CHAPTER 18—BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS AND CERTAIN OTHER VETERANS

        

SUBCHAPTER I—CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS BORN WITH SPINA BIFIDA

        

SUBCHAPTER II—CHILDREN OF WOMEN VIETNAM VETERANS BORN WITH CERTAIN BIRTH DEFECTS

        

SUBCHAPTER III—CHILDREN OF CERTAIN KOREA AND THAILAND SERVICE VETERANS BORN WITH SPINA BIFIDA

        

SUBCHAPTER IV—GENERAL PROVISIONS

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2023—Pub. L. 118–18, §1(e), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 105, added items 1835 to 1838.

2019—Pub. L. 116–23, §4(c)(2), June 25, 2019, 133 Stat. 971, substituted "CHILDREN OF CERTAIN KOREA AND THAILAND SERVICE VETERANS BORN WITH SPINA BIFIDA" for "CHILDREN OF CERTAIN KOREA SERVICE VETERANS BORN WITH SPINA BIFIDA" in item for subchapter III and added item 1822.

2003—Pub. L. 108–183, §102(d)(2), (e)(1), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2654, substituted "BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS AND CERTAIN OTHER VETERANS" for "BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS" in chapter heading, added item for subchapter III and item 1821, and redesignated former item for subchapter III and items 1821 to 1824 as item for subchapter IV and items 1831 to 1834, respectively.

2000—Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(f)(1), (3), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1860, 1861, substituted "BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS" for "BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS WHO ARE BORN WITH SPINA BIFIDA" in chapter heading, added item for subchapter I, struck out items 1801 "Definitions" and 1806 "Applicability of certain administrative provisions", added item for subchapter II and items 1811 to 1816, and added item for subchapter III and items 1821 to 1824.

1997—Pub. L. 105–114, title IV, §404(b)(2), Nov. 21, 1997, 111 Stat. 2295, substituted "Applicability of certain administrative provisions" for "Effective date of awards" in item 1806.

[§1801. Repealed. Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(c)(1), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1860]

Section, added Pub. L. 104–204, title IV, §421(b)(1), Sept. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 2923; amended Pub. L. 105–114, title IV, §404(a), Nov. 21, 1997, 111 Stat. 2294, defined "child" and "Vietnam veteran".

A prior section 1801 was renumbered section 3701 of this title.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Repeal effective on the first day of the first month beginning more than one year after Nov. 1, 2000, see section 401(g) of Pub. L. 106–419, set out as an Effective Date note under section 1811 of this title.

Effective Date

Chapter effective Oct. 1, 1997, notwithstanding section 421(d) of Pub. L. 104–204, set out below, unless legislation other than Pub. L. 104–204 is enacted providing for an earlier effective date, see section 422(c) of Pub. L. 104–204, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 1151 of this title.

Pub. L. 104–204, title IV, §421(d), Sept. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 2926, provided that: "This section [enacting this chapter and amending section 5312 of this title] and the amendments made by this section shall take effect on January 1, 1997."

Congressional Purpose

Pub. L. 104–204, title IV, §421(a), Sept. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 2923, provided that: "The purpose of this section [enacting this chapter and amending section 5312 of this title] is to provide for the special needs of certain children of Vietnam veterans who were born with the birth defect spina bifida, possibly as the result of the exposure of one or both parents to herbicides during active service in the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam era, through the provision of health care and monetary benefits."

SUBCHAPTER I—CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS BORN WITH SPINA BIFIDA

§1802. Spina bifida conditions covered

This subchapter applies with respect to all forms and manifestations of spina bifida except spina bifida occulta.

(Added Pub. L. 104–204, title IV, §421(b)(1), Sept. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 2923; amended Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(e)(1), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1860; Pub. L. 107–14, §8(b)(3), June 5, 2001, 115 Stat. 36.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1802 was renumbered section 3702 of this title.

Amendments

2001—Pub. L. 107–14 made technical amendment to directory language of Pub. L. 106–419. See 2000 Amendment note below.

2000—Pub. L. 106–419, as amended by Pub. L. 107–14, substituted "This subchapter" for "This chapter".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2001 Amendment

Pub. L. 107–14, §8(b), June 5, 2001, 115 Stat. 36, provided that the amendment made by section 8(b) is effective Nov. 1, 2000, and as if included in the Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000, Pub. L. 106–419, as enacted.

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–419 effective on the first day of the first month beginning more than one year after Nov. 1, 2000, see section 401(g) of Pub. L. 106–419, set out as an Effective Date note under section 1811 of this title.

