10 U.S.C. 1414(b)a new sectionchangedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 101(a)
(2) Combat-related disability retirees.—(A) In general.— A member retired under chapter 61 of this title with a combat-related disability who is entitled for any month to retired pay under chapter 61 of this title and is also entitled for that month to veterans’ disability compensation under title 38, is entitled to be paid both without regard to sections 5304 and 5305 of title 38, as provided by subparagraphs (B) and (C).(B) Career retirees.— In the case of a member retired under chapter 61 of this title who has a combat-related disability that is not a qualifying service-connected disability (as defined in subsection (a)(2)) and who, at the time of the member's retirement, had 20 years or more of service otherwise creditable under section 1405 of this title or at least 20 years of service computed under section 12732 of this title, the member may receive, without regard to sections 5304 and 5305 of title 38, both—(i) the amount of retired pay to which the member would have been entitled under any other provision of law based on the member’s service in the uniformed services if the member had not been retired under chapter 61 of this title; and(ii) veterans’ disability compensation under title 38.(C) Disability retirees with less than 20 years of service.— In the case of a member retired under chapter 61 of this title with a combat-related disability and who, at the time of the member's retirement, had less than 20 years of service otherwise creditable under section 1405 of this title or less than 20 years of service computed under section 12732 of this title, the member may receive, without regard to sections 5304 and 5305 of title 38, the lesser of—(i) both—(I) the retired pay for which the member is eligible under chapter 61 of this title; and(II) veterans’ disability compensation under title 38; or(ii) both—(I) an amount equal to the product of the retired pay base computed under section 1406(b) or 1407 of this title and the retired pay multiplier determined under section 1409 of this title, as such base pay and multiplier would be computed if the member had 20 years of service creditable under section 1405 of this title; and(II) veterans’ disability compensation under title 38.(D) Combat-related disability defined.— In this paragraph, the term combat-related disability has the meaning given that term in subsection (e) of section 1413a of this title and as determined under the criteria and procedures used for purposes of such section.(3) Exclusion of other retirees.— Subsection (a) does not apply to a member retired under chapter 61 of this title if the member is not covered by paragraph (1) or (2).
The bill says: Section 1414(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following new paragraphs:
Bill text
10 U.S.C. 1414(d)a new sectionchangedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 101(b)
(d) Coordination With Combat-Related Special Compensation Program.— (1) In general.—A person who is a qualified retiree under this sectionqualified retiree under subsection (a) or is entitled to a payment under subsection (b)(2) and is also an eligible combat-related disabled uniformed services retiree under section 1413a of this title may receive special compensation in accordance with that section or retired pay in accordance with this section, but not both.…
The bill says: Section 1414(d) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking "qualified retiree under this section" and inserting "qualified retiree under subsection (a) or is entitled to a payment under subsection (b)(2)".
Bill text
38 U.S.C. 103(d)(2)(B)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(a)
(B) (i) The remarriage after age 57 of the surviving spouse of a veteran shall not bar the furnishing of benefits specified in paragraph (5) to such person as the surviving spouse of the veteran. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, the remarriage after age 55 of the surviving spouse of a veteran shall not bar the furnishing of benefits under chapter 13 or section 1781 of this title to such person as the surviving spouse of the veteran.
The bill says: by inserting "(i)" before "The remarriage";
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 103)
38 U.S.C. 103(d)(2)(B)(i)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(a)
The bill says: in clause (i), as designated by subparagraph (A), by striking "Notwithstanding the previous sentence" and inserting the following:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 103)
38 U.S.C. 103(d)(2)(B)added (iii)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(a)
(iii) Notwithstanding clause (ii), the remarriage of a surviving spouse shall not bar the furnishing of benefits under section 1311 or 1562 of this title to the surviving spouse of a veteran.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new clause:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 103)
38 U.S.C. 103(d)(5)removedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(a)
The bill says: by striking subparagraph (A); and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 103)
10 U.S.C. 1450(b)(2)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(b)
(2) Termination of spouse annuity upon death or remarriage before age 55.—An annuity(A) In general.— (A) Subject to subparagraph (B), an annuity for a surviving spouse or former spouse shall be paid to the surviving spouse or former spouse while the surviving spouse or former spouse is living or, if the surviving spouse or former spouse remarries before reaching age 55, until the surviving spouse or former spouse remarries.
