View Rule

VA is proposing to amend regulations concerning the type of evidence that may be used to support a veteran’s statement regarding the occurrence of an in-service personal trauma by expanding acceptance of behavioral marker evidence to all covered mental health claims based on in-service personal trauma. VA is also proposing to define key terms relevant to such claims. This amendment is needed to allow VA to consider behavioral marker evidence when making direct service-connection determinations for certain covered mental health conditions. This amendment will provide greater specificity and clarity to the regulatory text and aid claims processors who develop and decide claims based on in-service personal trauma. The intent of this change is to ease the evidentiary requirements for veterans claiming a mental health condition based on in-service personal trauma. These amendments are in accordance with the President’s priorities that advance equity and support underserved, vulnerable, and marginalized communities. They also improve service delivery, customer experience, and reduce administrative burdens for those accessing public benefits and services.