§1803. Health care

(a) In accordance with regulations which the Secretary shall prescribe, the Secretary shall provide a child of a Vietnam veteran who is suffering from spina bifida with health care under this section.

(b) The Secretary may provide health care under this section directly or by contract or other arrangement with any health care provider.

(c) For the purposes of this section—

(1) The term "health care"—

(A) means home care, hospital care, nursing home care, outpatient care, preventive care, habilitative and rehabilitative care, case management, and respite care; and

(B) includes—

(i) the training of appropriate members of a child's family or household in the care of the child; and

(ii) the provision of such pharmaceuticals, supplies, equipment, devices, appliances, assistive technology, direct transportation costs to and from approved sources of health care, and other materials as the Secretary determines necessary.

(2) The term "health care provider" includes specialized spina bifida clinics, health care plans, insurers, organizations, institutions, and any other entity or individual furnishing health care services that the Secretary determines are authorized under this section.

(3) The term "home care" means outpatient care, habilitative and rehabilitative care, preventive health services, and health-related services furnished to an individual in the individual's home or other place of residence.

(4) The term "hospital care" means care and treatment for a disability furnished to an individual who has been admitted to a hospital as a patient.

(5) The term "nursing home care" means care and treatment for a disability furnished to an individual who has been admitted to a nursing home as a resident.

(6) The term "outpatient care" means care and treatment of a disability, and preventive health services, furnished to an individual other than hospital care or nursing home care.

(7) The term "preventive care" means care and treatment furnished to prevent disability or illness, including periodic examinations, immunizations, patient health education, and such other services as the Secretary determines necessary to provide effective and economical preventive health care.

(8) The term "habilitative and rehabilitative care" means such professional, counseling, and guidance services and treatment programs (other than vocational training under section 1804 of this title) as are necessary to develop, maintain, or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of a disabled person.

(9) The term "respite care" means care furnished on an intermittent basis for a limited period to an individual who resides primarily in a private residence when such care will help the individual to continue residing in such private residence.

(Added Pub. L. 104–204, title IV, §421(b)(1), Sept. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 2923; amended Pub. L. 105–368, title X, §1005(b)(4), Nov. 11, 1998, 112 Stat. 3365; Pub. L. 110–387, title IV, §408(a), Oct. 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 4130.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1803 was renumbered section 3703 of this title.

Amendments

2008—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 110–387 substituted "health care under this section" for "such health care as the Secretary determines is needed by the child for the spina bifida or any disability that is associated with such condition".

1998—Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 105–368 substituted "furnishing health care services that the Secretary determines are authorized" for "who furnishes health care that the Secretary determines authorized".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2008 Amendment

Pub. L. 110–387, title IV, §408(b), Oct. 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 4130, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to care furnished after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 10, 2008]."

§1804. Vocational training and rehabilitation

(a) Pursuant to such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe, the Secretary may provide vocational training under this section to a child of a Vietnam veteran who is suffering from spina bifida if the Secretary determines that the achievement of a vocational goal by such child is reasonably feasible.

(b) Any program of vocational training for a child under this section shall—

(1) be designed in consultation with the child in order to meet the child's individual needs;

(2) be set forth in an individualized written plan of vocational rehabilitation; and

(3) be designed and developed before the date specified in subsection (d)(3) so as to permit the beginning of the program as of the date specified in that subsection.

(c)(1) A vocational training program for a child under this section—

(A) shall consist of such vocationally oriented services and assistance, including such placement and post-placement services and personal and work adjustment training, as the Secretary determines are necessary to enable the child to prepare for and participate in vocational training or employment; and

(B) may include a program of education at an institution of higher learning if the Secretary determines that the program of education is predominantly vocational in content.

(2) A vocational training program under this section may not include the provision of any loan or subsistence allowance or any automobile adaptive equipment.

(d)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) and subject to subsection (e)(2), a vocational training program under this section may not exceed 24 months.

(2) The Secretary may grant an extension of a vocational training program for a child under this section for up to 24 additional months if the Secretary determines that the extension is necessary in order for the child to achieve a vocational goal identified (before the end of the first 24 months of such program) in the written plan of vocational rehabilitation formulated for the child pursuant to subsection (b).

(3) A vocational training program under this section may begin on the child's 18th birthday, or on the successful completion of the child's secondary schooling, whichever first occurs, except that, if the child is above the age of compulsory school attendance under applicable State law and the Secretary determines that the child's best interests will be served thereby, the vocational training program may begin before the child's 18th birthday.