The bill says: by striking "An annuity" and inserting the following:
Bill text · Current law (10 U.S.C. 1450)
10 U.S.C. 1450(b)(2)added (B)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(b)
(B) Treatment of survivors of members who die on active duty.— The Secretary may not terminate payment of an annuity for a surviving spouse described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of section 1448(d)(1) solely because that surviving spouse remarries. In the case of a surviving spouse who remarried before reaching age 55 and before the date of the enactment of Take Care of America’s Veterans Act, the Secretary shall resume payment of the annuity to that surviving spouse—(i) except as provided by clause (ii), for each month that begins on or after the date that is one year after such date of enactment; or(ii) on the first day of the first month beginning after such date of enactment, in the case of a surviving spouse who elected to transfer payment of that annuity to a surviving child or children under the provisions of section 1448(d)(2)(B) of title 10, United States Code, as in effect on December 31, 2019.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
Bill text · Current law (10 U.S.C. 1450)
10 U.S.C. 1072(2)(H)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(c)
(H) a person who would qualify as a dependent under clause (G) but for the fact that the date of the final decree of divorce, dissolution, or annulment of the person is on or after April 1, 1985, except that the term does not include the person after the end of the one-year period beginning on the date of that final decree; and
The bill says: in subparagraph (H), by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon;
Bill text · Current law (10 U.S.C. 1072)
10 U.S.C. 1072(2)(I)(v)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(c)
(v) is not a dependent of a member or a former member under any other subparagraph.; and
The bill says: in subparagraph (I)(v), by striking the period at the end and inserting "; and"; and
Bill text · Current law (10 U.S.C. 1072)
10 U.S.C. 1072(2)added (J)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 102(c)
(J) a remarried widow or widower whose subsequent marriage has ended due to death, divorce, or annulment.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
Bill text · Current law (10 U.S.C. 1072)
38 U.S.C. 1311(a)(2)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 103(a)
(2) (A) The rate under paragraph (1) shall be increased by $246 in the case of the death of a veteran who at the time of death was in receipt of or was entitled to receive (or but for the receipt of retired pay or retirement pay was entitled to receive) compensation for a service-connected disability that was rated totally disabling for a continuous period of at least eight years immediately preceding death. In determining the period of a veteran's disability for purposes of the preceding sentence, only periods in which the veteran was married to the surviving spouse shall be considered.
The bill says: by inserting "(A)" before "The rate"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 1311)
38 U.S.C. 1311(a)(2)added (B)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 103(a)
(B) A veteran whom the Secretary determines died from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis shall be treated as a veteran described in subparagraph (A) without regard for how long the veteran had such disease prior to death.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 1311)
38 U.S.C. 1114added (u)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 104(a)
(u) In the case of a veteran eligible for a monthly aid and attendance allowance under subsection (r) or subsection (t) of this section, the Secretary shall, in addition to the total amount of compensation for which the veteran is eligible under this section, pay the veteran a supplemental monthly allowance at the rate of $833.33.
The bill says: Section 1114 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 1114)
38 U.S.C. 3701(b)added (9)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 104(c)
(9) The term "active duty" has the meanings as follows:(A) In the case of members of the regular components of the Armed Forces, the meaning given such term in section 101(21)(A).(B) In the case of members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces—(i) service on active duty (as defined in section 101(d) of title 10), inactive-duty training (as defined in section 101(d) of title 10), or annual training duty; or(ii) service on active duty under a call or order to active duty under section 688, 12301(a), 12301(d), 12301(g), 12301(h), 12302, 12304, 12304a, or 12304b of title 10 or section 713 of title 14, but not including inactive duty training (as defined in section 101(d) of title 10) or annual training duty.(C) In the case of a member of the Army National Guard of the United States or Air National Guard of the United States, in addition to service described in subparagraph (B), full-time service—(i) in the National Guard of a State for the purpose of organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or training the National Guard;(ii) in the National Guard when performing full-time National Guard duty (as defined in section 101 of title 32); or(iii) in the National Guard when performing active duty (as defined in section 101 of title 32).
The bill says: Section 3701(b) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3701)
38 U.S.C. 3701(b)added (8)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 104(c)
(8) The term "veteran" also includes, for purposes of home loans (subject to the additional loan fee in section 3729(b)(4)(J) of this title), an individual who—(A) is not otherwise eligible for the benefits of this chapter;(B) has completed a total service of at least 14 days on active duty under paragraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (9); and(C) following completion of such service, continued to serve until the completion of entry level and skill training (as defined in section 3301(3) of this title).
The bill says: Section 3701(b) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting after paragraph (7) the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3701)
38 U.S.C. 3702(a)(2)added (H)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 104(c)
(H) Each individual described in section 3701(b)(8) of this title.
The bill says: Section 3702(a)(2) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3702)
38 U.S.C. 3729(b)(4)a new sectionadded (J)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 104(c)
(J) In the case of a housing loan in which the veteran has eligibility under section 3701(b)(8) of this title and does not otherwise have eligibility, the loan fee table in paragraph (2) shall be applied to the veteran or other obligor (as applicable) by adding 1.00 to the percentage in the table.
The bill says: Section 3729(b)(4) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
Bill text
38 U.S.C. 5103A(d)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(a)
The bill says: in the heading, by striking "compensation claims" and inserting "claims for benefits";
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5103A)
38 U.S.C. 5103A(d)(2)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(a)
(2) The Secretary shall treat an examination or opinion as being necessary to make a decision on a claim for purposes ofprovide for a medical examination or obtain a medical opinion under paragraph (1) if the evidence of record before the Secretary, taking into consideration all information and lay or medical evidence (including statements of the claimant)— (A) contains competent evidence that the claimant has a current…
The bill says: in paragraph (2), by striking "treat an examination or opinion as being necessary to make a decision on a claim for purposes of " and inserting "provide for a medical examination or obtain a medical opinion under"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5103A)
38 U.S.C. 5103A(d)added (3)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(a)
(3) If a veteran fails to appear for a medical examination provided by the Secretary in conjunction with a claim for a benefit under a law administered by the Secretary, the Secretary may not deny such claim on the sole basis that such veteran failed to appear for such medical examination.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5103A)
38 U.S.C. 5109Bchangedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(b)
The Secretary(a) In general.—The Secretary shall take such actions as may be necessary to provide for the expeditious treatment by the Veterans Benefits Administration of any claim that is returned by a higher-level adjudicator under section 5104B of this title or remanded by the Board of Veterans' Appeals.
