Solicitation of Nomination for Appointment to the Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking nominees to be considered for membership on the Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses (Committee). The Committee is authorized by Public Law 105-368, Sec. 104 (the statute), to provide advice to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) on the proposed research studies, plans, and strategies related to understanding and treating the health consequences of military service in the Southwest Asia theatre of operations during the 1990-1991 Gulf War. In accordance with the statute and the Committee's current charter, the majority of the membership shall consist of non-Federal employees, appointed by the Secretary from the general public, serving as Special Government Employees. The Committee provides, not later than December 1 of each year, an annual report summarizing its activities for the preceding year. The Committee reports to the Secretary through the Under Secretary for Health. The Secretary appoints Committee members for a period of 2 to 3 years. A term of service for any member may not exceed 3 years. The Secretary may reappoint members for additional terms. Self-nominations and nominations of non-Veterans will be accepted. Any letters of nomination from organizations or other individuals should accompany the package when it is submitted. In accordance with OMB guidance, federally-registered lobbyists may not serve on Federal advisory committees in their individual capacity. Additional information regarding this issue can be found at: www.federalregister.gov/articles/2014/08/13/2014-19140/revised- guidance-on-appointment-of- lobbyists-to-federal-advisory-committees-boards-and-commissions.