(e)(1) A child who is pursuing a program of vocational training under this section and is also eligible for assistance under a program under chapter 35 of this title may not receive assistance under both such programs concurrently. The child shall elect (in such form and manner as the Secretary may prescribe) the program under which the child is to receive assistance.

(2) The aggregate period for which a child may receive assistance under this section and chapter 35 of this title may not exceed 48 months (or the part-time equivalent thereof).

(Added Pub. L. 104–204, title IV, §421(b)(1), Sept. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 2924; amended Pub. L. 105–114, title IV, §404(c), Nov. 21, 1997, 111 Stat. 2295; Pub. L. 108–183, title VII, §708(a)(3), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2673.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1804 was renumbered section 3704 of this title.

Amendments

2003—Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 108–183 substituted "section" for "subsection".

1997—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–114, §404(c)(1), substituted "shall—" for "shall be designed in consultation with the child in order to meet the child's individual needs and shall be set forth in an individualized written plan of vocational rehabilitation." and added pars. (1) to (3).

Subsec. (c)(1)(B). Pub. L. 105–114, §404(c)(2), substituted "higher learning" for "higher education".

Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 105–114, §404(c)(3), added par. (3).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1997 Amendment

Pub. L. 105–114, title IV, §404(d), Nov. 21, 1997, 111 Stat. 2295, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 1801 and 1806 of this title] shall take effect as of October 1, 1997."

§1805. Monetary allowance

(a) The Secretary shall pay a monthly allowance under this section to any child of a Vietnam veteran for any disability resulting from spina bifida suffered by such child.

(b)(1) The amount of the allowance paid to a child under this section shall be based on the degree of disability suffered by the child, as determined in accordance with such schedule for rating disabilities resulting from spina bifida as the Secretary may prescribe.

(2) The Secretary shall, in prescribing the rating schedule for the purposes of this section, establish three levels of disability upon which the amount of the allowance provided by this section shall be based.

(3) The amounts of the allowance shall be $200 per month for the lowest level of disability prescribed, $700 per month for the intermediate level of disability prescribed, and $1,200 per month for the highest level of disability prescribed. Such amounts are subject to adjustment under section 5312 of this title.

(Added Pub. L. 104–204, title IV, §421(b)(1), Sept. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 2925; amended Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(c)(2), (e)(2), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1860.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1805 was renumbered section 3705 of this title.

Amendments

2000—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 106–419, §401(e)(2), substituted "this section" for "this chapter".

Subsecs. (c), (d). Pub. L. 106–419, §401(c)(2), struck out subsecs. (c) and (d) which read as follows:

"(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, receipt by a child of an allowance under this section shall not impair, infringe, or otherwise affect the right of the child to receive any other benefit to which the child may otherwise be entitled under any law administered by the Secretary, nor shall receipt of such an allowance impair, infringe, or otherwise affect the right of any individual to receive any benefit to which the individual is entitled under any law administered by the Secretary that is based on the child's relationship to the individual.

"(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the allowance paid to a child under this section shall not be considered income or resources in determining eligibility for or the amount of benefits under any Federal or federally assisted program."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–419 effective on the first day of the first month beginning more than one year after Nov. 1, 2000, see section 401(g) of Pub. L. 106–419, set out as an Effective Date note under section 1811 of this title.

[§1806. Repealed. Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(c)(3), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1860]

Section, added Pub. L. 104–204, title IV, §421(b)(1), Sept. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 2926; amended Pub. L. 105–114, title IV, §404(b)(1), Nov. 21, 1997, 111 Stat. 2294, related to applicability of certain administrative provisions.

Prior section 1806 was renumbered section 3706 of this title.

Prior section 1807, added Pub. L. 94–324, §2(a), June 30, 1976, 90 Stat. 720; amended Pub. L. 97–72, title III, §303(d), Nov. 3, 1981, 95 Stat. 1060, related to service after July 25, 1947, and prior to June 27, 1950, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 100–322, title IV, §415(a)(4), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 550.

Prior section 1810 was renumbered section 3710 of this title.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Repeal effective on the first day of the first month beginning more than one year after Nov. 1, 2000, see section 401(g) of Pub. L. 106–419, set out as an Effective Date note under section 1811 of this title.

