38 U.S.C. §§ 7601–7619

§7601. Establishment of program; purpose

38 U.S.C. § 7601

(a)

There is hereby established a program to be known as the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program (hereinafter in this chapter referred to as the “Educational Assistance Program”). The program consists of—

(1)

the scholarship program provided for in subchapter II of this chapter;

(2)

the tuition reimbursement program provided for in subchapter III of this chapter;

(3)

the Selected Reserve member stipend program provided for under subchapter V of this chapter;

(4)

the employee incentive scholarship program provided for in subchapter VI of this chapter;

(5)

the education debt reduction program provided for in subchapter VII of this chapter;

(6)

the specialty education loan repayment program provided for in subchapter VIII of this chapter; and

(7)

the readjustment counseling service scholarship program provided for in subchapter IX of this chapter.

(b)

The purpose of the Educational Assistance Program is to assist in providing an adequate supply of trained health-care personnel for the Department and the Nation.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 518, § 4301; amended Pub. L. 101–366, title II, § 205(c)(1), Aug. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 441; renumbered § 7601, Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238; Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(2)(B)(vi), (3), (4), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 403, 404; Pub. L. 103–446, title XII, § 1201(e)(25), Nov. 2, 1994, 108 Stat. 4686; Pub. L. 105–368, title VIII, § 805(1), Nov. 11, 1998, 112 Stat. 3358; Pub. L. 115–182, title III, § 303(b)(1)(A), June 6, 2018, 132 Stat. 1466; Pub. L. 116–171, title V, § 502(b)(1)(A), Oct. 17, 2020, 134 Stat. 817.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 116–171 added par. (7).

2018—Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 115–182 added par. (6).

1998—Subsec. (a)(4), (5). Pub. L. 105–368 added pars. (4) and (5).

1994—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 103–446 substituted semicolon for comma at end.

1991—Pub. L. 102–40 renumbered section 4301 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(2)(B)(vi), substituted “Department of Veterans Affairs” for “Veterans’ Administration” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration”.

1990—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 101–366 added par. (3).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Veterans Healing Veterans Medical Access and Scholarship Program

Pub. L. 115–182, title III, § 304, June 6, 2018, 132 Stat. 1467, as amended by Pub. L. 115–251, title II, § 211(b)(7), Sept. 29, 2018, 132 Stat. 3177, provided that: Establishment.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, acting through the Office of Academic Affiliations of the Department of Veterans Affairs, shall carry out a pilot program under which the Secretary shall provide funding for the medical education of a total of 18 eligible veterans. Such funding shall be provided for two veterans enrolled in each covered medical school in accordance with this section. Eligible Veterans.—To be eligible to receive funding for medical education under this section, a veteran shall— have been discharged from the Armed Forces not more than 10 years before the date of application for admission to a covered medical school; not be concurrently receiving educational assistance under chapter 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, or 35 of title 38, United States Code, or chapter 1606 or 1607 of title 10, United States Code; apply for admission to a covered medical school for the entering class of 2020; indicate on such application for admission that the veteran would like to be considered for an award of funding under this section; meet the minimum admissions criteria for the covered medical school to which the veteran applies; and enter into an agreement described in subsection (d).Award of Funding.— In general.—Each covered medical school that opts to participate in the program under this section shall reserve two seats in the entering class of 2020 for eligible veterans who receive funding under such program. Such funding shall be awarded to the two eligible veterans with the highest admissions rankings for such class at such school. Amount of funding.—Each eligible veteran who receives funding under this section shall receive an amount equal to the actual cost of— tuition at the covered medical school at which the veteran enrolls for 4 years; books, fees, and technical equipment; fees associated with the National Residency Match Program; two away rotations performed during the fourth year at a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility; and a monthly stipend for the 4-year period during which the veteran is enrolled in medical school in an amount to be determined by the Secretary. Distribution of funding.—In the event that two or more eligible veterans do not apply for admission at one of the covered medical schools for the entering class of 2020, the Secretary shall distribute the available funding to eligible veterans who applied for admission at other covered medical schools.Agreement.— Terms of agreement.—Each eligible veteran who accepts funding for medical education under this section shall enter into an agreement with the Secretary that provides that the veteran agrees— to maintain enrollment and attendance in the medical school; while enrolled in such medical school, to maintain an acceptable level of academic standing (as determined by the medical school under regulations prescribed by the Secretary); to complete post-graduate training leading to eligibility for board certification in a speciality applicable to the Department of Veterans Affairs, as determined by the Secretary; after completion of medical school, to obtain a license to practice medicine in a State; and after completion of medical school and post-graduate training, to serve as a full-time clinical practice employee in the Veterans Health Administration for a period of 4 years. Breach of agreement.—If an eligible veteran who accepts funding under this section breaches the terms of the agreement described in paragraph (1), the United States shall be entitled to recover damages in an amount equal to the total amount of such funding received by the veteran. Rule of Construction.—Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent any covered medical school from accepting more than two eligible veterans for the entering class of 2020. Report to Congress.—Not later than December 31, 2021, and annually thereafter for the subsequent 3 years, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the pilot program under this section. Such report shall include the evaluation of the Secretary of the success of the pilot program, including the number of veterans who received funding under the program who matriculated and an evaluation of the academic progress of such veterans. Covered Medical Schools.—In this section, the term ‘covered medical school’ means any of the following: The Teague-Cranston medical schools, consisting of— Texas A&M College of Medicine; Quillen College of Medicine at East Tennessee State University; Boonshoft School of Medicine at Wright State University; Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University; and University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science. Howard University College of Medicine. Meharry Medical College. Morehouse School of Medicine.”

