Adaptive Equipment Allowance, 14429-14442 [2020-04564]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 49 (Thursday, March 12, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14429-14442]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-04564]


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DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

38 CFR Part 17

RIN 2900-AP39


Adaptive Equipment Allowance

AGENCY: Department of Veterans Affairs.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: This document proposes to amend the Department of Veterans 
Affairs (VA) regulations governing the provision of a monetary 
allowance to certain veterans and eligible members of the Armed Forces 
who require adaptive equipment to operate an automobile or other 
conveyance. This proposed rule would establish in regulation a VA 
Adaptive Equipment Schedule for Automobiles and Other Conveyances to 
calculate the amount of the monetary allowance for adaptive equipment 
(AE) based on industry standards and our experience administering this 
program. This rulemaking addresses reimbursement to eligible persons 
who have paid for AE and payments made by VA directly to registered AE 
providers, but not the eligibility requirements to receive adaptive 
equipment.

DATES: Comments must be received by VA on or before May 11, 2020.

ADDRESSES: Written comments may be submitted through https://www.Regulations.gov; by mail or hand-delivery to: Director, Office of 
Regulation Policy and Management (00REG), Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Room 1064, Washington, DC 20420; or by 
fax to (202) 273-9026. (This is not a toll-free telephone number.) 
Comments should indicate that they are submitted in response to ``RIN 
2900-AP39, Adaptive Equipment Allowance.'' Copies of comments received 
will be available for public inspection in the Office of Regulation 
Policy and Management, Room 1064, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 
p.m., Monday through Friday (except holidays). Please

[[Page 14430]]

call (202) 461-4902 for an appointment. (This is not a toll-free 
telephone number.) In addition, during the comment period, comments may 
be viewed online through the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) at 
https://www.Regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Penny Nechanicky, National Program 
Director, Prosthetics Sensory Aids Service (10P4R), Department of 
Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420. (202) 
461-0337 (This is not a toll-free number).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Section 3902(b) of Title 38, United States 
Code (U.S.C.) requires VA to provide eligible persons with ``the 
adaptive equipment deemed necessary to insure that the eligible person 
will be able to operate [an] automobile or other conveyance in a manner 
consistent with such person's own safety and the safety of others and 
so as to satisfy the applicable standards of licensure established by 
the State of such person's residency or other proper licensing 
authority.'' Under 38 U.S.C. 3901, eligible persons include veterans 
and members of the Armed Forces who have been diagnosed with one or 
more specified disabilities. Under section 3901(2), adaptive equipment 
is defined to include, but is not limited to, power steering, power 
brakes, power window lifts, power seats, air conditioning, and other 
equipment necessary to help the eligible individual enter, exit, or 
operate the automobile or other conveyance.
    VA implements these statutory authorities through regulation at 
Title 38 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) sections 17.155-17.159. 
Because VA does not have the capacity to build or install AE for 
automobiles or other conveyances, VA instead reimburses eligible 
persons or pays registered providers for the cost of the AE. See 38 CFR 
17.156. This rulemaking addresses reimbursement to eligible persons who 
have paid for the AE. Additionally, we address payments made to 
registered providers. VA does not address the eligibility requirements 
to receive AE in this rulemaking. AE is individually prescribed to 
assist the eligible person to operate, or ride safely as a passenger, 
in an automobile or other conveyance. In order to claim AE benefits, an 
eligible person must complete VA Form 10-1394 after they purchase new 
(which includes equipment that has been installed or used for one year 
or less from the date of manufacture) or used AE, and must complete the 
form if requesting payment or reimbursement for repair to AE. On the 
form, the eligible person indicates they are seeking reimbursement for 
AE or that payment should be made directly to a registered provider 
that pre-installed, modified, or altered the AE.

Sec.  17.156 Eligibility for Automobile Adaptive Equipment

    This section addresses eligibility for automobile adaptive 
equipment as well as payment or reimbursement by VA for repair, 
replacement, or reinstallation of such equipment. Consistent with 38 
U.S.C. 3902(b), the introductory text for this section states that VA 
may provide automobile adaptive equipment ``if the Under Secretary for 
Health or designee determines that such equipment is deemed necessary 
to insure that the eligible person will be able to operate the 
automobile or other conveyance in a manner consistent with such 
person's safety and so as to satisfy the applicable standards of 
licensure established by the State of such person's residency or other 
proper licensing authority.'' VA believes that this introductory text 
does not reflect a definite link between this section and limiting 
parameters to this benefit found in the two sections that immediately 
follow. We propose adding at the end of this sentence ``subject to the 
definitions and limitations in sections 17.157 and 17.158'' to address 
the issue.
    Current paragraph (b) provides that payment or reimbursement of 
reasonable costs for the repair, replacement, or reinstallation of 
adaptive equipment deemed necessary for the operation of the automobile 
may be authorized by VA. Consistent with the proposed change to this 
section's introductory text, we propose revising this paragraph to 
state that VA will reimburse or pay for adaptive equipment for 
automobiles and other conveyances subject to the requirements of 38 CFR 
17.158(b).

Sec.  17.157 Definitions

    Current Sec.  17.157 is titled ``Definition--adaptive equipment,'' 
and the regulatory text defines that term. We would expand this section 
to define other terms relevant to VA's provision of automobile adaptive 
equipment and amend the title to read ``Definitions'' consistent with 
this proposed change. In addition, we would make minor revisions to the 
definition of ``adaptive equipment'' for purposes of readability and 
clarity. In the first sentence of that definition, we would change 
``claimant'' to ``eligible person'' to harmonize the definition with 
other proposed changes to the rule. Adaptive equipment is currently 
defined to include ``any term specified by the Under Secretary for 
Health or designee.'' Adaptive equipment is generally understood to 
refer to tangible pieces of equipment rather than words or terms. 
Accordingly, we would amend the definition to refer to any item.
    In addition, we propose to define the types of registered providers 
VA deems eligible to receive payments from this program along with 
other definitions appropriate to AE. The Department of Transportation's 
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the U.S. 
government agency responsible for developing and enforcing automobile 
safety standards under U.S.C. Title 49 and its implementing 
regulations. Since NHTSA develops and enforces automobile safety 
standards, VA thinks it prudent to utilize their already existing 
definitions. VA defers to NHTSA's expertise in developing and enforcing 
safety standards as established in regulations and acknowledges it as a 
resource for identifying registered providers to accommodate all 
persons with disabilities. Additionally, VA proposes to rely on NHTSA 
expertise in order to ensure that installations and equipment meet 
appropriate quality standards. More information is located on NHTSA's 
website and brochures at: https://www.nhtsa.gov/Driving+Safety/Disabled+Drivers.
    The first term VA would define is manufacturer. For the purposes of 
this program, VA would adopt and use the statutory definition of 
manufacturer as used in the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety 
Act (``The Safety Act''). See 49 U.S.C. 30102(a)(6). The Safety Act is 
an appropriate reference source in our proposed rule because the Act 
and NHTSA's regulations require vehicle manufacturers to certify that 
their vehicles comply with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety 
Standards (FMVSSs) at the time of manufacture. See 49 U.S.C. 30112; 49 
CFR part 567. The Safety Act defines manufacturer as a person 
manufacturing or assembling motor vehicles or motor vehicle equipment 
or importing motor vehicles or motor vehicle equipment for resale. VA 
would not restate the definition of manufacturer in the regulation text 
in the event the Title 49 definition changes in the future.
    VA would also define the term modifier. VA would define modifier to 
mean ``a motor vehicle repair business that modifies a motor vehicle to 
enable a person with a disability to operate, or ride as a passenger 
in, the motor vehicle.'' This language is based on the NHTSA rule that 
requires any motor vehicle repair business that modifies a motor 
vehicle to enable a person with a disability to operate, or ride as a 
passenger in, the motor vehicle and

[[Page 14431]]

