Department of Defense April 28, 2020 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Defense Health Agency announces a proposed public information collection and seeks public comment on the provisions thereof. Comments are invited on: Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility; the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed information collection; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways to minimize the burden of the information collection on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

This final rule adds a part to the Code of Federal Regulations which assists victims and witnesses of alleged crimes committed in violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), and discusses the rights of crime victims under the UCMJ which are more extensive than those of witnesses. The rule also describes notification and assistance available to victims and witnesses of crime from initial contact with the local responsible official, law enforcement officer, or criminal investigation officer through the investigation of the crime and the prosecution, acquittal or confinement, and release of the accused. Finally, the rule includes annual reporting requirements for assistance provided across the DoD to victims of and witnesses to sex- related crime, and legal assistance for sex-related crime victims.