The bill says: by striking "The Secretary" and inserting "(a) In general.—The Secretary"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5109B)
38 U.S.C. 5109Badded (b)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(b)
(b) Annual report.— The Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Senate an annual report that includes, with respect to the period covered by the report—(1) the average length of time a claim (or an issue within a claim) that was remanded by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals was or has been pending before the Secretary after such remand;(2) the number of cases that advanced on the docket by reason of a motion that was filed under section 7107(b) of this title and on which the Board ruled, disaggregated by—(A) whether a motion was granted or denied; and(B) the reason provided for the motion; and(3) the number of appeals dismissed by the Board, disaggregated by—(A) whether or not the dismissal was by reason of the death of the appellant; and(B) in the case of a dismissal by reason of the death of the appellant, whether or not such death was a result of suicide.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5109B)
38 U.S.C. 5109Badded 5109Cby H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(b)
5109C. Requirement to track and maintain information on certain claims for benefits; notice of certain assignments.—(a) In general.— The Secretary shall use technology to track and maintain information (including information with respect to timeliness) on—(1) claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary (including issues within such claims) that are—(A) continuously pursued in accordance with—(i) sections 5104C(a) and 5110(a)(2) of this title; or(ii) any other policy established by the Secretary;(B) filed in the National Work Queue (or any successor system) but have not been assigned to an office of the Veterans Benefits Administration for adjudication;(C) afforded expeditious treatment by the Veterans Benefits Administration pursuant to section 5109B of this title or any other policy established by the Secretary;(D) remanded by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals to the Secretary pursuant to section 7104 of this title; or(E) pending a hearing by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals under section 7107 of this title;(2) instances in which an adjudicator of the Veterans Benefits Administration does not comply with a relevant decision of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals to remand a claim for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary (or an issue within such a claim), including any such instance in which the relevant decision concerned a failure on the part of the agency of original jurisdiction to satisfy the duty of the Secretary to assist under section 5103A of this title;(3) supplemental claims under section 5108 of this title that are filed—(A) in accordance with section 5104C(a) and section 5110(a)(2) of this title; and(B) after the date of the applicable final decision of the Secretary with respect to a claim for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary (or an issue within such a claim); and(4) first notices submitted to the Secretary of the death of individuals in receipt of benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary, disaggregated by such individuals who were—(A) assigned a fiduciary; and(B) not assigned a fiduciary.(b) Annual report.—(1) The Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Senate an annual report that includes all information maintained and tracked pursuant to subsection (a).(2) The first report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted by not later than one year after the date of the enactment of the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act.
The bill says: Chapter 51 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 5109B the following new section:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5109B)
38 U.S.C. 7252renumberedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(b)
The bill says: by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections (d) and (e), respectively; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7252)
38 U.S.C. 7252added (b)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(b)
(b)(1) In an appeal over which the Court has jurisdiction pursuant to section 7266 of this title, if the appellant files a request for class certification pursuant to the rules prescribed by the Court pursuant to section 7264 of this title, the Court shall have supplemental jurisdiction over any claim for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary—(A) filed by a claimant who satisfies the definition of the class contained in such request (including a claimant who has filed a claim for benefits under such laws that are specified in such request); and(B) regarding which—(i) the agency of original jurisdiction has issued a nonfinal decision; and(ii) the claimant has filed a notice of disagreement under section 5104C(a) or section 7105 of this title, including any case in which a claimant has filed a supplemental claim within one year of a Board decision under section 5110(a)(2)(D) and 5108 of this title following a notice of disagreement and decision of the Board.(2) A claimant may submit a request for administrative review of such a claim under section 5104C(a) of this title during the period beginning on the date on which the named claimant of the motion for class action review submits to the Court a motion for class action review and ending on the date that is 60 days after the later of the following dates:(A) The date on which the Court issues a final decision with respect to such claim.(B) The date on which the Court issues a final decision with respect to such motion for class action review.(3) In the case of a claimant whose claim is decided by the Board during the period when the Court is reviewing the motion for class action review the deadline for such claimant to file an appeal to the Court with respect to the decision of the Board shall be tolled if the Court denies the motion for class action review.(c)(1) In the case of a claim for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary, the Court may remand a matter to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals for the limited purpose of ordering the Board to address a question of law or fact if the Court determines the Board failed to—(A) address, in the relevant decision of the Board, an issue that—(i) the claimant or the representative of the claimant raised; or(ii) was reasonably raised by the evidentiary record of the claim; or(B) provide adequate reasons or bases for the decision of the Board with respect to such question.(2) The Court shall issue Rules that provide for each of the following:(A) When and how a party to an appeal (either the appellant or the Secretary) may request that the Court issue a limited remand.(B) The period of time within which the Board is required to issue a decision on the relevant question identified in a limited remand.(C) Guidelines for when the Court may grant a request for a limited remand.(D) Guidelines for when the Court may decide sua sponte to issue a limited remand without a request from any party.(E) A requirement that the parties to an appeal for which a limited remand is issued provide notice to the Court when the Board issues its decision on the relevant question identified in the limited remand.(3) With respect to any matter remanded to the Board pursuant to paragraph (1), the Court shall—(A) retain jurisdiction over such matter; and(B) stay the proceedings of the Court on such matter until the date on which the Board issues the decision required by such remand.