SUBCHAPTER II—CHILDREN OF WOMEN VIETNAM VETERANS BORN WITH CERTAIN BIRTH DEFECTS

§1811. Definitions

In this subchapter:

(1) The term "eligible child" means an individual who—

(A) is the child (as defined in section 1831(1) of this title) of a woman Vietnam veteran; and

(B) was born with one or more covered birth defects.

(2) The term "covered birth defect" means a birth defect identified by the Secretary under section 1812 of this title.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(a), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1857; amended Pub. L. 108–183, title I, §102(d)(1), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2654.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1811 was renumbered section 3711 of this title.

Amendments

2003—Par. (1)(A). Pub. L. 108–183 substituted "section 1831(1)" for "section 1821(1)".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(g), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1861, provided that:

"(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the amendments made by this section [enacting this subchapter and subchapter III of this chapter, amending sections 1802 and 1805 of this title, and repealing sections 1801 and 1806 of this title] shall take effect on the first day of the first month beginning more than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 1, 2000].

"(2) The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall identify birth defects under section 1812 of title 38, United States Code (as added by subsection (a) of this section), and shall prescribe the regulations required by subchapter II of chapter 18 of that title (as so added), not later than the effective date specified in paragraph (1)."

§1812. Covered birth defects

(a) Identification.—The Secretary shall identify the birth defects of children of women Vietnam veterans that—

(1) are associated with the service of those veterans in the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam era; and

(2) result in permanent physical or mental disability.

(b) Limitations.—(1) The birth defects identified under subsection (a) may not include birth defects resulting from the following:

(A) A familial disorder.

(B) A birth-related injury.

(C) A fetal or neonatal infirmity with well-established causes.

(2) In any case where affirmative evidence establishes that a covered birth defect of a child of a woman Vietnam veteran results from a cause other than the active military, naval, or air service of that veteran in the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam era, no benefits or assistance may be provided the child under this subchapter.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(a), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1857.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1812 was renumbered section 3712 of this title.

Another prior section 1812, Pub. L. 85–857, Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1210, automatically guaranteed loans made to a veteran if made for the purpose of purchasing farms and farm equipment, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 93–569, §7(a), Dec. 31, 1974, 88 Stat. 1866.

§1813. Health care

(a) Needed Care.—The Secretary shall provide an eligible child such health care as the Secretary determines is needed by the child for that child's covered birth defects or any disability that is associated with those birth defects.

(b) Authority for Care To Be Provided Directly or by Contract.—The Secretary may provide health care under this section directly or by contract or other arrangement with a health care provider.

(c) Definitions.—For purposes of this section, the definitions in section 1803(c) of this title shall apply with respect to the provision of health care under this section, except that for such purposes—

(1) the reference to "specialized spina bifida clinic" in paragraph (2) of that section shall be treated as a reference to a specialized clinic treating the birth defect concerned under this section; and

(2) the reference to "vocational training under section 1804 of this title" in paragraph (8) of that section shall be treated as a reference to vocational training under section 1814 of this title.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(a), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1857.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1813 was renumbered section 3713 of this title.

Another prior section 1813, Pub. L. 85–857, Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1211, automatically guaranteed loans made to a veteran if made for the purpose of purchasing business property, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 93–569, §7(a), Dec. 31, 1974, 88 Stat. 1866.

§1814. Vocational training

(a) Authority.—The Secretary may provide a program of vocational training to an eligible child if the Secretary determines that the achievement of a vocational goal by the child is reasonably feasible.

(b) Applicable Provisions.—Subsections (b) through (e) of section 1804 of this title shall apply with respect to any program of vocational training provided under subsection (a).

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(a), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1858.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1814 was renumbered section 3714 of this title.

Another prior section 1814, Pub. L. 85–857, Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1211, Pub. L. 86–665, §3, July 14, 1960, 74 Stat. 531; Pub. L. 87–84, §1(c), July 6, 1961, 75 Stat. 201, automatically guaranteed loans made to a veteran if made for the purpose of refinancing delinquent indebtedness, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 93–569, §7(a), Dec. 31, 1974, 88 Stat. 1866.

§1815. Monetary allowance

(a) Monetary Allowance.—The Secretary shall pay a monthly allowance to any eligible child for any disability resulting from the covered birth defects of that child.

(b) Schedule for Rating Disabilities.—(1) The amount of the monthly allowance paid under this section shall be based on the degree of disability suffered by the child concerned, as determined in accordance with a schedule for rating disabilities resulting from covered birth defects that is prescribed by the Secretary.