intends to avail itself of the regulatory exemption related to making 
motor vehicle safety devices inoperative to furnish certain information 
to NHTSA. NHTSA administers a program of registering modifiers of AE 
pursuant to 49 CFR 595.6 as part of its authority to regulate and 
enforce rules on vehicle safety. Participating modifiers can be found 
at: https://www.nhtsa.gov/apps/modifier/index.htm. The definition would 
also provide that ``VA does not approve, endorse, or assess the 
abilities of any modifiers to perform any requested or represented 
modification services.'' Because modification issues are beyond the 
scope of our expertise, VA would not approve, endorse, or assess the 
abilities of any of the listed modifiers to perform any requested or 
represented modification services.
    VA would define altered vehicle by cross-referencing NHTSA 
regulations in 49 CFR 567.3. Section 567.3 defines altered vehicle as a 
completed vehicle previously certified in accordance with 49 CFR 567.4 
or 567.5 that has been altered other than by the addition, 
substitution, or removal of readily attachable components, such as 
mirrors or tire and rim assemblies, or by minor finishing operations 
such as painting, before the first purchase of the vehicle other than 
for resale, in such a manner as may affect the conformity of the 
vehicle with one or more Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard(s) or 
the validity of the vehicle's stated weight ratings or vehicle type 
classification. VA would not restate the definition of altered vehicle 
in the regulation text in the event it changes in the future.
    VA would define alterer by cross-referencing NHTSA regulations in 
49 CFR 567.3. Section 567.3 defines alterer as a person who alters by 
addition, substitution, or removal of components (other than readily 
attachable components) a certified vehicle before the first purchase of 
the vehicle other than for resale. VA would not restate the definition 
of alterer in the regulation text in the event it changes in the 
future.
    VA would define registered provider and unregistered provider. In 
the proposed definition section, VA would classify all manufacturers, 
modifiers, and alterers registered on the NHTSA Modifiers 
Identification Database, currently available at https://www.nhtsa.gov/apps/modifier/index.htm, as registered providers. VA would classify any 
individual or entity not registered with NHTSA as an unregistered 
provider.
    As discussed below, VA would provide reimbursement for roadside 
services. The terms roadside assistance or roadside services are 
commonly used by automobile clubs, automobile dealers, and automobile 
insurers to refer to a variety of emergency roadside services provided 
to covered drivers including towing a vehicle, mechanical labor at the 
breakdown site, changing a flat tire, battery service, providing 
essential fuels and fluids such as gasoline necessary to operate the 
vehicle, or providing a locksmith if the driver is locked out of the 
vehicle. These services focus on vehicle operability, not issues 
related to problems with adaptive equipment that may arise at the home 
of an eligible person or when an eligible person is on the road. VA 
proposes to define roadside service for purposes of this rulemaking to 
mean emergency roadside services provided to an eligible person 
performed in connection with the repair, reinstallation, or replacement 
of adaptive equipment already installed in the automobile or other 
conveyance. The term would be limited solely to services provided to 
make the adaptive equipment operational and does not include mechanical 
repair of the engine or other vehicle systems, towing, providing 
essential fuels and fluids such as gasoline necessary to operate the 
vehicle, or providing locksmith services. We note that some adaptive 
equipment requires electrical power provided by the vehicle battery. 
Providing battery service in those instances would be included in 
services provided to make the adaptive equipment operational.
    Finally, VA would define the term VA Adaptive Equipment Schedule 
for Automobiles and Other Conveyances (the Schedule) to mean the VA 
schedule that contains the maximum allowable reimbursement amounts for 
the listed adaptive equipment. The Schedule would also include the 
maximum hourly labor rates for installation, repair, reinstallation, 
and replacement of this equipment and allowable fees that VA will pay. 
The amounts listed on the Schedule are based on the National Mobility 
Equipment Dealers Association's (NMEDA) Average Price Survey for 2018 
and represent the historical input of members of the mobility equipment 
industry across the United States. The Schedule is discussed in greater 
detail below. VA believes that the Schedule is needed to bring 
consistency across not only similar jurisdictions but also national 
consistency for the same products and services.

Sec.  17.158 Limitations on Assistance

    This rulemaking would revise 38 CFR 17.158, which addresses 
limitations on when VA will pay or reimburse for AE. Current paragraph 
(a) places a limit on the number of automobiles or other conveyances 
for which VA will pay or reimburse AE. An eligible person is not 
entitled to AE for more than two automobiles or other conveyances at 
any one time or during any four-year period except when, due to 
circumstances beyond control of such person, one of the automobiles or 
conveyances for which adaptive equipment was provided during the 
applicable four-year period is no longer available for the use of such 
person. Paragraph (a) would remain unchanged except for the insertion 
of a paragraph header, a minor wording change, and insertion of a comma 
for purposes of clarity.
    Current paragraph (a)(1) addresses when VA considers circumstances 
to be beyond the control of the eligible person. This subparagraph 
would remain unchanged with the exception of clarifying punctuation 
changes and removing the term ``vehicle'' and inserting in its places 
the phrase ``automobile or other conveyance'' to ensure terminology is 
consistent with that used in the statute. Current paragraph (a)(2) 
addresses those instances in which VA considers the eligible person to 
still retain beneficial use of an automobile or other conveyance even 
though that mode of transportation has been sold, given or transferred 
to another person or entity. This subparagraph would remain unchanged 
except for removing the term ``vehicle'' and inserting in its places 
the phrase ``automobile or other conveyance'' and removing the term 
``such person'' at the end of the subparagraph and inserting in its 
place ``spouse, family member or other person residing in the same 
household as the eligible person'' for purposes of clarity. VA believes 
the proposed changes to paragraph (a) are nonsubstantive in nature.
    In proposed paragraph (b)(1) we would address the issue of balance 
billing for any amounts for adaptive equipment not paid by VA. To 
ensure that neither the veteran nor their insurer is billed by the 
provider when VA is responsible for payment, we would state that 
payments made for adaptive equipment that is authorized under this 
section shall constitute payment in full and shall extinguish the 
eligible person's liability to the registered provider. The registered 
provider may not impose any additional charge on the eligible person 
for any adaptive equipment that is authorized under this section and 
for which payment is made by VA. VA has a mandate under 38 U.S.C. 
3902(b)(1) to provide each eligible person the adaptive equipment 
deemed necessary to insure that the

[[Page 14432]]

eligible person will be able to operate the automobile or other 
conveyance in a manner consistent with such person's own safety and the 
safety of others. By accepting payment for adaptive equipment, the 
provider agrees that monies received from VA operate as payment in full 
for the adaptive equipment.
    Current paragraph (b) states that the amount VA may reimburse 
eligible persons for AE is subject to a dollar amount for specific 
items established from time to time by the Under Secretary for Health. 
Current VA practice is to update the allowable reimbursable amounts for 
certain equipment on a biennial basis to reflect changes in retail 
prices using standard industry pricing. The current rule does not 
address reimbursement for AE services provided by registered versus 
unregistered providers. While current paragraph (b) addresses only 
reimbursement of adaptive equipment to eligible persons, it has been 
longstanding VA practice to also allow payment to registered providers 
as discussed below. VA proposes to amend paragraph (b) to address these 
issues and to establish a standard, publicly available schedule of 
allowable payments or reimbursable amounts for the calculation and 
provision of AE payments or reimbursements authorized by 38 U.S.C. 
3902.
    We propose to amend paragraph (b) to state that VA will reimburse 
or pay for adaptive equipment that VA determines is needed based on the 
information submitted and the Schedule. In addition to payment or 
reimbursement rates for specific types of AE listed in the Schedule, VA 
would pay or reimburse for roadside service, waste disposal fees, and 
hourly labor rates listed in the Schedule, subject to this section. 
Schedule labor rates would be classified as ``In Shop (low 
technology)'' or ``High Technology'' based on what NMEDA considers low 
and high technology as explained in the discussion about the proposed 
Schedule. High Technology would mean labor performed on or modification 
of adaptive equipment devices or systems that are capable of 
controlling vehicle functions or driving controls, and operate with a 
designed logic system, or interface or integrate with an electronic 
system of the vehicle. In Shop (low technology) would mean labor 
performed on adaptive equipment or modifications that do not meet the 
definition of High Technology.
    Payment or reimbursement rates would be based on the Schedule in 
effect on the date installation, reinstallation, replacement, or repair 
is complete. As discussed below, VA would pay or reimburse the lesser 
of the Schedule rate, invoice, or estimate. To determine the 
reimbursement or payment rate VA would use the appropriate amount in 
the Schedule for comparison. VA believes that it is appropriate to use 
the Schedule in effect on the date installation, reinstallation, 
replacement, or repair is complete as the comparator since the right to 
reimbursement or payment matures on that date. These proposed changes 
would specify the parameters for reimbursement or payment for AE.
    Proposed paragraph (b)(2) would identify the persons who are 
eligible to receive AE payments or reimbursements and address the type 
of documentation that must be submitted for payment or reimbursement. 
We would establish different documentation requirements for 
reimbursement to eligible persons based on whether services are 
provided by a registered or unregistered provider. As discussed above, 
we would define registered provider in Sec.  17.157 to mean a 
manufacturer, modifier, or alterer registered with the NHTSA Modifiers 
Identification Database. The purpose of this database is to provide a 
running and cumulative listing of all businesses that have sought 
identification as a vehicle modifier under the requirements of 49 CFR 
part 595. NHTSA does not approve or endorse any of the modifiers who 
have furnished information under part 595. Any manufacturer, modifier, 
or alterer who is not registered is considered an unregistered 
provider.
    VA would use the Schedule for calculating the amount reimbursed to 
eligible persons or payments made to registered providers. VA would 
review for approval all required documentation (e.g., estimates, 
invoices, bill of sale, paid receipts, Form 10-1394). VA is providing 
the Schedule for notice and comment in connection with this rulemaking 
at www.prosthetics.va.gov. The proposed Schedule includes the amounts 
for all equipment costs (e.g., installations, repairs, reinstallations, 
replacements) and hourly labor rates. Paragraph (b)(2)(i) through (ii) 
would authorize reimbursements to persons eligible to receive the AE 
benefit based on the existing eligibility regulations at 38 CFR 
17.156(a). In proposed paragraph (b)(2)(i), eligible persons who have 
purchased AE from registered providers would receive reimbursement in 
accordance with (b)(2)(i) after they have paid for the AE. The eligible 
person must complete and submit to VA for approval a VA Form 10-1394, 
an itemized estimate, and provide VA with either a final itemized: (1) 
Invoice, (2) paid receipt, or (3) bill of sale for the purchase.
    VA recognizes that not all adaptive equipment would require a 
registered provider. Paragraph (b)(2)(ii), would authorize VA's 
reimbursement of eligible persons who purchased AE from unregistered 
providers. VA would require the eligible person to provide written 
proof (e.g., final itemized invoice, paid receipt, bill of sale) of 
their pre-installed or repaired AE in an effort to track costs and 
prevent waste. Additionally, the eligible person must complete and 
submit to VA for approval a VA Form 10-1394. Only after the eligible 
person provides written proof, may VA reimburse the eligible person for 
the incurred expenses performed by an unregistered provider. This is 
consistent with current VA practice, and VA believes it reduces 
transactional costs for eligible persons and unregistered providers 
along with expediting the administrative aspects of the AE allowance.
    In paragraph (b)(2)(iii), VA would address payments to registered 
providers. Section 3902(b) of Title 38 of the United States Code and 
current 38 CFR 17.158(b) do not specify whether VA may make payments to 
the entity installing or otherwise modifying the automobile or other 
conveyance. However, this has been VA practice because it reduces 
transactional costs for eligible persons and registered providers. It 
is current VA practice that either the eligible person or registered 
provider may submit requests for direct payment to a registered 
provider. Procedurally, proposed paragraph (b)(2)(iii) would function 
identically to proposed paragraph (b)(2)(i). VA would pay registered 
providers for AE (e.g., installations, repairs, reinstallations, 
replacements, hourly labor rates) furnished to eligible persons 
identified in 38 CFR 17.156(a). The eligible person or the registered 
provider would complete VA Form 10-1394 and submit an itemized estimate 
prior to the completion of work. Note that the eligible person must 
sign the form as the applicant. Additionally, the eligible person or 
registered provider would provide VA with a final itemized invoice 
after the work is completed. The NHTSA Modifiers Identification 
Database is currently available at https://www.nhtsa.gov/apps/modifier/index.htm. This website would assist VA or eligible persons to locate 
and identify registered providers.
    Proposed paragraph (b)(2)(iv) would address those instances where 
an eligible person files an application for reimbursement or payment 
for installation, repair or replacement of adaptive equipment performed 
outside of the United States where an invoice,