The bill says: by inserting after subsection (a) the following new subsections:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7252)
38 U.S.C. 7101added (f)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(c)
(f)(1) The Chairman shall carry out a program to ensure quality in the decisions of the Board. Under such program, the Chairman shall—(A) develop policies and procedures for—(i) measuring quality in such decisions;(ii) maintaining data and identifying trends with respect to—(I) errors in such decisions;(II) errors in decisions remanded or returned to the Board by the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; and(III) specific members of the Board that issued decisions that were subsequently vacated by the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; and(iii) ensuring any such decision of the Board to remand a claim for a benefit under a law administered by the Secretary is necessary under any applicable law or regulation;(B) with respect to a claim for such a benefit that is remanded to the Board by the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims—(i) inform any employee of the Board responsible for drafting the decision of the Board with respect to such claim that such decision was remanded;(ii) provide any such employee with a copy of the relevant order of the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (including a copy of any accompanying joint motion for remand); and(iii) provide incentives to such employees to review such relevant orders and joint motions for remand; and(C) ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that any error identified by the Board under such program is corrected before the date on which the Board issues the final decision associated with such error.(2) In developing policies and procedures to measure quality in decisions of the Board pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1), the Chairman shall consider the data and trends maintained and identified pursuant to clause (ii) of such subparagraph.(3) The Chairman may use technology, including artificial intelligence, to maintain such data and identify such trends.(4) The Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Senate an annual report on the program required by this subsection that includes, with respect to the period covered by the report, an identification of—(A) elements, if any of the process of the Board for reviewing an appeal under this chapter that lead to errors in decisions of the Board; and(B) the most common reasons that a claim for a benefit under a law administered by the Secretary was remanded to such Board by the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.
The bill says: Section 7101 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7101)
38 U.S.C. 7114added 7115by H.R. 9237 Sec. 105(c)
7115 Annual report on Board of Veterans’ Appeals.— The Chairman of the Board shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Senate an annual report that includes, for each decision of the Board to remand a claim for a benefit under a law administered by the Secretary to the Secretary for further adjudication during the period covered by the report, a statement of the reasons for such decision of the Board, disaggregated by decisions on—(1) claims with a rating decision dated on or after February 19, 2019; and(2) claims with a rating decision dated before such date.
The bill says: Chapter 71 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 7114 the following new section:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7114)
Public Law 116-315changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 109(b)
The bill says: Paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 (Public Law 116–315; 38 U.S.C. 5101 note) is amended by striking "On the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act" and inserting "On September 30, 2033".
Bill text
38 U.S.C. 7101(d)(2)(F)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 110(b)
(F) the number of employees of the Department designated under subsection (c)(1) to serve as acting members of the Board during that year and the number of cases in which each such member participated during that year; and
The bill says: in subparagraph (F), by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon;
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7101)
38 U.S.C. 7101(d)(2)(G)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 110(b)
(G) with respect to hearings scheduled under section 7107(c)(2)(C) of this title— (i) the number of hearings scheduled under such section; (ii) the number of hearings under such section that were cancelled; and (iii) any statistical difference in outcomes between cases heard under such section and those held at the principal location of the Board or by picture and voice transmission at a facility of the Department.; and
The bill says: in subparagraph (G), by striking the period at the end and inserting "; and"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7101)
38 U.S.C. 7101(d)(2)added (H)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 110(b)
(H) a summary of recurring issues that result in the Board remanding appeals back to the agency of original jurisdiction.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7101)
38 U.S.C. 7288(b)added (16)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 110(b)
(16) A summary of recurring issues that result in remands.
The bill says: Section 7288(b) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7288)
38 U.S.C. 5103added (c)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 111(b)
(c) Written communications to individuals who have experienced military sexual trauma.—(1) The Secretary shall ensure that any written communication under this section from the Department to an individual who has experienced military sexual trauma includes each of the following:(A) Contact information for each of the following:(i) The military sexual trauma coordinator of the Veterans Benefits Administration.(ii) The military sexual trauma coordinator of the Veterans Health Administration.(iii) The Veterans Crisis Line.(iv) The facility of the Veterans Health Administration closest to where the individual resides.(v) The Readjustment Counseling Service location closest to where the individual resides.(B) Information on the eligibility of the individual for services provided through the Readjustment Counseling Service location described in subparagraph (A)(v).(2) In this subsection:(A) The term "individual who has experienced military sexual trauma" means—(i) an individual who has filed a claim for compensation under chapter 11 of this title relating to military sexual trauma;(ii) a veteran who has been awarded compensation under such chapter relating to military sexual trauma; or(iii) a member of the Armed Forces (including a member of the National Guard or Reserves), a former member of the Armed Forces, or a veteran who is receiving care from the Department relating to military sexual trauma.(B) The term "military sexual trauma" has the meaning given that term in section 1166(d)(2) of this title.(C) The term "Veterans Crisis Line" means the toll-free hotline for veterans established under section 1720F(h) of this title.