(2) In prescribing a schedule for rating disabilities for the purposes of this section, the Secretary shall establish four levels of disability upon which the amount of the allowance provided by this section shall be based. The levels of disability established may take into account functional limitations, including limitations on cognition, communication, motor abilities, activities of daily living, and employability.

(c) Amount of Monthly Allowance.—The amount of the monthly allowance paid under this section shall be as follows:

(1) In the case of a child suffering from the lowest level of disability prescribed in the schedule for rating disabilities under subsection (b), $100.

(2) In the case of a child suffering from the lower intermediate level of disability prescribed in the schedule for rating disabilities under subsection (b), the greater of—

(A) $214; or

(B) the monthly amount payable under section 1805(b)(3) of this title for the lowest level of disability prescribed for purposes of that section.

(3) In the case of a child suffering from the higher intermediate level of disability prescribed in the schedule for rating disabilities under subsection (b), the greater of—

(A) $743; or

(B) the monthly amount payable under section 1805(b)(3) of this title for the intermediate level of disability prescribed for purposes of that section.

(4) In the case of a child suffering from the highest level of disability prescribed in the schedule for rating disabilities under subsection (b), the greater of—

(A) $1,272; or

(B) the monthly amount payable under section 1805(b)(3) of this title for the highest level of disability prescribed for purposes of that section.

(d) Indexing to Social Security Benefit Increases.—Amounts under paragraphs (1), (2)(A), (3)(A), and (4)(A) of subsection (c) shall be subject to adjustment from time to time under section 5312 of this title.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(a), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1858.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1815 was renumbered section 3703(a)(2) of this title.

§1816. Regulations

The Secretary shall prescribe regulations for purposes of the administration of this subchapter.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(a), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1859.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1816 was renumbered sections 3732 and 3733 of this title.

Prior sections 1817 and 1817A were renumbered sections 3713 and 3714 of this title, respectively.

A prior section 1818, added Pub. L. 89–358, §5(a), Mar. 3, 1966, 80 Stat. 25; amended Pub. L. 91–506, §2(e), Oct. 23, 1970, 84 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 93–569, §8(6), (7), Dec. 31, 1974, 88 Stat. 1866, 1867; Pub. L. 94–324, §4, June 30, 1976, 90 Stat. 720; Pub. L. 95–476, title I, §106(a), Oct. 18, 1978, 92 Stat. 1499; Pub. L. 97–72, title III, §303(g), Nov. 3, 1981, 95 Stat. 1060; Pub. L. 97–295, §4(66), Oct. 12, 1982, 96 Stat. 1310, related to service after Jan. 31, 1955, and prior to Aug. 5, 1964, or after May 7, 1975, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 100–322, title IV, §415(b)(3), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 551.

A prior section 1819 was renumbered section 3712 of this title.

A prior section 1820 was renumbered section 3720 of this title.

SUBCHAPTER III—CHILDREN OF CERTAIN KOREA AND THAILAND SERVICE VETERANS BORN WITH SPINA BIFIDA

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior subchapter III of this chapter, consisting of former sections 1821 to 1824, was redesignated subchapter IV of this chapter.

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–23, §4(c)(1), June 25, 2019, 133 Stat. 971, inserted "AND THAILAND" after "KOREA" in subchapter heading.

§1821. Benefits for children of certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida

(a) Benefits Authorized.—The Secretary may provide to any child of a veteran of covered service in Korea who is suffering from spina bifida the health care, vocational training and rehabilitation, and monetary allowance required to be paid to a child of a Vietnam veteran who is suffering from spina bifida under subchapter I of this chapter as if such child of a veteran of covered service in Korea were a child of a Vietnam veteran who is suffering from spina bifida under such subchapter.

(b) Spina Bifida Conditions Covered.—This section applies with respect to all forms and manifestations of spina bifida, except spina bifida occulta.

(c) Veteran of Covered Service in Korea.—For purposes of this section, a veteran of covered service in Korea is any individual, without regard to the characterization of that individual's service, who—

(1) served in the active military, naval, or air service in or near the Korean demilitarized zone (DMZ), as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, during the period beginning on September 1, 1967, and ending on August 31, 1971; and

(2) is determined by the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, to have been exposed to a herbicide agent during such service in or near the Korean demilitarized zone.

(d) Herbicide Agent.—For purposes of this section, the term "herbicide agent" means a chemical in a herbicide used in support of United States and allied military operations in or near the Korean demilitarized zone, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, during the period beginning on September 1, 1967, and ending on August 31, 1971.