Physician Assistant Education and Training Pilot Program for Former Members of the Armed Forces

Pub. L. 115–141, div. J, title II, § 246, Mar. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 823, provided that: Pilot Program.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program to provide educational assistance to certain former members of the Armed Forces for education and training as physician assistants of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Eligible Individuals.—An individual is eligible to participate in the pilot program if the individual— has medical or military health experience gained while serving as a member of the Armed Forces; has received a certificate, associate degree, baccalaureate degree, master’s degree, or postbaccalaureate training in a science relating to health care; or has participated in the delivery of healthcare services or related medical services, including participation in military training relating to the identification, evaluation, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders. Duration.—The pilot program shall be carried out during the 5-year period beginning on the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Mar. 23, 2018].Selection.— The Secretary shall select eligible individuals under subsection (b) to participate in the pilot program. In selecting individuals to participate in the pilot program under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall give priority to individuals who agree to be employed as a physician assistant for the Veterans Health Administration at a medical facility of the Department located in a community that— is designated as a medically underserved population under section 330(b)(3)(A) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254b(b)(3)(A)); and is in a State with a per capita population of veterans of more than 5 percent according to the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics and the United States Census Bureau. Educational Assistance.—In carrying out the pilot program, the Secretary shall provide educational assistance to individuals participating in the pilot program, including through the use of scholarships, to cover the costs to such individuals of obtaining a master’s degree in physician assistant studies or a similar master’s degree. Period of Obligated Service.—The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with each individual participating in the pilot program in which such individual agrees to be employed as a physician assistant for the Veterans Health Administration for a period of obligated service to be determined by the Secretary. Breach.—An individual who participates in the pilot program and fails to satisfy the period of obligated service under subsection (f) shall be liable to the United States, in lieu of such obligated service, for the amount that has been paid or is payable to or on behalf of the individual under the pilot program, reduced by the proportion that the number of days served for completion of the period of obligated service bears to the total number of days in the period of obligated service of such individual. Report.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Mar. 23, 2018], the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in collaboration with the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall submit to Congress a report on the pilot program’s effectiveness of helping to meet the shortage of physician assistants employed by the Department.”

Payments to Health-Care Professional Employees for Tuition Loans

Pub. L. 102–585, title V, § 523(b), Nov. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 4959, provided that Secretary of Veterans Affairs could not provide payments to health-care professional employees of Department of Veterans Affairs for payment of tuition loans, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 105–368, title VIII, § 804, Nov. 11, 1998, 112 Stat. 3358.

Tuition Loan Payment Program

Pub. L. 102–389, title I, Oct. 6, 1992, 106 Stat. 1574, provided in part for an appropriation: “For payment of outstanding tuition loans to Department of Veterans Affairs health care professional employees (excluding physicians and dentists) who agree to remain in service for one year or more, $5,000,000, to remain available until September 30, 1994: Provided, That the Secretary, in order to recruit and retain such employees, may make such payments, not to exceed $3,000 during any calendar year, or $12,000 in total, to any such employee who has an outstanding tuition loan from an educational institution approved by the Secretary that has led to a degree in the health care occupation in which such individual is employed: Provided further, That no payment shall be made in advance: Provided further, That regulations shall be promulgated by the Secretary to implement this program.”

§7602. Eligibility

38 U.S.C. § 7602

(a)

(1)

To be eligible to participate in the Educational Assistance Program under subchapter II, III, VI, or IX of this chapter, an individual must be accepted for enrollment or be currently enrolled as a student at a qualifying educational institution in a course of education or training that is approved by the Secretary and that leads toward completion of a degree in a field of education or training for which a scholarship may be awarded under subchapter II of this chapter, for which tuition reimbursement may be provided under subchapter III of this chapter, or for which a scholarship may be awarded under subchapter VI or IX of this chapter, as the case may be.

(2)

A qualifying educational institution for purposes of this section is an educational institution that is in a State and that (as determined by the Secretary) is an accredited institution.

(b)

An individual is not eligible to apply to participate in the Educational Assistance Program under subchapter II, III, VI, or IX of this chapter if the individual is obligated under any other Federal program to perform service after completion of the course of education or training of such individual referred to in subsection (a) of this section.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 518, § 4302; amended Pub. L. 101–366, title II, § 205(c)(2), Aug. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 441; renumbered § 7602, Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238; Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405; Pub. L. 105–368, title VIII, § 805(2), Nov. 11, 1998, 112 Stat. 3358; Pub. L. 116–171, title V, § 502(b)(1)(B), Oct. 17, 2020, 134 Stat. 818.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 116–171, § 502(b)(1)(B)(i), substituted “VI, or IX” for “or VI” and “subchapter VI or IX” for “subchapter VI”.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–171, § 502(b)(1)(B)(ii), substituted “VI, or IX” for “or VI”.

1998—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 105–368, § 805(2)(A), substituted “subchapter II, III, or VI” for “subchapter I or II”, substituted “, for which” for “or for which”, and inserted before period at end “, or for which a scholarship may be awarded under subchapter VI of this chapter, as the case may be”.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–368, § 805(2)(B), substituted “subchapter II, III, or VI” for “subchapter I or II”.