The bill says: Section 5103 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5103)
38 U.S.C. 5104added (e)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 111(b)
(e)(1) The Secretary shall ensure that any written communication under this section from the Department to an individual who has experienced military sexual trauma includes each of the following:(A) Contact information for each of the following:(i) The military sexual trauma coordinator of the Veterans Health Administration.(ii) The Veterans Crisis Line.(iii) The facility of the Veterans Health Administration closest to where the individual resides.(iv) The Readjustment Counseling Service location closest to where the individual resides.(B) Information on the eligibility of the individual for services provided through the Readjustment Counseling Service location described in subparagraph (A)(iv).(2) The Secretary shall ensure that any written communication under this section from the Department to an individual who has experienced military sexual trauma that includes notification of an award of compensation under chapter 11 of this title relating to military sexual trauma includes—(A) the contact information described in paragraph (1); and(B) the contact information for the military sexual trauma coordinator of the Veterans Benefits Administration.(3) In this subsection:(A) The term "individual who has experienced military sexual trauma" means—(i) an individual who has filed a claim for compensation under chapter 11 of this title relating to military sexual trauma;(ii) a veteran who has been awarded compensation under such chapter relating to military sexual trauma; or(iii) a member of the Armed Forces (including a member of the National Guard or Reserves), a former member of the Armed Forces, or a veteran who is receiving care from the Department relating to military sexual trauma.(B) The term "military sexual trauma" has the meaning given that term in section 1166(d)(2) of this title.(C) The term "Veterans Crisis Line" means the toll-free hotline for veterans established under section 1720F(h) of this title.
The bill says: Section 5104 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5104)
38 U.S.C. 5104Badded (f)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 111(b)
(f) Written communications to individuals who have experienced military sexual trauma.—(1) The Secretary shall ensure that any written communication under this section from the Department to an individual who has experienced military sexual trauma includes each of the following:(A) Contact information for each of the following:(i) The military sexual trauma coordinator of the Veterans Health Administration.(ii) The Veterans Crisis Line.(iii) The facility of the Veterans Health Administration closest to where the individual resides.(iv) The Readjustment Counseling Service location closest to where the individual resides.(B) Information on the eligibility of the individual for services provided through the Readjustment Counseling Service location described in subparagraph (A)(iv).(2) The Secretary shall ensure that any written communication under this section from the Department to an individual who has experienced military sexual trauma that includes notification of an award of compensation under chapter 11 of this title relating to military sexual trauma includes—(A) the contact information described in paragraph (1); and(B) the contact information for the military sexual trauma coordinator of the Veterans Benefits Administration.(3) In this subsection:(A) The term "individual who has experienced military sexual trauma" means—(i) an individual who has filed a claim for compensation under chapter 11 of this title relating to military sexual trauma;(ii) a veteran who has been awarded compensation under such chapter relating to military sexual trauma; or(iii) a member of the Armed Forces (including a member of the National Guard or Reserves), a former member of the Armed Forces, or a veteran who is receiving care from the Department relating to military sexual trauma.(B) The term "military sexual trauma" has the meaning given that term in section 1166(d)(2) of this title.(C) The term "Veterans Crisis Line" means the toll-free hotline for veterans established under section 1720F(h) of this title.
The bill says: Section 5104B of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 5104B)
38 U.S.C. 7104added (g)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 111(b)
(g)(1) The Secretary shall ensure that any written communication under this section from the Department to an individual who has experienced military sexual trauma include each of the following:(A) Contact information for each of the following:(i) The military sexual trauma coordinator of the Veterans Health Administration.(ii) The Veterans Crisis Line.(iii) The facility of the Veterans Health Administration closest to where the individual resides.(iv) The Readjustment Counseling Service location closest to where the individual resides.(B) Information on the eligibility of the individual for services provided through the Readjustment Counseling Service location described in subparagraph (A)(iv).(2) The Secretary shall ensure that any written communication under this section from the Department to an individual who has experienced military sexual trauma that includes notification of an award of compensation under chapter 11 of this title relating to military sexual trauma includes—(A) the contact information described in paragraph (1); and(B) the contact information for the military sexual trauma coordinator of the Veterans Benefits Administration.(3) In this subsection:(A) The term "individual who has experienced military sexual trauma" means—(i) an individual who has filed a claim for compensation under chapter 11 of this title relating to military sexual trauma;(ii) a veteran who has been awarded compensation under such chapter relating to military sexual trauma; or(iii) a member of the Armed Forces (including a member of the National Guard or Reserves), a former member of the Armed Forces, or a veteran who is receiving care from the Department relating to military sexual trauma.(B) The term "military sexual trauma" has the meaning given that term in section 1166(d)(2) of this title.(C) The term "Veterans Crisis Line" means the toll-free hotline for veterans established under section 1720F(h) of this title.
The bill says: Section 7104 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 7104)
Public Law 116-315(b)(1)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 111(d)
The bill says: in paragraph (1), by striking "through 2027" and inserting "until the date described in section 109(d)(4) of the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act"; and
Bill text
Public Law 116-315(b)(2)added (I)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 111(d)
(I) The findings of the most recent special focus review conducted under subsection (d)(1)(A) of section 109 of the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act, including—(i) the elements under subsection (d)(1)(B) of such section;(ii) the number of claims returned for reprocessing under subsection (d)(2) of such section; and(iii) the number of claims described in clause (ii) for which the decision relating to service-connection or entitlement to compensation changed as a result of reprocessing the claim.
The bill says: in paragraph (2), by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
Bill text
38 U.S.C. 3327(f)(3)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 201(a)
The bill says: in paragraph (3), by striking "together" and all that follows through "before" and inserting "not later than 60 days after"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3327)
38 U.S.C. 3327(f)added (4)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 201(a)
(4) Additional assistance for an individual not eligible for a monthly housing stipend.— In the case of an individual making an election under subsection (a) who is described by subparagraph (A), (C), or (E) of paragraph (1) of that subsection, and who is not eligible for a monthly stipend payable under section 3313(c) of this title, the educational assistance payable to the individual under this chapter shall be paid—(A) in a lump sum calculated by multiplying—(i) the total amount of contributions described in paragraph (1)(A) with regards to such individual; and(ii) the sum of the number of months described in subclauses (I) and (II) of paragraph (1)(B)(i) with regards to such individual; and(B) to the individual not later than 60 days after the exhaustion of the individual's entitlement to educational assistance under this chapter.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3327)
38 U.S.C. 3902(a)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 202(a)
The bill says: by inserting "(1)" before "The Secretary"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3902)
38 U.S.C. 3902(a)added (2)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 202(a)
(2) The Secretary shall—(A) make payments under this section in compliance with regulations prescribed under section 3903(a) of title 31, except that no interest penalties shall be required to be paid under this section; and(B) in the case of any payment under this section that is not processed during the period of 30 days following receipt by the Secretary of the final invoice for such payment, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register the number of days required to process the payment.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3902)
38 U.S.C. 3313(c)(1)(B)(i)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 203(a)
The bill says: in clause (i), by striking "and (iii)" and inserting ", (iii), and (iv)";
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3313)
38 U.S.C. 3313(c)(1)(B)renumberedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 203(a)
The bill says: by redesignating clause (iv) as clause (v); and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3313)
38 U.S.C. 3313(c)(1)(B)added (iv)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 203(a)
(iv) In the case of an individual pursuing, solely through distance learning, a program of education that is shorter than 12 weeks during the summer, for each month the individual pursues the program of education, a monthly housing stipend equal to the product of—(I) the national average of the monthly amount of the basic allowance for housing payable under section 403 of title 37 for a member with dependents in pay grade E–5, multiplied by(II) the lesser of—(aa) 1.0 and(bb) the number of course hours borne by the individual in pursuit of the program of education, divided by the minimum number of course hours required for full-time pursuit of the program of education, rounded to the nearest multiple of 10.
The bill says: by inserting after clause (iii) the following new clause (iv):
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3313)
38 U.S.C. 1701(6)(I)rewrittenby H.R. 9237 Sec. 204
(I) The provision of any medically necessary automobile adaptations for driver or passenger use, including—(i) ramp and kneeling systems;(ii) raised doors or lowered floors;(iii) raised roofs;(iv) air conditioning;(v) occupied and unoccupied mobility lifts;(vi) ingress or egress accessibility modifications;(vii) wheelchair tiedowns; and(viii) adapted seating.
The bill says: Section 1701(6)(I) of title 38, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 1701)
38 U.S.C. 6320(b)(1)(B)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 205(a)
The bill says: by striking "calling" and inserting "communicating with"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 6320)
38 U.S.C. 6320(b)(1)(B)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 205(a)
The bill says: by inserting "through the use of tailored lines of communication, including mailings, text messaging, virtual chatting, and other electronic forms of messaging" after "Armed Forces"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 6320)
38 U.S.C. 6320(b)(2)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 205(a)
The bill says: in paragraph (2), by striking "tailored mailings" and inserting "tailored lines of communication, including mailings, text messaging, virtual chatting, and other electronic forms of messaging,".
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 6320)
38 U.S.C. 3680added (i)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 205(b)
(i)(1) The Secretary shall provide a mechanism by which an eligible veteran or eligible person may use tailored lines of communication to send and receive correspondence with the Department of Veterans related to entitlement to and use of educational assistance benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary. The Secretary shall ensure that an eligible veteran or eligible person is provided with an opportunity to opt into sending and receiving such correspondence using such lines of communication rather than by mail.(2) The Secretary shall provide to eligible veterans and eligible persons who are enrolled in a course or program of education or training notice of the opportunity to opt in to sending and receiving correspondence using tailored lines of communication pursuant to paragraph (1).(3) In this subsection, the term "tailored lines of communication" includes mailings, text messaging, virtual chatting, and other electronic forms of messaging.