(Added Pub. L. 108–183, title I, §102(a)(2), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2653.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1821 was renumbered section 1831 of this title.

Another prior section 1821 was renumbered section 3721 of this title.

§1822. Benefits for children of certain Thailand service veterans born with spina bifida

(a) Benefits Authorized.—The Secretary may provide to any child of a veteran of covered service in Thailand who is suffering from spina bifida the health care, vocational training and rehabilitation, and monetary allowance required to be paid to a child of a Vietnam veteran who is suffering from spina bifida under subchapter I of this chapter as if such child of a veteran of covered service in Thailand were a child of a Vietnam veteran who is suffering from spina bifida under such subchapter.

(b) Spina Bifida Conditions Covered.—This section applies with respect to all forms and manifestations of spina bifida, except spina bifida occulta.

(c) Veteran of Covered Service in Thailand.—For purposes of this section, a veteran of covered service in Thailand is any individual, without regard to the characterization of that individual's service, who—

(1) served in the active military, naval, or air service in Thailand, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, during the period beginning on January 9, 1962, and ending on May 7, 1975; and

(2) is determined by the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, to have been exposed to a herbicide agent during such service in Thailand.

(d) Herbicide Agent.—For purposes of this section, the term "herbicide agent" means a chemical in a herbicide used in support of United States and allied military operations in Thailand, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, during the period beginning on January 9, 1962, and ending on May 7, 1975.

(Added Pub. L. 116–23, §4(a), June 25, 2019, 133 Stat. 970.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1822 was renumbered section 1832 of this title.

Another prior section 1822, Pub. L. 85–857, Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1214; Pub. L. 89–358, §5(c), Mar. 3, 1966, 88 Stat. 26; Pub. L. 89–623, §1, Oct. 4, 1966, 80 Stat. 873; Pub. L. 90–301, §2(b), May 7, 1968, 82 Stat. 113, provided for bringing of an action in district court, by veteran or Attorney General, against one who knowingly participated in sale of property to a veteran for consideration in excess of reasonable value of property, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 93–569, §§7(a), 10, Dec. 31, 1974, 88 Stat. 1866, 1867, effective Dec. 31, 1974.

A prior section 1823 was renumbered section 1833 of this title.

Another prior section 1823 was renumbered section 3723 of this title and subsequently repealed.

A prior section 1824 was renumbered section 1834 of this title.

Another prior section 1824 was renumbered section 3724 of this title and subsequently repealed.

Another prior section 1824 was renumbered section 3725 of this title and subsequently repealed.

A prior section 1825 was renumbered 3725 of this title and subsequently repealed.

Prior sections 1826 to 1830 were renumbered sections 3726 to 3730 of this title, respectively.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Pub. L. 116–23, §4(f), June 25, 2019, 133 Stat. 972, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [enacting this section and amending section 1831 of this title] shall take effect on January 1, 2020."

Implementation

Pub. L. 116–23, §4(d), June 25, 2019, 133 Stat. 971, provided that:

"(1) Guidance.—Notwithstanding section 501 of such title, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may issue guidance to implement section 1822 of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), before prescribing new regulations under such section.

"(2) Updates.—(A) Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [June 25, 2019], the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Senate regarding the plans of the Secretary to respond to inquiries from veterans regarding claims for disability compensation under section 1822 of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (a) of this section.

"(B) On a quarterly basis during the period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act and ending on the date on which regulations are prescribed to carry out such section 1822, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Senate updates on the status of such regulations.

"(3) Pending cases.—

"(A) Authority to stay.—The Secretary may stay a claim described in subparagraph (B) until the date on which the Secretary commences the implementation of section 1822 of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (a).

"(B) Claims described.—A claim described in this subparagraph is a claim for benefits—

"(i) relating to the spina bifida and service covered by such section 1822; and

"(ii) that is pending at the Veterans Benefits Administration or the Board of Veterans' Appeals on or after the date of the enactment of this Act and before the date on which the Secretary commences the implementation of such section 1822."

SUBCHAPTER IV—GENERAL PROVISIONS

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2003—Pub. L. 108–183, §102(a)(1), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2653, redesignated former subchapter III of this chapter as this subchapter.

§1831. Definitions

In this chapter:

(1) The term "child" means the following:

(A) For purposes of subchapters I and II of this chapter, an individual, regardless of age or marital status, who—

(i) is the natural child of a Vietnam veteran; and

(ii) was conceived after the date on which that veteran first entered the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam era.