[[Page 14433]]

estimate, or bill of sale is calculated in a foreign currency. We would 
state that in this case, the application must include the conversion 
rate from the foreign currency to U.S. dollars, and calculation of the 
invoice, estimate, or bill of sale amount in U.S. dollars.
    Proposed paragraph (b)(3) would establish how VA would use the 
Schedule for calculating the amount reimbursed to eligible persons or 
payments made to registered providers for labor costs. VA proposes 
creating a Schedule that would set national payment/reimbursement rates 
utilizing the high cost itemized in NMEDA's Average Price Survey, which 
is published annually. The 2018 survey was mailed to 324 dealers, and 
125 responded. The NMEDA Average Price Survey groups similar types of 
adaptive equipment installations or conversion into separate 
categories; provides average, low, and high reported costs for 
provision of adaptive equipment in different U.S. geographical regions; 
and provide a U.S. Summary reflecting average costs in the U.S. for 
each specific type of adaptive equipment installations or conversion. 
The example Schedule, as would the published VA Schedule, reflects high 
costs from the U.S. Summary tables in the NMEDA Average Price Survey. 
VA's proposed Schedule would resemble NMEDA's Average Price Survey for 
2018, which represents the historical input of members of the mobility 
equipment industry across the United States providing fair and 
representative prices for our program. We note that there may be some 
regional variation in costing, but VA believes that establishing a 
Schedule which would be applicable on a national level is the most 
equitable option. The example Schedule below differs from the NMEDA 
Average Price Survey in one important aspect, as would the Schedule VA 
would publish in conjunction with a final rulemaking. The NMEDA Average 
Price Survey distinguishes between domestic and foreign vehicles 
adaptive equipment costs for Lower Floor Conversions. NMEDA states that 
``domestic'' refers to domestic vehicles built in the U.S. by an 
American manufacturer, and ``foreign'' refers to vehicles manufactured 
either inside or outside the U.S. by a foreign based company. However, 
VA believes that distinguishing between adaptive equipment costs based 
on this definition is confusing in that many automobile manufacturers 
that have been historically viewed as foreign now build or assemble 
vehicles in the U.S, and American automobile manufacturers now assemble 
vehicles outside the U.S. To avoid confusion, VA would not distinguish 
between costs related to installation of adaptive equipment performed 
on domestic or foreign vehicles, and we would list the higher cost for 
the various types of vehicle configurations (e.g., manual or powered 
side entry, manual or powered rear entry).
    VA will make the Schedule publicly available for usage by eligible 
persons requesting reimbursements and registered providers requesting 
payments. VA welcomes the public to submit comments on this Schedule 
which we set forth below. The Schedule below would be what the Schedule 
would look like if this proposed rule were effective today. We will 
publish the final Schedule in the notice section of the Federal 
Register in conjunction with the publication of the final rule. The 
Schedule would be available [website address to be inserted in final 
rule] after September 30 of each calendar year to include any cost of 
living adjustments. This would coincide with the Veterans Benefits 
Administration's (VBA) annual budget period, which begins on October 1. 
Additionally, the October 1 date would be after the Consumer Price 
Indices (CPI) are updated on June 30 of each calendar year to allow for 
consideration of the increases in the reimbursement amounts in the 
Schedule.

Example--VA Adaptive Equipment Schedule for Automobiles and Other 
Conveyances

    Notes: 1. NMEDA includes pick up trucks under the mini van 
conversion schedule.
    2. Consistent with NMEDA classifications, Full size Van conversions 
are reflected under the Raised Top schedule while Mini Van conversions 
are under Lowered Floor Conversions.

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Lowered Floor Conversions (Mini Vans and Pick Up Trucks):
    Manual Side Entry Fold Out...............................    $28,995
    Manual Side Entry In-Floor...............................     28,995
    Powered Side Entry Fold Out..............................     30,975
    Powered Side Entry In Floor..............................     30,675
    Manual Rear Entry........................................     26,995
    Powered Rear Entry.......................................     28,995
    Transit Connect Rear Entry...............................     21,000
    Structurally Modified Pick Up Truck......................     31,500
    Power Topper Pick Up Truck...............................     18,995
Raised Top Conversions (Full size Vans):
    Reinforced Cage (Roll Cage)..............................      8,500
    Raised Door..............................................      6,300
    Raised Door with Existing High Top.......................      7,500
Vehicle Lifts (Wheelchair, Scooter, Powerchair, Etc.):
    Dual Post Platform.......................................      8,900
    Dual Post Split Platform.................................      9,500
    Under Vehicle Lift.......................................     15,995
    Suspension and Drive Shaft Modifications.................      7,800
Wheelchair Tie Downs:
    Manual...................................................      4,275
    Retractable..............................................      3,750
    Electric with Bracket....................................      3,900
Scooter Lifts/Carriers:
    Pickup Truck Lift: 200 lb................................      3,800
    Outside Hitch Lift: 250 lbs..............................      4,225
    Inside Hoist Lift: Automatic 250 lbs.....................        750
    Inside Hoist Lift: Semiautomatic 250 lbs.................        950
    Capacity Platform Style Lift: 350 lbs. or less...........      2,850
Hand Controls:
    Mechanical...............................................      1,650

[[Page 14434]]

 
    Pneumatic................................................     18,000
    Electronic/Digital Gas and Brake.........................     32,000
    Electronic Digital Steering..............................     42,000
    Joystick Gas & Brake.....................................     80,000
    Power Gear Selector......................................      4,700
    Spinner Knob.............................................        173
    Tri-Pin Spinner Knob.....................................        375
Switches for Lifts and Openers:
    Dash Switches............................................      1,499
    Remote Control Entry.....................................      2,400
    Hand Held Pendant........................................        500
    Outside Magnetic Switches................................        995
Entry System:
    Power Door Swing.........................................      7,127
    Magnetic Switches........................................        995
    Remote Control...........................................      2,400
Sensitized Steering:
    Reduced/Low Effort (Rack & Pinion).......................      5,500
    Zero Effort (Rack and Pinion)............................      5,500
    Emergency Backup System (Rack & Pinion)..................      4,200
    Reduce/Low Effort (Electric).............................      9,800
    Zero Effort (Electric)...................................      9,800
    Back Up (Electric Steering)..............................      4,400
Sensitized Braking and Parking Brake:
    Reduced/Low Effort.......................................      2,900
    Zero Effort..............................................      2,950
    Emergency Backup System..................................      3,250
    Manual Parking...........................................        295
    Electric Parking.........................................      3,600
Driving Aids:
    Adapted Key Holder.......................................        350
    Pedal Extenders 6-12''...................................      1,500
    Pedal Extenders 2'' each.................................        649
    Cross Over Gear..........................................        389
    Turn Signal Extensions...................................        389
    Left Foot Accelerator with Pedal Block...................      1,850
Non-Driving Aids:
    Automatic Transmission...................................      1,363
    Air Conditioning.........................................        920
    Rubber Flooring..........................................        800
Seating:
    Turing Seat: Auto........................................     10,800
    Power Seat Base: 6 way...................................      4,500
    Removable Driver Seat Base...............................      2,300
    Leather Seating..........................................      1,110
    Power Seats..............................................        708
Labor Rates:
    In Shop (low technology) Labor (Per Hour)................        130
    High-Technology Labor (Per Hour).........................        175
    Roadside Service (per incident)..........................        200
Fees:
    Waste Disposal Fee (flat fee per incident)...............         75
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Schedule reflects two hourly labor rates, In Shop (low 
technology) and High Technology labor. We would distinguish between 
what would fall under High Technology and In Shop (low technology) 
based on what NMEDA considers high technology and low technology, with 
the In Shop labor rate correlating to labor on a low technology device 
or system. The NMEDA QAP-103 Guideline 2018 edition states that High 
Technology devices or systems are those that meet the following 
conditions: Devices capable of controlling vehicle functions or driving 
controls, and operate with a designed logic system, or interface or 
integrate with an electronic system of the vehicle. Examples include 
powered gas/brake systems; power park brake integrated with a powered 
gas/brake system; reduced effort steering systems; horizontal steering 
system; reduced effort brake systems; backups for primary controls. 
Other examples of High Technology listed by NMEDA are remote panel or 
switch array interfacing with OEM electronics; wiring extension for OEM 
electronics; and powered transmission shifter.
    NMEDA Guidelines state that Low Technology includes all other 
devices or modifications that do not meet the definition of High 
Technology devices or modifications. Examples include a manual gas/
brake hand control; left foot accelerator pedal; park brake lever or 
stand-alone powered park brake; steering terminal device; remote horn 
button (grounding system); turn signal crossover lever; switch 
extension on OEM controls; transmission shifter lever; and transfer 
seat base.
    In proposed paragraph (b)(3)(i), for any labor costs associated 
with the installation of AE by a registered provider, VA will reimburse 
or pay the lesser of the relevant Schedule hourly labor rate multiplied 
by the number of hours listed by the registered provider; labor costs 
included in the itemized estimate; or the hourly labor rate provided by 
the registered provider in the final itemized invoice multiplied by the 
number of hours listed by the registered provider. Under current VA 
practice, the eligible veteran or

