[Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions] [Social Security Administration Semiannual Regulatory Agenda] [From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Part XLV Social Security Administration ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Semiannual Regulatory Agenda [[Page 31240]]SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA) _______________________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION Office of the Commissioner 20 CFR Ch. III Semiannual Unified Regulatory Agenda AGENCY: Social Security Administration. ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda. _______________________________________________________________________ SUMMARY: Executive Order (E.O.) 12866 (as amended by E.O. 13258) entitled Regulatory Planning and Review, issued September 30, 1993, and the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354) require each Federal agency to publish semiannually a brief description of all regulatory actions under development or review, expected to be under development or review for the next 12 months, or completed since the previous publication of the agenda. Our last agenda of regulations was published December 9, 2002. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information about a specific regulatory action, contact the person identified as the agency contact for that action. Comments or inquiries of a general nature should be directed to Martin Sussman, Regulations Officer, Social Security Administration, 100 Altmeyer Building, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401; Telephone (410) 965-1767 or TTY (410) 966-5609. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers the retirement, survivors, and disability insurance programs under title II of the Social Security Act (the Act), the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program under title XVI of the Act, and Special Benefits to Certain World War II Veterans under title VIII of the Act. Our regulations generally do not impose burdens on the private sector or on State, local, or tribal governments. Our regulations document the rules under which we make eligibility determinations and set forth both the responsibilities of the Agency towards the public and beneficiaries' rights and responsibilities under the programs we administer. Our regulatory efforts can be placed into one of the following three categories: (1) legislative implementation; (2) program changes to improve SSA service to the public; and (3) improvements or clarifications to enhance effective stewardship of SSA programs. We continue to seek legislative improvements for the programs we administer. However, because of the complexity of our programs, statutory language is rarely detailed enough to govern the actions of agency adjudicative decision-makers. Supporting regulations are often required. In some instances, Congress directs SSA to issue implementing regulations. For other legislative provisions, SSA regulations provide program information to applicants for benefits, current beneficiaries, and their legal counsels. Included in our agenda are items that will amend our regulations to include more provisions of ``The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999,'' (Pub. L. 106-170), which was signed on December 17, 1999. Among the provisions still requiring regulations are provisions that will suspend continuing disability reviews based on work activity and expedited reinstatement of disability benefits terminated due to work activity. We continue to work diligently to improve our program benefit regulations and to develop partnerships with large segments of the community of interest groups concerned about Social Security programs. The remainder of our Unified Agenda reflects such improvements and clarifications. The spring 2003 regulatory agenda for the Social Security Administration follows. Dated: March 25, 2003. Martin Sussman, SSA Regulations Officer. Social Security Administration--Prerule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3687 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Immune System Disorders (804A).............. 0960-AF33 3688 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Mental Disorders (886A)..................... 0960-AF69 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social Security Administration--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3689 Revised Medical Criteria for Endocrine Disorders (436P)............................. 0960-AD78 3690 Deeming of Income From an Ineligible Spouse to an Eligible Individual and an 0960-AE50 Eligible Child (606P)............................................................... 3691 Federal Salary Offset (Withholding a Portion of a Federal Employee's Salary To 0960-AE89 Collect a Delinquent Debt Owed to the Social Security Administration) (721P)........ 3692 Exemption of Work Activity as a Basis for a Continuing Disability Review (Ticket to 0960-AE93 Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) (725P)............................ 3693 Evidence Requirement for Assignment of Social Security Administration Numbers (SSNs) 0960-AF05 and Assignment of SSNs for Nonwork Purposes (751P).................................. 3694 Medical Equivalence for Adults and Children (787P).................................. 0960-AF19 3695 Expedited Reinstatement of Disability Benefits (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives 0960-AF21 Improvement Act) (790P)............................................................. 3696 SSI Trusts and Transfers of Resources (791P)........................................ 0960-AF22 [[Page 31241]] 3697 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Genitourinary Disorders (802P).............. 