(B) For purposes of section 1821 of this title, an individual, regardless of age or marital status, who—

(i) is the natural child of a veteran of covered service in Korea (as determined for purposes of that section); and

(ii) was conceived after the date on which that veteran first entered service described in subsection (c) of that section.

(C) For purposes of section 1822 of this title, an individual, regardless of age or marital status, who—

(i) is the natural child of a veteran of covered service in Thailand (as determined for purposes of that section); and

(ii) was conceived after the date on which that veteran first entered service described in subsection (c) of that section.

(2) The term "covered child" means a child who is eligible for health care and benefits under this chapter.

(3) The term "covered veteran" means an individual whose children are eligible for health care and benefits under this chapter.

(4) The term "Vietnam veteran" means an individual who performed active military, naval, or air service in the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam era, without regard to the characterization of that individual's service.

(5) The term "Vietnam era" with respect to—

(A) subchapter I of this chapter, means the period beginning on January 9, 1962, and ending on May 7, 1975; and

(B) subchapter II of this chapter, means the period beginning on February 28, 1961, and ending on May 7, 1975.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(b), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1859, §1821; renumbered §1831 and amended Pub. L. 108–183, title I, §102(a)(1), (b), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2653, 2654; Pub. L. 116–23, §4(b), June 25, 2019, 133 Stat. 971; Pub. L. 118–18, §1(a), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 103.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1831 was renumbered section 3731 of this title.

Amendments

2023—Pars. (2) to (5). Pub. L. 118–18 added pars. (2) and (3) and redesignated former pars. (2) and (3) as (4) and (5), respectively.

2019—Par. (1)(B). Pub. L. 116–23, §4(b)(1)(A), substituted "section 1821 of this title" for "subchapter III of this chapter" in introductory provisions.

Par. (1)(B)(i). Pub. L. 116–23, §4(b)(1)(B), substituted "that section" for "section 1821 of this title".

Par. (1)(C). Pub. L. 116–23, §4(b)(2), added subpar. (C).

2003—Pub. L. 108–183, §102(a)(1), renumbered section 1821 of this title as this section.

Par. (1). Pub. L. 108–183, §102(b), added par. (1) and struck out former par. (1) which read as follows: "The term 'child' means an individual, regardless of age or marital status, who—

"(A) is the natural child of a Vietnam veteran; and

"(B) was conceived after the date on which that veteran first entered the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam era."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2019 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 116–23 effective Jan. 1, 2020, see section 4(f) of Pub. L. 116–23, set out as an Effective Date note under section 1822 of this title.

Effective Date

Subchapter effective on the first day of the first month beginning more than one year after Nov. 1, 2000, see section 401(g) of Pub. L. 106–419, set out as a note under section 1811 of this title.

Memorandum of Understanding

Pub. L. 118–18, §1(c), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 104, provided that: "Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 6, 2023], the Under Secretary for Benefits of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Under Secretary for Health of the Department shall enter into a memorandum of understanding—

"(1) to better assist covered children (as defined in section 1831 of title 38, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a)); and

"(2) to establish conditions to be included in the report required by section 1836(c) of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (b)."

§1832. Applicability of certain administrative provisions

(a) Applicability of Certain Provisions Relating to Compensation.—The provisions of this title specified in subsection (b) apply with respect to benefits and assistance under this chapter in the same manner as those provisions apply to compensation paid under chapter 11 of this title.

(b) Specified Provisions.—The provisions of this title referred to in subsection (a) are the following:

(1) Section 5101(c).

(2) Subsections (a), (b)(3), (g), and (i) of section 5110.

(3) Section 5111.

(4) Subsection (a) and paragraphs (1), (6), (9), and (10) of subsection (b) of section 5112.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(b), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1859, §1822; renumbered §1832, Pub. L. 108–183, title I, §102(a)(1), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2653; amended Pub. L. 114–58, title VI, §601(8), Sept. 30, 2015, 129 Stat. 538.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1832 was renumbered section 3732 of this title.

Another prior section 1832 was renumbered section 3733(d) of this title.

Amendments

2015—Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 114–58 substituted "(b)(3)" for "(b)(2)".

2003—Pub. L. 108–183 renumbered section 1822 of this title as this section.

§1833. Treatment of receipt of monetary allowance and other benefits

(a) Coordination With Other Benefits Paid to the Recipient.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, receipt by an individual of a monetary allowance under this chapter shall not impair, infringe, or otherwise affect the right of the individual to receive any other benefit to which the individual is otherwise entitled under any law administered by the Secretary.