[[Page 14435]]

registered provider submits an itemized estimate as part of the claims 
process or a final invoice. However, VA has not previously specified in 
a rulemaking that we would pay the lesser of the written, itemized 
estimated labor rate or the labor rate listed in the Schedule.
    In proposed paragraph (b)(3)(ii), VA will specify that it will not 
reimburse or pay labor costs for pre-installed (i.e., original 
equipment manufacturer) equipment.
    Finally, proposed (b)(3)(iii) would state that VA would not 
reimburse or pay labor costs to unregistered providers. Since VA's 
definition of registered provider serves as an umbrella for 
manufacturers, modifiers, and alterers covered by either the Safety Act 
or NHTSA regulations, there are requisite standards each group must 
adhere to prior to registration. As stated above, manufacturers certify 
that their vehicles comply with all applicable FMVSSs at the time of 
manufacture. See 49 U.S.C. 30112; 49 CFR part 567. NHTSA administers a 
program of registering modifiers of AE pursuant to 49 CFR 595.6 as part 
of its authority to regulate and enforce rules on vehicle safety. 
Moreover, under 49 CFR 567.3, alterer is defined as a person who alters 
by addition, substitution, or removal of components (other than readily 
attachable components) a certified vehicle before the first purchase of 
the vehicle other than for resale. Manufacturers, modifiers, and 
alterers are formally established business entities. VA believes each 
registered entity, operating consistent with NHTSA guidelines, 
possesses well defined cost schemes and uniform labor pricing. 
Conversely, almost anyone can serve as an unregistered provider, and 
unregistered providers may not possess the necessary training or access 
to information that would tend to normalize or standardize expended 
labor time. To ensure some control over programmatic costs, VA would 
not reimburse or pay labor costs of unregistered providers.
    Proposed paragraph (b)(4) would state that VA will reimburse an 
eligible person who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(i) or (ii), or pay 
a registered provider who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(iii) for new 
adaptive equipment (including equipment that has been installed or used 
for one year or less from the date of manufacturer) listed in the 
Schedule as follows: VA will pay the lesser of the amount for the new 
adaptive equipment listed in either a final itemized invoice, paid 
receipt, or bill of sale for the purchase, or the amount established in 
the Schedule; VA will reimburse or pay any labor costs consistent with 
paragraph (b)(3) of Sec.  17.158. Generally, the timeline for 
determining whether adaptive equipment is new commences with the date 
of manufacture, and VA would consider adaptive equipment to be new if 
installed within one year of manufacture, as it would still be covered 
under the manufacturer's warranty. We would use a ``lesser of'' formula 
similar to that used for reimbursement or payment of labor costs.
    Proposed paragraph (b)(5) would apply to reimbursement or payment 
for used adaptive equipment. VA does not believe it is appropriate to 
reimburse or pay for the cost of used equipment older than five (5) 
years. As the functional lifespan of AE is generally not more than five 
(5) years, this is consistent with current practice. However, we have 
never formally stated this policy in regulation. According to NHTSA, 
all registered providers must keep in original or photocopied form 
documentation that a vehicle has been modified in accordance with 49 
CFR 595.6 no less than five (5) years after the vehicle has been 
modified or after being delivered to an individual. See 49 CFR 
595.7(b), (d) through (e).
    Proposed paragraph (b)(5)(i) would establish that for used 
equipment listed in the Schedule that is more than one (1) year old 
from the date of manufacture, VA would depreciate it by twenty (20%) 
percent per year from the time the equipment was pre-installed or 
installed as new on an automobile or other conveyance to the time of 
its reinstallation for which reimbursement or payment is being sought 
for a period up to five (5) years. VA would reimburse an eligible 
person, who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(i) or (ii), or pay a 
registered provider who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(iii) the 
lesser of the amount of the adaptive equipment listed in the final 
itemized invoice, paid receipt, or bill of sale for the purchase or the 
amount established in the Schedule reduced by twenty (20%) percent for 
each year from the time the equipment was pre-installed or installed on 
the vehicle for a period up to five (5) years. VA would reimburse or 
pay any labor costs consistent with paragraph (b)(3) of this section, 
but will not reimburse or pay labor costs for used equipment that is 
more than five years old from the date of manufacture because we do not 
recommend using such equipment (see discussion above regarding the 
functional lifespan of adaptive equipment).
    The proposed rule contemplates an annual 20% depreciation in 
reimbursement or payment for used adaptive equipment, with no 
reimbursement or payment for any used equipment more than five years 
old. In contrast, VA Manual MP4, Part IV, Chapter 18, section 18A.03 
paragraph l provides that the maximum equipment reimbursable rate for 
prescribed adaptive equipment on a used vehicle will be reduced by 10 
percent for each year of vehicle age up to a maximum reduction of 90 
percent. Installation of new prescribed equipment on a used vehicle 
will not be prorated. In practice VA Manual MP4, which is utilized by 
VBA, bases the reimbursement rate for prescribed adaptive equipment on 
a used vehicle on the age of the vehicle regardless of the age of the 
adaptive equipment. Annual depreciation for reimbursement or payment 
for used adaptive equipment reflected in the proposed rule, in 
contrast, would be based on VA's determination that the adaptive 
equipment depreciates at a faster rate than the vehicle itself and the 
functional lifespan of that equipment is five years. Because of the 
finite functional lifespan of adaptive equipment, VA does not recommend 
use of any specific adaptive equipment older than five years.
    Proposed paragraph (b)(6) would establish that for any AE that does 
not appear on the Schedule but meets the definition of adaptive 
equipment in Sec.  17.157, VA would reimburse an eligible person who 
meets the requirements of (b)(2)(i), (ii), or pay a registered 
provider, who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(iii), the lesser of the 
cost of the adaptive equipment when equal to or less than what VA has 
paid for a similar item in the past or, when available, the 
commercially available price for a similar item. If the commercially 
available price for a similar item is not available VA will pay or 
reimburse the billed charge.
    The Schedule is a finite list of AE items that VA frequently 
reimburses or pays for, thus the means for determining reimbursement or 
payment rates for items that do not appear on the Schedule is defined. 
VA would reimburse or pay for items that do not appear on the Schedule 
provided the equipment still meets the definition of AE under 38 CFR 
17.157.
    In many cases, VA will have paid for a similar item in the past, or 
VA will be able to compare the item to other items available 
commercially. Therefore, authorizing payment of actual cost by 
obtaining the final invoice, paid receipt, or bill of sale for the 
purchase would provide VA with information that can be used in future 
revisions to the Schedule. VA would examine all final invoices, paid 
receipts, or bills of sale in