1991—Pub. L. 102–40 renumbered section 4302 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 102–83 substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” in pars. (1) and (2).

1990—Subsecs. (a)(1), (b). Pub. L. 101–366 inserted “under subchapter I or II of this chapter” after “Educational Assistance Program”.

§7603. Application and acceptance

38 U.S.C. § 7603

(a)

(1)

To apply to participate in the Educational Assistance Program under subchapter II, III, V, VI, VIII, or IX of this chapter, an individual shall submit to the Secretary an application for such participation together with an agreement described in section 7604 of this title under which the participant agrees to serve a period of obligated service in the Veterans Health Administration as provided in the agreement in return for payment of educational assistance as provided in the agreement.

(2)

To apply to participate in the Educational Assistance Program under subchapter VII of this chapter, an individual shall submit to the Secretary an application for such participation.

(b)

(1)

An individual becomes a participant in the Educational Assistance Program upon the Secretary’s approval of the individual’s application and the Secretary’s acceptance of the agreement (if required).

(2)

Upon the Secretary’s approval of an individual’s participation in the program, the Secretary shall promptly notify the individual of that approval. Such notice shall be in writing.

(c)

(1)

In distributing application forms and agreement forms to individuals desiring to participate in the Educational Assistance Program, the Secretary shall include with such forms the following:

(A)

A fair summary of the rights and liabilities of an individual whose application is approved (and whose agreement is accepted) by the Secretary, including a clear explanation of the damages to which the United States is entitled if the individual breaches the agreement.

(B)

A full description of the terms and conditions that apply to participation in the Educational Assistance Program and service in the Veterans Health Administration.

(2)

The Secretary shall make such application forms and other information available to individuals desiring to participate in the Educational Assistance Program on a date sufficiently early to allow such individuals adequate time to prepare and submit such forms.

(d)

In selecting applicants for acceptance in the Educational Assistance Program, the Secretary shall give priority to the applications of individuals who have previously received educational assistance under the program and have not completed the course of education or training undertaken under such program.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 518, § 4303; renumbered § 7603 and amended Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), (d)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238, 239; Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405; Pub. L. 103–446, title XII, § 1201(b)(1), Nov. 2, 1994, 108 Stat. 4682; Pub. L. 105–368, title VIII, § 805(3), Nov. 11, 1998, 112 Stat. 3359; Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, § 404(a)(10), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1865; Pub. L. 115–182, title III, § 303(b)(1)(B), June 6, 2018, 132 Stat. 1466; Pub. L. 116–171, title V, § 502(b)(1)(C), Oct. 17, 2020, 134 Stat. 818.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 116–171 substituted “VIII, or IX” for “or VIII”.

2018—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 115–182 substituted “VI, or VIII” for “or VI”.

2000—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 106–419 substituted “subchapter” for “subsection”.

1998—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–368, § 805(3)(A), designated existing provisions as par. (1), substituted “To apply to participate in the Educational Assistance Program under subsection II, III, V, or VI of this chapter,” for “To apply to participate in the Educational Assistance Program,”, and added par. (2).

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 105–368, § 805(3)(B), inserted “(if required)” before period at end.

1994—Subsecs. (a), (c)(1)(B). Pub. L. 103–446 substituted “Veterans Health Administration” for “Department of Medicine and Surgery”.

1991—Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(b)(1), renumbered section 4303 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 102–83 substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator”.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7604” for “4304”.

Subsecs. (b) to (d). Pub. L. 102–83 substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” and “Secretary’s” for “Administrator’s” wherever appearing.

§7604. Terms of agreement

38 U.S.C. § 7604

An agreement between the Secretary and a participant in the Educational Assistance Program shall be in writing, shall be signed by the participant, and shall include the following provisions:

(1)

The Secretary’s agreement—

(A)

to provide the participant with educational assistance as authorized in subchapter II, III, V, VI, VIII, or IX of this chapter and specified in the agreement; and

(B)

to afford the participant the opportunity for employment in the Veterans Health Administration (subject to the availability of appropriated funds for such purpose and other qualifications established in accordance with section 7402 of this title).

(2)

The participant’s agreement—

(A)

to accept such educational assistance;

(B)

to maintain enrollment and attendance in the course of training until completed;

(C)

while enrolled in such course, to maintain an acceptable level of academic standing (as determined by the educational institution offering such course of training under regulations prescribed by the Secretary); and

(D)

after completion of the course of training, to serve as a full-time employee in the Veterans Health Administration as specified in the agreement in accordance with subchapter II, III, V, VI, VIII, or IX of this chapter.

(3)

A provision that any financial obligation of the United States arising out of an agreement entered into under this chapter, and any obligation of the participant which is conditioned on such agreement, is contingent upon funds being appropriated for educational assistance under this chapter.

(4)

A statement of the damages to which the United States is entitled under this chapter for the participant’s breach of the agreement.

