03-21237. Proposed Information Collection Activity: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

AGENCY:

Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs.

ACTION:

Notice.

SUMMARY:

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of a currently approved collection for which approval has expired, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to determine an individual's continued entitlement to VA benefits.

DATES:

Written comments and recommendations on the proposed collection of information should be received on or before October 20, 2003.

ADDRESSES:

Submit written comments on the collection of information to Nancy J. Kessinger, Veterans Benefits Administration (20S52), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420 or e-mail: [e-mail]. Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0465” in any correspondence.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Nancy J. Kessinger at [phone] or FAX [phone].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Under the PRA of 1995 (Public Law 104-13; 44 U.S.C., 3501-3520), Federal agencies must obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for each collection of information they conduct or sponsor. This request for comment is being made pursuant to section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the PRA.

With respect to the following collection of information, VBA invites comments on: (1) Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of VBA's functions, including whether the information will have practical utility; (2) the accuracy of VBA's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information; (3) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and (4) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or the use of other forms of information technology.

Title: Student Verification of Enrollment, VA Form 22-8979.

OMB Control Number: 2900-0465.

Type of Review: Extension of a currently approved collection.

Abstract: VA Form 22-8979 is used by students in certifying attendance and continued enrollment in courses leading to a standard college degree or in non-college degree programs. The form obtains certification of actual attendance by the student and verification of that student's continued enrollment before VA release payment. The student is required to submit the verification on a monthly basis to allow for a frequent, periodic release of payment.

Affected Public: Individuals or households.

Estimated Annual Burden: 45,475 hours.

Estimated Average Burden Per Respondent: 11/3 minutes.

Frequency of Response: On occasion.

Estimated Number of Respondents: 333,333.

Estimated Number of Responses: 2,000,000.

Dated: July 29, 2003.

By direction of the Secretary:

Jacqueline Parks,

IT Specialist, Records Management Service.