The bill says: Section 3680 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3680)
10 U.S.C. 1142(a)(1)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 206(a)
The bill says: Subsection (a) of section 1142 of title 10, United States Code, is amended, in paragraph (1), by inserting "(including each member of the special operations forces)" after "armed forces".
Bill text · Current law (10 U.S.C. 1142)
10 U.S.C. 1142(b)added (20)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 207(a)
(20) A presentation that promotes the benefits available to veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Such presentation—(A) shall be standardized;(B) shall, before implementation, be reviewed and approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and Secretary of Defense in collaboration with veterans service organizations that provide claims assistance under the benefits delivery at discharge program of the Department of Veterans Affairs;(C) shall be submitted by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs and Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives for review at least 90 days before implementation;(D) where available, shall be presented with the participation of—(i) an employee or representative of the Department of Veterans Affairs assisted by a representative of a veterans service organization recognized under section 5902 of title 38; or(ii) an employee or representative of the Department of Veterans Affairs assisted by an individual recognized under section 5903 of such title and authorized by the Secretary concerned to so participate;(E) shall include information on how a veterans service organization may assist the member in filing a claim described in paragraph (19);(F) may not encourage the member to join a particular veterans service organization; and(G) may not be longer than one hour.
The bill says: Section 1142(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (10 U.S.C. 1142)
38 U.S.C. 3697B(a)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 208(a)
The bill says: by striking the second sentence;
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3697B)
38 U.S.C. 3697B(a)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 208(a)
The bill says: by inserting "(1)" before "The Secretary"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3697B)
38 U.S.C. 3697B(a)added (2)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 208(a)
(2) Any individual providing services under paragraph (1) on behalf of the Department who is not an employee of the Department shall be subject to the same oversight, training, and accountability standards applicable to Department employees providing such services.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3697B)
38 U.S.C. 3315(a)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 209(1)
The bill says: in subsection (a), by striking "educational assistance under this chapter" and inserting "covered assistance";
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3315)
38 U.S.C. 3315(b)(3)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 209(2)
The bill says: in subsection (b)(3), by striking "under this chapter" and inserting "with respect to covered assistance";
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3315)
38 U.S.C. 3315(c)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 209(3)
The bill says: in subsection (c), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking "under this chapter" and inserting "with respect to covered assistance"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3315)
38 U.S.C. 3315added (d)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 209(4)
(d) Warnings.— Before providing any payment to or on behalf of an individual described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall provide notice to the individual a warning that use of entitlement under this section for a licensing or certification test may not lead to a license or certification.(e) Covered assistance defined.— In this section, the term covered assistance means educational assistance available under—(1) this chapter, chapter 30 of this title, chapter 35 of this title, or chapter 1606 of title 10; or(2) any other provision of law providing educational assistance to a veteran, or to another individual in connection with the service of a veteran in the Armed Forces.
The bill says: by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3315)
38 U.S.C. 3313(g)(3)(B)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 210(1)
The bill says: in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting "using educational assistance under this chapter"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3313)
38 U.S.C. 3313(g)(3)(B)(i)(II)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 210(2)
The bill says: in clause (i)(II), by striking "80 percent" and inserting "100 percent".
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3313)
38 U.S.C. 3699Cchangedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 211(a)
The bill says: in the section heading by striking "High technology" and inserting "High technology and emerging technology";
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3699C)
38 U.S.C. 3699Cchangedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 211(a)
The bill says: by striking "high technology" and inserting "high technology or emerging technology" each place such term appears; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3699C)
38 U.S.C. 3699C(c)(4)added (E)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 211(a)
(E) Such criteria shall also identify which technologies of critical importance, such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing, shall be treated as emerging technologies for purposes of this section.
The bill says: in subsection (c)(4) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3699C)
38 U.S.C. 3680Achangedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 211(a)
The bill says: Section 3680A of title 38, United States Code, is amended in subsections (a)(4)(B) and (d)(8) by striking "high technology" each place such term appears and inserting "high technology or emerging technology".
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3680A)
38 U.S.C. 3699C(f)addedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 211(b)
The bill says: in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by inserting after "House of Representatives" the following: ", and make available to the public,"; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3699C)
38 U.S.C. 3699C(f)(3)addedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 211(b)
The bill says: in paragraph (3) by adding at the end the following: "Such rate shall be calculated as a fraction, the denominator of which is the number of covered individuals who completed such a program during such year and the numerator of which is the number of individuals counted in the denominator who are employed on the date that is 180 days after the date on which the individual completed the program, and expressed as a percentage. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, the numerator shall not count a case in which the individual is employed by the same organization that was the provider of the individual’s program of education or a case in which the individual is employed, by a parent or affiliate of such organization, as an instructor for a substantially similar program of education. To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall also report the rates of full-time employment, part-time employment, and self-employment."; and
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3699C)
38 U.S.C. 3699C(g)added (3)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 211(b)
(3) The Secretary on an ongoing basis shall solicit, collect, and analyze feedback about the program from covered individuals who participate in the program and from the GI Bill School Feedback Tool. The Secretary shall use such feedback to evaluate and improve the implementation of the program.
