Loan Guaranty: Assistance to Eligible Individuals in Acquiring Specially Adapted Housing

Image via WikipediaVeterans and servicemembers with severe disabilities may be eligible under 38 U.S.C. chapter 21 for specially adapted housing (SAH) grants. In administering the SAH program, VA helps these eligible individuals to purchase, construct, or adapt a home that suits the individual's living needs. In a document published in the Federal Register on October 5, 2009 (74 FR 51103), VA proposed to amend regulations in 38 CFR part 36, subpart C, regarding assistance to certain disabled veterans in acquiring SAH, specifically Sec. Sec. 36.4400 through 36.4410, which implement the SAH grant program.

As explained in the proposed rule, VA is amending these regulations for three reasons.

• First, VA believes the regulations should be written in a reader-focused style. 
• Second, detailed guidance about program policies and a regulation written with an easy-to-follow organizational structure will help applicants and eligible individuals (and those acting on their behalf) understand program requirements.
• Third, substantive changes are necessary to implement recent legislation, policy decisions, and a VA General Counsel legal opinion. 

Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 2101(d), the Secretary may prescribe regulations applicable to the SAH program. In revising these regulations, VA intends that applicants, eligible individuals, program participants, and other interested parties will be better informed about the legal requirements and Department policies that guide the administration of SAH grants.

Final Rule