(5)

Such other terms as are required to be included in the agreement under subchapter II, III, V, VI, VIII, or IX of this chapter or as the Secretary may require consistent with the provisions of this chapter.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 519, § 4304; amended Pub. L. 101–366, title II, § 205(c)(3), Aug. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 441; renumbered § 7604 and amended Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, §§ 402(b)(1), 403(b)(3), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238, 239; Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405; Pub. L. 103–446, title XII, § 1201(b)(1), (e)(26), Nov. 2, 1994, 108 Stat. 4682, 4686; Pub. L. 105–368, title VIII, § 805(4), Nov. 11, 1998, 112 Stat. 3359; Pub. L. 115–182, title III, § 303(b)(1)(C), June 6, 2018, 132 Stat. 1466; Pub. L. 116–171, title V, § 502(b)(1)(D), Oct. 17, 2020, 134 Stat. 818.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2020—Pub. L. 116–171 substituted “VIII, or IX” for “or VIII” in pars. (1)(A), (2)(D), and (5).

2018—Pub. L. 115–182 substituted “VI, or VIII” for “or VI” in pars. (1)(A), (2)(D), and (5).

1998—Pub. L. 105–368 substituted “subchapter II, III, V, or VI” for “subchapter II, III, or V” in pars. (1)(A), (2)(D), and (5).

1994—Pub. L. 103–446, § 1201(e)(26), substituted “subchapter II” for “subchapters II” in pars. (1)(A), (2)(D), and (5).

Pub. L. 103–446, § 1201(b)(1), substituted “Veterans Health Administration” for “Department of Medicine and Surgery” in pars. (1)(B) and (2)(D).

1991—Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(b)(1), renumbered section 4304 of this title as this section.

Pub. L. 102–83 substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” and “Secretary’s” for “Administrator’s” wherever appearing.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 403(b)(3), substituted “7402” for “4105” in par. (1)(B).

1990—Pars. (1)(A), (2)(D), (5). Pub. L. 101–366 substituted “subchapters II, III, or V” for “subchapter II or III”.

§7611. Authority for program

38 U.S.C. § 7611

As part of the Educational Assistance Program, the Secretary shall carry out a scholarship program under this subchapter. The program shall be known as the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professional Scholarship Program (hereinafter in this chapter referred to as the “Scholarship Program”).

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 520, § 4311; renumbered § 7611, Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238; amended Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(2)(B)(vi), (b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 403–405.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1991—Pub. L. 102–40 renumbered section 4311 of this title as this section.

Pub. L. 102–83 substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” and “Department of Veterans Affairs” for “Veterans’ Administration”.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Expansion of Health Professional Scholarship Program

Pub. L. 117–328, div. V, title I, § 104(a), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5500, provided that: “Beginning in academic year 2022, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall include not fewer than an additional (as compared to academic year 2021) 50 awards per academic year under the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professional Scholarship Program under subchapter II of chapter 76 of title 38, United States Code, for applicants otherwise eligible for such program who are pursuing degrees or training in mental health disciplines, including advanced practice nursing (with a focus on mental health or substance use disorder), psychology, and social work.”

Submission of Overdue Report

Pub. L. 105–114, title II, § 207(b), Nov. 21, 1997, 111 Stat. 2289, required the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress, not later than 180 days after Nov. 21, 1997, the report evaluating the operation of the health professional scholarship program that was required to be submitted not later than Mar. 31, 1997.

Health Professional Scholarship Program

Pub. L. 104–110, title II, § 202(b), Feb. 13, 1996, 110 Stat. 770, provided that the Secretary was to submit to Congress, not later than Mar. 31, 1997, a report setting forth the results of a study evaluating the operation of the health professional scholarship program under this subchapter and provided that the study was to evaluate the efficacy of the program with respect to recruitment and retention of health care personnel for the Department of Veterans Affairs and was to compare the costs and benefits of the program with the costs and benefits of alternative methods of ensuring adequate recruitment and retention of such personnel.

§7612. Eligibility; application; agreement

38 U.S.C. § 7612

(a)

(1)

Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, an individual must be accepted for enrollment or be enrolled (as described in section 7602 of this title) as a full-time student to be eligible to participate in the Scholarship Program.

(2)

An individual who is an eligible Department employee may be accepted as a participant if accepted for enrollment or enrolled (as described in section 7602 of this title) for study on less than a full-time but not less than a half-time basis. (Such a participant is hereinafter in this subchapter referred to as a “part-time student”.)

(3)

For the purposes of paragraph (2) of this subsection, an eligible Department employee is a full-time Department employee who is permanently assigned to a Department health-care facility on the date on which the individual submits the application referred to in section 7603 of this title and on the date on which the individual becomes a participant in the Scholarship Program.

(b)

(1)

A scholarship may be awarded under this subchapter only in a qualifying field of education or training.

(2)

A qualifying field of education or training for purposes of this subchapter is education or training leading to employment as an appointee under paragraph (1) or (3) of section 7401 of this title.

(3)

The Secretary may designate additional fields of education or training as qualifying fields of education or training if the education or training leads to employment in a position which would qualify the individual for increased basic pay under subsection (a)(1) of section 7455 of this title for personnel described in subsection (a)(2)(B) of such section.

(4)

Before awarding the initial scholarship in a course of education or training other than medicine or nursing, the Secretary shall notify the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives of the Secretary’s intent to award a scholarship in such course of education or training. The notice shall include a statement of the reasons why the award of scholarships in that course of education or training is necessary to assist in providing the Department with an adequate supply of personnel in the health profession concerned. Any such notice shall be given not less than 60 days before the first such scholarship is awarded.

