! am\nt specifi$ = t project3 7#a7 ,seismic corrections to build+s1 includ+ retr(itt+ & replacem5t ( high-risk build+s1 9 ,san ,francisco1 ,cali=nia1 9 an am\nt n to exce$ #ahj1dhj1jjj4 7#b7 ,seismic corrections to facilities1 includ+ facilities to support homeless vet]ans1 at ! m$ical c5t] 9 ,we/ ,los ,angeles1 ,cali=nia1 9 an am\nt n to exce$ #aje1ejj1jjj4 7#c7 ,seismic corrections to ! m5tal heal? & community liv+ c5t] 9 ,long ,bea*1 ,cali=nia1 9 an am\nt n to exce$ #bhg1ajj1jjj4 7#d7 ,con/ruction ( an outpati5t cl9ic1 adm9i/rative space1 cemet]y1 & columb>ium 9 ,alam$a1 ,cali=nia1 9 an am\nt n to exce$ #hg1ccb1jjj4 7#e7 ,realignm5t ( m$ical facilities 9 ,liv]more1 ,cali=nia1 9 an am\nt n to exce$ #aid1dcj1jjj4 7#f7 ,con/ruction ( a m$ical c5t] 9 ,l\isville1 ,k5tucky1 9 an am\nt n to exce$ #aej1jjj1jjj4 7#g7 ,con/ruction ( a replacem5t community liv+ c5t] 9 ,p]ry ,po9t1 ,m>yl&1 9 an am\nt n to exce$ #ib1gjj1jjj4 7#h7 ,seismic corrections & o!r r5ovations to sev]al build+s & con/ruction ( a specialty c>e build+ 9 ,am]ican ,lake1 ,wa%+ton1 9 an am\nt n to exce$ #af1bfj1jjj4 7b7 ,au?orization ( appropriations = con/ruction ,!re is au?oriz$ to be appropriat$ to ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = fiscal ye> #bjaf or ! ye> 9 :i* funds are appropriat$ = ! ,con/ruction1 ,major ,projects1 acc\nt1 #a1aac1hjb1jjj = ! projects au?oriz$ 9 subsection 7a74 7c7 ,limitation ,! projects au?oriz$ 9 subsection 7a7 may only be c>ri$ out us+-- 7#a7 funds appropriat$ = fiscal ye> #bjaf pursuant to ! au?orization ( appropriations 9 subsection 7b72 7#b7 funds available = ,con/ruction1 ,major ,projects1 = a fiscal ye> be=e fiscal ye> #bjaf t rema9 available = obligation2 7#c7 funds available = ,con/ruction1 ,major ,projects1 = a fiscal ye> aft] fiscal ye> #bjaf t rema9 available = obligation2 7#d7 funds appropriat$ = ,con/ruction1 ,major ,projects1 = fiscal ye> #bjaf = a category ( activity n specific to a project2 7#e7 funds appropriat$ = ,con/ruction1 ,major ,projects1 = a fiscal ye> be=e fiscal ye> #bjaf = a category ( activity n specific to a project2 & 7#f7 funds appropriat$ = ,con/ruction1 ,major ,projects1 = a fiscal ye> aft] fiscal ye> #bjaf = a category ( activity n specific to a project4 #bib4 ,id5tification & track+ ( biological implants us$ 9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs m$ical facilities 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #gc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #bdh7;a71 is fur!r am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #gccj;,d4 ,id5tification & track+ ( biological implants 7a7 ,/&>d id5tification sy/em = biological implants 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all adopt ! unique device id5tification sy/em develop$ = m$ical devices by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration "u section #eai7;f7 ( ! ,f$]al ,food1 ,drug1 & ,cosmetic ,act 7#ba ,u4,s4,c4 #cfj;i7f771 or implem5t a comp>able /&>d id5tification sy/em1 = use 9 id5tify+ biological implants int5d$ = use 9 m$ical proc$ures conduct$ 9 m$ical facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,9 adopt+ or implem5t+ a /&>d id5tification sy/em = biological implants "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all p]mit a v5dor to use any ( ! accr$it$ entities id5tifi$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration z an issu+ ag5cy pursuant to section #hcj4ajj ( title #ba1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation4 7b7 ,biological implant track+ sy/em 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all implem5t a sy/em = track+ ! biological implants describ$ 9 subsection 7a7 f human donor or animal s\rce to implantation4 7#b7 ,! track+ sy/em implem5t$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be compatible ) ! id5tification sy/em adopt$ or implem5t$ "u subsection 7a74 7#c7 ,! ,secret>y %all implem5t inv5tory controls compatible ) ! track+ sy/em implem5t$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 s t all pati5ts :o h receiv$1 9 a m$ical facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 a biological implant subject to a recall c be notifi$ ( ! recall if1 bas$ on ! evaluation by appropriate m$ical p]sonnel ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ! risks & b5efits1 ! ,secret>y det]m9es su* notification is appropriate4 7c7 ,consi/5cy ) ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration regulations ,to ! ext5t t a conflict arises betwe5 ?is section & a provision ( ! ,f$]al ,food1 ,drug1 & ,cosmetic ,act 7#ba ,u4,s4,c4 #cja et seq47 or section #cea or #cfa ( ! ,public ,heal? ,s]vice ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #bfb & #bfd7 7includ+ any regulations issu$ "u su* provisions71 ! provision ( ! ,f$]al ,food1 ,drug1 & ,cosmetic ,act or ,public ,heal? ,s]vice ,act 7includ+ any regulations issu$ "u su* provisions7 %all apply4 7d7 ,biological implant def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m biological implant means any human cell1 tissue1 or cellul> or tissue-bas$ product or animal product-- 7#a7 "u ! mean+ giv5 ! t]m human cells1 tissues1 or cellul> or tissue-bas$ products 9 section #abga4c ( title #ba1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation2 or 7#b7 t is regulat$ z a device "u section #bja7;h7 ( ! ,f$]al ,food1 ,drug1 & ,cosmetic ,act 7#ba ,u4,s4,c4 #cba7;h774 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #gc ( su* title1 z am5d$ by section #bdh7;b71 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #gccj;,c ! foll[+ new item3 #gccj;,d4 ,id5tification & track+ ( biological implants4 4 7c7 ,implem5tation deadl9es 7#a7 ,/&>d id5tification sy/em ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all adopt or implem5t ! /&>d id5tification sy/em = biological implants requir$ by subsection 7a7 ( section #gccj;,d ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 ) respect to biological implants describ$ 9-- 7,a7 subsection 7d77#a7 ( su* section1 by n lat] ?an ! date t is #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act2 & 7,b7 subsection 7d77#b7 ( su* section1 9 compliance ) ! compliance dates e/abli%$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration "u section #eai7;f7 ( ! ,f$]al ,food1 ,drug1 & ,cosmetic ,act 7#ba ,u4,s4,c4 #cfj;i7f774 7#b7 ,track+ sy/em ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all implem5t ! biological implant track+ sy/em requir$ by section #gccj;,d7b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 by n lat] ?an ! date t is #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7d7 ,report+ requirem5t 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,if ! biological implant track+ sy/em requir$ by section #gccj;,d7b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 is n op]ational by ! date t is #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report expla9+ :y ! sy/em is n op]ational = ea* mon? until su* "t z ! sy/em is op]ational4 7#b7 ,elem5ts ,ea* report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include a description ( ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,ea* imp$im5t to ! implem5tation ( ! sy/em describ$ 9 su* p>agraph4 7,b7 ,/eps be+ tak5 to rem$iate ea* su* imp$im5t4 7,c7 ,t>get dates = a solution to ea* su* imp$im5t4 #bic4 ,procurem5t ( biological implants us$ 9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs m$ical facilities 7a7 ,procurem5t 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #ha ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #acb7;a71 is fur!r am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #hacj4 ,procurem5t ( biological implants 7a7 ,9 g5]al 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y may procure biological implants ( human orig9 only f v5dors t meet ! foll[+ conditions3 7,a7 ,! v5dor uses ! /&>d id5tification sy/em adopt$ or implem5t$ by ! ,secret>y "u section #gccj;,d7a7 ( ?is title & has safegu>ds to ensure t a di/9ct id5tifi] has be5 9 place at ea* /ep ( di/ribution ( ea* biological implant f its donor4 7,b7 ,! v5dor is regi/]$ z requir$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration "u subp>t ,b ( "p #abga ( title #ba1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation1 & 9 ! case ( a v5dor t uses a tissue di/ribution int]m$i>y or a tissue processor1 ! v5dor provides assurances t ! tissue di/ribution int]m$i>y or tissue processor is regi/]$ z requir$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration4 7,c7 ,! v5dor ensures t donor eligibility det]m9ations & su* o!r records z ! ,secret>y may require accompany ea* biological implant at all times1 reg>dless ( ! c\ntry ( orig9 ( ! donor ( ! biological mat]ial4 7,d7 ,! v5dor agrees to coop]ate ) all biological implant recalls conduct$ on ! initiative ( ! v5dor1 on ! initiative ( ! orig9al product manufactur] us$ by ! v5dor1 by ! reque/ ( ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration1 or by a /atutory ord] ( ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration4 7,e7 ,! v5dor agrees to notify ! ,secret>y ( any adv]se ev5t or reaction report x provides to ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration1 z requir$ by sections #abga4c & #abga4cej ( title #ba1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation1 or any w>n+ lett] f ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration issu$ to ! v5dor or a tissue processor or tissue di/ribution int]m$i>y us$ by ! v5dor by n lat] ?an #fj days aft] ! v5dor receives su* report or w>n+ lett]4 7,f7 ,! v5dor agrees to reta9 all records associat$ ) ! procurem5t ( a biological implant by ! ,dep>tm5t = at lea/ #aj ye>s aft] ! date ( ! procurem5t ( ! biological implant4 7,g7 ,! v5dor provides assurances t ! biological implants provid$ by ! v5dor are acquir$ only f tissue processors t ma9ta9 active accr$itation ) ! ,am]ican ,association ( ,tissue ,banks or a simil> national accr$itation specific to biological implants4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y may procure biological implants ( nonhuman orig9 only f v5dors t meet ! foll[+ conditions3 7,a7 ,! v5dor uses ! /&>d id5tification sy/em adopt$ or implem5t$ by ! ,secret>y "u section #gccj;,d7a7 ( ?is title4 7,b7 ,! v5dor is regi/]$ z an e/abli%m5t z requir$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration "u sections #hjg4bj & #hjg4dj ( title #ba1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation 7or is n requir$ to regi/] pursuant to section #hjg4fe7;a7 ( su* title1 or any successor regulation71 & 9 ! case ( a v5dor t is n ! orig9al product manufactur] ( su* implants1 ! v5dor provides assurances t ! orig9al product manufactur] is regi/]$ z requir$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration 7or is n requir$ to regi/]74 7,c7 ,! v5dor agrees to coop]ate ) all biological implant recalls conduct$ on ! initiative ( ! v5dor1 on ! initiative ( ! orig9al product manufactur] us$ by ! v5dor1 by ! reque/ ( ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration1 or by a /atutory ord] ( ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration4 7,d7 ,! v5dor agrees to notify ! ,secret>y ( any adv]se ev5t report x provides to ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration z requir$ "u "p #hjc ( title #ba1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation1 or any w>n+ lett] f ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration issu$ to ! v5dor or ! orig9al product manufactur] us$ by ! v5dor by n lat] ?an #fj days aft] ! v5dor receives su* report or w>n+ lett]4 7,e7 ,! v5dor agrees to reta9 all records associat$ ) ! procurem5t ( a biological implant by ! ,dep>tm5t = at lea/ #aj ye>s aft] ! date ( ! procurem5t ( ! biological implant4 7#c7 7,a7 ,! ,secret>y %all procure biological implants "u ! ,f$]al ,supply ,s*$ules ( ! ,g5]al ,s]vices ,adm9i/ration unless su* implants are n available "u su* ,s*$ules4 7,b7 ,) respect to biological implants li/$ on ! ,f$]al ,supply ,s*$ules1 ! ,secret>y %all accommodate reasonable v5dor reque/s to und]take outrea* ef=ts to educate m$ical pr(essionals ( ! ,dep>tm5t ab\t ! use & efficacy ( su* biological implants4 7,c7 ,9 ! case ( biological implants t are unavailable = procurem5t "u ! ,f$]al ,supply ,s*$ules1 ! ,secret>y %all procure su* implants us+ competitive proc$ures 9 accordance ) applicable law & ! ,f$]al ,acquisition ,regulation1 includ+ ?r\gh ! use ( a national contract4 7#d7 ,9 procur+ biological implants "u ?is section1 ! ,secret>y %all p]mit a v5dor to use any ( ! accr$it$ entities id5tifi$ by ! ,food & ,drug ,adm9i/ration z an issu+ ag5cy pursuant to section #hcj4ajj ( title #ba1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation4 7#e7 ,section #habc ( ?is title %all n apply to ! procurem5t ( biological implants4 7b7 ,p5alties ,9 addition to any applicable p5alty "u any o!r provision ( law1 any procurem5t employee ( ! ,dep>tm5t :o is f\nd responsible = a biological implant procurem5t transaction ) int5t to avoid or ) reckless disreg>d ( ! requirem5ts ( ?is section %all be ineligible to hold a c]tificate ( appo9tm5t z a contract+ (fic] or to s]ve z ! repres5tative ( an ord]+ (fic]1 contract+ (fic]1 or pur*ase c>d hold]4 7c7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,! t]m biological implant has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #gccj;,d7d7 ( ?is title4 7#b7 ,! t]m di/9ct id5tifi] means a di/9ct id5tification code t-- 7,a7 relates a biological implant to ! human donor ( ! implant & to all records p]ta9+ to ! implant2 7,b7 includes in=mation design$ to facilitate effective track+1 us+ ! di/9ct id5tification code1 f ! donor to ! recipi5t & f ! recipi5t to ! donor2 & 7,c7 satisfies ! requirem5ts ( section #abga4bij7;c7 ( title #ba1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations1 or any successor regulation4 7#c7 ,! t]m tissue di/ribution int]m$i>y means an ag5cy t acquires & /ores human tissue = fur!r di/ribution & p]=ms no o!r tissue bank+ functions4 7#d7 ,! t]m tissue processor means an entity process+ human tissue = use 9 biological implants1 includ+ activities p]=m$ on tissue o!r ?an donor scre5+1 donor te/+1 tissue recov]y & collection functions1 /orage1 or di/ribution4 4 7#b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #ha ( su* title1 z am5d$ by section #acb7;c71 is fur!r am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #habi ! foll[+ new item3 #hacj4 ,procurem5t ( biological implants4 4 7b7 ,effective date ,section #hacj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 %all take effect on ! date t is #ahj days aft] ! date on :i* ! track+ sy/em requir$ "u section #gccj;,d7b7 ( su* title1 z add$ by section #bib7;a71 is implem5t$4 7c7 ,special rule = cryopres]v$ products ,dur+ ! ?ree-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! effective date ( section #hacj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 biological implants produc$ & label$ be=e t effective date may be procur$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs )\t relabel+ "u ! /&>d id5tification sy/em adopt$ or implem5t$ "u section #gccj;,d ( su* title1 z add$ by section #bib7;a74 #bid4 ,expansion ( rese>* & education on & deliv]y ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? to vet]ans 7a7 ,developm5t ( plan ,to exp& rese>*1 education1 & deliv]y ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all develop a plan to exp& mat]ially & sub/antially ! scope ( ! effectiv5ess ( rese>* & education on1 & deliv]y & integration (1 complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices into ! heal? c>e s]vices provid$ to vet]ans4 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! plan requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all provide = ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,rese>* on ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! effectiv5ess ( v>i\s complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices1 includ+ ! effectiv5ess ( su* s]vices integrat$ ) cl9ical s]vices4 7,b7 ,approa*es to integrat+ complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices into o!r heal? c>e s]vices provid$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#b7 ,education & tra9+ = heal? c>e pr(essionals ( ! ,dep>tm5t on ! foll[+3 7,a7 complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices select$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ! plan4 7,b7 ,appropriate uses ( su* s]vices4 7,c7 ,integration ( su* s]vices into ! deliv]y ( heal? c>e to vet]ans4 7#c7 ,rese>*1 education1 & cl9ical activities on complem5t>y & integrative heal? at c5t]s ( innovation at m$ical c5t]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#d7 ,id5tification or developm5t ( metrics & outcome measures to evaluate ! effectiv5ess ( ! provision & integration ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices into ! deliv]y ( heal? c>e to vet]ans4 7#e7 ,integration & deliv]y ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices ) o!r heal? c>e s]vices provid$ by ! ,dep>tm5t4 7c7 ,consultation 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 c>ry+ out subsection 7a71 ! ,secret>y %all consult ) ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! ,director ( ! ,national ,c5t] = ,complem5t>y & ,integrative ,heal? ( ! ,national ,in/itutes ( ,heal?4 7,b7 ,! ,commission] ( ,food & ,drugs4 7,c7 ,in/itutions ( high] education1 private rese>* in/itutes1 & individual rese>*]s ) ext5sive exp]i5ce 9 complem5t>y & integrative heal? & ! integration ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? practices into ! deliv]y ( heal? c>e4 7,d7 ,nationally recogniz$ provid]s ( complem5t>y & integrative heal?4 7,e7 ,su* o!r (ficials1 entities1 & individuals ) exp]tise on complem5t>y & integrative heal? z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7#b7 ,scope ( consultation ,! ,secret>y %all und]take consultation "u p>agraph 7#a7 9 c>ry+ out subsection 7a7 ) respect to ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,to develop ! plan4 7,b7 ,to id5tify specific complem5t>y & integrative heal? practices t1 on ! basis ( rese>* f9d+s or promis+ cl9ical int]v5tions1 are appropriate to include z s]vices to vet]ans4 7,c7 ,to id5tify b>ri]s to ! effective provision & integration ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices into ! deliv]y ( heal? c>e to vet]ans1 & to id5tify me*anisms = ov]com+ su* b>ri]s4 7d7 ,complem5t>y & integrative heal? def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m complem5t>y & integrative heal? %all h ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #baa7;g74 #bie4 ,pilot program on integration ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? )9 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs m$ical c5t]s 7a7 ,pilot program requir$ ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! completion ( ! developm5t ( ! plan "u section #bid1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all-- 7#a7 c>ry out1 ?r\gh ! ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,c5t]$ ,c>e & ,cultural ,trans=mation ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 a pilot program to assess ! feasibility & advisability ( integrat+ ! deliv]y ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices select$ by ! ,secret>y ) o!r heal? c>e s]vices provid$ by ! ,dep>tm5t = vet]ans ) m5tal heal? conditions1 *ronic pa9 conditions1 o!r *ronic conditions1 & su* o!r conditions z ! ,secret>y det]m9es appropriate2 & 7#b7 9 develop+ ! pilot program-- 7,a7 use ! plan develop$ "u section #bid2 7,b7 id5tify &1 to ! ext5t practicable1 resolve b>ri]s to ! provision ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices select$ by ! ,secret>y & ! integration ( ^? s]vices ) o!r heal? c>e s]vices provid$ by ! ,dep>tm5t2 7,c7 id5tify means ( improv+ coord9ation betwe5 ,f$]al1 ,/ate1 local1 & community provid]s ( heal? c>e 9 ! provision ( pa9 managem5t & relat$ heal? c>e s]vices to vet]ans2 7,d7 id5tify means ( enhanc+ outrea*1 & coord9ation ( outrea*1 by & among provid]s ( heal? c>e describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,c7 reg>d+ ! pa9 managem5t & relat$ heal? c>e s]vices available to vet]ans2 7,e7 id5tify means ( us+ wellness-bas$ programs (f]$ by provid]s ( heal? c>e describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,c7 to complem5t ! provision by ! ,dep>tm5t ( pa9 managem5t & relat$ heal? c>e s]vices to vet]ans2 & 7,f7 assess :e!r wellness-bas$ programs describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,e7-- 7i7 are effective 9 enhanc+ ! quality ( life & well-be+ ( vet]ans2 7ii7 are effective 9 increas+ ! adh]5ce ( vet]ans to ! prim>y pa9 managem5t & relat$ heal? c>e s]vices provid$ su* vet]ans by ! ,dep>tm5t2 7iii7 h an effect on ! s5se ( well-be+ ( vet]ans :o receive prim>y pa9 managem5t & relat$ heal? c>e s]vices f ! ,dep>tm5t2 & 7iv7 are effective 9 enc\rag+ vet]ans receiv+ heal? c>e f ! ,dep>tm5t to adopt a m heal?y life/yle4 7b7 ,duration ( pilot program ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out ! pilot program dur+ ! ?ree-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ! date t is #ahj days aft] ! completion ( ! developm5t ( ! plan "u section #bid4 7c7 ,locations 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out ! pilot program at n few] ?an #ae m$ical c5t]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#b7 ,polytrauma c5t]s ,n few] ?an two ( ! m$ical c5t]s designat$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be locat$ at polytrauma rehabilitation c5t]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#c7 ,m$ical c5t]s ) prescription rate ( opioids t conflicts ) c>e /&>ds 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 select+ m$ical c5t]s "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all give priority to m$ical c5t]s ( ! ,dep>tm5t at :i* !re is a prescription rate ( opioids t conflicts ) or is o!rwise inconsi/5t ) ! /&>ds ( appropriate & safe c>e4 7,b7 ,prescription rate def9$ ,9 ?is p>agraph1 ! t]m prescription rate means1 ) respect to a m$ical c5t] ( ! ,dep>tm5t1 ea* ( ! foll[+3 7i7 ,! numb] ( pati5ts treat$ ) opioids at ! m$ical c5t] divid$ by ! total numb] ( ph>macy us]s at ! m$ical c5t]4 7ii7 ,! av]age numb] ( morph9e equival5ts p] day prescrib$ at ! m$ical c5t] to pati5ts be+ treat$ ) opioids4 7iii7 ,( ! pati5ts be+ treat$ ) opioids at ! m$ical c5t]1 ! av]age numb] ( prescriptions ( opioids p] pati5t4 7#d7 ,selection ( locations ,9 c>ry+ out ! pilot program1 ! ,secret>y %all select locations t include ! foll[+ areas3 7,a7 ,rural areas4 7,b7 ,areas t are n 9 close proximity to an active duty milit>y in/allation4 7,c7 ,areas repres5t+ diff]5t geographic locations1 su* z c5sus tracts e/abli%$ by ! ,bureau ( ! ,c5sus4 7d7 ,provision ( s]vices ,"u ! pilot program1 ! ,secret>y %all provide cov]$ s]vices to cov]$ vet]ans by integrat+ complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices ) o!r s]vices provid$ by ! ,dep>tm5t at ! m$ical c5t]s designat$ "u subsection 7c77#a74 7e7 ,cov]$ vet]ans ,= purposes ( ! pilot program1 a cov]$ vet]an is any vet]an :o-- 7#a7 has a m5tal heal? condition diagnos$ by a cl9ician ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 7#b7 exp]i5ces *ronic pa92 7#c7 has a *ronic condition be+ treat$ by a cl9ician ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 or 7#d7 is n describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a71 7#b71 or 7#c7 & reque/s to p>ticipate 9 ! pilot program or is ref]r$ by a cl9ician ( ! ,dep>tm5t :o is treat+ ! vet]an4 7f7 ,cov]$ s]vices 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,= purposes ( ! pilot program1 cov]$ s]vices are s]vices consi/+ ( complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices z select$ by ! ,secret>y4 7#b7 ,adm9i/ration ( s]vices ,cov]$ s]vices %all be adm9i/]$ "u ! pilot program z foll[s3 7,a7 ,cov]$ s]vices %all be adm9i/]$ by pr(essionals or o!r in/ructors ) appropriate tra9+ & exp]tise 9 complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices :o are employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t or ) :om ! ,dep>tm5t ent]s into an agreem5t to provide su* s]vices4 7,b7 ,cov]$ s]vices %all be includ$ z "p ( ! ,pati5t ,align$ ,c>e ,teams initiative ( ! ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,c>e ,s]vices1 ,prim>y ,c>e ,program ,(fice1 9 coord9ation ) ! ,(fice ( ,pati5t ,c5t]$ ,c>e & ,cultural ,trans=mation4 7,c7 ,cov]$ s]vices %all be made available to-- 7i7 cov]$ vet]ans :o h receiv$ conv5tional treatm5ts f ! ,dep>tm5t = ! conditions = :i* ! cov]$ vet]an seeks complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices "u ! pilot program2 & 7ii7 cov]$ vet]ans :o h n receiv$ conv5tional treatm5ts f ! ,dep>tm5t = su* conditions4 7g7 ,volunt>y p>ticipation ,! p>ticipation ( a vet]an 9 ! pilot program %all be at ! election ( ! vet]an & 9 consultation ) a cl9ician ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7h7 ,report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #cj mon?s aft] ! date ( ! comm5cem5t ( ! pilot program1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! pilot program4 7#b7 ,elem5ts ,! report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! f9d+s & conclusions ( ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! pilot program1 includ+ ) respect to-- 7i7 ! use & efficacy ( ! complem5t>y & integrative heal? s]vices e/abli%$ "u ! pilot program2 7ii7 ! outrea* conduct$ by ! ,secret>y to in=m vet]ans & community organizations ab\t ! pilot program2 & 7iii7 an assessm5t ( ! b5efit ( ! pilot program to cov]$ vet]ans 9 m5tal heal? diagnoses1 pa9 managem5t1 & treatm5t ( *ronic illness4 7,b7 ,a description ( b>ri]s id5tifi$ "u subsection 7a77#b77;,b7 t 7 n resolv$4 7,c7 ,su* recomm5dations = ! cont9uation or expansion ( ! pilot program z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7i7 ,complem5t>y & integrative heal? def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m complem5t>y & integrative heal? %all h ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #baa7;g74 #bif4 ,report on public access to rese>* by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ea* ( #ahj days & "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on increas+ public access to sci5tific publications & digital data f rese>* fund$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7b7 ,elem5ts ,ea* report submitt$ "u subsection 7a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,an id5tification ( ! location or locations 9 :i* ! public w be able to access ! results ( rese>* fund$ by ! ,dep>tm5t1 :e!r on an ,int]net website ( ! ,dep>tm5t or ?r\gh ano!r s\rce4 7#b7 ,a description ( ! progress made by ! ,dep>tm5t 9 meet+ public access requirem5ts set =? 9 ! notice entitl$ ,policy & ,implem5tation ,plan = ,public ,access to ,sci5tific ,publications & ,digital ,data f ,rese>* ,fund$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7#hj ,f$4 ,reg4 #fjgea71 includ+ ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,compliance ( ,dep>tm5t inve/igators ) requirem5ts relat+ to ensur+ t rese>* fund$ by ! ,dep>tm5t is accessible by ! public4 7,b7 ,ensur+ data managem5t plans ( ! ,dep>tm5t include provisions = long-t]m pres]vation ( ! sci5tific data result+ f rese>* fund$ by ! ,dep>tm5t4 7#c7 ,an explanation ( ! factors us$ to evaluate ! m]it ( data managem5t plans ( rese>* fund$ by ! ,vet]ans ,heal? ,adm9i/ration4 7#d7 ,an explanation ( ! process ( ! ,dep>tm5t 9 effect t enables /akehold]s to petition a *ange to ! emb>go p]iod = a specific field & ! factors consid]$ dur+ su* process4 ,,iii ,disability comp5sation & p5sion #cja4 ,exp$it$ paym5t ( survivor's b5efits 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #eaja7;a77#a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ ,a specific & ins]t+ 7,a7 ,except z provid$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 a specific2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subp>agraph3 7,b7 7i7 ,! ,secret>y may pay b5efits "u *apt]s #ac & #ae & sections #bcjb1 #bcjg1 & #eaba ( ?is title to a survivor ( a vet]an :o has n fil$ a =mal claim if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t ! record conta9s suffici5t evid5ce to e/abli% ! entitlem5t ( ! survivor to su* b5efits4 7ii7 ,= purposes ( ?is subp>agraph & section #eaaj ( ?is title1 ! e>li] ( ! foll[+ dates %all be treat$ z ! date ( ! receipt ( ! survivor's application = b5efits describ$ 9 clause 7i73 7,i7 ,! date on :i* ! survivor ( a vet]an 7or ! repres5tative ( su* a survivor7 notifies ! ,secret>y ( ! dea? ( ! vet]an ?r\gh a dea? c]tificate or o!r relevant evid5ce t e/abli%es entitlem5t to survivors b5efits id5tifi$ 9 clause 7i74 7,,ii7 ,! head ( any o!r dep>tm5t or ag5cy ( ! ,f$]al ,gov]nm5t notifies ! ,secret>y ( ! dea? ( ! vet]an4 7iii7 ,9 notify+ ! ,secret>y ( ! dea? ( a vet]an z describ$ 9 clause 7ii77,i71 ! survivor 7or ! repres5tative ( su* a survivor7 may submit to ! ,secret>y additional docum5ts relat+ to su* dea? )\t be+ requir$ to file a =mal claim4 4 7b7 ,report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on b5efits paid pursuant to cov]$ claims4 7#b7 ,cont5ts ,! report "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! numb] ( cov]$ claims adjudicat$ dur+ ! "o-ye> p]iod prec$+ ! date ( ! report1 disaggregat$ by ! foll[+3 7i7 ,claims 9 :i* ! claimant claim$ entitlem5t to b5efits "u *apt]s #ac or #ae or sections #bcjb1 #bcjg1 or #eaba ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 on ! basis ( ! claimant's /atus z ! sp\se ( a deceas$ vet]an4 7ii7 ,claims 9 :i* ! claimant claim$ entitlem5t to su* b5efits on ! basis ( ! claimant's /atus z ! *ild ( a deceas$ vet]an4 7iii7 ,claims 9 :i* ! claimant claim$ entitlem5t to su* b5efits on ! basis ( ! claimant's /atus z ! p>5t ( a deceas$ vet]an4 7,b7 ,! numb] ( cov]$ claims t 7 adjudicat$ dur+ su* p]iod & = :i* su* b5efits 7 n aw>d$1 disaggregat$ by clauses 7i7 ?r\gh 7iii7 ( subp>agraph 7,a74 7,c7 ,a comp>ison ( ! accuracy & timel9ess ( cov]$ claims adjudicat$ dur+ su* p]iod ) noncov]$ claims fil$ by survivors ( a vet]an4 7,d7 ,! f9d+s ( ! ,secret>y ) respect to adjudicat+ cov]$ claims4 7,e7 ,su* recomm5dations z ! ,secret>y may h = legislative or adm9i/rative action to improve ! adjudication ( claims submitt$ to ! ,secret>y = b5efits "u *apt]s #ac & #ae & sections #bcjb1 #bcjg1 & #eaba ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#c7 ,cov]$ claim def9$ ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m cov]$ claim means a claim cov]$ by section #eaja7;a77#a77;,b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a74 7c7 ,effective date ,! am5dm5ts made by subsection 7a7 %all apply ) respect to claims = b5efits bas$ on a dea? occurr+ on or aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #cjb4 ,increase 9 special p5sion = ,m$al ( ,honor recipi5ts 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #aefb7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by /rik+ #a1jjj & ins]t+ #c1jjj4 7b7 ,effective date 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! am5dm5t made by subsection 7a7 %all take effect on ! date t is-- 7,a7 except z provid$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act2 & 7,b7 9 ! case t ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act is n ! fir/ day ( a mon?1 ! fir/ day ( ! fir/ mon? beg9n+ aft] ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7#b7 ,delay ( annual co/ ( liv+ adju/m5t 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y %all n make an increase pursuant to section #aefb7;e7 ( su* title effective ,decemb] #a1 #bjaf1 if ! am5dm5t made by subsection 7a7 takes effect be=e su* date4 7,b7 ,resumption ,9 ! case t ! ,secret>y1 pursuant to subp>agraph 7,a71 does n make an increase pursuant to section #aefb7;e7 ( su* title effective ,decemb] #a1 #bjaf1 ! ,secret>y %all resume mak+ increases pursuant to su* section ) ! fir/ su* increase effective ,decemb] #a1 #bjag4 #cjc4 ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals video he>+s ,section #gajg ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subsection 7d71 by am5d+ p>agraph 7#a7 to read z foll[s3 7#a7 7,a7 7i7 ,^u reque/ = a he>+1 ! ,bo>d %all det]m9e1 = purposes ( s*$ul+ ! he>+ = ! e>lie/ possible date1 :e!r a he>+ be=e ! ,bo>d w be held at its pr9cipal location or at a facility ( ! ,dep>tm5t or o!r appropriate ,f$]al facility locat$ )9 ! area s]v$ by a regional (fice ( ! ,dep>tm5t4 7ii7 ,! ,bo>d %all also det]m9e :e!r to provide a he>+ ?r\gh ! use ( ! facilities & equipm5t describ$ 9 subsection 7e77#a7 or by ! appellant p]sonally appe>+ be=e a ,bo>d memb] or panel4 7,b7 7i7 ,! ,bo>d %all notify ! appellant ( ! det]m9ations ( ! location & type ( he>+ made "u subp>agraph 7,a74 7ii7 ,^u notification1 ! appellant may reque/ a diff]5t location or type ( he>+ z describ$ 9 su* subp>agraph4 7iii7 ,if s reque/$1 ! ,bo>d %all grant su* reque/ & ensure t ! he>+ is s*$ul$ at ! e>lie/ possible date )\t any undue delay or o!r prejudice to ! appellant4 2 & 7#b7 9 subsection 7e71 by am5d+ p>agraph 7#b7 to read z foll[s3 7#b7 ,any he>+ provid$ ?r\gh ! use ( ! facilities & equipm5t describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 %all be conduct$ 9 ! same mann] z1 & %all be consid]$ ! equival5t (1 a p]sonal he>+4 4 #cjd4 ,improvem5ts to au?ority = p]=mance ( m$ical disabilities exam9ations by contract physicians 7a7 ,ext5sion ( tempor>y au?ority ,subsection 7c7 ( section #gjd ( ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,act ( #bjjc 7#ch ,u4,s4,c4 #eaja note7 is am5d$ by /rik+ ,decemb] #ca1 #bjaf & ins]t+ ,decemb] #ca1 #bjag4 7b7 ,lic5sure ( contract physicians 7#a7 ,tempor>y au?ority ,su* section #gjd is fur!r am5d$-- 7,a7 by r$esignat+ subsection 7d7 z subsection 7e72 & 7,b7 by ins]t+ aft] subsection 7c7 ! foll[+ new subsection 7d73 7d7 ,lic5sure ( contract physicians 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,not)/&+ any law reg>d+ ! lic5sure ( physicians1 a physician describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b7 may conduct an exam9ation pursuant to a contract ent]$ into "u subsection 7b7 at any location 9 any ,/ate1 ! ,di/rict ( ,columbia1 or a ,commonweal?1 t]ritory1 or possession ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 s long z ! exam9ation is )9 ! scope ( ! au?oriz$ duties "u su* contract4 7#b7 ,physician describ$ ,a physician describ$ 9 ?is p>agraph is a physician :o-- 7,a7 has a curr5t unre/rict$ lic5se to practice ! heal? c>e pr(ession ( ! physician2 7,b7 is n b>r$ f practic+ su* heal? c>e pr(ession 9 any ,/ate1 ! ,di/rict ( ,columbia1 or a ,commonweal?1 t]ritory1 or possession ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates2 & 7,c7 is p]=m+ au?oriz$ duties = ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs pursuant to a contract ent]$ into "u subsection 7b74 4 7#b7 ,pilot program ,section #ejd ( ! ,vet]ans' ,b5efits ,improvem5t ,act ( #aiif 7#ch ,u4,s4,c4 #eaja note7 is am5d$-- 7,a7 by r$esignat+ subsections 7c7 & 7d7 z subsections 7d7 & 7e71 respectively2 & 7,b7 by ins]t+ aft] subsection 7b7 ! foll[+ new subsection 7c73 7c7 ,lic5sure ( contract physicians 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,not)/&+ any law reg>d+ ! lic5sure ( physicians1 a physician describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b7 may conduct an exam9ation pursuant to a contract ent]$ into "u subsection 7a7 at any location 9 any ,/ate1 ! ,di/rict ( ,columbia1 or a ,commonweal?1 t]ritory1 or possession ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 s long z ! exam9ation is )9 ! scope ( ! au?oriz$ duties "u su* contract4 7#b7 ,physician describ$ ,a physician describ$ 9 ?is p>agraph is a physician :o-- 7,a7 has a curr5t unre/rict$ lic5se to practice ! heal? c>e pr(ession ( ! physician2 7,b7 is n b>r$ f practic+ su* heal? c>e pr(ession 9 any ,/ate1 ! ,di/rict ( ,columbia1 or a ,commonweal?1 t]ritory1 or possession ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates2 & 7,c7 is p]=m+ au?oriz$ duties = ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs pursuant to a contract ent]$ into "u subsection 7a74 4 #cje4 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs pilot program on fully develop$ appeals 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all c>ry out a pilot program to provide ! option ( an alt]native appeals process t %all m quickly det]m9e su* appeals 9 accordance ) ?is section4 7b7 ,election 7#a7 ,fil+ ,9 accordance ) p>agraph 7#b71 a claimant may elect to file a fully develop$ appeal "u ! pilot program by fil+ ) ! ,secret>y all ( ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! notice ( disagreem5t "u *apt] #ga ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 along ) ! writt5 election ( ! claimant to h ! appeal det]m9$ "u ! pilot program4 7,b7 ,all evid5ce t ! claimant believes is ne$$ = ! appeal z ( ! date ( ! fil+4 7,c7 ,a /atem5t ( ! argum5t 9 support ( ! claim1 if any4 7#b7 ,tim+ ,a claimant %all make an election "u p>agraph 7#a7 z "p ( ! notice ( disagreem5t fil$ by ! claimant 9 accordance ) p>agraph 7#a77;,a74 7#c7 ,triage ,! ,secret>y %all1 ^u expiration ( ! p]iod specifi$ 9 subsection 7c77#c77;,c71 ensure t an assessm5t is und]tak5 ( :e!r an appeal fil$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 ( ?is subsection satisfies ! requirem5ts = appeal "u ! pilot program & provide appropriate notification to ! claimant ( ! results ( t assessm5t4 7#d7 ,rev]sion 7,a7 ,elect$ rev]sion ,at any "t1 a claimant :o makes an election "u p>agraph 7#a7 may elect to rev]t to ! /&>d appeals process4 ,su* a rev]sion %all be f9al4 7,b7 ,automatic rev]sion ,a claimant describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a71 or a claimant :o makes an election "u p>agraph 7#a7 b is lat] det]m9$ to be ineligible = ! pilot program "u subsection 7a71 %all rev]t to ! /&>d appeals process )\t any p5alty to ! claimant o!r ?an ! loss ( ! docket numb] associat$ ) ! fully develop$ appeal4 7#e7 ,outrea* ,9 provid+ claimants ) notices ( ! det]m9ation ( a claim dur+ ! p]iod 9 :i* ! pilot program "u subsection 7a7 is c>ri$ out1 ! ,secret>y %all conduct outrea* z foll[s3 7,a7 ,! ,secret>y %all provide to ! claimant 7& to ! repres5tative ( record ( ! claimant1 if any7 in=mation reg>d+-- 7i7 ! pilot program1 includ+ ! advantages & disadvantages ( ! program2 7ii7 h[ to make an election "u p>agraph 7#a72 7iii7 ! limitation on ! use ( new evid5ce describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#c7 ( subsection 7c7 & ! developm5t ( in=mation "u p>agraph 7#d7 ( su* subsection2 7iv7 ! ability ( ! claimant to seek advice & education reg>d+ su* process f vet]ans s]vice organizations1 attorneys1 & claims ag5ts recogniz$ "u *apt] #ei ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code2 & 7v7 ! circum/ances "u :i* ! appeal w automatically rev]t to ! /&>d appeals process1 includ+ by mak+ a reque/ = a he>+4 7,b7 ,! ,secret>y %all collaborate1 p>tn] )1 & give weight to ! advice ( ! ?ree vet]ans s]vice organizations ) ! mo/ memb]s & su* o!r /akehold]s z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate to publi% on ! ,int]net website ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs an onl9e tutorial expla9+ ! advantages & disadvantages ( ! pilot program4 7c7 ,treatm5t by ,dep>tm5t & ,bo>d 7#a7 ,process ,^u ! election ( a claimant to file a fully develop$ appeal pursuant to subsection 7b77#a71 ! ,secret>y %all-- 7,a7 n provide ! claimant ) a /atem5t ( ! case nor require ! claimant to file a sub/antive appeal2 & 7,b7 transf] jurisdiction ov] ! fully develop$ appeal directly to ! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals4 7#b7 ,docket 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals %all-- 7i7 ma9ta9 fully develop$ appeals on a sep>ate docket ?an /&>d appeals2 7ii7 decide fully develop$ appeals 9 ! ord] t ! fully develop$ appeals are receiv$ on ! fully develop$ appeal docket2 7iii7 except z provid$ by subp>agraph 7,b71 decide n m ?an "o fully develop$ appeal = ea* f\r /&>d appeals decid$2 & 7iv7 to ! ext5t practicable1 decide ea* fully develop$ appeal by ! date t is "o ye> foll[+ ! date on :i* ! claimant files ! notice ( disagreem5t4 7,b7 ,adju/m5t ,beg9n+ "o ye> aft] ! date on :i* ! pilot program comm5ces1 ! ,bo>d may adju/ ! numb] ( /&>d appeals decid$ = ea* fully develop$ appeal "u subp>agraph 7,a77iii7 if ! ,bo>d det]m9es t su* adju/m5t is fair = bo? /&>d appeals & fully develop$ appeals4 7#c7 ,limitation on use ( new evid5ce 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,except z provid$ by subp>agraphs 7,b7 & 7,c7-- 7i7 a claimant may n submit or id5tify to ! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals any new evid5ce relat+ to a fully develop$ appeal aft] fil+ su* appeal unless ! claimant rev]ts to ! /&>d appeals process pursuant to subsection 7b77#d72 & 7ii7 if a claimant submits or id5tifies any su* new evid5ce1 su* submission or id5tification %all be deem$ to be an election to make su* a rev]sion pursuant to subsection 7b77#d74 7,b7 ,evid5ce ga!r$ by ,bo>d ,subp>agraph 7,a7 %all n apply to evid5ce develop$ pursuant to p>agraphs 7#d7 & 7#e74 ,! ,bo>d %all consid] su* evid5ce 9 ! fir/ in/ance )\t consid]ation by ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration4 7,c7 ,repres5tative ( record ,! repres5tative ( record ( a claimant = appeals purposes1 if any1 %all be provid$ an opportunity to review ! fully develop$ appeal ( ! claimant & submit any additional argum5ts or evid5ce t ! repres5tative det]m9es necess>y dur+ a p]iod specifi$ by ! ,bo>d = purposes ( ?is subp>agraph4 7#d7 ,prohibition on rem& = additional developm5t ,if ! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals det]m9es t a fully develop$ appeal requires ,f$]al records1 indep5d5t m$ical op9ions1 or new m$ical exam9ations1 ! ,bo>d %all-- 7,a7 9 accordance ) p>agraph 7#e71 take su* actions z may be necess>y to develop su* records1 op9ions1 or exam9ations 9 accordance ) section #eajc;,a ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code2 7,b7 reta9 jurisdiction ( ! fully develop$ appeal )\t requir+ a det]m9ation by ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration bas$ on su* records1 op9ions1 or exam9ations2 7,c7 ensure ! claimant1 & ! repres5tative ( record ( a claimant1 if any1 receives a copy ( su* records1 op9ions1 or exam9ations2 & 7,d7 provide ! claimant a p]iod ( #ij days aft] ! date ( mail+ su* records1 op9ions1 or exam9ations dur+ :i* ! claimant may provide ! ,bo>d any additional evid5ce )\t requir+ ! claimant to make a rev]sion pursuant to subsection 7b77#d74 7#e7 ,developm5t unit 7,a7 ,e/abli%m5t ,! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals %all e/abli% an (fice to develop ,f$]al records1 indep5d5t m$ical op9ions1 & new m$ical exam9ations pursuant to p>agraph 7#d77;,a7 t ! ,bo>d det]m9es necess>y to decide a fully develop$ appeal4 7,b7 ,requirem5ts ,! ,secret>y %all-- 7i7 ensure t ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration coop]ates ) ! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals 9 c>ry+ out subp>agraph 7,a72 & 7ii7 transf] employees ( ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration :o1 prior to ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 7 responsible = process+ claims rem&$ by ! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals to positions )9 ! (fice ( ! ,bo>d e/abli%$ "u subp>agraph 7,a7 9 a numb] ! ,secret>y det]m9es suffici5t to c>ry out su* subp>agraph4 7#f7 ,he>+s ,not)/&+ section #gajg ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 ! ,secret>y may n provide he>+s ) respect to fully develop$ appeals "u ! pilot program4 ,if a claimant reque/s to hold a he>+ pursuant to su* section #gajg1 su* reque/ %all be deem$ to be an election to rev]t to ! /&>d appeals process pursuant to subsection 7b77#d74 7d7 ,duration2 applicability 7#a7 ,duration ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out ! pilot program dur+ a five-ye> p]iod beg9n+ n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7#b7 ,applicability ,?is section %all apply only to fully develop$ appeals t are fil$ dur+ ! p]iod 9 :i* ! pilot program is c>ri$ out pursuant to p>agraph 7#a74 7e7 ,annual reports 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,dur+ ea* ye> 9 :i* ! pilot program is c>ri$ out1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! pilot program4 ,! fir/ su* report %all be submitt$ by n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date on :i* ! pilot program comm5ces4 7#b7 ,cont5ts ,ea* report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,= ! p]iod cov]$ by ! report-- 7i7 ! numb] ( fully develop$ appeals fil$ "u ! pilot program2 7ii7 ! av]age process+ "t = ea* su* appeal adjudicat$ by ! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals1 disaggregat$ by ea* phase ( ! appeal1 &1 if ! process+ "t = appeals exce$ "o ye>1 ! reasons = su* process+ "t2 7iii7 a summ>y ( reasons = :i* ! developm5t ( evid5ce 0 requir$ "u subsection 7c77#e72 7iv7 ! numb] ( issues decid$1 disaggregat$ by ! disposition ( ! issue2 7v7 ( ! numb] id5tifi$ 9 clause 7iv71 ! numb] ( issues = :i* evid5ce 0 n s develop$1 disaggregat$ by ! disposition ( ! issue2 7vi7 ( ! numb] ( fully develop$ appeals decid$ by ! ,bo>d ( ,vet]ans' ,appeals1 ! numb] ( cases f ea* ag5cy ( orig9al jurisdiction1 ! total numb] ( issues all[$1 & ! total numb] ( issues d5i$ f ^? cases2 7vii7 ! numb] ( fully develop$ appeals appeal$ to ! ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims1 disaggregat$ by ! disposition ( ! case2 7viii7 ! numb] ( rev]sions made "u subsection 7b77#d72 7ix7 any reasons = :y a claimant 0 det]m9$ to be ineligible to p>ticipate 9 ! pilot program2 & 7x7 to ! ext5t practicable1 a qualitative assessm5t ( ! results a*iev$ by claimants ?r\gh ! pilot program comp>$ to results a*iev$ by claimants ?r\gh ! /&>d appeal process4 7,b7 ,a review1 made 9 conjunction ) vet]ans s]vice organizations & su* o!r /akehold]s z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate1 ( ! ef=ts ( ! ,secret>y to provide cle> rat+ decisions & improve disability rat+ notification lett]s1 includ+ ) respect to-- 7i7 ! op9ions ( vet]ans s]vice organizations & su* o!r /akehold]s z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate reg>d+ su* ef=ts2 & 7ii7 h[ ! pilot program improves su* ef=ts4 7,c7 ,a recomm5dation = su* legislative or adm9i/rative action z ! ,secret>y consid]s may improve ! pilot program4 7,d7 ,an assessm5t ( ! feasibility & advisability ( exp&+ ! pilot program4 7f7 ,regulations ,! ,secret>y %all prescribe su* regulations z may be necess>y to c>ry out ! pilot program4 7g7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,claimant ,! t]m claimant has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #eajj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#b7 ,comp5sation ,! t]m comp5sation has ! mean+ giv5 t t]m 9 section #aja ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#c7 ,fully develop$ appeal ,! t]m fully develop$ appeal means an appeal ( a claim = disability comp5sation t is-- 7,a7 fil$ by a claimant 9 accordance ) subsection 7b77#a72 & 7,b7 consid]$ 9 accordance ) ?is section4 7#d7 ,/&>d appeal ,! t]m /&>d appeal means an appeal ( a claim = disability comp5sation t is n a fully develop$ appeal4 #cjf4 ,requirem5t t ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs publi% ! av]age "t requir$ to adjudicate timely & untimely appeals 7a7 ,publication requirem5t 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,on an ongo+ basis1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all make available to ! public ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! av]age l5g? ( "t to adjudicate a timely appeal4 7,b7 ,! av]age l5g? ( "t to adjudicate an untimely appeal4 7#b7 ,effective date ,p>agraph 7#a7 %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act & %all apply until ! date t is ?ree ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7b7 ,report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #ci mon?s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on :e!r publication pursuant to subsection 7a77#a7 has _h an effect on ! numb] ( timely appeals fil$4 7#b7 ,cont5ts ,! report requir$ by p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! numb] ( appeals & timely appeals t 7 fil$ dur+ ! "o-ye> p]iod end+ on ! effective date specifi$ 9 subsection 7a77#b74 7,b7 ,! numb] ( appeals & timely appeals t 7 fil$ dur+ ! "o-ye> p]iod end+ on ! date t is two ye>s aft] ! effective date specifi$ 9 subsection 7a77#b74 7c7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,appeal ,! t]m appeal means a notice ( disagreem5t fil$ pursuant to section #gaje7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 9 response to notice ( ! result ( an initial review or det]m9ation reg>d+ a claim = a b5efit "u a law adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#b7 ,timely ,! t]m timely ) respect to an appeal means t ! notice ( disagreem5t 0 fil$ n m ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( mail+ ( ! notice ( ! result ( ! initial review or det]m9ation describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a74 7#c7 ,untimely ,! t]m untimely ) respect to an appeal means ! notice ( disagreem5t 0 fil$ m ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( mail+ ( ! notice ( ! result ( ! initial review or det]m9ation describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a74 #cjg4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al review ( claims process+ p]=mance ( regional (fices ( ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration 7a7 ,review requir$ ,n lat] ?an #ae mon?s aft] ! effective date specifi$ 9 subsection 7e71 ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates %all complete a review ( ! regional (fices ( ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration to help ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration a*ieve m consi/5t p]=mance 9 ! process+ ( claims = disability comp5sation4 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! review requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,an id5tification ( ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! factors1 includ+ managem5t practices1 t di/+ui% high] p]=m+ regional (fices f o!r regional (fices ) respect to claims = disability comp5sation4 7,b7 ,! be/ practices employ$ by high] p]=m+ regional (fices t di/+ui% ! p]=mance ( su* (fices f o!r regional (fices4 7,c7 ,su* o!r managem5t practices or tools z ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al det]m9es c\ld be us$ to improve ! p]=mance ( regional (fices4 7#b7 ,an assessm5t ( ! effectiv5ess ( communication ) respect to ! process+ ( claims = disability comp5sation betwe5 ! regional (fices & vet]ans s]vice organizations & casework]s employ$ by ,memb]s ( ,congress4 7c7 ,report ,n lat] ?an #ae mon?s aft] ! effective date specifi$ 9 subsection 7e71 ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! results ( ! review complet$ "u subsection 7a74 7d7 ,vet]ans s]vice organization def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m vet]ans s]vice organization means any organization recogniz$ by ! ,secret>y = ! repres5tation ( vet]ans "u section #eijb ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7e7 ,effective date ,?is section %all take effect on ! date t is #bgj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #cjh4 ,report on p>ticipation ( vet]ans s]vice organizations 9 ,transition ,assi/ance ,program 7a7 ,report requir$ ,n lat] ?an #edj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se %all submit to ,congress a report on p>ticipation ( vet]ans s]vice organizations 9 ! program c>ri$ out "u section #aadd ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7b7 ,cont5ts ,! report requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,an assessm5t ( ! compliance ( facilities ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se ) ! directives includ$ 9 ! memor&um ( ! ,secret>y ( ,def5se entitl$ ,in/allation ,access & ,support ,s]vices = ,nonpr(it ,non-,f$]al ,entities & dat$ ,decemb] #bc1 #bjad4 7#b7 ,! numb] ( milit>y bases t h compli$ ) su* directives4 7#c7 ,h[ _m vet]ans s]vice organizations h be5 pres5t at a portion ( a program z describ$ 9 subsection 7a74 7c7 ,vet]ans s]vice organization def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m vet]ans s]vice organization means any organization recogniz$ by ! ,secret>y = ! repres5tation ( vet]ans "u section #eijb ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #cji4 ,inclusion 9 annual budget submission ( in=mation on capacity ( ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration to process b5efits claims 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,along ) ! support+ in=mation includ$ 9 ! budget submitt$ to ,congress by ! ,presid5t pursuant to section #aaje7;a7 ( title #ca1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 ! ,presid5t %all include in=mation on ! capacity ( ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration to process claims = b5efits "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 includ+ in=mation describ$ 9 subsection 7b71 dur+ ! fiscal ye> cov]$ by ! budget ) :i* ! in=mation is submitt$4 7b7 ,in=mation describ$ ,! in=mation describ$ 9 ?is subsection is ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,an e/imate ( ! av]age numb] ( claims = b5efits "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y1 exclud+ su* claims complet$ dur+ m&atory ov]time1 t a s+le full-"t equival5t employee ( ! ,adm9i/ration %\ld be able to process 9 a ye>1 bas$ on ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,a "t & motion /udy t ! ,secret>y %all conduct on ! process+ ( su* claims4 7,b7 ,su* o!r in=mation relat+ to su* claims z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7#b7 ,a description ( ! actions ! ,secret>y w take to improve ! process+ ( su* claims4 7#c7 ,an assessm5t ( ! actions id5tifi$ by ! ,secret>y "u p>agraph 7#b7 9 ! previ\s ye> & an id5tification ( ! effects ( ^? actions4 7c7 ,effective date ,?is section %all apply ) respect to any budget submitt$ z describ$ 9 subsection 7a7 ) respect to any fiscal ye> aft] fiscal ye> #bjag4 #caj4 ,report on /aff+ levels at regional (fices ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs aft] transition to ,national ,"w ,queue ,n lat] ?an #ae mon?s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! crit]ia & proc$ures t ! ,secret>y w use to det]m9e appropriate /aff+ levels at ! regional (fices ( ! ,dep>tm5t once ! ,dep>tm5t has transition$ to us+ ! ,national ,"w ,queue = ! di/ribution ( ! claims process+ workload4 #caa4 ,annual report on progress 9 implem5t+ ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,managem5t ,sy/em 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ea* ( "o ye>1 two ye>s1 & ?ree ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ,congress a report on ! progress ( ! ,secret>y 9 implem5t+ ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,managem5t ,sy/em4 7b7 ,cont5ts ,ea* report requir$ by subsection 7a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,an assessm5t ( ! curr5t functionality ( ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,managem5t ,sy/em4 7#b7 ,recomm5dations submitt$ to ! ,secret>y by employees ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs :o are involv$ 9 process+ claims = b5efits "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y1 includ+ vet]ans s]vice repres5tatives1 rat+ vet]ans s]vice repres5tatives1 & decision review (fic]s1 = su* legislative or adm9i/rative action z ! employees consid] appropriate to improve ! process+ ( su* claims4 7#c7 ,recomm5dations submitt$ to ! ,secret>y by vet]ans s]vice organizations :o use ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,managem5t ,sy/em = su* legislative or adm9i/rative action z ! vet]ans s]vice organizations consid] appropriate to improve su* sy/em4 7c7 ,vet]ans s]vice organization def9$ ,9 ?is section1 ! t]m vet]ans s]vice organization means any organization recogniz$ by ! ,secret>y = ! repres5tation ( vet]ans "u section #eijb ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #cab4 ,report on plans ( ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to r$uce inv5tory ( non-rat+ workload ,n lat] ?an #abj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report t details ! plans ( ! ,secret>y to r$uce ! inv5tory ( "w items li/$ 9 ! ,monday ,morn+ ,workload ,report "u ,end ,products #acj1 #acg1 #agc1 #bij1 #djj1 #fjj1 #fjg1 #fij1 #icj1 & #ifj4 #cac4 ,s5se ( ,congress on increas$ transp>5cy relat+ to claims = b5efits & appeals ( decisions relat+ to b5efits 9 ,monday ,morn+ ,workload ,report ,x is ! s5se ( ,congress t ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %\ld include 9 ea* ,monday ,morn+ ,workload ,report publi%$ by ! ,secret>y ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,) respect to ea* regional (fice ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! numb] ( fully develop$ claims = b5efits "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y t h be5 receiv$4 7,b7 ,! numb] ( claims describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a7 t are p5d+ a decision4 7,c7 ,! numb] ( claims describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a7 t h be5 p5d+ a decision = m ?an #abe days4 7#b7 ,enhanc$ in=mation on appeals ( decisions relat+ to claims = b5efits "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y t are p5d+1 includ+ in=mation conta9$ 9 ! reports ( ! ,dep>tm5t entitl$ ,appeals ,p5d+ & ,appeals ,workload ,by ,/ation4 #cad4 ,s5se ( ,congress reg>d+ ,am]ican vet]ans disabl$ = life 7a7 ,f9d+s ,congress makes ! foll[+ f9d+s3 7#a7 ,!re are at lea/ #d1bjj1jjj vet]ans curr5tly liv+ ) s]vice-connect$ disabilities4 7#b7 ,z a result ( _! s]vice1 _m vet]ans are p]man5tly disabl$ ?r\gh\t _! lives & 9 _m cases mu/ rely on ! support ( _! families & fri5ds :5 ^! visible & invisible burd5s become too mu* to be> alone4 7#c7 ,octob] #e1 :i* is ! anniv]s>y ( ! d$ication ( ! ,am]ican ,vet]ans ,disabl$ = ,life ,memorial1 has be5 recogniz$ z an appropriate day on :i* to honor ,am]ican vet]ans disabl$ = life ea* ye>4 7b7 ,s5se ( ,congress ,congress-- 7#a7 expresses its appreciation to ! m5 & wom5 left p]man5tly w\nd$1 ill1 or injur$ z a result ( _! s]vice 9 ! ,arm$ ,=ces2 7#b7 supports ! annual recognition ( ,am]ican vet]ans disabl$ = life ea* ye>2 & 7#c7 enc\rages ! ,am]ican p to honor ,am]ican vet]ans disabl$ = life ea* ye> ) appropriate programs & activities4 #cae4 ,s5se ( ,congress on submittal ( in=mation relat+ to claims = disabilities incurr$ or aggravat$ by milit>y sexual trauma 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,x is ! s5se ( ,congress t ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %\ld submit to ,congress in=mation on ! cov]$ claims submitt$ to ! ,secret>y dur+ ea* fiscal ye>1 includ+ ! in=mation specifi$ 9 subsection 7b74 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! in=mation specifi$ 9 ?is subsection ) respect to ea* fiscal ye> is ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,! numb] ( cov]$ claims submitt$ to or consid]$ by ! ,secret>y dur+ su* fiscal ye>4 7#b7 ,( ! cov]$ claims "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! numb] & p]c5tage ( su* claims-- 7,a7 submitt$ by ea* sex2 7,b7 t 7 approv$1 includ+ ! numb] & p]c5tage ( su* approv$ claims submitt$ by ea* sex2 & 7,c7 t 7 d5i$1 includ+ ! numb] & p]c5tage ( su* d5i$ claims submitt$ by ea* sex4 7#c7 ,( ! cov]$ claims "u p>agraph 7#a7 t 7 approv$1 ! numb] & p]c5tage1 li/$ by ea* sex1 ( claims assign$ to ea* rat+ p]c5tage ( disability4 7#d7 ,( ! cov]$ claims "u p>agraph 7#a7 t 7 d5i$-- 7,a7 ! ?ree mo/ common reasons giv5 by ! ,secret>y "u section #eajd7;b77#a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 = su* d5ials2 & 7,b7 ! numb] ( d5ials t 7 bas$ on ! failure ( a vet]an to report = a m$ical exam9ation4 7#e7 ,! numb] ( cov]$ claims t1 z ( ! end ( su* fiscal ye>1 are p5d+ &1 sep>ately1 ! numb] ( su* claims on appeal4 7#f7 ,! av]age numb] ( days t cov]$ claims take to complete beg9n+ on ! date on :i* ! claim is submitt$4 7#g7 ,a description ( ! tra9+ t ! ,secret>y provides to employees ( ! ,vet]ans ,b5efits ,adm9i/ration specifically ) respect to cov]$ claims1 includ+ ! frequ5cy1 l5g?1 & cont5t ( su* tra9+4 7c7 ,def9itions ,9 ?is section3 7#a7 ,cov]$ claims ,! t]m cov]$ claims means claims = disability comp5sation submitt$ to ! ,secret>y bas$ on po/-traumatic /ress disord] alleg$ to h be5 incurr$ or aggravat$ by milit>y sexual trauma4 7#b7 ,milit>y sexual trauma ,! t]m milit>y sexual trauma %all h ! mean+ specifi$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ?is section & %all include sexual h>assm5t 7z s specifi$74 ,,iv ,education ,a ,educational assi/ance & vocational rehabilitation #dja4 ,cl>ification ( eligibility = ,m>9e ,gunn]y ,s]geant ,john ,david ,fry ,s*ol>%ip 7a7 ,9 ,g5]al ,section #gja7;d7 ( ! ,vet]ans ,access1 ,*oice1 & ,acc\ntability ,act ( #bjad 7,public ,law #aac-adf2 #abh ,/at4 #agif2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #ccaa note7 is am5d$ to read z foll[s3 7d7 ,applicability 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! am5dm5ts made by ?is section %all apply ) respect to a qu>t]1 seme/]1 or t]m1 z applicable1 comm5c+ on or aft] ,janu>y #a1 #bjae4 7#b7 ,dea?s t occurr$ betwe5 ,septemb] #aa1 #bjja1 & ,decemb] #ca1 #bjje ,= purposes ( section #ccaa7;f77#b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 any memb] ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces :o di$ dur+ ! p]iod beg9n+ on ,septemb] #aa1 #bjja1 & end+ on ,decemb] #ca1 #bjje1 is deem$ to h di$ on ,janu>y #a1 #bjjf4 4 7b7 ,election on receipt ( c]ta9 b5efits ,section #ccaa7;f7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 p>agraph 7#c71 by /rik+ ,a surviv+ sp\se & ins]t+ ,except z provid$ 9 p>agraph 7#d71 a surviv+ sp\se2 7#b7 by r$esignat+ p>agraph 7#d7 z p>agraph 7#e72 & 7#c7 by ins]t+ aft] p>agraph 7#c7 ! foll[+ new p>agraph 7#d73 7#d7 ,exception = c]ta9 elections 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,an election made "u p>agraph 7#c7 by a sp\se describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b7 may n be treat$ z irrevocable if su* election occurr$ be=e ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is p>agraph4 7,b7 ,eligible surviv+ sp\se ,a sp\se describ$ 9 ?is subp>agraph is an individual-- 7i7 :o is entitl$ to assi/ance "u subsection 7a7 pursuant to p>agraph 7#i7 ( subsection 7b72 & 7ii7 :o 0 ! sp\se ( a memb] ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces :o di$ dur+ ! p]iod beg9n+ on ,septemb] #aa1 #bjja1 & end+ on ,decemb] #ca1 #bjje4 4 7c7 ,te*nical am5dm5t ,p>agraph 7#e7 ( subsection 7f7 ( section #ccaa ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z r$esignat$ by subsection 7b77#b71 is am5d$ by /rik+ t p>agraph & ins]t+ p>agraph 7#i7 ( subsection 7b74 7d7 ,yell[ ,ribbon ,g4,i4 ,education ,enhancem5t ,program ,section #ccag7;a7 ( su* title is am5d$ by /rik+ p>agraphs 7#a7 & 7#b7 ( section #ccaa7;b7 & ins]t+ p>agraphs 7#a71 7#b71 & 7#i7 ( section #ccaa7;b7 ( ?is title4 #djb4 ,re/oration ( entitlem5t to ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance = vet]ans affect$ by closures ( educational in/itutions 7a7 ,educational assi/ance 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #ccab ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7d7 ,discont9uation ( education due to closure ( educational in/itution 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,any paym5t ( educational assi/ance describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b7 %all n-- 7,a7 be *>g$ aga9/ any entitlem5t to educational assi/ance ( ! individual conc]n$ "u ?is *apt]2 or 7,b7 be c\nt$ aga9/ ! aggregate p]iod = :i* section #cfie ( ?is title limits ! individual's receipt ( educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt]4 7#b7 ,description ( paym5t ( educational assi/ance ,subject to p>agraph 7#c71 ! paym5t ( educational assi/ance describ$ 9 ?is p>agraph is ! paym5t ( su* assi/ance to an individual = pursuit ( a c\rse or c\rses "u ?is *apt] if ! ,secret>y f9ds t ! individual-- 7,a7 0 =c$ to discont9ue su* c\rse pursuit z a result ( a p]man5t closure ( an educational in/itution2 & 7,b7 did n receive cr$it1 or lo/ tra9+ "t1 t[>d completion ( ! program ( education be+ pursu$ at ! "t ( su* closure4 7#c7 ,p]iod = :i* paym5t n *>g$ ,! p]iod = :i*1 by reason ( ?is subsection1 educational assi/ance is n *>g$ aga9/ entitlem5t or c\nt$ t[>d ! applicable aggregate p]iod "u section #cfie ( ?is title %all n exce$ ! aggregate (-- 7,a7 ! portion ( ! p]iod ( enrollm5t 9 ! c\rse or c\rses f :i* ! individual fail$ to receive cr$it or ) respect to :i* ! individual lo/ tra9+ "t1 z det]m9$ "u p>agraph 7#b77;,b71 & 7,b7 ! p]iod by :i* a mon?ly /ip5d is ext5d$ "u section #cfhj7;a77#b77;,b7 ( ?is title4 4 7#b7 ,applicability ,subsection 7d7 ( su* section1 z add$ by p>agraph 7#a71 %all apply ) respect to c\rses & programs ( education discont9u$ z describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b7 ( su* subsection 9 fiscal ye> #bjae or any fiscal ye> !reaft]4 7b7 ,mon?ly h\s+ /ip5d 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #cfhj7;a7 ( su* title is am5d$-- 7,a7 by /rik+ ! matt] aft] p>agraph 7#c77;,b72 7,b7 9 p>agraph 7#c71 by r$esignat+ subp>agraphs 7,a7 & 7,b7 z clauses 7i7 & 7ii71 respectively2 7,c7 by r$esignat+ p>agraphs 7#a7 ?r\gh 7#c7 z subp>agraphs 7,a7 ?r\gh 7,c71 respectively2 7,d7 9 ! matt] be=e subp>agraph 7,a71 z r$esignat$1 9 ! fir/ s5t5ce1 by /rik+ ,paym5t ( & ins]t+ 7#a7 ,except z provid$ 9 p>agraph 7#b71 paym5t (2 & 7,e7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph 7#b73 7#b7 ,not)/&+ p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y may1 pursuant to su* regulations z ! ,secret>y %all prescribe1 cont9ue to pay all[ances to eligible vet]ans & eligible p]sons enroll$ 9 c\rses set =? 9 p>agraph 7#a77;,a7-- 7,a7 dur+ p]iods :5 s*ools are tempor>ily clos$ "u an e/abli%$ policy bas$ on an ,executive ord] ( ! ,presid5t or due to an em]g5cy situation1 except t ! total numb] ( weeks = :i* all[ances may cont9ue to be s payable 9 any #ab-mon? p]iod may n exce$ f\r weeks2 or 7,b7 solely = ! purpose ( aw>d+ a mon?ly h\s+ /ip5d describ$ 9 section #ccac ( ?is title1 dur+ p]iods foll[+ a p]man5t s*ool closure1 except t paym5t ( su* a /ip5d may only be cont9u$ until ! e>li] (-- 7i7 ! date ( ! end ( ! t]m1 qu>t]1 or seme/] dur+ :i* ! s*ool closure occurr$2 & 7ii7 ! date t is #d mon?s aft] ! date ( ! s*ool closure4 4 7#b7 ,con=m+ am5dm5t ,p>agraph 7#a77;,c77ii7 ( su* section1 z r$esignat$1 is am5d$ by /rik+ describ$ 9 subclause 7,a7 ( ?is clause & ins]t+ describ$ 9 clause 7i74 #djc4 ,consid]ation ( eligibility = ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance = c]ta9 "t on active duty 9 res]ve compon5ts ( ,arm$ ,=ces 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #ccja7a77;,b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by /rik+ #abcjb1 or #abcjd & ins]t+ #abcja7;h71 #abcjb1 #abcjd1 #abcjd;a1 or #abcjd;b4 7b7 ,effective date & applicability ,! am5dm5t made by subsection 7a7 %all-- 7#a7 take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act2 7#b7 apply ) respect to assi/ance provid$ "u *apt] #cc ( su* title on & aft] ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act2 & 7#c7 apply ) respect to any memb] ( a res]ve compon5t ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces :o s]ves or has s]v$ on active duty "u section #abcja7;h71 #abcjd;a1 or #abcjd;b ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 be=e1 on1 or aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #djd4 ,approval ( c\rses ( education & tra9+ = purposes ( ! vocational rehabilitation program ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #cajd7;b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by ins]t+ 7#a7 be=e ,a rehabilitation2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#b7 7,a7 ,except z provid$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 to ! maximum ext5t practicable1 a c\rse ( education or tra9+ may be pursu$ by a vet]an z "p ( a rehabilitation program "u ?is *apt] only if ! c\rse is approv$ = purposes ( *apt] #cj or #cc ( ?is title4 7,b7 ,! ,secret>y may waive ! requirem5t "u subp>agraph 7,a7 to ! ext5t ! ,secret>y det]m9es appropriate4 4 7b7 ,effective date ,! am5dm5ts made by subsection 7a7 %all apply ) respect to a c\rse ( education or tra9+ pursu$ by a vet]an :o fir/ beg9s a program ( rehabilitation "u *apt] #ca ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 on or aft] ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #dje4 ,au?ority to prioritize vocational rehabilitation s]vices bas$ on ne$ ,section #cajd ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #djd1 is fur!r am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7c7 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all h ! au?ority to adm9i/] ?is *apt] by prioritiz+ ! provision ( s]vices "u ?is *apt] bas$ on ne$1 z det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y4 7#b7 ,9 evaluat+ ne$ = purposes ( ?is subsection1 ! ,secret>y %all consid] disability rat+s1 ! sev]ity ( employm5t h&icaps1 qualification = a program ( indep5d5t liv+ s]vices & assi/ance1 income1 & su* o!r factors z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7#c7 ,n lat] ?an #ij days be=e mak+ any *anges to ! prioritization ( ! provision ( s]vices "u ?is *apt] z au?oriz$ "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ,congress a plan describ+ su* *anges4 4 #djf4 ,codification & improvem5t ( election process = ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance ,program 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,iii ( *apt] #cc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by r$esignat+ section #ccbe z section #ccbf2 & 7#b7 by ins]t+ aft] section #ccbd ! foll[+ new section #ccbe3 #ccbe4 ,election to receive educational assi/ance 7a7 ,individuals eligible to elect p>ticipation 9 po/-#i_/aa educational assi/ance ,an individual may elect to receive educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt] if su* individual-- 7#a7 z ( ,augu/ #a1 #bjji-- 7,a7 is entitl$ to basic educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cj ( ?is title & has us$1 b reta9s unus$1 entitlem5t "u t *apt]2 7,b7 is entitl$ to educational assi/ance "u *apt] #ajg1 #afjf1 or #afjg ( title #aj & has us$1 b reta9s unus$1 entitlem5t "u ! applicable *apt]2 7,c7 is entitl$ to basic educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cj ( ?is title b has n us$ any entitlem5t "u t *apt]2 7,d7 is entitl$ to educational assi/ance "u *apt] #ajg1 #afjf1 or #afjg ( title #aj b has n us$ any entitlem5t "u su* *apt]2 7,e7 is a memb] ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces :o is eligible = receipt ( basic educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cj ( ?is title & is mak+ contributions t[>d su* assi/ance "u section #cjaa7;b7 or #cjab7;c7 ( ?is title2 or 7,f7 is a memb] ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces :o is n entitl$ to basic educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cj ( ?is title by reason ( an election "u section #cjaa7;c77#a7 or #cjab7;d77#a7 ( ?is title2 & 7#b7 z ( ! date ( ! individual's election "u ?is p>agraph1 meets ! requirem5ts = entitlem5t to educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt]4 7b7 ,cessation ( contributions t[>d ,,gi bill ,effective z ( ! fir/ mon? beg9n+ on or aft] ! date ( an election "u subsection 7a7 ( an individual describ$ by p>agraph 7#a77;,e7 ( t subsection1 ! obligation ( ! individual to make contributions "u section #cjaa7;b7 or #cjab7;c7 ( ?is title1 z applicable1 %all cease1 & ! requirem5ts ( su* section %all be deem$ to be no long] applicable to ! individual4 7c7 ,revocation ( rema9+ transf]r$ entitlem5t 7#a7 ,election to revoke ,if1 on ! date an individual describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a77;,a7 or 7#a77;,c7 ( subsection 7a7 makes an election "u t subsection1 a transf] ( ! entitlem5t ( ! individual to basic educational assi/ance "u section #cjbj ( ?is title is 9 effect & a numb] ( mon?s ( ! entitlem5t s transf]r$ rema9 unutiliz$1 ! individual may elect to revoke all or a portion ( ! entitlem5t s transf]r$ t rema9s unutiliz$4 7#b7 ,availability ( revok$ entitlem5t ,any entitlem5t revok$ by an individual "u ?is p>agraph %all no long] be available to ! dep5d5t to :om transf]r$1 b %all be available to ! individual in/ead = educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cc ( ?is title 9 accordance ) ! provisions ( ?is section4 7#c7 ,availability ( unrevok$ entitlem5t ,any entitlem5t describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a7 t is n revok$ by an individual 9 accordance ) t p>agraph %all rema9 available to ! dep5d5t or dep5d5ts conc]n$ 9 accordance ) ! curr5t transf] ( su* entitlem5t "u section #cjbj ( ?is title4 7d7 ,po/-#i_/aa educational assi/ance 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,subject to p>agraph 7#b7 & except z provid$ 9 subsection 7e71 an individual mak+ an election "u subsection 7a7 %all be entitl$ to educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt] 9 accordance ) ! provisions ( ?is *apt]1 in/ead ( basic educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cj ( ?is title1 or educational assi/ance "u *apt] #ajg1 #afjf1 or #afjg ( title #aj1 z applicable4 7#b7 ,limitation on entitlem5t = c]ta9 individuals ,9 ! case ( an individual mak+ an election "u subsection 7a7 :o is describ$ by p>agraph 7#a77;,a7 ( t subsection1 ! numb] ( mon?s ( entitlem5t ( ! individual to educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt] %all be ! numb] ( mon?s equal to-- 7,a7 ! numb] ( mon?s ( unus$ entitlem5t ( ! individual "u *apt] #cj ( ?is title1 z ( ! date ( ! election1 plus 7,b7 ! numb] ( mon?s1 if any1 ( entitlem5t revok$ by ! individual "u subsection 7c77#a74 7e7 ,cont9u+ entitlem5t to educational assi/ance n available "u #i_/aa assi/ance program 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 ! ev5t educational assi/ance to :i* an individual mak+ an election "u subsection 7a7 w\ld be entitl$ "u *apt] #cj ( ?is title1 or *apt] #ajg1 #afjf1 or #afjg ( title #aj1 z applicable1 is n au?oriz$ to be available to ! individual "u ! provisions ( ?is *apt] ! individual %all rema9 entitl$ to su* educational assi/ance 9 accordance ) ! provisions ( ! applicable *apt]4 7#b7 ,*>ge = use ( entitlem5t ,! utilization by an individual ( entitlem5t "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be *>geable aga9/ ! entitlem5t ( ! individual to educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt] at ! rate ( "o mon? ( entitlem5t "u ?is *apt] = ea* mon? ( entitlem5t utiliz$ by ! individual "u p>agraph 7#a7 7z det]m9$ z if su* entitlem5t 7 utiliz$ "u ! provisions ( *apt] #cj ( ?is title1 or *apt] #ajg1 #afjf1 or #afjg ( title #aj1 z applicable74 7f7 ,additional po/-#i_/aa assi/ance = memb]s hav+ made contributions t[>d ,,gi bill 7#a7 ,additional assi/ance ,9 ! case ( an individual mak+ an election "u subsection 7a7 :o is describ$ by subp>agraph 7,a71 7,c71 or 7,e7 ( p>agraph 7#a7 ( t subsection1 ! am\nt ( educational assi/ance payable to ! individual "u ?is *apt] z a mon?ly /ip5d payable "u p>agraph 7#a77;,b7 ( section #ccac7;c7 ( ?is title1 or "u p>agraphs 7#b7 ?r\gh 7#g7 ( t section 7z applicable71 %all be ! am\nt o!rwise payable z a mon?ly /ip5d "u ! applicable p>agraph increas$ by ! am\nt equal to-- 7,a7 ! total am\nt ( contributions t[>d basic educational assi/ance made by ! individual "u section #cjaa7;b7 or #cjab7;c7 ( ?is title1 z ( ! date ( ! election1 multipli$ by 7,b7 ! fraction-- 7i7 ! num]ator ( :i* is-- 7,i7 ! numb] ( mon?s ( entitlem5t to basic educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cj ( ?is title rema9+ to ! individual at ! "t ( ! election2 plus 7,,ii7 ! numb] ( mon?s1 if any1 ( entitlem5t "u *apt] #cj revok$ by ! individual "u subsection 7c77#a72 & 7ii7 ! d5om9ator ( :i* is #cf mon?s4 7#b7 ,mon?s ( rema9+ entitlem5t = c]ta9 individuals ,9 ! case ( an individual cov]$ by p>agraph 7#a7 :o is describ$ by subsection 7a77#a77;,e71 ! numb] ( mon?s ( entitlem5t to basic educational assi/ance rema9+ to ! individual = purposes ( p>agraph 7#a77;,b77i77,,ii7 %all be #cf mon?s4 7#c7 ,tim+ ( paym5t ,! am\nt payable ) respect to an individual "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be paid to ! individual toge!r ) ! la/ paym5t ( ! mon?ly /ip5d payable to ! individual "u p>agraph 7#a77;,b7 ( section #ccac7;c7 ( ?is title1 or "u p>agraphs 7#b7 ?r\gh 7#g7 ( t section 7z applicable71 be=e ! exhau/ion ( ! individual's entitlem5t to educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt]4 7g7 ,cont9u+ entitlem5t to additional assi/ance = critical skills or speciality & additional s]vice ,an individual mak+ an election "u subsection 7a77#a7 :o1 at ! "t ( ! election1 is entitl$ to increas$ educational assi/ance "u section #cjae7;d7 ( ?is title1 or section #afaca7;i7 ( title #aj1 or supplem5tal educational assi/ance "u sub*apt] ,,iii ( *apt] #cj ( ?is title1 %all rema9 entitl$ to su* increas$ educational assi/ance or supplem5tal educational assi/ance 9 ! utilization ( entitlem5t to educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt]1 9 an am\nt equal to ! qu>t]1 seme/]1 or t]m1 z applicable1 equival5t ( ! mon?ly am\nt ( su* increas$ educational assi/ance or supplem5tal educational assi/ance payable ) respect to ! individual at ! "t ( ! election4 7h7 ,alt]native election by ,secret>y 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,9 ! case ( an individual :o1 on or aft] ,janu>y #a1 #bjaf1 submits to ! ,secret>y an election "u ?is section t ! ,secret>y det]m9es is cle>ly aga9/ ! int]e/s ( ! individual1 or :o fails to make an election "u ?is section1 ! ,secret>y may make an alt]native election on behalf ( ! individual t ! ,secret>y det]m9es is 9 ! be/ int]e/s ( ! individual4 7#b7 ,notice ,if ! ,secret>y makes an election on behalf ( an individual "u ?is subsection1 ! ,secret>y %all notify ! individual by n lat] ?an sev5 days aft] mak+ su* election & %all provide ! individual ) a #cj-;day p]iod1 beg9n+ on ! date ( ! individual's receipt ( su* notice1 dur+ :i* ! individual may modify or revoke ! election made by ! ,secret>y on ! individual's behalf4 ,! ,secret>y %all include1 z "p ( su* notice1 a cle> /atem5t ( :y ! alt]native election made by ! ,secret>y is 9 ! be/ int]e/s ( ! individual z comp>$ to ! election submitt$ by ! individual4 ,! ,secret>y %all provide ! notice requir$ "u ?is p>agraph by electronic means :5ev] possible4 7i7 ,irrevocability ( elections ,an election "u subsection 7a7 or 7c77#a7 is irrevocable4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt] is am5d$ by /rik+ ! item relat+ to section #ccbe & ins]t+ ! foll[+ new items3 #ccbe4 ,election to receive educational assi/ance4#ccbf4 ,report+ requirem5t4 4 7c7 ,con=m+ repeal ,subsection 7c7 ( section #ejjc ( ! ,po/-#i_/aa ,vet]ans ,educational ,assi/ance ,act ( #bjjh 7,public ,law #aaj-beb2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #ccja note7 is h]eby repeal$4 #djg4 ,"w-/udy all[ance ,section #cdhe7;a77#d7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by /rik+ ,june #cj1 #bjac ea* place x appe>s & ins]t+ ,june #cj1 #bjac1 or ! p]iod beg9n+ on ,june #cj1 #bjaf1 & end+ on ,june #cj1 #bjba4 #djh4 ,ret5tion ( entitlem5t to educational assi/ance dur+ c]ta9 additional p]iods ( active duty 7a7 ,educational assi/ance all[ance ,section #afaca7;c77#c77;,b77i7 ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by /rik+ or #abcjd & ins]t+ #abcjd1 #abcjd;a1 or #abcjd;b4 7b7 ,expiration date ,section #afacc7;b77#d7 ( su* title is am5d$ by /rik+ or #abcjd & ins]t+ #abcjd1 #abcjd;a1 or #abcjd;b4 #dji4 ,eligibility = ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance = c]ta9 memb]s ( res]ve compon5ts ( ,arm$ ,=ces :o lo/ entitlem5t to educational assi/ance "u ,res]ve ,educational ,assi/ance ,program 7a7 ,election ,section #afafg ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7c7 ,eligibility = ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance ,a memb] :o loses eligibility = b5efits "u ?is *apt] pursuant to subsection 7b7 %all be all[$ to elect 79 su* =m & mann] z ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs may prescribe7 to h su* s]vice previ\sly cr$it$ t[>d ?is *apt] cr$it$ t[>ds e/abli%+ eligibility = educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 not)/&+ ! provisions ( section #afafc7;e7 ( ?is title or section #ccbb7;h77#a7 ( title #ch4 4 7b7 ,qualification ( s]vice ,section #ccja7a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 %all be con/ru$ to include1 9 ! case ( a memb] ( a res]ve compon5t ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces :o1 be=e ,novemb] #be1 #bjae1 e/abli%$ eligibility = educational assi/ance "u *apt] #afjg ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 pursuant to section #afafc7;a77#a7 ( su* title1 b lo/ eligibility = su* educational assi/ance pursuant to section #afafg7;b7 ( su* title1 s]vice on active duty 7z def9$ 9 section #aja ( su* title7 t satisfies ! requirem5ts ( section #afafc7;a77#a7 ( su* title4 7c7 ,entitlem5t ,section #ccaa7;b77#h7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 %all be con/ru$ to include an individual :o1 be=e ,novemb] #be1 #bjae1 e/abli%$ eligibility = educational assi/ance "u *apt] #afjg ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 pursuant to section #afafc7;b7 ( su* title1 b lo/ su* eligibility pursuant to section #afafg7;b7 ( su* title4 7d7 ,duration ,not)/&+ section #ccab ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 an individual :o e/abli%es eligibility = educational assi/ance "u *apt] #cc ( su* title by cr$it+ t[>ds su* *apt] s]vice previ\sly cr$it$ t[>ds *apt] #afjg ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is only entitl$ to a numb] ( mon?s ( educational assi/ance "u section #ccac ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 equal to ! numb] ( mon?s ( entitlem5t rema9+ "u *apt] #afjg ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 at ! "t ( conv]sion to *apt] #cc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 #daj4 ,reports on progress ( /ud5ts receiv+ ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #cc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by section #djf1 is fur!r am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subsection #ccbf7;c71 z r$esignat$-- 7,a7 9 p>agraph 7#b71 by /rik+ & aft] ! semicolon2 7,b7 by r$esignat+ p>agraph 7#c7 z p>agraph 7#d72 & 7,c7 by ins]t+ aft] p>agraph 7#b7 ! foll[+ new p>agraph 7#c73 7#c7 ! in=mation receiv$ by ! ,secret>y "u section #ccbg ( ?is title2 & 2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #ccbg4 ,report on /ud5t progress ,z a condition on approval "u *apt] #cf ( ?is title ( a c\rse (f]$ by an educational in/itution 7z def9$ 9 section #cdeb ( ?is title71 ea* ye>1 ea* educational in/itution 7z s def9$7 t receiv$ a paym5t 9 t ye> on behalf ( an individual entitl$ to educational assi/ance "u ?is *apt] %all submit to ! ,secret>y su* in=mation reg>d+ ! academic progress ( ! individual z ! ,secret>y may require4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt]1 z am5d$ by section #djf1 is fur!r am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new item3 #ccbg4 ,report on /ud5t progress4 4 7c7 ,effective date ,! am5dm5ts made by ?is section %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 ,b ,adm9i/ration ( educational assi/ance #dba4 ,c5traliz$ report+ ( vet]an enrollm5t by c]ta9 gr\ps1 di/ricts1 & consortiums ( educational in/itutions 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #cfhd7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 p>agraph 7#a71 by ins]t+ #cb1 #cc1 aft] #ca12 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#d7 ,= purposes ( ?is subsection1 ! t]m educational in/itution may include a gr\p1 di/rict1 or consortium ( sep>ately accr$it$ educational in/itutions locat$ 9 ! same ,/ate t are organiz$ 9 a mann] t facilitates ! c5traliz$ report+ ( ! enrollm5ts 9 su* gr\p1 di/rict1 or consortium ( in/itutions4 4 7b7 ,effective date ,! am5dm5ts made by subsection 7a7 %all apply ) respect to reports submitt$ on or aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #dbb4 ,provision ( in=mation reg>d+ vet]an entitlem5t to educational assi/ance 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #cf ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #cfii4 ,provision ( c]ta9 in=mation to educational in/itutions 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,= ea* vet]an or o!r individual pursu+ a c\rse ( education t has be5 approv$ "u ?is *apt] us+ educational assi/ance to :i* ! vet]an or o!r individual is entitl$ "u *apt] #cj1 #cb1 #cc1 or #ce ( ?is title1 ! ,secret>y %all make available to ! educational in/itution (f]+ ! c\rse in=mation ab\t ! am\nt ( su* educational assi/ance to :i* ! vet]an or o!r individual is entitl$4 7b7 ,mann] in=mation is provid$ ,! ,secret>y %all ensure t in=mation made available to an educational in/itution "u subsection 7a7 is provid$ to su* educational in/itution pursuant to su* subsection ?r\gh a secure in=mation te*nology sy/em accessible by ! educational in/itution4 7c7 ,regul> updates ,! ,secret>y %all regul>ly update in=mation provid$ "u ?is section to reflect any am\nts us$ by vet]ans & o!r individuals4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt] is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #cfih ! foll[+ new item3 #cfii4 ,provision ( c]ta9 in=mation to educational in/itutions4 4 #dbc4 ,role ( ,/ate approv+ ag5cies 7a7 ,approval ( c]ta9 c\rses ,section #cfgb7;b77#b77;,a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by /rik+ ! foll[+ & all t foll[s ?r\gh ! colon & ins]t+ ! foll[+3 a program ( education is deem$ to be approv$ = purposes ( ?is *apt] if a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy1 or ! ,secret>y :5 act+ 9 ! role ( a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy1 det]m9es t ! program is "o ( ! foll[+ programs34 7b7 ,approval ( o!r c\rses ,section #cfge ( su* title is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subsection 7a77#a7-- 7,a7 by /rik+ ,! ,secret>y or a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy & ins]t+ ,a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy1 or ! ,secret>y :5 act+ 9 ! role ( a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy12 & 7,b7 by /rik+ (f]$ by propriet>y =-pr(it educational in/itutions & ins]t+ n cov]$ by section #cfgb ( ?is title2 & 7#b7 9 subsection 7b7-- 7,a7 9 ! matt] be=e p>agraph 7#a71 by /rik+ ! ,secret>y or ! ,/ate approv+ ag5cy & ins]t+ ! ,/ate approv+ ag5cy1 or ! ,secret>y :5 act+ 9 ! role ( a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy12 & 7,b7 9 p>agraph 7#a71 by /rik+ ! ,secret>y or ! ,/ate approv+ ag5cy & ins]t+ ! ,/ate approv+ ag5cy1 or ! ,secret>y :5 act+ 9 ! role ( a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy4 #dbd4 ,crit]ia us$ to approve c\rses 7a7 ,nonaccr$it$ c\rses ,section #cfgf7;c77#ad7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by ins]t+ be=e ! p]iod ! foll[+3 if ! ,secret>y1 9 consultation ) ! ,/ate approv+ ag5cy & pursuant to regulations prescrib$ to c>ry out ?is p>agraph1 det]m9es su* crit]ia are necess>y & treat public1 private1 & propriet>y =-pr(it educational in/itutions equitably4 7b7 ,accr$it$ c\rses ,section #cfge7;b77#c7 ( su* title is am5d$ by /rik+ & 7#c7 & ins]t+ 7#c71 & 7#ad74 7c7 ,application ,! am5dm5t made by subsection 7a7 %all apply ) respect to-- 7#a7 crit]ia develop$ pursuant to p>agraph 7#ad7 ( subsection 7c7 ( section #cfgf ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 on or aft] ,janu>y #a1 #bjac2 & 7#b7 an inve/igation conduct$ "u su* subsection t is cov]$ by a reimbursem5t ( exp5ses paid by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to a ,/ate pursuant to section #cfgd ( su* title on or aft] ,octob] #a1 #bjae4 #dbe4 ,modification ( requirem5ts = approval = purposes ( educational assi/ance provid$ by ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ( programs design$ to prep>e individuals = lic5sure or c]tification 7a7 ,approval ( nonaccr$it$ c\rses ,subsection 7c7 ( section #cfgf ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z am5d$ by ?is subtitle1 is fur!r am5d$-- 7#a7 by r$esignat+ p>agraph 7#ad7 z p>agraph 7#af72 & 7#b7 by ins]t+ aft] p>agraph 7#ac7 ! foll[+ new p>agraphs3 7#ad7 ,9 ! case ( a c\rse design$ to prep>e an individual = lic5sure or c]tification 9 a ,/ate1 ! c\rse-- 7,a7 meets all in/ructional curriculum lic5sure or c]tification requirem5ts ( su* ,/ate2 & 7,b7 9 ! case ( a c\rse design$ to prep>e an individual = lic5sure to practice law 9 a ,/ate1 is accr$it$ by an accr$it+ ag5cy or association recogniz$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,education "u subp>t #b ( "p ,h ( title ,,iv ( ! ,high] ,education ,act ( #aife 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajii;b74 7#ae7 ,9 ! case ( a c\rse design$ to prep>e an individual = employm5t pursuant to /&>ds develop$ by a bo>d or ag5cy ( a ,/ate 9 an occupation t requires approval1 lic5sure1 or c]tification1 ! c\rse-- 7,a7 meets su* /&>ds2 & 7,b7 9 ! case ( a c\rse design$ to prep>e an individual = lic5sure to practice law 9 a ,/ate1 is accr$it$ by an accr$it+ ag5cy or association recogniz$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,education "u subp>t #b ( "p ,h ( title ,,iv ( ! ,high] ,education ,act ( #aife 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajii;b74 4 7b7 ,exceptions ,su* section is fur!r am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7f7 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y may waive ! requirem5ts ( p>agraph 7#ad7 or 7#ae7 ( subsection 7c7 9 ! case ( a c\rse ( education (f]$ by an educational in/itution 7ei!r accr$it$ or n accr$it$7 if ! ,secret>y det]m9es all ( ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! educational in/itution is n accr$it$ by an ag5cy or association recogniz$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,education4 7,b7 ,! c\rse did n meet ! requirem5ts ( su* p>agraph at any "t dur+ ! two-ye> p]iod prec$+ ! date ( ! waiv]4 7,c7 ,! waiv] fur!rs ! purposes ( ! educational assi/ance programs adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y or w\ld fur!r ! education int]e/s ( individuals eligible = assi/ance "u su* programs4 7,d7 ,! educational in/itution does n provide any commission1 bonus1 or o!r inc5tive paym5t bas$ directly or indirectly on success 9 secur+ enrollm5ts or f9ancial aid to any p]sons or entities engag$ 9 any /ud5t recruit+ or admission activities or 9 mak+ decisions reg>d+ ! aw>d ( /ud5t f9ancial assi/ance1 except = ! recruitm5t ( =eign /ud5ts resid+ 9 =eign c\ntries :o are n eligible to receive ,f$]al /ud5t assi/ance4 7#b7 ,n lat] ?an #cj days aft] ! date on :i* ! ,secret>y issues a waiv] "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ,congress notice ( su* waiv] & a ju/ification = issu+ su* waiv]4 4 7c7 ,approval ( accr$it$ c\rses ,section #cfge7;b77#c7 ( su* title1 z am5d$ by ?is subtitle1 is fur!r am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ & 7#ad7 & ins]t+ 7#ad71 7#ae71 & 7#af72 & 7#b7 by ins]t+ be=e ! p]iod at ! end ! foll[+3 7or1 ) respect to su* p>agraphs 7#ad7 & 7#ae71 ! requirem5ts "u su* p>agraphs are waiv$ pursuant to subsection 7f77#a7 ( section #cfgf ( ?is title74 7d7 ,approval ( accr$it$ /&>d college degree programs (f]$ at public or n-=-pr(it educational in/itutions ,section #cfgb7;b77#b7 ( su* title is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subp>agraph 7,a77i71 by /rik+ ,an accr$it$ & ins]t+ ,except z provid$ 9 subp>agraph 7,c71 an accr$it$2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subp>agraph3 7,c7 ,a c\rse t is describ$ 9 bo? subp>agraph 7,a77i7 ( ?is p>agraph & 9 p>agraph 7#ad7 or 7#ae7 ( section #cfgf7;c7 ( ?is title %all n be deem$ to be approv$ = purposes ( ?is *apt] unless-- 7i7 a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy1 or ! ,secret>y :5 act+ 9 ! role ( a ,/ate approv+ ag5cy1 det]m9es t ! c\rse meets ! applicable crit]ia 9 su* p>agraphs2 or 7ii7 ! ,secret>y issues a waiv] = su* c\rse "u section #cfgf7;f77#a7 ( ?is title4 4 7e7 ,disapproval ( c\rses ,section #cfgi ( su* title is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7d7 ,not)/&+ any o!r provision ( ?is *apt]1 ! ,secret>y or ! applicable ,/ate approv+ ag5cy %all disapprove a c\rse ( education describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#ad7 or 7#ae7 ( section #cfgf7;c7 ( ?is title unless ! educational in/itution provid+ ! c\rse ( education-- 7#a7 publicly discloses any conditions or additional requirem5ts1 includ+ tra9+1 exp]i5ce1 or exam9ations1 requir$ to obta9 ! lic5se1 c]tification1 or approval = :i* ! c\rse ( education is design$ to provide prep>ation2 & 7#b7 makes ea* disclosure requir$ by p>agraph 7#a7 9 a mann] t ! ,secret>y consid]s prom95t 7z specifi$ by ! ,secret>y 9 regulations prescrib$ = purposes ( ?is subsection74 4 7f7 ,applicability ,if aft] enrollm5t 9 a c\rse ( education t is subject to disapproval by reason ( an am5dm5t made by ?is ,act1 an individual pursues "o or m c\rses ( education at ! same educational in/itution :ile rema9+ cont9u\sly enroll$ 7o!r ?an dur+ regul>ly s*$ul$ breaks betwe5 c\rses1 seme/]s1 or t]ms7 at t in/itution1 any c\rse s pursu$ by ! individual at t in/itution :ile s cont9u\sly enroll$ %all n be subject to disapproval by reason ( su* am5dm5t4 #dbf4 ,compliance surveys 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #cfic ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ subsection 7a7 & ins]t+ ! foll[+ new subsection 7a73 7a7 7#a7 ,except z provid$ 9 subsection 7b71 ! ,secret>y %all conduct an annual compliance survey ( educational in/itutions & tra9+ e/abli%m5ts (f]+ "o or m c\rses approv$ = ! enrollm5t ( eligible vet]ans or p]sons if at lea/ #bj su* vet]ans or p]sons are enroll$ 9 any su* c\rse4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y %all-- 7,a7 design ! compliance surveys requir$ by p>agraph 7#a7 to ensure t su* in/itutions or e/abli%m5ts describ$ 9 su* p>agraph1 z ! case may be1 & approv$ c\rses are 9 compliance ) all applicable provisions ( *apt]s #cj ?r\gh #cf ( ?is title2 7,b7 survey ea* su* educational in/itution & tra9+ e/abli%m5t n less ?an once dur+ e two-ye> p]iod2 & 7,c7 assign n few] ?an "o education compliance speciali/ to "w on compliance surveys 9 any ye> = ea* #dj compliance surveys requir$ to be made "u ?is section = su* ye>4 7#c7 ,! ,secret>y1 9 consultation ) ! ,/ate approv+ ag5cies1 %all-- 7,a7 annually det]m9e ! p>amet]s ( ! surveys requir$ "u p>agraph 7#a72 & 7,b7 n lat] ?an ,septemb] #a ( ea* ye>1 make available to ! ,/ate approv+ ag5cies a li/ ( ! educational in/itutions & tra9+ e/abli%m5ts t w be survey$ dur+ ! fiscal ye> foll[+ ! date ( mak+ su* li/ available4 2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7c7 ,9 ?is section1 ! t]ms educational in/itution & tra9+ e/abli%m5t h ! mean+s giv5 su* t]ms 9 section #cdeb ( ?is title4 4 7b7 ,con=m+ am5dm5ts ,subsection 7b7 ( su* section is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ subsection 7a7 ( ?is section = an annual compliance survey & ins]t+ subsection 7a77#a7 = a compliance survey2 7#b7 by /rik+ in/itution & ins]t+ educational in/itution or tra9+ e/abli%m5t2 & 7#c7 by /rik+ in/itution's demon/rat$ record ( compliance & ins]t+ record ( compliance ( su* in/itution or e/abli%m5t4 #dbg4 ,survey ( individuals us+ _! entitlem5t to educational assi/ance "u ! educational assi/ance programs adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,survey requir$ 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,by n lat] ?an #bgj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all ent] into a contract ) a nongov]nm5tal entity = ! conduct ( a survey ( a /ati/ically valid sample ( individuals :o h us$ or are us+ _! entitlem5t to educational assi/ance "u *apt]s #cj1 #cb1 #cc1 & #ce ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 to pursue a program ( education or tra9+4 7#b7 ,contract requirem5ts ,! contract %all provide t-- 7,a7 n lat] ?an "o