[[Page 14436]]

order to ensure a measure of cost control and that the estimate is 
appropriate for the AE item. VA would require that the final invoice, 
paid receipt, or bill of sale be equal to or lesser than the prices 
paid by VA or in the commercial sector for similar items. In those 
cases where there is no commercially available item that can be used 
for comparison, VA will pay the billed charge. VA can then use that 
billed charge as an available benchmark for determining reimbursement 
or payment rates of that or similar items in the future.
    Proposed paragraph (b)(6)(ii) would establish that VA will 
reimburse or pay any labor costs consistent with paragraph (b)(3) of 
this section.
    Proposed paragraph (b)(7) would establish the online location for 
the Schedule. VA is storing the Schedule on its own website at 
www.prosthetics.va.gov. It would state that VA will establish the 
Schedule for each fiscal year after September 30, 2019 and publish that 
Schedule on a publicly accessible page on the www.prosthetics.va.gov 
website. VA intends to also make the Schedule available upon request at 
any VA medical facility.
    We note that some eligible veterans reside outside the United 
States. The NMEDA Average Price Survey, on which the Schedule would be 
based, reflects responses on costs in the survey and represents the 
historical input of NMEDA members of the mobility equipment industry in 
the United States and Canada. VA is aware of no source for determining 
average prices for adaptive equipment provided in any foreign country 
other than Canada. In addition, we note that inclusion in the NHTSA 
Modifiers Identification Database requires those listed in the database 
to abide by NHTSA standards, which are only applicable in the United 
States or U.S. Territories. The NMEDA Average Price Survey reflects 
responses from adaptive equipment providers within the United States, 
and the NHTSA Modifiers Identification Database lists adaptive 
equipment providers located in the United States including those in 
U.S. Territories. As we base our definition of registered provider on 
the database, most if not all adaptive equipment providers located 
outside the United States would likely be unregistered providers. Given 
that we have no reliable way to determine average prices for adaptive 
equipment provided in any foreign country other than Canada, VA would 
use the Schedule as a comparator when an eligible person residing 
outside the United States seeks reimbursement for adaptive equipment 
provided by an unregistered provider located outside the United States. 
The Schedule would apply to all eligible persons meeting the 
requirements of (b)(2)(i), (ii), as well as registered and unregistered 
providers.
    To assist with determining reimbursement and payment amounts, VA 
would rely on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to update the costs on the 
Schedule for all AE. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure of the 
average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a 
market basket of consumer goods and services (e.g., utilities, 
automotive fuel, food items, construction). VA believes applying the 
CPI to payments and reimbursements for adaptive equipment is an 
appropriate method of adjusting rates as it is a measure of the average 
change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for consumer 
goods and services. Currently, VA uses the CPI as a method of ensuring 
certain benefits reflect cost of living increases (e.g., automobile 
allowance, specially adapted housing grants, payments for burial and 
funeral expenses). This is discussed in further detail below.
    The CPI tracks a myriad of different segments of the economy and 
also provides more global indices based on classes of consumers paired 
with segments of the economy. VA would increase the reimbursement 
amounts in the Schedule using the indices for two expenditure 
categories of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for All Urban Consumers. 
The index for the expenditure category for ``motor vehicle parts and 
equipment'' will be used to calculate the increase in the reimbursement 
amount for adaptive equipment on the Schedule, and the index for 
``motor vehicle maintenance and repair'' will be used to calculate the 
increase in the reimbursement amount for labor. Such increases to the 
Schedule for adaptive equipment and labor would be equal to the 
percentage by which the respective index increased during the 12-month 
period ending with the last month for which CPI data is available. In 
the event that such index does not increase during such period, there 
would be no change to the Schedule for the reimbursement amounts for 
which the index is used to calculate increases. VA would round up to 
the whole dollar any amounts for the new fiscal year in the Schedule, 
because this decreases the administrative burden on VA and creates less 
data entry errors. Additionally, rounding up in this manner would make 
it easier for VA to update the Schedule.
    Finally, VA proposes changes to paragraph (c). Current paragraph 
(c) addresses limitations on reimbursement for repair of AE. It limits 
such reimbursement to AE installed on the current vehicles of record, 
and only to basic components authorized as AE. It also establishes 
criteria for what types of expenses are reimbursable. We would amend 
this paragraph to focus on repair of used AE and address reimbursement 
standards and documentation required from an eligible person and a 
registered provider.
    We would state that reimbursement or payment for a repair to an 
item of used adaptive equipment may be provided for adaptive equipment 
installed on an automobile or other conveyance that meets the 
limitations of paragraph (a) of this section. VA will pay or reimburse 
labor costs associated with the repairs in accordance with paragraph 
(b)(3) of this section. VA will reimburse an eligible person meeting 
the requirements of (b)(2)(i) or (ii) the lesser of the amount of the 
adaptive equipment listed in either a final itemized invoice, paid 
receipt, or bill of sale for the purchase. VA will reimburse a 
registered provider meeting the requirements of (b)(2)(iii) the lesser 
of the amount of the adaptive equipment listed in the final itemized 
invoice, paid receipt, or bill of sale for the purchase. These 
requirements would be consistent with other proposed provisions 
addressing reimbursement or payment. VA would not pay for repairs to 
new equipment (i.e., OEM equipment) because new equipment already 
possesses warranties and a retailer or manufacturer already has an 
obligation to replace defective equipment.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    Although this action contains provisions constituting collections 
of information, at proposed 38 CFR 17.158(b) under the Paperwork 
Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3521), no new or proposed revised 
collections of information are associated with this proposed rule. The 
information collection requirements for 38 CFR 17.158(b) are currently 
approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and have been 
assigned OMB control number 2900-0188.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Secretary hereby certifies that this proposed rule would not 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities as they are defined in the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 
U.S.C. 601-612.
    On December 14, 2016, the President signed into law the Veterans 
Mobility Safety Act of 2016, Public Law 114-256 (hereinafter ``the 
Act''). Section 3 of the Act, codified at 38 U.S.C. 3902 Note,

[[Page 14437]]

requires VA to update its policy on adaptive equipment no later than 
one year after the date of enactment of the Act, and it requires VA to 
develop a comprehensive policy requiring quality standards for 
providers who provide modification services to veterans under VA's 
adaptive equipment program. This policy must include management of the 
adaptive equipment program, development and consistent application of 
standards for safety and quality of equipment and installation of 
equipment through this program, certification of a provider by a 
manufacturer or third party, nonprofit organization if the Secretary 
designates the quality standards of such entities as meeting or 
exceeding VA's standards, education and training for VA personnel who 
administer this program, compliance with the Americans with 
Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) when furnishing 
adaptive equipment at a facility, and allowance, where technically 
appropriate, for veterans to receive modifications at their residence 
or location of choice.
    VA conducted public hearings with NHTSA, industry representatives, 
manufacturers of adaptive equipment, and other entities with expertise 
in the installation, repair, replacement, and manufacturing of adaptive 
equipment or development of mobility accreditation standards for 
adaptive equipment in compliance with section 3 of Public Law 114-256. 
VA published a Federal Register Notice (FRN) requesting information and 
comments to assist in the development of the program required by the 
Act on February 2, 2017. See 82 FR 9114. VA received numerous comments 
from adaptive equipment manufacturers, providers, trade associations, 
and other interested external stakeholders. Additionally, VA met in 
person with several parties, including adaptive equipment 
manufacturers, alterers and modifiers; and adaptive equipment related 
associations who requested to meet with VA concerning their comments to 
the FRN. During these discussions, these parties explained their 
individual interpretations of section 3 of the Act and individual 
opinions on the implementation of the Act's provisions, including the 
impact of certain quality and safety standards on small businesses.
    The comments and feedback we received during this consultative 
period informed this rulemaking, and the comments allowed us to 
understand and consider the various positions different entities had on 
implementing the requirements of the law along with the impact of 
certain quality and safety standards on small businesses. As a result 
of these consultative activities and consistent with the requirements 
of section 3(b)(1) of the Act, we propose the above rulemaking as a 
necessary element in management of VA's adaptive equipment program.
    In proposed 38 CFR 17.157 we would define Modifier to mean a motor 
vehicle repair business that modifies a motor vehicle to enable a 
person with a disability to operate, or ride as a passenger in, the 
motor vehicle. Alterer would mean the same as in 49 CFR 567.3. 
Registered provider would mean a manufacturer, modifier, or alterer 
registered with the Department of Transportation's National Highway 
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Modifiers Identification Database 
(``Database'') currently available at https://www.nhtsa.gov/apps/modifier/index.htm. Any manufacturer, modifier, or alterer who is not 
registered would be considered an unregistered provider. The proposed 
rule would establish a national schedule for the maximum allowable 
reimbursement amounts for the listed adaptive equipment. The schedule 
would also include the maximum hourly labor rates for installation, 
repair, reinstallation, and replacement of this equipment and allowable 
fees that VA will pay for. It would also establish standards for 
applying for reimbursement or payment for items listed in this schedule 
and delineate limitations on VA's payment for adaptive equipment and 
related services.
    The database, accessed on November 13, 2019, lists a total of 1,047 
modifiers. Many modifiers reflected in the database have multiple 
listings, with some having more than 15 separate listings.
    For purposes of information collection under the Paperwork 
Reduction Act for OMB Control Number 2900-0188, we consider likely 
respondents to be veterans, servicemembers, and adaptive equipment 
modifiers who are requesting a payment for adaptive equipment. We 
estimate the number of respondents to this information collection to be 
6,800 annually. Of that number 6,250 would be eligible persons 
(veterans or servicemembers). In a related proposed rulemaking we 
stated that VA believes that rulemaking would impact 550 modifiers. In 
analyzing the Regulatory Flexibility Act effect here we would base our 
analysis on that number, and based on our proposed definition of 
modifier we will refer to these 550 as registered providers. The 
proposed rule also addresses unregistered providers. Unregistered 
providers are those that are not listed in the NHTSA database, and VA 
believes it is not possible to determine an accurate number for 
unregistered providers, some of which may be individuals rather than 
small entities. NHTSA has advised that it does not know the number of 
modifiers, alterers, or manufacturers of adaptive equipment that have 
not registered in the database. For purposes of this analysis we will 
assume 100 unregistered providers would provide services under this 
proposed rule.
    The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is the 
standard used by Federal statistical agencies in classifying business 
establishments for the purpose of collecting, analyzing, and publishing 
statistical data related to the U.S. business economy. VA has 
identified three broad categories of NAICS codes that we believe 
encompasses the term manufacturer in the proposed rule. We propose to 
define that term to mean the same as that found at 49 U.S.C. 
30102(a)(6), which includes a person manufacturing or assembling motor 
vehicles or motor vehicle equipment; or importing motor vehicles or 
motor vehicle equipment for resale. While the definition of 
manufacturer found at 49 U.S.C. 30102(a)(6) is broad, including the 
manufacturing, assembly, or import of motor vehicles, the proposed rule 
focuses narrowly on reimbursement and payment for installation, 
replacement, or repair of adaptive equipment. Applying the relevant 
part of the statutory definition of manufacturer, the proposed rule 
focuses on a person manufacturing or assembling motor vehicle adaptive 
equipment, or the import of motor vehicle adaptive equipment for 
resale. We note here that major automobile manufacturers do not convert 
automobiles or vans for their disabled customers.
    NAICS Code 336390--Other Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing, 
comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing and/or 
rebuilding motor vehicle parts and accessories (except motor vehicle 
gasoline engines and engine parts, motor vehicle electrical and 
electronic equipment, motor vehicle steering and suspension components, 
motor vehicle brake systems, motor vehicle transmissions and power 
train parts, motor vehicle seating and interior trim, and motor vehicle 
stampings). NAICS Code 339113, Surgical Appliance and Supplies 
Manufacturing, comprises establishments primarily engaged in 
manufacturing surgical appliances and supplies. Examples of products 
made by these establishments are orthopedic devices, prosthetic 
appliances, surgical dressings, crutches,