(5)

In selecting applicants for the Scholarship Program, the Secretary—

(A)

shall give priority to applicants who will be entering their final year in a course of training;

(B)

shall give priority to applicants pursuing a course of education or training toward a career in an occupation for which the Inspector General of the Department has, in the most current determination published in the Federal Register pursuant to section 7412(a) of this title, determined that there is one of the largest staffing shortages throughout the Department with respect to such occupation; and

(C)

shall ensure an equitable allocation of scholarships to persons enrolled in the second year of a program leading to an associate degree in nursing.

(6)

(A)

Of the scholarships awarded under this subchapter, the Secretary shall ensure that not less than 50 scholarships are awarded each year to individuals who are accepted for enrollment or enrolled (as described in section 7602 of this title) in a program of education or training leading to employment as a physician or dentist until such date as the Secretary determines that the staffing shortage of physicians and dentists in the Department is less than 500.

(B)

After such date, the Secretary shall ensure that of the scholarships awarded under this subchapter, a number of scholarships is awarded each year to individuals referred to in subparagraph (A) in an amount equal to not less than ten percent of the staffing shortage of physicians and dentists in the Department, as determined by the Secretary.

(C)

Notwithstanding subsection (c)(1), the agreement between the Secretary and a participant in the Scholarship Program who receives a scholarship pursuant to this paragraph shall provide the following:

(i)

The Secretary’s agreement to provide the participant with a scholarship under this subchapter for a specified number (from two to four) of school years during which the participant is pursuing a course of education or training leading to employment as a physician or dentist.

(ii)

The participant’s agreement to serve as a full-time employee in the Veterans Health Administration for a period of time (hereinafter in this subchapter referred to as the “period of obligated service”) of 18 months for each school year or part thereof for which the participant was provided a scholarship under the Scholarship Program.

(D)

In providing scholarships pursuant to this paragraph, the Secretary may provide a preference for applicants who are veterans.

(E)

On an annual basis, the Secretary shall provide to appropriate educational institutions informational material about the availability of scholarships under this paragraph.

(c)

(1)

An agreement between the Secretary and a participant in the Scholarship Program shall (in addition to the requirements set forth in section 7604 of this title) include the following:

(A)

The Secretary’s agreement to provide the participant with a scholarship under this subchapter for a specified number (from one to four) of school years during which the participant is pursuing a course of education or training described in section 7602 of this title.

(B)

The participant’s agreement to serve as a full-time employee in the Veterans Health Administration for a period of time (hereinafter in this subchapter referred to as the “period of obligated service”) of one calendar year for each school year or part thereof for which the participant was provided a scholarship under the Scholarship Program, but for not less than two years.

(2)

In a case in which an extension is granted under section 7614(3) of this title, the number of years for which a scholarship may be provided under this subchapter shall be the number of school years provided for as a result of the extension.

(3)

In the case of a participant who is a part-time student—

(A)

the period of obligated service shall be reduced in accordance with the proportion that the number of credit hours carried by such participant in any such school year bears to the number of credit hours required to be carried by a full-time student in the course of training being pursued by the participant, but in no event to less than one year; and

(B)

the agreement shall include the participant’s agreement to maintain employment, while enrolled in such course of education or training, as a Department employee permanently assigned to a Department health-care facility.

(4)

If a participant’s period of obligated service is deferred under section 7616(b)(3)(A)(i) of this title, the agreement terms under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall provide for the participant to serve any additional period of obligated service that is prescribed by the Secretary under section 7616(b)(4)(B) of this title.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 520, § 4312; amended Pub. L. 101–237, title II, § 207(a), Dec. 18, 1989, 103 Stat. 2068; renumbered § 7612 and amended Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, §§ 402(b)(1), (d)(1), 403(b)(4), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238, 239; Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), (b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405; Pub. L. 102–405, title II, § 202(a), Oct. 9, 1992, 106 Stat. 1983; Pub. L. 103–446, title XII, § 1201(b)(1), Nov. 2, 1994, 108 Stat. 4682; Pub. L. 111–163, title VI, § 603(b), May 5, 2010, 124 Stat. 1173; Pub. L. 113–146, title III, § 301(c), Aug. 7, 2014, 128 Stat. 1786; Pub. L. 115–182, title III, § 301(a), June 6, 2018, 132 Stat. 1462.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (b)(6). Pub. L. 115–182 added par. (6).

2014—Subsec. (b)(5)(B), (C). Pub. L. 113–146 added subpar. (B) and redesignated former subpar. (B) as (C).

2010—Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 111–163 substituted “as an appointee under paragraph (1) or (3) of section 7401 of this title.” for “(under section 7401 of this title) as any of the following:

“(A) A physician, dentist, podiatrist, optometrist, nurse, physician assistant, or expanded function dental auxiliary.

“(B) A psychologist described in section 7401(3) of this title or a certified or registered respiratory therapist, licensed physical therapist, or licensed practical or vocational nurse.”

1994—Subsec. (c)(1)(B). Pub. L. 103–446 substituted “Veterans Health Administration” for “Department of Medicine and Surgery”.

1992—Subsec. (c)(1)(B). Pub. L. 102–405 inserted before period at end “, but for not less than two years”.

1991—Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(b)(1), renumbered section 4312 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7602” for “4302”.

Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration”.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7602” for “4302”.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration” wherever appearing.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7603” for “4303”.

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 102–40, § 403(b)(4)(A), substituted “7401” for “4104” in introductory provisions and “7401(3)” for “4104(3)” in subpar. (B).