(b) Coordination With Benefits Based on Relationship of Recipients.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, receipt by an individual of a monetary allowance under this chapter shall not impair, infringe, or otherwise affect the right of any other individual to receive any benefit to which such other individual is entitled under any law administered by the Secretary based on the relationship of such other individual to the individual who receives such monetary allowance.

(c) Monetary Allowance Not To Be Considered as Income or Resources for Certain Purposes.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a monetary allowance paid an individual under this chapter shall not be considered as income or resources in determining eligibility for, or the amount of benefits under, any Federal or federally assisted program.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(b), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1860, §1823; renumbered §1833, Pub. L. 108–183, title I, §102(a)(1), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2653.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1833 was renumbered section 3733 of this title.

Amendments

2003—Pub. L. 108–183 renumbered section 1823 of this title as this section.

§1834. Nonduplication of benefits

(a) Monetary Allowance.—In the case of an eligible child under subchapter II of this chapter whose only covered birth defect is spina bifida, a monetary allowance shall be paid under subchapter I of this chapter. In the case of an eligible child under subchapter II of this chapter who has spina bifida and one or more additional covered birth defects, a monetary allowance shall be paid under subchapter II of this chapter. In the case of a child eligible for benefits under subchapter I or II of this chapter who is also eligible for benefits under subchapter III of this chapter, a monetary allowance shall be paid under the subchapter of this chapter elected by the child.

(b) Vocational Rehabilitation.—An individual may only be provided one program of vocational training under this chapter.

(Added Pub. L. 106–419, title IV, §401(b), Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1860, §1824; renumbered §1834 and amended, Pub. L. 108–183, title I, §102(a)(1), (c), Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2653, 2654.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1834 was renumbered section 3734 of this title.

Amendments

2003—Pub. L. 108–183, §102(a)(1), renumbered section 1824 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–183, §102(c), inserted at end: "In the case of a child eligible for benefits under subchapter I or II of this chapter who is also eligible for benefits under subchapter III of this chapter, a monetary allowance shall be paid under the subchapter of this chapter elected by the child."

§1835. Advisory council

(a) In General.—The Secretary shall establish an advisory council on health care and benefits for covered children.

(b) Membership.—The advisory council established under subsection (a) shall be composed of Federal employees.

(c) Duties.—The advisory council established under subsection (a) shall solicit feedback from covered children and covered veterans on the health care and benefits provided under this chapter and communicate such feedback to the Secretary.

(Added Pub. L. 118–18, §1(b), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 103.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1835 was renumbered section 2041 of this title.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Deadline for Establishment of Advisory Council

Pub. L. 118–18, §1(d)(1), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 104, provided that: "Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 6, 2023], the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish the advisory council required under section 1835 of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (b)."

§1836. Care and coordination teams

(a) In General.—The Secretary shall establish care and coordination teams for covered children.

(b) Outreach.—A care and coordination team established under subsection (a) shall attempt to contact each covered child—

(1) not less frequently than once every 180 days, to ensure the continued care of the child and assist with any changes in care needed due to a changed situation of the child; and

(2) as soon as practicable after the identification of a condition listed in the report required by subsection (c).

(c) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the House of Representatives a report setting forth a list of conditions that will trigger outreach to covered children under subsection (b)(2).

(Added Pub. L. 118–18, §1(b), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 103.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of this section, referred to in subsec. (c), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 118–18, which was approved Oct. 6, 2023.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Deadline for Establishment of Care and Coordination Teams

Pub. L. 118–18, §1(d)(2), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 104, provided that: "Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 6, 2023], the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish the care and coordination teams required under section 1836 of such title, as added by subsection (b)."

§1837. Duration of health care and benefits provided

The Secretary shall provide a covered child with health care and benefits under this chapter—

(1) for the duration of the life of the child; and

(2) notwithstanding any death of a parent of the child that precedes the death of the child.

(Added Pub. L. 118–18, §1(b), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 104.)

§1838. Biennial report

Not less frequently than once every two years, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report setting forth the following:

(1) The number of covered children receiving health care or benefits under this chapter as of the date on which the report is submitted.

(2) The number of covered children for which the Department is paying for or providing a social worker as of such date.

(3) Metrics on outreach conducted under section 1836(b) of this title.

(Added Pub. L. 118–18, §1(b), Oct. 6, 2023, 137 Stat. 104.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

Prior sections 1841 to 1851 were renumbered sections 3741 to 3751 of this title, respectively.