[[Page 14438]]

surgical sutures, personal industrial safety devices (except protective 
eyewear), hospital beds, and operating room tables. NAICS Code 423120--
Motor Vehicle Supplies and New Parts Merchant Wholesalers comprises 
establishments primarily engaged in the merchant wholesale distribution 
of motor vehicle supplies, accessories, tools, and equipment; and new 
motor vehicle parts (except new tires and tubes).
    These three NAICS codes cover a broad range of manufacturers of 
either medical equipment or motor vehicle equipment, including 
manufacturers VA believes would be subject to this proposed rule. While 
the categories are overinclusive we believe that analysis of the 
regulatory impact based on these codes will result in a reasonable 
approximation of costs or impact of the proposed rule on small entities 
engaged in the manufacture of adaptive equipment.
    Applying the small business standards promulgated in 13 CFR 
121.201, a small entity for NAICS Code 336390 is 1,000 employees or 
less; NAICS Code 339113 is 750 employees or less; and NAICS Code 423120 
is 200 employees or less. Data compiled by the US Census Bureau from 
the 2012 Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB) found at https://www.census.gov/data/tables/2012/econ/susb/2012-susb-annual.html 
reflects the following for the NAICS codes:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    Enterprise                       Estimated       Estimated
                   NAICS code                       employment       Number of       receipts      receipts per
                                                       size            firms         ($1,000)     firm  ($1,000)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
336390..........................................            <500           1,167      14,448,200          12,380
336390..........................................            500+             135      43,660,430         323,410
339113..........................................            <500           1,772       9,359,609           5,282
339113..........................................            500+              83      26,445,095         318,616
423120..........................................             <20           7,403      14,318,962           1,934
423120..........................................           20-99           1,260      18,436,535          14,632
423120..........................................         100-499           9,060      17,743,583           1,958
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As noted, these NAICS codes are very broad, encompassing many 
aspects of either medical/surgical or automotive supplies. VA does not 
know with any degree of certainty the total number of these 
manufacturers who build, manufacture or import adaptive equipment. We 
have estimated that the number of modifiers who would be impacted by 
this proposed rule is 550. For purposes of this analysis we will assume 
that the proposed rule would affect 250 manufacturers of adaptive 
equipment that would qualify as a small entity. We believe this is most 
likely a high estimate.
    We have identified one six-digit NAISC code that would apply to 
modifiers. We propose to define alterer to mean the same as provided in 
49 CFR 567.3, and modifier to have the same meaning as provided in 49 
CFR 595.6(a). NAICS 5 Digit Industry 81112 Automotive Body, Paint, 
Interior, and Glass Repair comprises establishments primarily engaged 
in providing one or more of the following: Repairing or customizing 
automotive vehicles, such as passenger cars, trucks, and vans, and all 
trailer bodies and interiors; painting automotive vehicle and trailer 
bodies; replacing, repairing, and/or tinting automotive vehicle glass; 
and customizing automobile, truck, and van interiors for the physically 
disabled or other customers with special requirements. We believe NAICS 
Code 811121 Automotive Body, Paint and Interior Repair and Maintenance 
most closely reflects what VA, in this proposed rule, refers to as 
alterer or modifier. Applying the small business standards promulgated 
in 13 CFR 121.201, a small entity for the NAICS Code series 81112 
reflects that an entity with $8,000,000 in annual receipts is 
considered a small entity.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Estimated       Estimated
              NAICS code                 Enterprise  employment      Number of       receipts      receipts per
                                                  size                 firms         ($1,000)     firm  ($1,000)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
811121................................  ALL.....................          32,427      28,348,303         874,219
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Data compiled by the U.S. Census Bureau from the 2012 Statistics of 
U.S. Businesses (SUSB) found at https://www.census.gov/data/tables/2012/econ/susb/2012-susb-annual.html reflects that most, if not all, of 
the 32,427 entities in NAICS Code 811121 would qualify as a small 
entity based on 13 CFR 121.201.
    As noted with manufacturers who would be affected by this proposed 
rule, NAISC Code 811121 is very broad, applying to 32,427 business 
entities. However, only a small percentage of those entities would be 
subject to the proposed rule as an alterer or modifier of adaptive 
equipment. We believe that this NAISC code is the appropriate code for 
any registered providers not already captured by the other three codes 
listed above as well as unregistered providers that would qualify as a 
business entity. We believe that number is accurate for purposes of 
determining whether this proposed rule would have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities as they are 
defined in the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    Proposed 38 CFR 17.158 addresses limitations on payment. Proposed 
paragraph (b) would state that VA will reimburse or pay for adaptive 
equipment based on the information submitted and the VA Adaptive 
Equipment Schedule for Automobiles and Other Conveyances (Schedule). In 
addition to payment or reimbursement rates for specific types of 
adaptive equipment listed in the Schedule, VA will pay or reimburse 
labor costs, roadside service, and waste disposal fees consistent with 
the Schedule. Payment or reimbursement rates are based on the Schedule 
in effect on the date installation, reinstallation, replacement, or 
repair is complete. The Schedule would establish, inter alia, a 
national monetary limit on payment or reimbursement for adaptive 
equipment.

[[Page 14439]]

    The Schedule is based on results of the NMEDA 2018 Annual Price 
Survey. The survey was mailed to 324 dealers; 125 were returned (39%). 
Reported returns by region: North 27% (34), South 22% (27), West 27% 
(34), Midwest 24% (30).The example of the schedule we publish in this 
proposed rulemaking reflects the high limit for prices reported by the 
125 respondents to the survey. The high reported price limit for 
individual items reflected in the NMEDA survey is significantly higher 
than the low reported price in some instances. To highlight one 
example, for lowered floor conversions of mini vans, domestic powered 
side entry conversions reported by 33 North Region respondents, the 
high price is $29,818; average is $28,706 and low price is $2,995. The 
survey results do not reflect variations in the type of specific 
categories of adaptive equipment that are included in these reported 
prices. Generally, there is a close correlation between average prices 
and high prices reported for the individual categories of adaptive 
equipment. Typically, South and Midwest regions reported lower prices 
than other regions. VA believes that the survey responses are a valid 
representation of regional costs and that the number of respondents in 
each region supports that conclusion.
    The proposed rule states that VA will reimburse eligible persons 
identified in 38 CFR 17.156(a) who have purchased adaptive equipment 
(e.g., installations, repairs, reinstallations, replacements) from 
registered providers. The eligible person must sign and submit to VA a 
completed VA Form 10-1394, an itemized estimate, and provide VA with 
either a final itemized invoice, paid receipt, or bill of sale for the 
purchase. VA may reimburse eligible persons identified in 38 CFR 
17.156(a) who have purchased adaptive equipment (e.g., installations, 
repairs, reinstallations, replacements) from unregistered providers. 
The eligible person must submit to VA a completed VA Form 10-1394 and a 
final itemized invoice, paid receipt, or bill of sale for the purchase. 
In addition, VA will pay registered providers for adaptive equipment 
(e.g., installations, repairs, reinstallations, replacements) furnished 
to eligible persons identified in 38 CFR 17.156(a). The eligible person 
or the registered provider must submit to VA a completed VA Form 10-
1394 and an itemized estimate prior to the completion of work. The 
eligible person or registered provider must provide VA with a final 
itemized invoice after the work is completed. See 38 CFR 
17.158(b)(2)(i) through (iii). Labor costs per hour for registered 
providers would be reimbursed or paid based on the lesser amount of 
what is reflected in the Schedule, the estimate, or the final invoice. 
No payment for labor costs would be approved for pre-installed (i.e., 
original equipment manufacturer) equipment, or labor costs billed by an 
unregistered provider. See 38 CFR 17.158(b)(3).
    For installation of new adaptive equipment, VA would pay or 
reimburse the lesser of the amount for the new adaptive equipment 
listed in either a final itemized invoice, paid receipt, or bill of 
sale for the purchase, or the amount established in the Schedule. 38 
CFR 17.158(b)(4).
    VA will use two representative categories of adaptive equipment 
costs from the NMEDA 2018 Annual Price Survey to estimate economic 
impact on small entities: adaptive equipment under the Lowered Floor 
Conversion--Mini Van (15 listed options); and adaptive hand controls (8 
listed options). VA believes these categories are a reasonable 
representation of adaptive equipment costs. VA will likewise analyze 
in-shop and high-tech hourly labor rates.