The bill says: in subsection (g) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 3699C)
Public Law 111-163(a)(2)added (C)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 301(1)
(C) Indian tribes.(D) Tribal organizations.(E) Native Hawaiian organizations.(F) County veterans service organizations.
The bill says: in paragraph (2), by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:
Bill text
Public Law 111-163(a)(3)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 301(1)
The bill says: in paragraph (3), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking "State veterans service agency or veterans service organization awarded" and inserting "recipient of"; and
Bill text
Public Law 111-163(a)rewrittenby H.R. 9237 Sec. 301(1)
(4) Maximum amount.—(A) In general.— Except as provided in subparagraphs (B) and (C), the amount of a grant under this section may not exceed $50,000.(B) Off-road communities.— In the case of a county that has more than five communities that are off the road system, the amount of a grant awarded with respect to that county under this section may be increased by an amount not to exceed 50 percent of the amount specified in subparagraph (A).(C) Purchasing a vehicle.—(i) Amount.— The amount of a grant awarded under this section to a recipient may be increased by not more than $80,000 if the recipient is purchasing a vehicle to comply with requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) in carrying out this section.(ii) Limitations.— The Secretary may prescribe limitations on the number of vehicles purchased by each recipient under this section.
The bill says: by amending paragraph (4) to read as follows:
Bill text
Public Law 111-163removedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 301(2)
The bill says: by striking subsection (d);
Bill text
Public Law 111-163renumberedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 301(3)
The bill says: by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections (d) and (e), respectively;
Bill text
Public Law 111-163added (b)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 301(4)
(b) Additional services.—(1) Nearby rural areas.— In addition to providing innovative transportation options to veterans in highly rural areas, a recipient of a grant under this section may use amounts provided under the grant to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in nearby rural areas.(2) Priority.— A recipient of a grant under this section shall prioritize the provision of innovative transportation options to veterans in highly rural areas, and shall demonstrate to the Secretary such priority, and may only provide services under paragraph (1) to veterans in nearby rural areas if—(A) it does not impede the services provided to veterans in highly rural areas; and(B) the grantee has excess capacity and resources available to provide such services to veterans in nearby rural areas.(c) Eligibility of previous areas.— Areas eligible for assistance under the grant program under this section on the day before the date of the enactment of the Supporting Rural Veterans Access to Healthcare Services Act shall remain eligible for such assistance on and after such date of enactment.
The bill says: by inserting after subsection (a) the following new subsections:
Bill text
Public Law 111-163(e)renumberedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 301(5)
The bill says: by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (5); and
Bill text
Public Law 111-163(e)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 301(5)
(1) Indian tribe; Tribal organization.— The terms Indian tribe and Tribal organization have the meanings given those terms in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304).(2) Native Hawaiian organization.— The term Native Hawaiian organization has the meaning given that term in section 6207 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7517).(3) Nearby.— The term nearby, with respect to a rural area, includes rural areas adjacent to a highly rural area and rural areas geographically between the highly rural area and the nearest Department of Veterans Affairs medical center.(4) Rural; highly rural.— The terms rural and highly rural have the meanings given those terms under the Rural-Urban Commuting Areas (RUCA) coding system of the Department of Agriculture.
The bill says: by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
Bill text
38 U.S.C. 1781(a)(4)addedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 302(a)
The bill says: Section 1781(a)(4) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting before the comma at the end the following: ", including during the 180-day period following discharge from the program under section 1720G(a) of this title unless the designation of the individual was revoked due to fraud, abuse, mistreatment, or other misconduct".
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 1781)
38 U.S.C. 1720Gadded (e)by H.R. 9237 Sec. 302(b)
(e) Employment assistance.—(1) The Secretary shall, subject to paragraph (2), provide to an individual designated as a primary provider of personal care services under subsection (a)(7)(A) employment assistance as follows:(A) Reimbursement of fees associated with certifications or relicensure necessary for such employment.(B) For purposes of gaining credit for continuing professional education requirements, access to training modules of the Department at no cost.(C) In consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Labor, access to existing employment assistance resources and programs as considered appropriate.(2) An individual described in paragraph (1) shall have access to assistance described in such paragraph—(A) while participating in the program established under subsection (a)(1); and(B) during the 180-day period following the date on which the individual is no longer participating in such program unless the designation of such individual under subsection (a)(7)(A) was revoked for fraud, abuse, mistreatment, or other misconduct.(3) The maximum lifetime amount that may be reimbursed for an individual under paragraph (1)(A) is $1,000.
The bill says: Section 1720G of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 1720G)
38 U.S.C. 1701(6)(F)(i)changedby H.R. 9237 Sec. 305
The bill says: Section 1701 of title 38, United States Code, is amended, in paragraph (6)(F)(i), by inserting "(including adaptive prostheses and terminal devices for sports and other recreational activities that are determined to be clinically appropriate by the Secretary)" after "artificial limbs".
Bill text · Current law (38 U.S.C. 1701)