mon? be=e ! collection ( data "u ! survey beg9s1 ! survey %all be submitt$ to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives2 7,b7 ! nongov]nm5tal entity %all complete ! survey & submit to ! ,secret>y ! results ( ! survey by n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ent]+ into ! contract2 & 7,c7 ! survey %all be conduct$ by electronic means & by any o!r means ! nongov]nm5tal entity det]m9es appropriate4 7b7 ,in=mation ,to be collect$ ,! contract "u subsection 7a7 %all provide t ! survey %all be design$ to collect ! foll[+ types ( in=mation ab\t ea* individual survey$1 :]e applicable3 7#a7 ,demographic in=mation1 includ+ ! highe/ level ( education complet$ by ! individual1 ! milit>y occupational specialty or specialties ( ! individual :ile s]v+ on active duty z a memb] ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces or z a memb] ( ! ,national ,gu>d or ( a ,res]ve ,compon5t ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces1 & :e!r ! individual has a s]vice-connect$ disability4 7#b7 ,! op9ion ( ! individual reg>d+ p>ticipation 9 ! transition assi/ance program "u section #aadd ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 & ! effectiv5ess ( ! program1 includ+ in/ruction on ! use ( ! b5efits "u laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#c7 ,! res\rces ! individual us$ to help ! individual-- 7,a7 decide to use ! individual's entitlem5t to educational assi/ance to enroll 9 a program ( education or tra9+2 & 7,b7 *oose ! program ( education or tra9+ ! individual pursu$4 7#d7 ,! individual's goal :5 ! individual enroll$ 9 ! program ( education or tra9+4 7#e7 ,! nature ( ! individual's exp]i5ce ) ! education b5efits process+ sy/em ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#f7 ,! nature ( ! individual's exp]i5ce ) ! s*ool c]tify+ (ficial ( ! educational in/itution :]e ! individual pursu$ ! program ( education or tra9+ :o process$ ! individual's claim4 7#g7 ,any s]vices or b5efits ! educational in/itution or program ( education or tra9+ provid$ to vet]ans :ile ! individual pursu$ ! program ( education or tra9+4 7#h7 ,! type ( educational in/itution at :i* ! individual pursu$ ! program ( education or tra9+4 7#i7 ,:e!r ! individual complet$ ! program ( education or tra9+ or ! numb] ( cr$it h\rs complet$ by ! individual z ( ! "t ( ! survey1 &1 if applicable1 any degree or c]tificate obta9$ by ! individual = complet+ ! program4 7#aj7 ,! employm5t /atus ( ! individual & :e!r su* employm5t /atus diff]s f ! employm5t /atus ( ! individual prior to enroll+ 9 ! program ( education or tra9+4 7#aa7 ,:e!r ! individual is or 0 enroll$ 9 a program ( education on a full-"t or "p-"t basis4 7#ab7 ,! op9ion ( ! individual on ! effectiv5ess ( ! educational assi/ance program ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs "u :i* ! individual 0 entitl$ to educational assi/ance4 7#ac7 ,:e!r ! individual 0 ev] entitl$ to a rehabilitation "u *apt] #ca ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 & :e!r ! individual p>ticipat$ 9 su* a program4 7#ad7 ,a description ( any circum/ances t prev5t$ ! individual f us+ ! individual's entitlem5t to educational assi/ance to pursue a desir$ c>e] pa? or degree4 7#ae7 ,:e!r ! individual is us+ ! individual's entitlem5t to educational assi/ance to pursue a program ( education or tra9+ or has transf]r$ su* an entitlem5t to a dep5d5t4 7#af7 ,su* o!r matt]s z ! ,secret>y det]m9es appropriate4 7c7 ,report ,n lat] ?an #ij days aft] receiv+ ! results ( ! survey requir$ "u ?is section1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! results ( ! survey & any recomm5dations ( ! ,secret>y relat+ to su* results4 ,su* report %all also include an un$it$ v]sion ( ! results ( ! survey submitt$ by ! nongov]nm5tal entity t conduct$ ! survey4 #dbh4 ,te*nical am5dm5t relat+ to 9-,/ate tuition rate = individuals to :om entitlem5t is transf]r$ "u ,all-,volunte] ,=ce ,educational ,assi/ance ,program & ,po/-#i_/aa ,educational ,assi/ance 7a7 ,te*nical am5dm5t ,subp>agraph 7,b7 ( section #cfgi7;c77#b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ to read z foll[s3 7,b7 ,an individual :o is entitl$ to assi/ance "u-- 7i7 section #ccaa7;b77#i7 ( ?is title2 or 7ii7 section #ccai ( ?is title by virtue ( ! individual's relation%ip to-- 7,i7 a vet]an describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a72 or 7,,ii7 a memb] ( ! uni=m$ s]vices describ$ 9 section #ccai7;b7 ( ?is title :o is s]v+ on active duty4 4 7b7 ,applicability ,! am5dm5t made by subsection 7a7 %all apply ) respect to a c\rse1 seme/]1 or t]m t beg9s aft] ,july #a1 #bjag4 ,v ,employm5t & transition #eja4 ,requir$ coord9ation betwe5 ,directors = ,vet]ans' ,employm5t & ,tra9+ ) ,/ate dep>tm5ts ( labor & vet]ans affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #dajc ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7c7 ,coord9ation ) ,/ate dep>tm5ts ( labor & vet]ans affairs ,ea* ,director = ,vet]ans' ,employm5t & ,tra9+ = a ,/ate %all coord9ate ! ,director's activities "u ?is *apt] ) ! ,/ate dep>tm5t ( labor & ! ,/ate dep>tm5t ( vet]ans affairs4 4 7b7 ,effective date ,subsection 7c7 ( su* section1 z add$ by subsection 7a71 %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #ejb4 ,longitud9al /udy ( job c\nsel+1 tra9+1 & placem5t s]vice = vet]ans 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #da ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #daae4 ,longitud9al /udy ( job c\nsel+1 tra9+1 & placem5t s]vice = vet]ans 7a7 ,/udy requir$ 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all ent] into a contract ) a nongov]nm5tal entity to conduct a longitud9al /udy ( a /ati/ically valid sample ( ea* ( ! gr\ps ( individuals describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b74 ,! contract %all provide = ! /udy ( ea* su* gr\p ov] a p]iod ( at lea/ five ye>s4 7#b7 ,! gr\ps ( individuals describ$ 9 ?is p>agraph are ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,vet]ans :o h receiv$ int5sive s]vices4 7,b7 ,vet]ans :o did n receive int5sive s]vices b :o o!rwise receiv$ s]vices "u ?is *apt]4 7,c7 ,vet]ans :o did n seek or receive s]vices "u ?is *apt]4 7#c7 ,! /udy requir$ by ?is subsection %all include ! collection1 = ea* individual :o p>ticipates 9 ! /udy1 ( ! foll[+ in=mation3 7,a7 ,! av]age numb] ( mon?s su* individual s]v$ on active duty4 7,b7 ,! disability rat+s ( su* individual4 7,c7 ,any unemploym5t b5efits receiv$ by su* individual4 7,d7 ,! av]age numb] ( mon?s su* individual 0 employ$ dur+ ! ye> cov]$ by ! report4 7,e7 ,! av]age annual />t+ & end+ sal>ies ( any su* individual :o 0 employ$ dur+ ! ye> cov]$ by ! report4 7,f7 ,! av]age annual income ( su* individual4 7,g7 ,! av]age total h\sehold income ( su* individual = ! ye> cov]$ by ! report4 7,h7 ,! p]c5tage ( su* individuals :o own _! pr9cipal resid5ces4 7,i7 ,! employm5t /atus ( su* individual4 7,j7 ,9 ! case ( su* an individual :o receiv$ s]vices "u ?is *apt]1 :e!r ! individual believes t any s]vice provid$ by a disabl$ vet]ans' outrea* program speciali/ or local vet]ans' employm5t repres5tative help$ ! individual to become employ$4 7,k7 ,9 ! case ( su* an individual :o believes su* a s]vice help$ ! individual to become employ$1 :e!r-- 7i7 ! individual reta9$ ! position ( employm5t = a p]iod ( "o ye> or long]2 & 7ii7 ! individual believes su* a s]vice help$ ! individual to secure a high] wage or sal>y4 7,l7 ,! conditions "u :i* su* individual 0 dis*>g$ or releas$ f ! ,arm$ ,=ces4 7,m7 ,:e!r su* individual has us$ any educational assi/ance to :i* ! individual is entitl$ "u ?is title4 7,n7 ,:e!r su* individual has p>ticipat$ 9 a rehabilitation program "u *apt] #ca ( ?is title4 7,o7 ,:e!r su* individual _h contact ) a ,"o-,/op ,c>e] ,c5t] employee :ile att5d+ a work%op or job fair "u ! ,transition ,,gps ,program ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,def5se4 7,p7 ,demographic in=mation ab\t su* individual4 7,q7 ,su* o!r in=mation z ! ,secret>y det]m9es appropriate4 7b7 ,annual ,report 7#a7 ,by n lat] ?an ,july #a ( ea* ye> cov]$ by ! /udy requir$ "u subsection 7a71 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! outcomes ( ! /udy dur+ ! prec$+ ye>4 7#b7 ,! ,secret>y %all include 9 ea* report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,in=mation ) respect to job fairs att5d$ by ,"o-,/op ,c>e] ,c5t] employees at :i* ! employees _h contact ) a vet]an1 includ+1 = ! ye> prec$+ ! ye> 9 :i* ! report is submitt$1 ! foll[+3 7i7 ,! numb] ( job fairs att5d$ by ,"o-,/op ,c>e] ,c5t] employees at :i* ! employees _h contact ) a vet]an4 7ii7 ,! numb] ( vet]ans contact$ at ea* su* job fair4 7,b7 ,su* in=mation z ! ,secret>y det]m9es is necess>y to det]m9e ! long-t]m outcomes ( ! individuals 9 ! gr\ps describ$ 9 subsection 7a77#b74 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( su* *apt] is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new item3 #daae4 ,longitud9al /udy ( job c\nsel+1 tra9+1 & placem5t s]vice = vet]ans4 4 ,,vi ,homeless vet]ans ,a ,homeless matt]s g5]ally #fja4 ,expansion ( def9ition ( homeless vet]an = purposes ( b5efits "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,section #bjjb7a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by /rik+ 9 section #ajc7;a7 ( ! ,mc,kinney-,v5to ,homeless ,assi/ance ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #aacjb7;a77 & ins]t+ 9 subsection 7a7 or 7b7 ( section #ajc ( ! ,mc,kinney-,v5to ,homeless ,assi/ance ,act 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #aacjb74 #fjb4 ,increas$ p] diem paym5ts = transitional h\s+ assi/ance t becomes p]man5t h\s+ = homeless vet]ans ,section #bjab7;a77#b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by r$esignat+ subp>agraphs 7,b7 ?r\gh 7,d7 z subp>agraphs 7,c7 ?r\gh 7,e71 respectively2 7#b7 9 subp>agraph 7,c71 z r$esignat$1 by /rik+ 9 subp>agraph 7,d7 & ins]t+ 9 subp>agraph 7,e72 7#c7 9 subp>agraph 7,d71 z r$esignat$1 by /rik+ "u subp>agraph 7,b7 & ins]t+ "u subp>agraph 7,c72 7#d7 9 subp>agraph 7,e71 z r$esignat$1 by /rik+ 9 subp>agraphs 7,b7 & 7,c7 & ins]t+ 9 subp>agraphs 7,c7 & 7,d72 & 7#e7 9 subp>agraph 7,a7-- 7,a7 by /rik+ ,! rate & ins]t+ ,except z o!rwise provid$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 ! rate2 & 7,b7 by /rik+ "u subp>agraph 7,b7 & all t foll[s ?r\gh ! end & ins]t+ ! foll[+3 8"u subp>agraph 7,c74 7,b7 7i7 ,except z provid$ 9 clause 7ii71 9 no case may ! rate det]m9$ "u ?is p>agraph exce$ ! rate au?oriz$ = ,/ate homes = domicili>y c>e "u subsection 7a77#a77;,a7 ( section #agda ( ?is title1 z ! ,secret>y may increase f "t to "t "u subsection 7c7 ( t section4 7ii7 ,9 ! case ( s]vices furni%$ to a homeless vet]an :o is plac$ 9 h\s+ t w become p]man5t h\s+ = ! vet]an ^u t]m9ation ( ! furni%+ ( su* s]vices to su* vet]an1 ! maximum rate ( p] diem au?oriz$ "u ?is section is #aej p]c5t ( ! rate au?oriz$ = ,/ate homes = domicili>y c>e "u subsection 7a77#a77;,a7 ( section #agda ( ?is title1 z ! ,secret>y may increase f "t to "t "u subsection 7c7 ( t section4 4 #fjc4 ,cl>ification ( eligibility = s]vices "u homeless vet]ans re9tegration programs ,section #bjba7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by /rik+ re9tegration ( homeless vet]ans into ! labor =ce4 & ins]t+ ! foll[+3 re9tegration into ! labor =ce (-- 7#a7 homeless vet]ans2 7#b7 vet]ans p>ticipat+ 9 ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs support$ h\s+ program = :i* r5tal assi/ance is provid$ pursuant to section #h7o77#ai7 ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates ,h\s+ ,act ( #aicg 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #adcg;f7o77#ai772 7#c7 ,native ,am]icans 7z def9$ 9 section #cgfe ( ?is title7 :o are vet]ans & receiv+ assi/ance "u ! ,native ,am]ican ,h\s+ ,assi/ance & ,self ,det]m9ation ,act ( #aiif 7#be ,u4,s4,c4 #daja et seq472 & 7#d7 vet]ans :o are transition+ f be+ inc>c]at$4 4 #fjd4 ,program to improve ret5tion ( h\s+ by =m]ly homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( becom+ homeless 7a7 ,program requir$ 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,ii ( *apt] #bj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7,a7 by r$esignat+ section #bjac z section #bjad2 & 7,b7 by ins]t+ aft] section #bjab ! foll[+ new section #bjac3 #bjac4 ,program to improve ret5tion ( h\s+ by =m]ly homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( becom+ homeless 7a7 ,program requir$ ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out a program "u :i* ! ,secret>y %all provide case managem5t s]vices to improve ! ret5tion ( h\s+ by vet]ans :o 7 previ\sly homeless & are transition+ to p]man5t h\s+ & vet]ans :o are at risk ( becom+ homeless4 7b7 ,grants 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out ! program ?r\gh ! aw>d ( grants4 7#b7 7,a7 ,9 aw>d+ grants "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all give priority to organizations t demon/rate a capability to provide case managem5t s]vices z describ$ 9 subsection 7a71 p>ticul>ly organizations t are successfully provid+ or h successfully provid$ transitional h\s+ s]vices us+ am\nts provid$ by ! ,secret>y "u sections #bjab & #bjfa ( ?is title4 7,b7 ,9 giv+ priority "u subp>agraph 7,a71 ! ,secret>y %all give extra priority to an organization describ$ 9 su* subp>agraph t-- 7i7 volunt>ily /ops receiv+ am\nts provid$ by ! ,secret>y "u sections #bjab & #bjfa ( ?is title2 & 7ii7 conv]ts a facility t ! organization us$ to provide transitional h\s+ s]vices into a facility t ! organization uses to provide p]man5t h\s+ t meets h\s+ quality /&>ds e/abli%$ "u section #h7o77#h77;,b7 ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates ,h\s+ ,act ( #aicg 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #adcg;f7o77#h77;,b774 7,c7 ,9 any case 9 :i* a facility1 ) respect to :i* a p]son receiv$ a grant = con/ruction1 rehabilitation1 or acquisition "u section #bjaa ( ?is title1 is conv]t$ z describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b77ii71 su* conv]sion %all be consid]$ to h be5 c>ri$ out pursuant to ! ne$s ( ! ,dep>tm5t & su* p]son %all n be consid]$ 9 noncompliance ) ! t]ms ( su* grant by reason ( su* conv]sion4 4 7#b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #bj ( su* title is am5d$ by /rik+ ! item relat+ to section #bjac & ins]t+ ! foll[+ new items3 #bjac4 ,program to improve ret5tion ( h\s+ by =m]ly homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( becom+ homeless4#bjad4 ,au?orization ( appropriations4 4 7b7 ,regulations ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all prescribe regulations to c>ry out section #bjac ( su* title1 z add$ by subsection 7a77#a77;,b74 7c7 ,report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,june #a1 #bjbj1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! program requir$ by section #bjac ( su* title1 z add$ by subsection 7a77#a77;,b74 7#b7 ,cont5ts ,! report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include assessm5ts ( ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! p]c5tage ( vet]ans :o receiv$ case managem5t s]vices "u ! program :o 7 able to reta9 p]man5t h\s+ by ! end ( ! program1 disaggregat$ by ea* recipi5t ( a grant "u su* section4 7,b7 ,! p]c5tage ( vet]ans :o receiv$ case managem5t s]vices "u ! program :o 7 n 9 p]man5t h\s+ at ! end ( ! program1 disaggregat$ by h\s+ /atus & reason = fail+ to reta9 p]man5t h\s+ "u ! program4 7,c7 ,! use by vet]ans1 :o receiv$ case managem5t s]vices "u ! program1 ( h\s+ assi/ance furni%$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs1 includ+ a comp>ison ( ! use ( su* assi/ance by su* vet]ans be=e & aft] receiv+ su* s]vices4 7,d7 ,an assessm5t ( ! employm5t /atus ( vet]ans :o receiv$ case managem5t s]vices "u ! program1 includ+ a comp>ison ( ! employm5t /atus ( su* vet]ans be=e & aft] receiv+ su* s]vices4 #fje4 ,pilot program on provision ( int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions to homeless vet]ans :o receive ! mo/ heal? c>e f ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,pilot program requir$ ,n lat] ?an ,septemb] #a1 #bjag1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all comm5ce a pilot program to assess ! feasibility & advisability ( provid+ int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions to cov]$ vet]ans4 7b7 ,cov]$ vet]ans ,= purposes ( ! pilot program1 a cov]$ vet]an is a vet]an :o is enroll$ 9-- 7#a7 ! homeless regi/ry ( ! ,dep>tm5t2 & 7#b7 ! sy/em ( annual pati5t enrollm5t e/abli%$ & op]at$ by ! ,secret>y "u section #agje7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7c7 ,location 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y %all c>ry out ! pilot program at n few] ?an six locations select$ by ! ,secret>y = purposes ( ! pilot program z foll[s3 7,a7 ,n few] ?an ?ree locations 9 cities t h ! l>ge/ populations ( homeless vet]ans 9 ! ,unit$ ,/ates4 7,b7 ,n few] ?an ?ree locations 9 suburban or rural sett+s4 7#b7 ,int]action & coord9ation ) community organizations ,9 select+ locations "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y %all only select locations 9 areas 9 :i* ! ,secret>y det]m9es t !re is a high degree ( int]action & coord9ation betwe5 ! ,dep>tm5t & community organizations t provide h\s+ & social s]vices = vet]ans1 su* z outrea*1 employm5t1 & f9ancial assi/ance = homeless vet]ans1 vet]ans at risk ( becom+ homeless1 & l[-income vet]ans4 7d7 ,provision ( int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions 7#a7 ,m9imum numb] ( vet]ans to receive int]v5tions ,9 c>ry+ out ! program at ea* location select$ "u subsection 7c71 ! ,secret>y %all provide int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions to n few] ?an #bj cov]$ vet]ans at ea* su* location :o ! ,secret>y det]m9es are ! cov]$ vet]ans at su* location :o receive ! mo/ heal? c>e & relat$ s]vices furni%$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#b7 ,nature ( int]v5tions ,! int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions provid$ to cov]$ vet]ans "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include assi/ance ) ga9+ & ma9ta9+ access to su* h\s+ & s]vices1 includ+ b5efits & s]vices to :i* cov]$ vet]ans may be entitl$ or eligible "u ! laws adm9i/]$ by ! ,secret>y1 z may be necess>y to improve ! /ability ( _! h\s+ & ! appropriat5ess ( ! heal? c>e t !y receive4 7e7 ,report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,decemb] #a1 #bjai1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! pilot program c>ri$ out "u ?is section4 7#b7 ,cont5ts ,! report submitt$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all include assessm5ts ( ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,! types & frequ5cies ( int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions provid$ "u ! pilot program4 7,b7 ,! h\s+ /atus ( ea* vet]an :o receiv$ an int5sive case managem5t int]v5tion "u ! pilot program4 7,c7 ,! employm5t /atus ( ea* vet]an :o receiv$ an int5sive case managem5t int]v5tion "u ! pilot program1 includ+ a comp>ison ( ! employm5t /atus ( su* vet]an be=e & aft] receiv+ su* int]v5tion4 7,d7 ,! use by vet]ans :o receiv$ int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions "u ! pilot program ( heal? c>e & relat$ s]vices furni%$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ! co/s incurr$ by ! ,dep>tm5t 9 furni%+ su* c>e & s]vices1 includ+ a comp>ison ( ! use by su* vet]ans ( su* c>e & s]vices & ! co/s incurr$ f furni%+ su* c>e & s]vices be=e & aft] receiv+ su* int]v5tions4 7,e7 ,! numb] ( vet]ans :o receiv$ int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions "u ! pilot program1 disaggregat$ by :e!r ! int5sive case managem5t int]v5tion 0 provid$ 9 a location describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,a7 or 7,b7 ( subsection 7c77#a74 7,f7 ,! co/s incurr$ by ! ,dep>tm5t 9 c>ry+ out ! pilot program1 disaggregat$ by provision ( int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions 9 locations describ$ 9 subp>agraphs 7,a7 & 7,b7 ( su* subsection4 7,g7 ,an e/imate ( ! co/s ! ,dep>tm5t w\ld h incurr$ = ! provision ( heal? c>e & associat$ s]vices to cov]$ vet]ans b = ! provision ( int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions "u ! pilot program1 disaggregat$ by provision ( int5sive case managem5t int]v5tions 9 locations describ$ 9 subp>agraphs 7,a7 & 7,b7 ( subsection 7c77#a74 #fjf4 ,e/abli%m5t ( ,national ,c5t] on ,homelessness ,among ,vet]ans 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,sub*apt] ,,vii ( *apt] #bj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #bjfg4 ,national ,c5t] on ,homelessness ,among ,vet]ans 7a7 ,9 g5]al 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all e/abli% & op]ate a c5t] to c>ry out ! functions describ$ 9 subsection 7b74 7#b7 ,! c5t] e/abli%$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be kn[n z ! ,national ,c5t] on ,homelessness ,among ,vet]ans4 7#c7 ,to ! degree practicable1 ! ,secret>y %all op]ate ! c5t] e/abli%$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 indep5d5tly ( ! o!r programs ( ! ,dep>tm5t t address homelessness among vet]ans4 7b7 ,functions ,! functions describ$ 9 ?is subsection are z foll[s3 7#a7 ,to c>ry out & promote rese>* into ! causes & contribut+ factors to vet]an homelessness4 7#b7 ,to assess ! effectiv5ess ( programs ( ! ,dep>tm5t to meet ! ne$s ( homeless vet]ans4 7#c7 ,to id5tify & dissem9ate be/ practices ) reg>d to h\s+ /abilization1 income support1 employm5t assi/ance1 community p>tn]%ips1 & su* o!r matt]s z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate ) respect to address+ vet]an homelessness4 7#d7 ,to integrate evid5ce-bas$ & be/ practices1 policies1 & programs into programs ( ! ,dep>tm5t = homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( homelessness & to ensure t ! /aff ( ! ,dep>tm5t & community p>tn]s c implem5t su* practices1 policies1 & programs4 7#e7 ,to s]ve z a res\rce c5t] =1 & promote & seek to coord9ate ! ex*ange ( in=mation reg>d+1 all rese>* & tra9+ activities c>ri$ out by ! ,dep>tm5t & by o!r ,f$]al & non-,f$]al entities ) respect to vet]an homelessness4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #bj ( su* title is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #bjff ! foll[+ new item3 #bjfg4 ,national ,c5t] on ,homelessness ,among ,vet]ans4 4 #fjg4 ,adm9i/rative improvem5ts to grant & p] diem programs ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #bjab ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subsection 7a77#a71 9 ! matt] be=e subp>agraph 7,a71 by ins]t+ & except z o!rwise provid$ 9 ?is section aft] su* purpose2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7e7 ,review & conditional r5ewal 7#a7 ,ea* ye>1 ! ,secret>y %all review ea* grant recipi5t & eligible entity t receiv$ a p] diem paym5t "u ?is section = a s]vice furni%$ to a vet]an dur+ ! "o-ye> p]iod prec$+ ! review to evaluate ! p]=mance ( ! grant recipi5t or eligible entity dur+ t p]iod ) respect to-- 7,a7 ! success ( ! grant recipi5t or eligible entity 9 assi/+ vet]ans to obta91 transition into1 & reta9 p]man5t h\s+2 & 7,b7 increas+ ! income ( vet]ans1 :e!r by help+ vet]ans obta9 employm5t or by help+ vet]ans obta9 income-relat$ b5efits to :i* su* vet]ans may be eligible or entitl$4 7#b7 ,= any grant recipi5t or eligible entity ^: p]=mance 0 evaluat$ = a ye> "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,secret>y may only provide p] diem "u ?is section to t grant recipi5t or eligible entity 9 ! foll[+ ye> if ! ,secret>y det]m9es t su* p]=mance m]its cont9u$ receipt ( p] diem "u ?is section4 7#c7 ,! ,secret>y %all e/abli% uni=m p]=mance t>gets ?r\gh\t ! ,unit$ ,/ates = all grant recipi5ts & eligible entities t receive p] diem paym5ts "u ?is section = purposes ( evaluat+ ! p]=mance ( ea* su* grant recipi5t & eligible entity "u ?is subsection4 4 7b7 ,effective date 7#a7 ,uni=m p]=mance t>gets ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y %all e/abli% uni=m p]=mance t>gets pursuant to p>agraph 7#c7 ( section #bjab7;e7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by subsection 7a77#b74 7#b7 ,review ( grant recipi5ts & eligible entities ,! ,secret>y %all complete ! fir/ review ( ea* grant recipi5t & eligible entity pursuant to p>agraph 7#a7 ( su* section1 z s add$1 n lat] ?an two ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #fjh4 ,p>tn]%ips ) public & private entities to provide legal s]vices to homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( homelessness 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,*apt] #bj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by ins]t+ aft] section #bjbb ! foll[+ new section3 #bjbb;,a4 ,p>tn]%ips ) public & private entities to provide legal s]vices to homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( homelessness 7a7 ,p>tn]%ips au?oriz$ ,subject to ! availability ( funds = t purpose1 ! ,secret>y may ent] into p>tn]%ips ) public or private entities1 ?r\gh ! aw>d ( grants or ! use ( coop]ative agreem5ts1 to fund a portion ( ! g5]al legal s]vices specifi$ 9 subsection 7c7 t are provid$ by su* entities to homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( homelessness4 7b7 ,locations 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y %all ensure t1 to ! ext5t practicable1 p>tn]%ips "u ?is section are made ) entities equitably di/ribut$ across ! geographic regions ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 includ+ rural communities1 tribal l&s ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 ,native ,am]icans1 & tribal organizations4 7#b7 ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]ms ,native ,am]ican & tribal organization h ! mean+s giv5 su* t]ms 9 section #cgfe ( ?is title4 7c7 ,legal s]vices ,legal s]vices specifi$ 9 ?is subsection include legal s]vices provid$ by public or private entities t address ! ne$s ( homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( homelessness1 su* z ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,legal s]vices relat$ to h\s+1 includ+ eviction def5se & repres5tation 9 l&lord-t5ant cases4 7#b7 ,legal s]vices relat$ to family law1 includ+ assi/ance 9 c\rt proce$+s = *ild support1 divorce1 & e/ate plann+4 7#c7 ,legal s]vices relat$ to income support1 includ+ assi/ance 9 obta9+ public b5efits4 7#d7 ,legal s]vices relat$ to crim9al def5se1 includ+ def5se 9 matt]s symptomatic ( homelessness1 su* z out/&+ w>rants1 f9es1 & driv]'s lic5se revocation1 to r$uce recidivism & facilitate ! ov]com+ ( re5try ob/acles 9 employm5t or h\s+4 7d7 ,consultation ,9 develop+ & c>ry+ out p>tn]%ips "u ?is section1 ! ,secret>y %all1 to ! ext5t practicable1 consult ) public & private entities-- 7#a7 = assi/ance 9 id5tify+ & contact+ organizations describ$ 9 subsection 7c72 & 7#b7 to coord9ate appropriate outrea* relation%ips ) su* organizations4 7e7 ,reports ,! ,secret>y may require entities t h ent]$ into p>tn]%ips "u ?is section to submit to ! ,secret>y p]iodic reports on legal s]vices provid$ to homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( homelessness pursuant to su* p>tn]%ips4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections at ! beg9n+ ( *apt] #bj ( su* title is am5d$ by add+ aft] ! item relat+ to section #bjbb ! foll[+ new item3 #bjbb;,a4 ,p>tn]%ips ) public & private entities to provide legal s]vices to homeless vet]ans & vet]ans at risk ( homelessness4 4 #fji4 ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates /udy on homeless vet]ans programs ( ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates %all-- 7#a7 complete a /udy ( programs ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs t provide assi/ance to homeless vet]ans2 & 7#b7 submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! f9d+s ( ! ,comptroll] ,g5]al ) respect to ! /udy requir$ by p>agraph 7#a74 7b7 ,elem5ts ,! /udy requir$ by subsection 7a77#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,an assessm5t ( :e!r programs describ$ 9 subsection 7a7 are meet+ ! ne$s ( vet]ans :o are eligible = assi/ance provid$ by su* programs1 includ+ any gaps or duplication 9 ! provision ( s]vices4 7#b7 ,a review ( rec5t ef=ts ( ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to improve ! privacy1 safety1 & security ( female vet]ans receiv+ assi/ance f su* programs4 #faj4 ,requirem5t = ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to assess compreh5sive s]vice programs = homeless vet]ans 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all-- 7#a7 assess & measure ! capacity ( programs = :i* entities receive grants "u section #bjaa ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 or p] diem paym5ts "u section #bjab or #bjfa ( su* title2 & 7#b7 assess su* programs ) respect to-- 7,a7 h[ well !y a*ieve _! /at$ goals at a national level2 7,b7 placem5ts 9 p]man5t h\s+2 7,c7 placem5ts 9 employm5t2 & 7,d7 increases 9 ! regul> income ( p>ticipants 9 ! programs4 7b7 ,assessm5t at national & local levels ,9 assess+ & measur+ "u subsection 7a77#a71 ! ,secret>y %all develop & use tools to exam9e ! capacity ( programs describ$ 9 su* subsection at bo? ! national & local level 9 ord] to assess ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,:e!r suffici5t capacity exi/s to meet ! ne$s ( homeless vet]ans 9 ea* geographic area4 7#b7 ,:e!r exi/+ capacity meets ! ne$s ( ! subpopulations ( homeless vet]ans locat$ 9 ea* geographic area4 7#c7 ,! am\nt ( capacity t recipi5ts ( grants "u sections #bjaa & #bjfa & p] diem paym5ts "u section #bjab ( su* title h to provide s]vices = :i* ! recipi5ts are eligible to receive p] diem "u section #bjab7;a77#b77;,b77ii7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 z add$ by section #fjb7e77;,b74 7c7 ,consid]ation ( o!r res\rces ,9 assess+ & measur+ programs "u subsection 7a77#a71 ! ,secret>y %all consid] ! availability to su* programs ( res\rces made available to su* programs & to homeless vet]ans1 includ+ res\rces provid$ by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & by entities o!r ?an ! ,dep>tm5t4 7d7 ,use ( in=mation ,! ,secret>y %all use ! in=mation collect$ "u ?is section z foll[s3 7#a7 ,to set specific goals to ensure t programs describ$ 9 subsection 7a7 are effectively s]v+ ! ne$s ( homeless vet]ans4 7#b7 ,to assess :e!r programs describ$ 9 subsection 7a7 are meet+ goals set "u p>agraph 7#a74 7#c7 ,to in=m fund+ allocations = programs describ$ 9 subsection 7a74 7#d7 ,to improve ! ref]ral ( homeless vet]ans to programs describ$ 9 subsection 7a74 7e7 ,report ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date on :i* ! assessm5t requir$ by subsection 7a7 is complet$1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on su* assessm5t & su* recomm5dations = legislative & adm9i/rative action z ! ,secret>y may h to improve ! programs & p] diem paym5ts describ$ 9 subsection 7a74 #faa4 ,report on outrea* relat+ to increas+ ! am\nt ( h\s+ available to vet]ans ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report describ+ & assess+ ! outrea* conduct$ by ! ,secret>y to realtors1 l&lords1 prop]ty managem5t companies1 & develop]s to educate !m ab\t ! h\s+ ne$s ( vet]ans & ! b5efits ( hav+ vet]ans z t5ants4 ,b ,eligibility ( homeless vet]ans = b5efits #fba4 ,waiv] ( m9imum p]iod ( cont9u\s active duty 9 ,arm$ ,=ces = c]ta9 b5efits = homeless vet]ans ,section #ecjc;,a7b77#c7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by r$esignat+ subp>agraphs 7,f7 & 7,g7 z subp>agraphs 7,g7 & 7,h71 respectively2 & 7#b7 by ins]t+ aft] subp>agraph 7,e7 ! foll[+ new subp>agraph 7,f73 7,f7 to b5efits "u section #bjaa1 #bjab1 #bjac1 #bjdd1 or #bjfa ( ?is title2 4 #fbb4 ,au?orization to furni% c]ta9 b5efits to homeless vet]ans ) dis*>ges or releases "u o!r ?an honorable conditions ,section #ecjc7;d7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ n apply to any w>-risk insurance & ins]t+ ! foll[+3 8n apply to ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,any w>-risk insurance 2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#b7 ,b5efits "u section #bjaa1 #bjab1 #bjac1 #bjdd1 or #bjfa ( ?is title 7except = b5efits = individuals dis*>g$ or dismiss$ f ! ,arm$ ,=ces by reason ( ! s5t5ce ( a g5]al c\rt-m>tial74 4 #fbc4 ,modification ( def9ition ( vet]an = purposes ( provid+ c]ta9 b5efits to homeless vet]ans ,section #bjjb ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 by /rik+ ,9 ?is *apt] & ins]t+ 7a7 ,9 g5]al4--,9 ?is *apt]2 & 7#b7 by add+ at ! end ! foll[+3 7b7 ,vet]an def9$ 7#a7 ,not)/&+ section #aja7b7 ( ?is title & except z provid$ 9 p>agraph 7#b71 = purposes ( sections #bjaa1 #bjab1 #bjac1 #bjdd1 & #bjfa ( ?is title1 ! t]m vet]an means a p]son :o s]v$ 9 ! active milit>y1 naval1 or air s]vice1 reg>dless ( l5g? ( s]vice1 & :o 0 dis*>g$ or releas$ !refrom4 7#b7 ,= purposes ( p>agraph 7#a71 ! t]m vet]an excludes a p]son :o-- 7,a7 receiv$ a di%onorable dis*>ge f ! ,arm$ ,=ces2 or 7,b7 0 dis*>g$ or dismiss$ f ! ,arm$ ,=ces by reason ( ! s5t5ce ( a g5]al c\rt-m>tial4 4 #fbd4 ,tra9+ ( p]sonnel ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & grant recipi5ts ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all conduct a program ( tra9+ & education to ensure t ! foll[+ p]sons are aw>e ( & implem5t ?is subtitle & ! am5dm5ts made by ?is subtitle3 7#a7 ,p]sonnel ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs :o are support+ or adm9i/]+ a program "u *apt] #bj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#b7 ,recipi5ts ( grants or o!r am\nts = purposes ( c>ry+ out su* a program4 #fbe4 ,au?orization ( p] diem paym5ts = furni%+ c>e to dep5d5ts ( c]ta9 homeless vet]ans ,section #bjab7;a7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new p>agraph3 7#d7 ,s]vices = :i* a recipi5t ( a grant "u section #bjaa ( ?is title 7or an entity describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#a77 may receive p] diem paym5ts "u ?is subsection may include furni%+ c>e = a dep5d5t ( a homeless vet]an :o is "u ! c>e ( su* homeless vet]an :ile su* homeless vet]an receives s]vices f ! grant recipi5t 7or entity74 4 #fbf4 ,regulations ,n lat] ?an #bgj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all prescribe regulations1 includ+ su* modifications to section #c4ab ( title #ch1 ,code ( ,f$]al ,regulations 7or any successor regulation71 z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate1 to ensure t ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs is 9 full compliance ) ?is subtitle & ! am5dm5ts made by ?is subtitle4 #fbg4 ,effective date ,?is subtitle & ! am5dm5ts made by ?is subtitle %all apply to individuals seek+ b5efits "u *apt] #bj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 be=e1 on1 & aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 ,,vii ,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims #gja4 ,ext5sion ( tempor>y increase 9 numb] ( judges on ,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,subsection 7i77#b7 ( section #gbec ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by /rik+ ,janu>y #a1 #bjac & ins]t+ ,janu>y #a1 #bjba4 7b7 ,report 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ,june #cj1 #bjbj1 ! *ief judge ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives a report on ! tempor>y expansions ( ! ,c\rt "u section #gbec ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code4 7#b7 ,cont5ts ,! report requir$ by p>agraph 7#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,an assessm5t ( ! effect ( ! expansions on ensur+ appeals are h&l$ 9 a timely mann]4 7,b7 ,a description ( ! ways 9 :i* ! complexity levels ( ! appeals act$ on by ! ,c\rt may h *ang$ bas$ on s]vice dur+ rec5t conflicts comp>$ to ^? bas$ on s]vice f previ\s eras4 7,c7 ,a recomm5dation on :e!r ! numb] ( judges %\ld be adju/$ at ! end ( ! tempor>y expansion p]iod1 includ+ /ati/ics1 projections1 tr5d analyses1 & o!r in=mation to support ! recomm5dation4 #gjb4 ,life insurance program relat+ to judges ( ,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #gbha ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+3 7j7 ,= purposes ( *apt] #hg ( title #e1 a judge :o is 9 regul> active s]vice & a judge :o is retir$ "u section #gbif ( ?is title or "u *apt] #hc or #hd ( title #e %all be treat$ z an employee describ$ 9 section #hgja7;a77#e7 ( title #e4 7k7 ,not)/&+ any o!r provision ( law1 ! ,c\rt may pay on behalf ( its judges1 :o are age #fe or old]1 any increase 9 ! co/ ( ,f$]al ,employees' ,gr\p ,life ,insurance impos$ aft] ,april #bd1 #aiii1 includ+ any exp5ses g5]at$ by su* paym5ts1 z au?oriz$ by ! *ief judge ( ! ,c\rt 9 a mann] consi/5t ) su* paym5t au?oriz$ by ! ,judicial ,conf]5ce ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates pursuant to section #fjd7;a77#e7 ( title #bh4 4 7b7 ,effective ,date ,! am5dm5t made by subsection 7a7 %all apply ) respect to any paym5t made on or aft] ! fir/ day ( ! fir/ applicable pay p]iod beg9n+ on or aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 #gjc4 ,volunt>y contributions to enl>ge survivors' annuity ,section #gbig ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7p7 7#a7 ,a cov]$ judge :o makes an election "u subsection 7b7 may pur*ase1 9 #c-mon? increm5ts1 up to an additional ye> ( s]vice cr$it = ea* ye> ( ,f$]al judicial s]vice complet$1 "u ! t]ms set =? 