                   Lowered Floor Conversion--Mini Van
               [Averages of all 15 categories in dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average cost...................          24,206  .......................
High cost......................          25,186  980 above Average cost.
Low cost.......................          13,855  11,331 below High cost,
                                                  10,351 below Average.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Hand Controls
                [Averages of all 8 categories in dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average cost...................          17,070  .......................
High cost......................          22,362  5,292 above Average.
Low cost.......................           1,727  20,635 below High,
                                                  15,343 below Average.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  Retail Labor Rates/Hr--In Shop Labor
                              [In dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average........................             112  .......................
High...........................             130  18 above Average.
Low............................              95  35 below High, 17 below
                                                  Average.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                 Retail Labor Rates/Hr--High-Tech Labor
                              [In dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average........................             138  .......................
High...........................             175  38 above Average.
Low............................              95  80 below High, 43 below
                                                  Average.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As noted above, VA believes that approximately 6,250 eligible 
persons will apply for adaptive equipment payment or reimbursement 
annually. For purposes of this analysis we are assuming a total of 550 
registered

[[Page 14440]]

providers and 100 unregistered providers will provide services under 
this proposed rule. We do not have accurate information readily 
available on regional distribution of either eligible persons, 
registered providers, or unregistered providers. We will assume for 
purposes of this analysis that adaptive equipment services for eligible 
persons will be equally distributed between providers, as we believe an 
analysis based on actual distribution would not impact our conclusions. 
Rounding up to the whole person, each provider would provide services 
to 10 eligible persons.
    VA would reimburse or pay for adaptive equipment at the amount 
invoiced or per the Schedule, whichever is less. For mini-van 
conversions, assuming a provider billed at the Schedule amount, the 
provider would experience a net gain of $980 to $11,331 per transaction 
over invoicing at a different amount. Hand control adaptive equipment 
costs vary from $5,292 to $20,635 from the High cost per transaction. 
Assuming the maximum difference in invoicing for all 10 assumed 
clients, each provider would show a total impact of $113,310 to 
$206,350 annually. Labor costs per hour vary from $95 to $130 per hour 
for in shop labor, and $95 to $175 for high tech labor. We note that 
unregistered providers would not be eligible for payment for labor 
costs and would experience a loss of potential revenue as a result. If 
we assume a 4-hour assignment requiring high tech labor, that would 
amount to $700 per transaction.
    Given the relatively small number of eligible persons, cost 
variations for provision of adaptive equipment, and the estimate of 
gross receipts for affected small entities in the identified NAICS 
codes, VA believes that this proposed rule would not have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities as they are 
defined in the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601-612. Therefore, 
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 605(b), the initial and final regulatory 
flexibility analysis requirements of 5 U.S.C. 603 and 604 do not apply.

Executive Orders 12866, 13563, and 13771

    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess the 
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, when 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public 
health and safety effects, and other advantages; distributive impacts; 
and equity). Executive Order 13563 (Improving Regulation and Regulatory 
Review) emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and 
benefits, reducing costs, harmonizing rules, and promoting flexibility. 
The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has determined that 
this rule is not a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 
12866.
    VA's impact analysis can be found as a supporting document at 
https://www.regulations.gov, usually within 48 hours after the 
rulemaking document is published. Additionally, a copy of the 
rulemaking and its impact analysis are available on VA's website at 
https://www.va.gov/orpm/, by following the link for ``VA Regulations 
Published From FY 2004 Through Fiscal Year to Date.''
    This rule is not an E.O. 13771 regulatory action because this rule 
is not significant under E.O. 12866.

Unfunded Mandates

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 requires, at 2 U.S.C. 
1532, that agencies prepare an assessment of anticipated costs and 
benefits before issuing any rule that may result in the expenditure by 
State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, or by the 
private sector, of $100 million or more (adjusted annually for 
inflation) in any one year. This proposed rule would have no such 
effect on State, local, and tribal governments, or on the private 
sector.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers

    The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance numbers and titles for 
the programs affected by this document are as follows: 64.009, Veterans 
Medical Care Benefits; 64.013, Veterans Prosthetic Appliances.

List of Subjects in 38 CFR part 17

    Administrative practice and procedure, Alcohol abuse, Alcoholism, 
Claims, Day care, Dental health, Drug abuse, Foreign relations, 
Government contracts, Grant programs-health, Grant programs--veterans, 
Health care, Health facilities, Health professions, Health records, 
Homeless, Medical and dental schools, Medical devices, Medical 
research, Mental health programs, Nursing homes, Philippines, Reporting 
and recordkeeping requirements, Scholarships and fellowships, Travel 
and transportation expenses, Veterans.

Signing Authority

    The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, or designee, approved this 
document and authorized the undersigned to sign and submit the document 
to the Office of the Federal Register for publication electronically as 
an official document of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Pamela 
Powers, Chief of Staff, Department of Veterans Affairs, approved this 
document on March 2, 2020, for publication.

Consuela Benjamin,
Regulation Development Coordinator, Office of Regulation Policy & 
Management, Office of the Secretary, Department of Veterans Affairs.

    For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Department of Veterans 
Affairs proposes to amend 38 CFR part 17 as follows:

PART 17--MEDICAL

0
1. Amend the authority citation for part 17 by adding the following:
    Sections 17.156 and 17.157 are also issued under 38 U.S.C. 3901 
and 3902.
    Section 17.158 is also issued under 38 U.S.C. 3902 and 3903.
0
2. Amend Sec.  17.156 by:
0
a. Revising the introductory paragraph;
0
b. Revising paragraph (b); and
0
c. Removing the Authority citation at the end of the section.
    The revisions read as follows:


Sec.  17.156   Eligibility for automobile adaptive equipment.

    Automobile adaptive equipment may be authorized if the Under 
Secretary for Health or designee determines that such equipment is 
deemed necessary to insure that the eligible person will be able to 
operate the automobile or other conveyance in a manner consistent with 
such person's safety and so as to satisfy the applicable standards of 
licensure established by the State of such person's residency or other 
proper licensing authority subject to the definitions and limitations 
in Sec. Sec.  17.157 and 17.158.
* * * * *
    (b) VA will reimburse or pay for adaptive equipment for automobiles 
and other conveyances subject to the requirements of 38 CFR 17.158(b).
0
3. Revise Sec.  17.157 to read as follows:


Sec.  17.157   Definitions.

    For the purposes of this part:
    Adaptive equipment means equipment which must be part of or added 
to a conveyance manufactured for sale to the general public to make it 
safe for use by the eligible person and enable that person and the 
conveyance to meet the applicable standards of licensure. Adaptive 
equipment includes any item specified by the Under Secretary for Health 
or designee as ordinarily

[[Page 14441]]

necessary for any of the classes of losses or combination of such 
losses specified in 38 CFR 17.156, or as deemed necessary in an 
individual case for an eligible person. Adaptive equipment includes, 
but is not limited to, a basic automatic transmission, power steering, 
power brakes, power window lifts, power seats, air-conditioning 
equipment when necessary for the health and safety of the veteran, and 
special equipment necessary to assist the eligible person into or out 
of the automobile or other conveyance, regardless of whether the 
automobile or other conveyance is to be operated by the eligible person 
or is to be operated for such person by another person; and any 
modification of the interior space of the automobile or other 
conveyance if needed because of the physical condition of such person 
in order for such person to enter or operate the vehicle.
    Manufacturer means the same as in 49 U.S.C. 30102(a)(6).
    Modifier means a motor vehicle repair business that modifies a 
motor vehicle to enable a person with a disability to operate, or ride 
as a passenger in, the motor vehicle. VA does not approve, endorse, or 
assess the abilities of any modifiers to perform any requested or 
represented modification services.
    Altered vehicle means the same as in 49 CFR 567.3.
    Alterer means the same as in 49 CFR 567.3
    Registered provider means a manufacturer, modifier, or alterer 
registered with the Department of Transportation's National Highway 
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Modifiers Identification Database 
currently available at https://www.nhtsa.gov/apps/modifier/index.htm. 
Any manufacturer, modifier, or alterer who is not registered is 
considered an unregistered provider.
    Roadside service means emergency roadside services provided to an 
eligible person performed in connection with the repair, 
reinstallation, or replacement of adaptive equipment already installed 
in the automobile or other conveyance. The term is limited solely to 
services provided to make the adaptive equipment operational and does 
not include mechanical repair of the engine or other vehicle systems, 
towing, providing essential fuels and fluids such as gasoline necessary 
to operate the vehicle, or providing locksmith services.
    VA Adaptive Equipment Schedule for Automobiles and Other 
Conveyances (``Schedule'') means the VA schedule that contains the 
maximum allowable reimbursement amounts for the listed adaptive 
equipment. The Schedule also includes the maximum hourly labor rates 
for installation, repair, reinstallation, and replacement of this 
equipment and allowable fees that VA will pay.
0
4. Revise Sec.  17.158 to read as follows:


Sec.  17.158   Limitations on assistance.

    (a) General. An eligible person will not be provided adaptive 
equipment for more than two automobiles or other conveyances at any one 
time or during any four-year period except when, due to circumstances 
beyond the control of such person, one of the automobiles or other 
conveyances for which adaptive equipment was provided during the 
applicable four-year period is no longer available for the use of such 
person.
    (1) Circumstances beyond the control of the eligible person are 
those where the automobile or other conveyance was lost due to fire, 
theft, accident, or court action; when repairs are so costly as to be 
prohibitive; or a different automobile or other conveyance is required 
due to a change in the eligible person's physical condition.
    (2) For purposes of paragraph (a)(1) of this section, an eligible 
person shall be deemed to have access to and use of an automobile or 
other conveyance for which the Department of Veterans Affairs has 
provided adaptive equipment if that eligible person has sold, given or 
transferred the automobile or other conveyance to a spouse, family 
member or other person residing in the same household as the eligible 
person; or to a business owned by the eligible person, spouse, family 
member or other person residing in the same household as the eligible 
person.
    (b) Basis for payment or reimbursement. VA will reimburse or pay 
for adaptive equipment that VA determines is needed in accordance with 
this section based on the information submitted and the VA Adaptive 
Equipment Schedule for Automobiles and Other Conveyances (Schedule). In 
addition to paying or reimbursing for specific types of adaptive 
equipment listed in the Schedule, VA will pay, or reimburse for 
roadside service, and waste disposal fees consistent with the Schedule. 
Determination of payment or reimbursement rates are based on the 
Schedule in effect on the date installation, reinstallation, 
replacement, or repair is complete. Schedule labor rates are classified 
as ``In Shop (low technology)'' or ``High Technology.'' High Technology 
means labor performed on or modification of adaptive equipment devices 
or systems that are capable of controlling vehicle functions or driving 
controls, and operate with a designed logic system, or interface or 
integrate with an electronic system of the vehicle. In Shop (low 
technology) means labor performed on adaptive equipment all other 
devices or modifications that do not meet the definition of High 
Technology.
    (1) Payments made for adaptive equipment that is authorized under 
this section shall constitute payment in full and shall extinguish the 
eligible person's liability to the registered provider. The registered 
provider may not impose any additional charge on the eligible person 
for any adaptive equipment that is authorized under this section and 
for which payment is made by VA.
    (2) This paragraph sets forth what must be submitted to VA in order 
for VA to reimburse or pay for adaptive equipment.
    (i) Reimbursement when services performed by registered providers. 
VA will reimburse eligible persons identified in 38 CFR 17.156(a) who 
have purchased adaptive equipment (e.g., installations, repairs, 
reinstallations, replacements) from registered providers. The eligible 
person must submit to VA a completed VA Form 10-1394, an itemized 
estimate, and provide VA with either a final itemized: (1) Invoice, (2) 
paid receipt, or (3) bill of sale for the purchase.
    (ii) Reimbursement when services performed by unregistered 
providers. VA will reimburse eligible persons identified in 38 CFR 
17.156(a) who have purchased adaptive equipment (e.g., installations, 
repairs, reinstallations, replacements) from unregistered providers. 
The eligible person must submit to VA a completed VA Form 10-1394 and a 
final itemized (1) invoice, (2) paid receipt, or (3) bill of sale for 
the purchase.
    (iii) Payments to registered providers for adaptive equipment. VA 
will pay registered providers for adaptive equipment (e.g., 
installations, repairs, reinstallations, replacements) furnished to 
eligible persons identified in 38 CFR 17.156(a). The following must be 
submitted before VA will pay. The eligible person or the registered 
provider must sign and submit to VA a completed VA Form 10-1394 and an 
itemized estimate prior to the completion of work. The eligible person 
or registered provider must provide VA with a final itemized invoice 
after the work is completed.
    (iv) In the case of any installation, repair or replacement of 
adaptive equipment performed outside of the United States where an 
invoice, estimate, or bill of sale is calculated in a foreign currency, 
an application submitted under this paragraph must

[[Page 14442]]

include the conversion rate from the foreign currency to U.S. dollars, 
and calculation of the invoice, estimate, or bill of sale amount in 
U.S. dollars.
    (3) VA will reimburse or pay labor costs as follows:
    (i) For any labor costs associated with the installation of 
adaptive equipment by a registered provider, VA will reimburse or pay 
the lesser of:
    (A) The relevant Schedule hourly labor rate, per paragraph (b) of 
this section, multiplied by the number of hours listed by the 
registered provider;
    (B) The labor costs included in the itemized estimate; or
    (C) The hourly labor rate provided by the registered provider in 
the final itemized invoice multiplied by the number of hours listed by 
the registered provider.
    (ii) VA does not reimburse or pay labor costs for pre-installed 
(i.e., original equipment manufacturer) equipment.
    (iii) VA does not reimburse or pay labor costs of unregistered 
providers.
    (4) New adaptive equipment. VA will reimburse an eligible person 
who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(i) or (ii) of this section, or pay 
a registered provider who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(iii) of this 
section for new adaptive equipment (including equipment that has been 
installed or used for one year or less from the date of manufacture 
listed in the Schedule as follows:
    (i) VA will pay the lesser of the amount for the new adaptive 
equipment listed in either a final itemized: (1) Invoice, (2) paid 
receipt, or (3) bill of sale for the purchase; or (4) the amount listed 
in the Schedule.
    (ii) VA will reimburse or pay any labor costs consistent with 
paragraph (b)(3) of this section.
    (5) Used adaptive equipment. For used adaptive equipment listed in 
the Schedule that is more than one (1) year old from the date of 
manufacture:
    (i) VA will depreciate it by twenty (20%) percent per year from the 
time the equipment was pre-installed or installed as new on an 
automobile or other conveyance to the time of its reinstallation for 
which reimbursement or payment is being sought for a period up to five 
(5) years. VA will reimburse an eligible person, who meets the 
requirements of (b)(2)(i) or (ii) of this section, or pay a registered 
provider who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(iii) of this section the 
lesser of the amount of the adaptive equipment listed in the final 
itemized invoice, paid receipt, or bill of sale for the purchase or the 
amount listed in the Schedule reduced by twenty (20%) percent for each 
year from the time the equipment was pre-installed or installed on the 
automobile or other conveyance for a period up to five (5) years.
    (ii) VA will reimburse or pay any labor costs consistent with 
paragraph (b)(3) of this section, but will not reimburse or pay labor 
costs for used equipment that is more than five (5) years old from the 
date of manufacture.
    (6) Unlisted adaptive equipment. For adaptive equipment not listed 
in the Schedule but meeting the definition of adaptive equipment in 38 
CFR 17.157, VA will reimburse an eligible person who meets the 
requirements of (b)(2)(i) or (ii) of this section, or pay a registered 
provider who meets the requirements of (b)(2)(iii) of this section:
    (i) The lesser of the cost of the adaptive equipment when equal to 
or less than what VA has paid for a similar item in the past or, when 
available, the commercially available price for a similar item. If the 
price of a similar commercially available item is not available, or VA 
has not previously paid for a similar item, VA will pay or reimburse 
the billed charges.
    (ii) VA will reimburse or pay any labor costs consistent with 
paragraph (b)(3) of this section.
    (7) VA will establish the Schedule for each fiscal year after 
September 30, 2019 and publish that Schedule on a publicly accessible 
page on the www.prosthetics.va.gov website. VA will increase the 
reimbursement amounts in the Schedule using the indices for two 
expenditure categories of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for All Urban 
Consumers. The index for the expenditure category for ``motor vehicle 
parts and equipment'' will be used to calculate the increase in the 
reimbursement amounts for adaptive equipment on the Schedule, and the 
index for ``motor vehicle maintenance and repair'' will be used to 
calculate the increase in the reimbursement amounts for labor. Such 
increases to the Schedule for adaptive equipment and labor will be 
equal to the percentage by which the respective index increased during 
the 12-month period ending with the last month for which CPI data is 
available. In the event that such index does not increase during such 
period, there will be no change to the Schedule for the reimbursement 
amounts for which the index is used to calculate increases. The amounts 
for the new fiscal year will be rounded up to the whole dollar amount.
    (c) Repair of used adaptive equipment. Reimbursement or payment for 
a repair to an item of used adaptive equipment may be provided for 
adaptive equipment installed on an automobile or other conveyance that 
meets the limitations of paragraph (a) of this section. VA will pay or 
reimburse labor costs associated with the repairs in accordance with 
paragraph (b)(3) of this section.
    (1) For repairs to used adaptive equipment, VA will reimburse the 
eligible person meeting the requirements of (b)(2)(i) or (ii) of this 
section as follows: the lesser of the amount of the adaptive equipment 
listed in either a final itemized: (1) Invoice, (2) paid receipt, or 
(3) bill of sale for the purchase.
    (2) For repairs to used adaptive equipment, VA will reimburse a 
registered provider meeting the requirements of (b)(2)(iii) of this 
section as follows: The lesser of the amount of the adaptive equipment 
listed in the final itemized (1) invoice, (2) paid receipt, or (3) bill 
of sale for the purchase.
    (The Office of Management and Budget has approved the information 
collection requirements in this section under control number 2900-
0188.)

[FR Doc. 2020-04564 Filed 3-11-20; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 8320-01-P