Dear Mr. Leney:

We are writing to submit comments on the above-referenced Proposed Rule, issued November 6, 2015, 80 Fed. Reg. 68,795, to amend the VA’s VOSB Verification Program. In our practice, we represent many veteran-owned firms that apply to and participate in the VA Program. We also work with firms that participate in the various procurement programs for small businesses administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”). We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Proposed Rule, as it will change the ability of VOSBs to obtain verified eligibility status through the Center for Verification and Evaluation (“CVE”). We believe that most of the proposed changes are beneficial, and will help clarify the eligibility requirements for new applicants and current participants in the program. We have grouped our comments below according to the revised regulatory sections.