9 ?is section4 7#b7 ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m cov]$ judge means any ( ! foll[+3 7,a7 ,a judge 9 regul> active s]vice4 7,b7 ,a retir$ judge :o is a recall-eligible retir$ judge pursuant to subsection 7a7 ( section #gbeg ( ?is title4 7,c7 ,a retir$ judge :o w\ld be a recall-eligible retir$ judge pursuant to subsection 7a7 ( section #gbeg b =-- 7i7 meet+ ! aggregate recall s]vice requirem5ts "u subsection 7b77#c7 ( su* section2 or 7ii7 be+ p]man5tly disabl$ z describ$ by subsection 7b77#d7 ( su* section4 4 #gjd4 ,selection ( *ief judge ( ,unit$ ,/ates ,c\rt ( ,appeals = ,vet]ans ,claims 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #gbec7;d7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 p>agraph 7#a7-- 7,a7 9 subp>agraph 7,a71 by /rik+ &2 7,b7 by r$esignat+ subp>agraph 7,b7 z subp>agraph 7,c72 & 7,c7 by ins]t+ aft] subp>agraph 7,a7 ! foll[+ new subp>agraph 7,b73 7,b7 h at lea/ ?ree ye>s rema9+ 9 t]m ( (fice2 & 2 & 7#b7 by am5d+ p>agraph 7#b7 to read z foll[s3 7#b7 7,a7 ,9 any case 9 :i* !re is no judge ( ! ,c\rt 9 regul> active s]vice :o meets ! requirem5ts "u p>agraph 7#a71 ! judge ( ! ,c\rt 9 regul> active s]vice :o is s5ior 9 commission & meets subp>agraph 7,a7 or 7,b7 & subp>agraph 7,c7 ( p>agraph 7#a7 %all act z ! *ief judge4 7,b7 ,9 any case "u subp>agraph 7,a7 ( ?is p>agraph 9 :i* !re is no judge ( ! ,c\rt 9 regul> active s]vice :o meets subp>agraph 7,a7 or 7,b7 & subp>agraph 7,c7 ( p>agraph 7#a71 ! judge ( ! ,c\rt 9 regul> active s]vice :o is s5ior 9 commission & meets subp>agraph 7,c7 %all act z ! *ief judge4 4 7b7 ,applicability ,! am5dm5ts made by subsection 7a7 %all apply ) respect to ! selection ( a *ief judge occurr+ on or aft] ,janu>y #a1 #bjbj4 ,,viii ,burial b5efits #hja4 ,expansion ( eligibility = m$allions ,section #bcjf7;d77#d7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ to read z foll[s3 7#d7 7,a7 ,9 lieu ( furni%+ a head/one or m>k] "u ?is subsection to a deceas$ individual describ$ 9 subp>agraph 7,b71 ! ,secret>y may furni%1 ^u reque/1 a m$allion or o!r device ( a design det]m9$ by ! ,secret>y to signify ! deceas$ individual's /atus z a vet]an1 to be atta*$ to a head/one or m>k] furni%$ at private exp5se4 7,b7 ,a deceas$ individual describ$ 9 ?is subsection is an individual :o-- 7i7 s]v$ 9 ! ,arm$ ,=ces on or aft] ,april #f1 #aiag2 & 7ii7 is eligible = a head/one or m>k] furni%$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 7or w\ld be s eligible b = ! date ( ! dea? ( ! individual74 4 #hjb4 ,inurnm5t ( cremat$ rema9s 9 ,arl+ton ,national ,cemet]y ( c]ta9 p]sons ^: s]vice is deem$ to be active s]vice 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,section #bdaj ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new subsection3 7c7 7#a7 ,! ,secret>y ( ! ,army %all ensure t1 "u su* regulations z ! ,secret>y may prescribe1 ! cremat$ rema9s ( any p]son describ$ 9 p>agraph 7#b7 are eligible = above gr\nd inurnm5t 9 ,arl+ton ,national ,cemet]y ) milit>y honors 9 accordance ) section #adia ( title #aj4 7#b7 ,a p]son describ$ 9 ?is p>agraph is a p]son ^: s]vice has be5 det]m9$ to be active duty s]vice pursuant to section #dja ( ! ,,gi ,bill ,improvem5t ,act ( #aigg 7,public ,law #ie-bjb2 #ch ,u4,s4,c4 #ajf note7 z ( ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 4 7b7 ,applicability 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,! am5dm5t made by subsection 7a7 %all apply ) respect to-- 7,a7 ! rema9s ( a p]son t are n =mally int]r$ or inurn$ z ( ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act2 & 7,b7 a p]son :o dies on or aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 7#b7 ,=mally int]r$ or inurn$ def9$ ,9 ?is subsection1 ! t]m =mally int]r$ or inurn$ means int]r$ or inurn$ 9 a cemet]y1 crypt1 mausoleum1 columb>ium1 ni*e1 or o!r simil> =mal location4 #hjc4 ,report on capacity ( ,arl+ton ,national ,cemet]y ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ! ,army %all submit to ! ,committees on ,vet]ans' ,affairs & ! ,committees on ,arm$ ,s]vices ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives & ! ,s5ate a report on ! int]m5t & inurnm5t capacity ( ,arl+ton ,national ,cemet]y1 includ+-- 7#a7 ! e/imat$ date t ! ,secret>y det]m9es ! cemet]y w rea* maximum int]m5t & inurnm5t capacity2 & 7#b7 9 light ( ! unique & iconic mean+ ( ! cemet]y to ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 recomm5dations = legislative actions & nonlegislative options t ! ,secret>y det]m9es necess>y to ensure t ! maximum int]m5t & inurnm5t capacity ( ! cemet]y is n rea*$ until well into ! future1 includ+ su* actions & options ) respect to-- 7,a7 r$ef9+ eligibility crit]ia = int]m5t & inurnm5t 9 ! cemet]y2 & 7,b7 consid]ations = additional expansion opportunities beyond ! curr5t b\nd>ies ( ! cemet]y4 #hjd4 ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs /udy on matt]s relat+ to burial ( unclaim$ rema9s ( vet]ans 9 national cemet]ies 7a7 ,/udy & report requir$ ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! effective date specifi$ 9 subsection 7d71 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs %all-- 7#a7 complete a /udy on matt]s relat+ to ! int]r+ ( unclaim$ rema9s ( vet]ans 9 national cemet]ies "u ! control ( ! ,national ,cemet]y ,adm9i/ration2 & 7#b7 submit to ,congress a report on ! f9d+s ( ! ,secret>y ) respect to ! /udy requir$ "u p>agraph 7#a74 7b7 ,matt]s /udi$ ,! matt]s /udi$ "u subsection 7a77#a7 %all include ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,det]m9+ ! scope ( issues relat+ to unclaim$ rema9s ( vet]ans1 includ+ an e/imate ( ! numb] ( unclaim$ rema9s ( vet]ans4 7#b7 ,assess+ ! effectiv5ess ( ! proc$ures ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs = work+ ) p]sons or entities hav+ cu/ody ( unclaim$ rema9s to facilitate int]m5t ( unclaim$ rema9s ( vet]ans 9 national cemet]ies "u ! control ( ! ,national ,cemet]y ,adm9i/ration4 7#c7 ,assess+ ,/ate & local laws t affect ! ability ( ! ,secret>y to int] unclaim$ rema9s ( vet]ans 9 national cemet]ies "u ! control ( ! ,national ,cemet]y ,adm9i/ration4 7#d7 ,develop+ recomm5dations = su* legislative or adm9i/rative action z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7c7 ,me?odology 7#a7 ,numb] ( unclaim$ rema9s ,9 e/imat+ ! numb] ( unclaim$ rema9s ( vet]ans "u subsection 7b77#a71 ! ,secret>y may review su* subset ( applicable entities z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate1 includ+ a subset ( fun]al homes & coron] (fices t possess unclaim$ vet]ans rema9s4 7#b7 ,assessm5t ( ,/ate & local laws ,9 assess+ ,/ate & local laws "u subsection 7b77#c71 ! ,secret>y may assess su* sample ( applicable ,/ate & local laws z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate 9 lieu ( review+ all applicable ,/ate & local laws4 7d7 ,effective date ,?is section %all take effect on ! date t is "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act4 ,,ix ,o!r matt]s #ija4 ,au?ority to ent] into c]ta9 leases at ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,we/ ,los ,angeles ,campus 7a7 ,9 g5]al ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs may c>ry out leases describ$ 9 subsection 7b7 at ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,we/ ,los ,angeles ,campus 9 ,los ,angeles1 ,cali=nia 7h]e9aft] 9 ?is section ref]r$ to z ! ,campus74 7b7 ,leases describ$ ,leases describ$ 9 ?is subsection are ! foll[+3 7#a7 ,any enhanc$-use lease ( real prop]ty "u sub*apt] ,v ( *apt] #ha ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 = purposes ( provid+ supportive h\s+1 z t t]m is def9$ 9 section #hafa7c7 ( su* title1 t pr9cipally b5efit vet]ans & _! families4 7#b7 ,any lease ( real prop]ty = a t]m n to exce$ #ej ye>s to a ?ird p>ty to provide s]vices t pr9cipally b5efit vet]ans & _! families & t are limit$ to "o or m ( ! foll[+ purposes3 7,a7 ,! promotion ( heal? & wellness1 includ+ nutrition & spiritual wellness4 7,b7 ,education4 7,c7 ,vocational tra9+1 skills build+1 or o!r tra9+ relat$ to employm5t4 7,d7 ,pe] activities1 socialization1 or physical recreation4 7,e7 ,assi/ance ) legal issues & ,f$]al b5efits4 7,f7 ,volunte]ism4 7,g7 ,family support s]vices1 includ+ *ild c>e4 7,h7 ,transportation4 7,i7 ,s]vices 9 support ( "o or m ( ! purposes specifi$ 9 subp>agraphs 7,a7 ?r\gh 7,h74 7#c7 ,a lease ( real prop]ty = a t]m n to exce$ #aj ye>s to ,! ,reg5ts ( ! ,univ]sity ( ,cali=nia1 a corporation organiz$ "u ! laws ( ! ,/ate ( ,cali=nia1 on behalf ( its ,univ]sity ( ,cali=nia1 ,los ,angeles 7,,ucla7 campus 7h]e9aft] 9 ?is section ref]r$ to z ,! ,reg5ts71 if-- 7,a7 ! lease is consi/5t ) ! ma/] plan describ$ 9 subsection 7g72 7,b7 ! provision ( s]vices to vet]ans is ! pr$om9ant focus ( ! activities ( ,! ,reg5ts at ! ,campus dur+ ! t]m ( ! lease2 7,c7 ,! ,reg5ts expressly agrees to provide1 dur+ ! t]m ( ! lease & to an ext5t & 9 a mann] t ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate1 additional s]vices & support 7= :i* ,! ,reg5ts is n comp5sat$ by ! ,secret>y or ?r\gh an exi/+ m$ical affiliation agreem5t7 t-- 7i7 pr9cipally b5efit vet]ans & _! families1 includ+ vet]ans :o are sev]ely disabl$1 wom51 ag+1 or homeless2 & 7ii7 may consi/ ( activities relat+ to ! m$ical1 cl9ical1 !rapeutic1 diet>y1 rehabilitative1 legal1 m5tal1 spiritual1 physical1 recreational1 rese>*1 & c\nsel+ ne$s ( vet]ans & _! families or any ( ! purposes specifi$ 9 any ( subp>agraphs 7,a7 ?r\gh 7,i7 ( p>agraph 7#b72 & 7,d7 ,! ,reg5ts ma9ta9s records docum5t+ ! value ( ! additional s]vices & support t ,! ,reg5ts provides pursuant to subp>agraph 7,c7 = ! duration ( ! lease & makes su* records available to ! ,secret>y4 7c7 ,limitation on ,l&-,%>+ ,agreem5ts ,! ,secret>y may n c>ry out any l&-%>+ agreem5t pursuant to section #haec ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 at ! ,campus unless su* agreem5t-- 7#a7 provides additional heal?-c>e res\rces to ! ,campus2 & 7#b7 b5efits vet]ans & _! families o!r ?an f ! g5]ation ( rev5ue = ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7d7 ,rev5ues f leases at ! ,campus ,any funds receiv$ by ! ,secret>y "u a lease describ$ 9 subsection 7b7 %all be cr$it$ to ! applicable ,dep>tm5t m$ical facilities acc\nt & %all be available1 )\t fiscal ye> limitation & )\t fur!r appropriation1 exclusively = ! r5ovation & ma9t5ance ( ! l& & facilities at ! ,campus4 7e7 ,easem5ts 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,not)/&+ any o!r provision ( law 7o!r ?an ,f$]al laws relat+ to environm5tal & hi/oric pres]vation71 pursuant to section #habd ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 ! ,secret>y may grant easem5ts or rights-(-way on1 above1 or "u l&s at ! ,campus to-- 7,a7 any local or regional public transportation au?ority to access1 con/ruct1 use1 op]ate1 ma9ta91 repair1 or recon/ruct public mass transit facilities1 includ+1 fix$ guideway facilities & transportation c5t]s2 & 7,b7 ! ,/ate ( ,cali=nia1 ,c\nty ( ,los ,angeles1 ,city ( ,los ,angeles1 or any ag5cy or political subdivision !re(1 or any public utility company 7includ+ any company provid+ electricity1 gas1 wat]1 sewage1 or telecommunication s]vices to ! public7 = ! purpose ( provid+ su* public utilities4 7#b7 ,improvem5ts ,any improvem5ts propos$ pursuant to an easem5t or "r-(-way au?oriz$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be subject to su* t]ms & conditions z ! ,secret>y consid]s appropriate4 7#c7 ,t]m9ation ,any easem5t or "r-(-way au?oriz$ "u p>agraph 7#a7 %all be t]m9at$ ^u ! ab&onm5t or nonuse ( ! easem5t or "r-(-way & all "r1 title1 & int]e/ 9 ! l& cov]$ by ! easem5t or "r-(-way %all rev]t to ! ,unit$ ,/ates4 7f7 ,prohibition on sale ( prop]ty ,not)/&+ section #hafd ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 ! ,secret>y may n sell or o!rwise convey to a ?ird p>ty fee simple title to any real prop]ty or improvem5ts to real prop]ty made at ! ,campus4 7g7 ,consi/5cy ) ma/] plan ,! ,secret>y %all ensure t ea* lease c>ri$ out "u ?is section is consi/5t ) ! draft ma/] plan approv$ by ! ,secret>y on ,janu>y #bh1 #bjaf1 or successor ma/] plans4 7h7 ,compliance ) c]ta9 laws 7#a7 ,laws relat+ to leases & l& use ,if ! ,inspector ,g5]al ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs det]m9es1 z "p ( an audit report or evaluation conduct$ by ! ,inspector ,g5]al1 t ! ,dep>tm5t is n 9 compliance ) all ,f$]al laws relat+ to leases & l& use at ! ,campus1 or t significant mismanagem5t has occurr$ ) respect to leases or l& use at ! ,campus1 ! ,secret>y may n ent] into any lease or l&-%>+ agreem5t at ! ,campus1 or r5ew any su* lease or l&-%>+ agreem5t t is n 9 compliance ) su* laws1 until ! ,secret>y c]tifies to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ea* ,memb] ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives :o repres5ts ! area 9 :i* ! ,campus is locat$ t all recomm5dations includ$ 9 ! audit report or evaluation h be5 implem5t$4 7#b7 ,compliance ( p>ticul> leases ,except z o!rwise expressly provid$ by ?is section1 no lease may be ent]$ into or r5ew$ "u ?is section unless ! lease complies ) *apt] #cc ( title #da1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 & all ,f$]al laws relat+ to environm5tal & hi/oric pres]vation4 7i7 ,community vet]ans engagem5t bo>d 7#a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an #ahj days aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 ! ,secret>y %all e/abli% a ,community ,vet]ans ,engagem5t ,bo>d 79 ?is subsection ref]r$ to z ! ,bo>d7 = ! ,campus to coord9ate locally ) ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs to-- 7,a7 id5tify ! goals ( ! community2 & 7,b7 provide advice & recomm5dations to ! ,secret>y to improve s]vices & outcomes = vet]ans1 memb]s ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces1 & ! families ( su* vet]ans & memb]s4 7#b7 ,memb]s ,! ,bo>d %all be compris$ ( a numb] ( memb]s t ! ,secret>y det]m9es appropriate1 ( :i* n less ?an #ej p]c5t %all be vet]ans4 ,! nonvet]an memb]s %all be family memb]s ( vet]ans1 vet]an advocates1 s]vice provid]s1 or /akehold]s4 7#c7 ,community input ,9 c>ry+ out subp>agraphs 7,a7 & 7,b7 ( p>agraph 7#a71 ! ,bo>d %all-- 7,a7 provide ! community opportunities to collaborate & communicate ) ! ,bo>d1 includ+ by conduct+ public =ums on ! ,campus2 & 7,b7 focus on local issues reg>d+ ! ,dep>tm5t t are id5tifi$ by ! community1 includ+ ) respect to heal? c>e1 b5efits1 & memorial s]vices at ! ,campus4 7j7 ,notification & reports 7#a7 ,congressional notification ,) respect to ea* lease or l&-%>+ agreem5t int5d$ to be ent]$ into or r5ew$ at ! ,campus1 ! ,secret>y %all notify ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ea* ,memb] ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives :o repres5ts ! area 9 :i* ! ,campus is locat$ ( ! int5t ( ! ,secret>y to ent] into or r5ew ! lease or l&-%>+ agreem5t n lat] ?an #de days be=e ent]+ into or r5ew+ ! lease or l&-%>+ agreem5t4 7#b7 ,annual report ,n lat] ?an "o ye> aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 & n less frequ5tly ?an annually !reaft]1 ! ,secret>y %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ea* ,memb] ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives :o repres5ts ! area 9 :i* ! ,campus is locat$ an annual report evaluat+ all leases & l&-%>+ agreem5ts c>ri$ out at ! ,campus1 includ+-- 7,a7 an evaluation ( ! managem5t ( ! rev5ue g5]at$ by ! leases2 & 7,b7 ! records describ$ 9 subsection 7b77#c77;,d74 7#c7 ,inspector ,g5]al report 7,a7 ,9 g5]al ,n lat] ?an ea* ( two ye>s & five ye>s aft] ! date ( ! enactm5t ( ?is ,act1 & z det]m9$ necess>y by ! ,inspector ,g5]al ( ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs !reaft]1 ! ,inspector ,g5]al %all submit to ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,s5ate1 ! ,committee on ,vet]ans' ,affairs ( ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives1 & ea* ,memb] ( ! ,s5ate & ! ,h\se ( ,repres5tatives :o repres5ts ! area 9 :i* ! ,campus is locat$ a report on all leases c>ri$ out at ! ,campus & ! managem5t by ! ,dep>tm5t ( ! use ( l& at ! ,campus1 includ+ an assessm5t ( ! ef=ts ( ! ,dep>tm5t to implem5t ! ma/] plan describ$ 9 subsection 7g7 ) respect to ! ,campus4 7,b7 ,consid]ation ( annual report ,9 prep>+ ea* report requir$ by subp>agraph 7,a71 ! ,inspector ,g5]al %all take into acc\nt ! mo/ rec5t report submitt$ to ,congress by ! ,secret>y "u p>agraph 7#b74 7k7 ,rule ( con/ruction ,no?+ 9 ?is section %all be con/ru$ z a limitation on ! au?ority ( ! ,secret>y to ent] into o!r agreem5ts reg>d+ ! ,campus t are au?oriz$ by law & n inconsi/5t ) ?is section4 7l7 ,pr9cipally b5efit vet]ans & _! families def9$ ,9 ?is section ! t]m pr9cipally b5efit vet]ans & _! families1 ) respect to s]vices provid$ by a p]son or entity "u a lease ( prop]ty or l&-%>+ agreem5t-- 7#a7 means s]vices-- 7,a7 provid$ exclusively to vet]ans & _! families2 or 7,b7 t are design$ = ! p>ticul> ne$s ( vet]ans & _! families1 z oppos$ to ! g5]al public1 & any b5efit ( ^? s]vices to ! g5]al public is di/9ct f ! int5d$ b5efit to vet]ans & _! families2 & 7#b7 excludes s]vices 9 :i* ! only b5efit to vet]ans & _! families is ! g5]ation ( rev5ue = ! ,dep>tm5t ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7m7 ,con=m+ am5dm5ts 7#a7 ,prohibition on disposal ( prop]ty ,section #bbd7;a7 ( ! ,milit>y ,con/ruction & ,vet]ans ,affairs & ,relat$ ,ag5cies ,appropriations ,act1 #bjjh 7,public ,law #aaj-afa2 #aba ,/at4 #bbgb7 is am5d$ by /rik+ ,! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs & ins]t+ ,except z au?oriz$ "u ! ,vet]ans ,fir/ ,act1 ! ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs4 7#b7 ,enhanc$-use leases ,section #hafb7;c7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by ins]t+ 1 o!r ?an an enhanc$-use lease "u ! ,vet]ans ,fir/ ,act1 be=e %all be consid]$4 #ijb4 ,re/oration ( prior report+ fee multipli]s ,dur+ ! n9e-ye> p]iod beg9n+ on ,septemb] #bf1 #bjaf1 ! second s5t5ce ( subsection 7c7 ( section #cfhd ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 %all be appli$-- 7#a7 by sub/itut+ #h = #ab2 & 7#b7 by sub/itut+ #ab = #ae4 #ijc4 ,repeal inapplicability ( modification ( basic all[ance = h\s+ to b5efits "u laws adm9i/]$ by ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs 7a7 ,repeal ,subsection 7b7 ( section #fjd ( ! ,c>l ,lev9 & ,h[>d ,p4 ,buck ,mc,keon ,national ,def5se ,au?orization ,act = ,fiscal ,ye> #bjae 7,public ,law #aac-bia2 #cg ,u4,s4,c4 #djc note7 is repeal$4 7b7 ,effective date ,! am5dm5t made by subsection 7a7 %all take effect on ,janu>y #a1 #bjaf4 #ijd4 ,obs]vance ( ,vet]ans ,day 7a7 ,two m9utes ( sil5ce ,*apt] #a ( title #cf1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new section3 #ade4 ,vet]ans ,day ,! ,presid5t %all issue ea* ye> a proclamation call+ on ! p ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates to obs]ve two m9utes ( sil5ce on ,vet]ans ,day 9 honor ( ! s]vice & sacrifice ( vet]ans ?r\gh\t ! hi/ory ( ! ,unit$ ,/ates1 beg9n+ at-- 7#a7 #c3aa p4m4 ,atlantic /&>d "t2 7#b7 #b3aa p4m4 ea/]n /&>d "t2 7#c7 #a3aa p4m4 c5tral /&>d "t2 7#d7 #ab3aa p4m4 m\nta9 /&>d "t2 7#e7 #aa3aa a4m4 ,pacific /&>d "t2 7#f7 #aj3aa a4m4 ,alaska /&>d "t2 & 7#g7 #i3aa a4m4 ,hawaii-,aleutian /&>d "t4 4 7b7 ,cl]ical am5dm5t ,! table ( sections = *apt] #a ( title #cf1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$ by add+ at ! end ! foll[+ new item3 #ade4 ,vet]ans ,day4 4 #ije4 ,honor+ z vet]ans c]ta9 p]sons :o p]=m$ s]vice 9 ! res]ve compon5ts ( ! ,arm$ ,=ces ,any p]son :o is entitl$ "u *apt] #abbc ( title #aj1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 to retir$ pay = nonregul> s]vice or1 b = age1 w\ld be entitl$ "u su* *apt] to retir$ pay = nonregul> s]vice %all be honor$ z a vet]an b %all n be entitl$ to any b5efit by reason ( ?is honor4 #ijf4 ,ext5sion ( requirem5t = collection ( fees = h\s+ loans gu>ante$ by ,secret>y ( ,vet]ans ,affairs ,section #cgbi7;b77#b7 ( title #ch1 ,unit$ ,/ates ,code1 is am5d$-- 7#a7 9 subp>agraph 7,a7-- 7,a7 9 clause 7iii71 by /rik+ ,septemb] #cj1 #bjbd & ins]t+ ,octob] #a1 #bjbf2 & 7,b7 9 clause 7iv71 by /rik+ ,septemb] #cj1 #bjbd & ins]t+ ,octob] #a1 #bjbf2 7#b7 9 subp>agraph 7,b7-- 7,a7 9 clause 7i71 by /rik+ ,septemb] #cj1 #bjbd & ins]t+ ,octob] #a1 #bjbf2 & 7,b7 9 clause 7ii71 by /rik+ ,septemb] #cj1 #bjbd & ins]t+ ,octob] #a1 #bjbf2 7#c7 9 subp>agraph 7,c7-- 7,a7 9 clause 7i71 by /rik+ ,septemb] #cj1 #bjbd & ins]t+ ,octob] #a1 #bjbf2 & 7,b7 9 clause 7ii71 by /rik+ ,septemb] #cj1 #bjbd & ins]t+ ,octob] #a1 #bjbf2 & 7#d7 9 subp>agraph 7,d7-- 7,a7 9 clause 7i71 by /rik+ ,septemb] #cj1 #bjbd & ins]t+ ,octob] #a1 #bjbf2 & 7,b7 9 clause 7ii71 by /rik+ ,septemb] #cj1 #bjbd & ins]t+ ,octob] #a1 #bjbf4 ,may #af1 #bjaf,report$ )\t am5dm5t