Section 1 Development of evidence by Board of Veterans’ Appeals
In general— Chapter 71 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
“7113. Development of evidence
“(a) In general—If the Board determines that there is insufficient evidence to make a decision in a claimant’s appeal case, the Board shall take such steps as may be necessary to develop the evidence necessary to make a decision in the case.
“(b) Prohibition on remands—The Board may not remand any appeal case to the Veterans Benefits Administration.
“(c) Provision of access—The Secretary shall ensure that the Board has access to such information as may be necessary to develop evidence under subsection (a).”
Clerical amendment— The table of sections at the beginning of such chapter is amended by adding at the end the following new section: