Veterans Affairs Department Proposed Rule

2020-14559: Update and Clarify Regulatory Bars to Benefits Based on Character of Discharge

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Summary

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to amend its regulations regarding character of discharge determinations. VA proposes to modify the regulatory framework for discharges considered "dishonorable" for VA benefit eligibility purposes, such as discharges due to "willful and persistent misconduct," "an offense involving moral turpitude," and "homosexual acts involving aggravating circumstances or other factors affecting the performance of duty." VA also proposes to extend a "compelling circumstances" exception to certain regulatory bars to benefits in order to ensure fair character of discharge determinations in light of all pertinent factors.

The agency’s own summary, as published.

What this changes

Amends 1 part of the Code of Federal Regulations — the standing rules this notice rewrites.

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