Code of Massachusetts Regulations 123 CMR - OFFICE OF THE VETERAN ADVOCATE
Here’s a refined overview of 123 CMR – Office of the Veteran Advocate, current through September 27, 2024 (Mass Register Issue 1531) (mass.gov):
📘 Structure of 123 CMR
123 CMR 2.00 – Investigations, Inspections, Audits & Reviews
Establishes the full framework (§ 2.01–2.15) by which the Office of the Veteran Advocate (OVA) receives reports, conducts audits and investigations, issues findings, and follows up on responses (law.cornell.edu).
🔍 Key Sections
§ 2.00 Purpose & Scope (2.01–2.02)
Outlines the intent and reach of OVA's oversight regarding veterans in care or receiving services (mass.gov).
§ 2.03 Definitions
Clarifies terms used in OVA's regulatory work—e.g., “fatality,” “near fatality,” “serious bodily injury,” “failure in duty to care,” and “veteran” (casetext.com).
§ 2.04–2.07 Investigative Authority
Defines procedures for initiating investigations, conducting interviews and inspections, issuing summonses, and enforcement protocols (law.cornell.edu).
§ 2.10 Veteran Advocate Reports
Requirements for annual, interim, and special reports, including distribution to the governor, legislative leaders, and public, plus provisions for requesting written responses and monitoring progress on recommendations (law.cornell.edu).
§ 2.11–2.13 Cooperation & Delegation
Empowers OVA to collaborate with public/private bodies including law enforcement, delegate authority within the office, and outlines staff responsibilities (law.cornell.edu).
📅 Regulatory Context
Adoption Date: September 27, 2024.
Regulatory Authority: Under M.G.L. Chapter 115B §§ 2 & 4 (law.cornell.edu, mass.gov).
Effective Date: Same as adoption—No prior version available (law.cornell.edu).
Update Schedule: CMR updates are quarterly; next updates may appear in early 2025 (en.wikipedia.org).
✅ Practical Implications & Assistance
Accessing Full Text: Download the official PDF of 123 CMR 2.00 from the Mass.gov page for detailed section-by-section reading (mass.gov).
Clarification & Compliance Support: I can provide:
A breakdown of key definitions (e.g., “near fatality” vs. “serious bodily injury”).
Checklists for agencies to ensure compliance.
Help interpreting § 2.10 report distribution and response timelines.
RELATED Blog
0 comments