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The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced a meeting for the Health Systems Research Scientific Merit Review Board scheduled for March 12, 2025. This meeting will occur online via WebEx and consist of an open session from 12-12:15 p.m., which the public can listen to, and a closed session from 12:15-1:30 p.m., which will discuss research proposals and remain private to protect sensitive information. The Board's goal is to evaluate and support impactful research projects that improve the lives of impaired and disabled veterans. Public comments can be submitted in advance, but not during the meeting.

In the Presidential Proclamation for Thanksgiving Day 2024, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. encourages Americans to come together in gratitude and celebrate the many blessings of the nation. He reflects on the historical significance of Thanksgiving and highlights the spirit of unity and generosity reflected in American values. The proclamation acknowledges the contributions and sacrifices of service members, veterans, and first responders, as well as the dedication of workers, teachers, and families. President Biden declares Thursday, November 28, 2024, as a National Day of Thanksgiving, inviting people to reflect on the support and goodwill shared within their communities over the past year.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a final rule that modifies work requirements and exemptions for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in response to the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023. This rule expands work requirements to include adults aged 50 to 54, but also provides new exemptions for homeless individuals, veterans, and young adults who have aged out of foster care. These changes are expected to affect federal spending and administrative processes while impacting SNAP eligibility for some participants. The rule will take effect on January 16, 2025, with certain provisions expiring on October 1, 2030.

In a proclamation by President Joseph R. Biden Jr., December 7, 2024, is designated as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. This day honors the 2,403 individuals who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor 83 years ago, as well as the bravery of those who fought in World War II to defend democracy. The proclamation emphasizes the importance of supporting veterans and their families and urges Americans to fly the U.S. flag at half-staff to remember the sacrifices made by service members. The proclamation also encourages reflection on the courage shown by the service members on that historic day.

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) of the Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking public comments on a proposed information collection, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This involves the use of form VAF 28-8832 for the Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (PCPG) benefits, which helps determine eligibility. Comments are invited on various aspects, such as the necessity and utility of the information and ways to minimize the burden on respondents. The form is intended for veterans, service members, and their families, with an estimated annual response time of 2,750 hours and a total of 11,000 respondents.

The Department of Veterans Affairs' Veterans Benefits Administration announced a proposed information collection for review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) as part of the Paperwork Reduction Act. The collection will allow veterans to apply for reimbursement for preparatory courses they take to prepare for licensing or certification tests under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Comments on the proposal are being accepted until January 8, 2025, and the form aims to ensure eligible veterans receive rightful payments for their course completion. The expected burden is minimal, with an average response time of 15 minutes and an estimated 41 respondents.