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator”.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 403(b)(4)(B), substituted “subsection (a)(1) of section 7455 of this title for personnel described in subsection (a)(2)(B) of such section” for “section 4107(g)(1)(B) of this title”.

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” and “Secretary’s” for “Administrator’s”.

Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration”.

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” in introductory provisions and “Secretary’s” for “Administrator’s” in subpar. (A).

Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7604” for “4304” in introductory provisions and “7602” for “4302” in subpar. (A).

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7614(3)” for “4314(3)”.

Subsec. (c)(3)(B). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration” in two places.

Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator”.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7616(b)(3)(A)(i)” for “4316(b)(3)(A)(i)” and “7616(b)(4)(B)” for “4316(b)(4)(B)”.

1989—Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 101–237 amended par. (5) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (5) read as follows: “In selecting applicants for the Scholarship Program, the Administrator shall give priority to the applications of individuals who will be entering their final year in a course of training.”

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1992 Amendment

Pub. L. 102–405, title II, § 202(b), Oct. 9, 1992, 106 Stat. 1983, provided that: “The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply to scholarship agreements entered into after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 9, 1992].”

Implementation of Equitable Allocation Provisions

Pub. L. 101–237, title II, § 207(a), Dec. 18, 1989, 103 Stat. 2068, provided that: “The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall provide for the implementation of the amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] beginning with scholarships awarded under section 4312 [now 7612] of title 38, United States Code, during 1990.”

§7613. Scholarship

38 U.S.C. § 7613

(a)

A scholarship provided to a participant in the Scholarship Program for a school year under the Scholarship Program shall consist of payment of the tuition of the participant for that school year, payment of other reasonable educational expenses (including fees, books, and laboratory expenses) for that school year, and a stipend determined under subsection (b) of this section.

(b)

A stipend under this section for a school year shall be payment to the participant of not in excess of $485 per month (adjusted in accordance with section 7631 of this title) for each of the 12 consecutive months beginning with the first month of the school year, except that a stipend may not be paid to a participant who is a full-time employee of the Department. The stipend of a participant who is a part-time student shall be adjusted as provided in sections 7614(1) and 7614(2) of this title.

(c)

The Secretary may arrange with an educational institution in which a participant in the Scholarship Program is enrolled for the payment to the educational institution of the amounts of tuition and other reasonable educational expenses described in subsection (a) of this section. Such payments may be made without regard to subsections (a) and (b) of section 3324 of title 31.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 521, § 4313; renumbered § 7613 and amended Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), (d)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238, 239; Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), (b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1991—Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(b)(1), renumbered section 4313 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration”.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7631” for “4331” and “7614(1) and 7614(2)” for “4314(1) and “4314(2)”.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator”.

§7614. Part-time students

38 U.S.C. § 7614

In the case of a participant who is a part-time student—

(1)

the maximum amount of the stipend payable to the participant shall be reduced in accordance with the proportion that the number of credit hours carried by such participant bears to the number of credit hours required to be carried by a full-time student in the course of education or training being pursued by the participant;

(2)

a stipend may not be paid for any month during which the participant is not actually attending the course of training in which the participant is enrolled; and

(3)

the Secretary may extend the period for which a scholarship may be awarded to the participant to a maximum of six school years if the Secretary determines that the extension would be in the best interest of the United States.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 522, § 4314; renumbered § 7614, Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238; amended Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1991—Pub. L. 102–40 renumbered section 4314 of this title as this section.

Par. (3). Pub. L. 102–83 substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” in two places.

§7615. Status of participants

38 U.S.C. § 7615

Participants in the Scholarship Program shall not by reason of their participation in such program (1) be considered to be employees of the Federal Government, or (2) be counted against any personnel ceiling affecting the Veterans Health Administration.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 522, § 4315; renumbered § 7615, Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238; amended Pub. L. 103–446, title XII, § 1201(b)(1), Nov. 2, 1994, 108 Stat. 4682.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1994—Pub. L. 103–446 substituted “Veterans Health Administration” for “Department of Medicine and Surgery”.

1991—Pub. L. 102–40 renumbered section 4315 of this title as this section.

§7616. Obligated service

38 U.S.C. § 7616

(a)

Each participant in the Scholarship Program shall provide service as a full-time employee of the Department for the period of obligated service provided in the agreement of the participant entered into under section 7603 of this title. Such service shall be provided in the full-time clinical practice of such participant’s profession or in another health-care position in an assignment or location determined by the Secretary.

(b)

(1)

Not later than 60 days before the participant’s service commencement date, the Secretary shall notify the participant of that service commencement date. That date is the date for the beginning of the participant’s period of obligated service.

(2)

As soon as possible after the participant’s service commencement date, the Secretary shall—

(A)

in the case of a participant who is not a full-time employee in the Veterans Health Administration, appoint such participant as such an employee; and

(B)

in the case of a participant who is an employee in the Veterans Health Administration but is not serving in a position for which such participant’s course of education or training prepared such participant, assign such participant to such a position.

(3)

(A)

(i)

In the case of a participant receiving a degree from a school of medicine, osteopathy, dentistry, optometry, or podiatry, the participant’s service commencement date is the date upon which the participant becomes licensed to practice medicine, osteopathy, dentistry, optometry, or podiatry, as the case may be, in a State. However, the Secretary may, at the request of such participant, defer such date until the end of the period of time required for the participant to complete an internship or residency or other advanced clinical training. If the participant requests such a deferral, the Secretary shall notify the participant that such deferral could lead to an additional period of obligated service in accordance with paragraph (4) of this subsection.

(ii)

No such period of internship or residency or other advanced clinical training shall be counted toward satisfying a period of obligated service under this subchapter.

(B)

In the case of a participant receiving a degree from a school of nursing, the participant’s service commencement date is the later of (i) the participant’s course completion date, or (ii) the date upon which the participant becomes licensed as a registered nurse in a State.

(C)

In the case of a participant not covered by subparagraph (A) or (B) of this paragraph, the participant’s service commencement date is the later of (i) the participant’s course completion date, or (ii) the date the participant meets any applicable licensure or certification requirements.

(4)

A participant whose period of obligated service is deferred under paragraph (3)(A) of this subsection shall be required to undertake internship or residency or other advanced clinical training in an accredited program in an educational institution which is an affiliated institution (as defined in section 7423(d)(1) of this title) and with respect to which the affiliation agreement provides that all or part of the internship or residency or other advanced clinical training will be undertaken in a Department health-care facility. Such a participant may, at the discretion of the Secretary and upon the recommendation of the Under Secretary for Health, incur an additional period of obligated service—

(A)

at the rate of one-half of a calendar year for each year of internship or residency or other advanced clinical training (or a proportionate ratio thereof), if the internship, residency, or advanced clinical training is in a medical specialty necessary to meet the health-care requirements of the Department (as determined under regulations prescribed by the Secretary); or

(B)

at the rate of three-quarters of a calendar year for each year of internship or residency or other advanced clinical training (or a proportionate ratio thereof), if the internship, residency, or advanced clinical training is not in a medical specialty necessary to meet the health-care requirements of the Department (as determined under regulations prescribed by the Secretary).

(5)

The Secretary shall by regulation prescribe the service commencement date for participants who were part-time students. Such regulations shall prescribe terms as similar as practicable to the terms set forth in paragraph (3) of this subsection.

(c)

(1)

Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a participant in the Scholarship Program shall be considered to have begun serving such participant’s period of obligated service—

(A)

on the date, after such participant’s course completion date, on which such participant (in accordance with subsection (b) of this section) is appointed under this chapter as a full-time employee in the Veterans Health Administration; or

(B)

if the participant is a full-time employee in the Veterans Health Administration on such course completion date, on the date thereafter on which such participant is assigned to a position for which such participant’s course of training prepared such participant.

(2)

A participant in the Scholarship Program who on such participant’s course completion date is a full-time employee in the Veterans Health Administration serving in a capacity for which such participant’s course of training prepared such participant shall be considered to have begun serving such participant’s period of obligated service on such course completion date.

(3)

For the purposes of this section, the term “course completion date” means the date on which a participant in the Scholarship Program completes such participant’s course of education or training under the program.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 522, § 4316; renumbered § 7616 and amended Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, §§ 402(b)(1), (d)(1), 403(b)(5), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238–240; Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), (b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405; Pub. L. 102–405, title III, § 302(c)(1), Oct. 9, 1992, 106 Stat. 1984; Pub. L. 103–446, title XII, § 1201(b)(1), Nov. 2, 1994, 108 Stat. 4682.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1994—Subsecs. (b)(2), (c)(1), (2). Pub. L. 103–446 substituted “Veterans Health Administration” for “Department of Medicine and Surgery” wherever appearing.

1992—Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 102–405 substituted “Under Secretary for Health” for “Chief Medical Director”.

1991—Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(b)(1), renumbered section 4316 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator”.

Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration”.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7603” for “4303”.

Subsec. (b)(1) to (3). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” wherever appearing.

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator” wherever appearing.

Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration” wherever appearing.

Pub. L. 102–40, § 403(b)(5), substituted “7423(d)(1)” for “4108(c)(1)” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator”.

§7617. Breach of agreement: liability

38 U.S.C. § 7617

(a)

A participant in the Scholarship Program (other than a participant described in subsection (b) of this section) who fails to accept payment, or instructs the educational institution in which the participant is enrolled not to accept payment, in whole or in part, of a scholarship under the agreement entered into under section 7603 of this title shall be liable to the United States for liquidated damages in the amount of $1,500. Such liability is in addition to any period of obligated service or other obligation or liability under the agreement.

(b)

A participant in the Scholarship Program shall be liable to the United States for the amount which has been paid to or on behalf of the participant under the agreement if any of the following occurs:

(1)

The participant fails to maintain an acceptable level of academic standing in the educational institution in which the participant is enrolled (as determined by the educational institution under regulations prescribed by the Secretary).

(2)

The participant is dismissed from such educational institution for disciplinary reasons.

(3)

The participant voluntarily terminates the course of training in such educational institution before the completion of such course of training.

(4)

In the case of a participant who is enrolled in a program or education or training leading to employment as a physician, the participant fails to successfully complete post-graduate training leading to eligibility for board certification in a specialty.

(5)

The participant fails to become licensed to practice medicine, osteopathy, dentistry, podiatry, or optometry in a State, fails to become licensed as a registered nurse in a State, or fails to meet any applicable licensure requirement in the case of any other health-care personnel who provide either direct patient-care services or services incident to direct patient-care services, during a period of time determined under regulations prescribed by the Secretary.

(6)

In the case of a participant who is a part-time student, the participant fails to maintain employment, while enrolled in the course of training being pursued by such participant, as a Department employee permanently assigned to a Department health-care facility.

Liability under this subsection is in lieu of any service obligation arising under the participant’s agreement.

(c)

(1)

If a participant in the Scholarship Program breaches the agreement by failing (for any reason) to complete such participant’s period of obligated service, the United States shall be entitled to recover from the participant an amount determined in accordance with the following formula:

t−s

A=3Φ A——B

t

In such formula:

(A)

“A” is the amount the United States is entitled to recover.

(B)

“Φ” is the sum of (i) the amounts paid under this subchapter to or on behalf of the participant, and (ii) the interest on such amounts which would be payable if at the time the amounts were paid they were loans bearing interest at the maximum legal prevailing rate, as determined by the Treasurer of the United States.

(C)

“t” is the total number of months in the participant’s period of obligated service, including any additional period of obligated service in accordance with section 7616(b)(4) of this title.

(D)

“s” is the number of months of such period served by the participant in accordance with section 7613 of this title.

(2)

Any amount of damages which the United States is entitled to recover under this section shall be paid to the United States within the one-year period beginning on the date of the breach of the agreement.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 524, § 4317; renumbered § 7617 and amended Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), (d)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238, 239; Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), (b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405; Pub. L. 115–182, title III, § 301(b), June 6, 2018, 132 Stat. 1463.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (b)(4) to (6). Pub. L. 115–182, which directed addition of par. (4) and redesignation of former pars. (4) and (5) as pars. (5) and (6), respectively, without specifying the subsec. amended, was executed to subsec. (b) to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

1991—Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(b)(1), renumbered section 4317 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7603” for “4303”.

Subsec. (b)(1), (4). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator”.

Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(a)(3), (4), substituted “Department” for “Veterans’ Administration” in two places.

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 102–40, § 402(d)(1), substituted “7616(b)(4)” for “4316(b)(4)” in subpar. (C) and “7613” for “4313” in subpar. (D).

§7618. Additional program requirements

38 U.S.C. § 7618

(a)

Program Modification.— Notwithstanding any provision of this subchapter, the Secretary shall carry out this subchapter after the date of the enactment of this section by modifying the Scholarship Program in such a manner that the program and hiring processes are designed to fully employ Scholarship Program graduates as soon as possible, if not immediately, upon graduation and completion of necessary certifications, and to actively assist and monitor graduates to ensure certifications are obtained in a minimal amount of time following graduation.

(b)

Clinical Tours.— The Secretary shall require participants in the Scholarship Program to perform clinical tours in assignments or locations determined by the Secretary while the participants are enrolled in the course of education or training for which the scholarship is provided.

(c)

Mentors.— The Secretary shall ensure that at the commencement of the period of obligated service of a participant in the Scholarship Program, the participant is assigned to a mentor who is employed in the same facility where the participant performs such service.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 111–163, title VI, § 603(c)(2), May 5, 2010, 124 Stat. 1173.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of this section, referred to in subsec. (a), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 111–163, which was approved May 5, 2010.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 7618 was renumbered section 7619 of this title.

§7619. Expiration of program

38 U.S.C. § 7619

The Secretary may not furnish scholarships to new participants in the Scholarship Program after December 31, 2033.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Added Pub. L. 100–322, title II, § 216(b), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 525, § 4318; renumbered § 7618, Pub. L. 102–40, title IV, § 402(b)(1), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 238; amended Pub. L. 102–83, § 4(b)(1), (2)(E), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 404, 405; Pub. L. 102–585, title V, § 523(a), Nov. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 4959; Pub. L. 104–110, title I, § 101(j), Feb. 13, 1996, 110 Stat. 769; Pub. L. 105–114, title II, § 207(a), Nov. 21, 1997, 111 Stat. 2289; renumbered § 7619 and amended Pub. L. 111–163, title VI, § 603(a), (c)(1), May 5, 2010, 124 Stat. 1173; Pub. L. 113–146, title III, § 302(a), Aug. 7, 2014, 128 Stat. 1788; Pub. L. 115–182, title III, § 301(c), June 6, 2018, 132 Stat. 1463.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Pub. L. 115–182 substituted “December 31, 2033” for “December 31, 2019”.

2014—Pub. L. 113–146 substituted “December 31, 2019” for “December 31, 2014”.

2010—Pub. L. 111–163, § 603(c)(1), renumbered section 7618 of this title as this section.

Pub. L. 111–163, § 603(a), substituted “December 31, 2014” for “December 31, 1998”.

1997—Pub. L. 105–114 substituted “December 31, 1998” for “December 31, 1997”.

1996—Pub. L. 104–110 substituted “December 31, 1997” for “December 31, 1995”.

1992—Pub. L. 102–585 substituted “December 31, 1995” for “September 30, 1992”.

1991—Pub. L. 102–40 renumbered section 4318 of this title as this section.

Pub. L. 102–83 substituted “Secretary” for “Administrator”.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Ratification of Actions During Period of Expired Authority

Any action taken by Secretary of Veterans Affairs before Feb. 13, 1996, under provision of law amended by title I of Pub. L. 104–110 that was taken during period beginning on date on which authority of Secretary under such provision of law expired and ending on Feb. 13, 1996, considered to have same force and effect as if such amendment had been in effect at time of that action, see section 103 of Pub. L. 104–110, set out as a note under section 1710 of this title.