0960-AF30 3698 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Special Senses and Speech Disorders (805P).. 0960-AF34 3699 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Neurological Disorders (806P)............... 0960-AF35 3700 Wage Reports and Pension Information (809P)......................................... 0960-AF38 3701 Disability Insurance Program Demonstration Project Authority (Ticket to Work and 0960-AF41 Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) (789P)..................................... 3702 Revisions to the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (823P)............................... 0960-AF47 3703 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cardiovascular Disorders (826P)............. 0960-AF48 3704 Determining Disability for an Individual With Drug Addiction or Alcoholism (851P)... 0960-AF57 3705 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Respiratory System Disorders (859P)......... 0960-AF58 3706 Amendments to Annual Earnings Test Regulations (866P)............................... 0960-AF62 3707 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Growth Disorders (444P)..................... 0960-AF67 3708 Clarification of the Disability Exclusion (915P).................................... 0960-AF71 3709 Special Benefits for Certain World War II Veterans; Reporting Requirements, 0960-AF72 Suspension and Termination Events, Overpayments, and Administrative Review Process (922P).............................................................................. 3710 Stepchild Entitlement and Termination Requirements (934P)........................... 0960-AF78 3711 Representative Payment Under Titles II, VIII, and XVI of the Social Security Act 0960-AF83 (949P).............................................................................. 3712 Removal of Clothing From the Definitions of Income and In-Kind Support and 0960-AF84 Maintenance, Exclusions of One Automobile, and Household Goods and Personal Effects Under SSI From Resources (950P)..................................................... 3713 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hematological Disorders (974P).............. 0960-AF88 3714 Elimination of Deemed Military Wages (968P)......................................... 0960-AF90 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social Security Administration--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3715 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Malignant Neoplastic Diseases (399F)........ 0960-AD67 3716 Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements With Institutions of 0960-AE25 Higher Education, Hospitals, Other Nonprofit Organizations, and Commercial Organizations (547F)................................................................ 3717 Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State 0960-AE28 and Local Governments and Indian Tribal Governments (555F).......................... 3718 Restrictions on Lobbying in Connection with the Award of Grants, Contracts, and 0960-AE29 Cooperative Agreements (556F)....................................................... 3719 Technical Changes to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Regulations (664F).......... 0960-AE79 3720 Administrative Wage Garnishment (To Repay a Debt Owed to the Social Security 0960-AE92 Administration) (724F).............................................................. 3721 OASDI and SSI; Administrative Review Process; Video Teleconferencing Appearances 0960-AE97 Before Administrative Law Judges of the Social Security Administration (737F)....... 3722 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments of the Digestive System (800F).. 0960-AF28 3723 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Skin Disorders (801F)....................... 0960-AF29 3724 Revised Medical Criteria of Evaluating Impairments Affecting Multiple Body Systems 0960-AF32 (803F).............................................................................. 3725 Clarification of Rules Involving RFC Assessments; Clarification of Use of Vocational 0960-AF37 Experts and Other Sources of the Sequential Evaluation Process; Incorporation of ``Special Profile'' Into Regs (808F)................................................ 3726 Filing Claims Under the Federal Tort Claims Act and the Military Personnel and 0960-AF39 Civilian Employees Claims Act (785F)................................................ 3727 Access to Information Held by Financial Institutions (815F)......................... 0960-AF43 3728 New Disability Claims Process--Roles of State Agency (816F)......................... 0960-AF44 3729 Filing of Applications and Related Forms (797F)..................................... 0960-AF52 3730 Referral of Persons Eligible for Disability or Blindness Benefits to Other Agencies 0960-AF80 for Vocational Rehabilitation Services (929F)....................................... 3731 Elimination of Sanctions for Refusal of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Without 0960-AF81 Cause (938F)........................................................................ 3732 Interrelationship of Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program with the 0960-AF82 Railroad Retirement Program (943I).................................................. 3733 F-1 Students (960I)................................................................. 0960-AF87 3734 Availability of Information and Records to the Public (969F)........................ 0960-AF91 3735 Administrative Review Process; Incorporation by Reference of Oral Findings of Fact 0960-AF92 and Rationale in Wholly Favorable Written Decisions (964I).......................... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [[Page 31242]] Social Security Administration--Long-Term Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3736 Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide 0960-AE27 Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace (Grants) (554F)................................ 3737 Supplemental Standards for Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Social Security 0960-AE48 Administration (601P)............................................................... 3738 Dedicated Accounts and Installment Payments for Certain Past Due SSI Benefits (622F) 0960-AE59 3739 Title VI (Civil Rights Act (1964)), Title IX (Education Amend. (1972)), 0960-AE63 Rehabilitation Act (1973), and Age Discrimination Act (1975) in Programs/Activities Receiving Financial Assistance by SSA (617P)........................................ 3740 Enforcement of Nondiscrimination in Social Security Programs or Activities (661P)... 0960-AE78 3741 Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information (711P)................... 0960-AE88 3742 Payment of Benefits to Aliens Residing Outside the United States (909F)............. 0960-AF70 3743 Mandatory Exclusion of Health Care Providers, Representatives, and Representative 0960-AF85 Payees From Participation in SSA Programs (954P).................................... 3744 Continuation of Benefit Payment to Certain Individuals Who Are Particpating in a 0960-AF86 Program of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Employment Services, or Other Support Services (925P)..................................................................... 3745 Who is Eligible to Receive a Ticket Under the Ticket to Work Program (967P)......... 0960-AF89 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social Security Administration--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3746 Repeal of Facility of Payment Provision (508F)...................................... 0960-AE02 3747 Change in Retirement Age (775F)..................................................... 0960-AF16 3748 Special Benefits for Certain World War II Veterans (880F)........................... 0960-AF61 3749 Claimant Identification Pilot Projects (937F)....................................... 0960-AF79 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social Security Administration--Discontinued Entries -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Identification Title Date Comments Number -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0960-AF14 Cost of Living Increases in Primary Insurance Amounts (759F) 03/17/2003 Withdrawn 0960-AF46 Exclusion of Representatives and Health Care Providers Convicted of Violations from 02/25/2003 Merged With 0960-AF85 Participation in Social Security Disability Programs (820F) 0960-AF56 Non-Payment of Monthly Social Security Benefits to Aliens Residing in the United States 03/24/2003 Withdrawn Who Are Not Lawfully Present (849P) 0960-AF64 Revising the Rules on Consideration of Work History in Determining Whether an Individual 02/20/2003 Withdrawn is Disabled (875P) 0960-AF65 Revising the Rules on the Steps for Evaluating Disability (894P) 03/10/2003 Withdrawn 0960-AF75 Continued Payment of Benefits to Certain Individuals Who Medically Recover While 03/03/2003 Duplicate of 0960-AF86 Participating in Certain Vocational Rehabilitation Programs (926P) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Prerule Stage _______________________________________________________________________ 3687. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS (804A) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are planning to update and revise the rules that we use to evaluate immune system disorders of adults and children who apply for, or receive, disability benefits under title II and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of the Social Security Act (the Act). The rules we plan on revising are section 14.00 and 114.00 in the Listing of Impairments in appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (the listings). These listings include such disorders as HIV infection, other Immunoglobulin deficiency syndromes or deficiencies of cell-mediated immunity, System Lupus Erythematosus, Scleroderma, [[Page 31243]] Polymyositis, Inflammatory Arthritis, and other connective tissue disorders. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Paul J. Scott, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Bouleveard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-1192 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF33 _______________________________________________________________________ 3688. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MENTAL DISORDERS (886A) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1; 20 CFR 404.1520; 20 CFR 404.1520a; 20 CFR 404.1528; 20 CFR 416.920a; 20 CFR 416.928 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are planning to update and revise the rules that we use to evaluate mental disorders of adults and children who apply for, or receive, disability benefits under title II and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of the Social Security Act (the Act). The rules we plan on revising are in sections 404.1520a and 416.920a of our regulations, and sections 12.00 and 112.00 in the Listing of Impairments in appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (the listings). Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 03/17/03 68 FR 12639 ANPRM Comment Period End 06/16/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Cathy Lively, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-1180 RIN: 0960-AF69 _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Proposed Rule Stage _______________________________________________________________________ 3689. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR ENDOCRINE DISORDERS (436P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Sections 9.00 and 109.00 of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (404.1501 through 404.1599) describe those endocrine impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or in the case of a child claiming SSA payments under title XVI, that cause marked and severe functional limitations. We are proposing to revise the criteria in these sections to reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating endocrine impairments. The Supplemental Security Income Program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Bonnie Davis, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-4172 RIN: 0960-AD78 _______________________________________________________________________ 3690. DEEMING OF INCOME FROM AN INELIGIBLE SPOUSE TO AN ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUAL AND AN ELIGIBLE CHILD (606P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1382a; 42 USC 1382b; 42 USC 1382c(f); 42 USC 1382j; 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1160; 20 CFR 416.1165; 20 CFR 416.1166 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule would revise the method used under the SSI program to determine income for a child who lives with both parents where one parent is ineligible for SSI because of income deemed from an ineligible spouse. Instead of deeming any excess income from the ineligible spouse to the child, referred to as ``pass-through deeming,'' we would deem income to the child using the method we use where neither parent files for SSI. Under current rules, ``pass- through'' deeming has had the unintended effect of deeming more income than would have been deemed if the regular rules for deeming from ineligible parents who do not file for SSI are used. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 05/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Martin Sussman, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1767 RIN: 0960-AE50 [[Page 31244]] _______________________________________________________________________ 3691. FEDERAL SALARY OFFSET (WITHHOLDING A PORTION OF A FEDERAL EMPLOYEE'S SALARY TO COLLECT A DELINQUENT DEBT OWED TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (721P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 404; 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902; 42 USC 1383; 5 USC 5514 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This initiative would enable the Social Security Administration (SSA) to collect from Federal salaries qualifying, delinquent title II and title XVI overpayment debts and administrative debts owed by individuals who are currently Federal employees. The debt collection would be accomplished by the partial reduction of the employee's disposable salary. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/03 Final Action 03/00/04 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Edward Johns, Financial Management Analyst, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-0392 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE89 _______________________________________________________________________ 3692. EXEMPTION OF WORK ACTIVITY AS A BASIS FOR A CONTINUING DISABILITY REVIEW (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) (725P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 421(m) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1590; 20 CFR 404.1594; 20 CFR 416.990; 20 CFR 416.994 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to explain how we implement section 221(m) of the Scoial Security Act for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries, including SSDI beneficiaries who also receive Supplemental Security Income benefits based on disability. Section 221(m) provides a work incentive for certain SSDI beneficiaries by eliminating the scheduling of continuing disability medical reviews solely because of the beneficiary's work activity, once the beneficiary has received SSDI benefits for 24 months. (Such beneficiaries will continue to be subject to regularly scheduled continuing disability reviews, work investigations, and benefit termination due to earnings from work activity at the level of substantial gainful activity.) Section 221(m) also affects certain standards specified in our regulations, which we use when we determine whether a beneficiary's disabiltiy continues or ends. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 10/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jack Baumel, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9834 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE93 _______________________________________________________________________ 3693. EVIDENCE REQUIREMENT FOR ASSIGNMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION NUMBERS (SSNS) AND ASSIGNMENT OF SSNS FOR NONWORK PURPOSES (751P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 432; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320b-1; 42 USC 1320b-13 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.104; 20 CFR 422.107 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to change our rules regarding the age at which a mandatory in-person interview is required for original applications for an SSN. In addition, we propose eliminating the waiver of evidence of identity for children under age 7 who are applying for an original SSN card. Under these proposals, SSA will require an in-person interview with all individuals age 12 or older who are applying for an original SSN, and SSA will no longer waive the requirement to provide evidence of identity in original applications for a child under age 7. SSA will clarify that evidence of identity must contain sufficient biographical information to identify the individual. Additionally, we propose to eliminate reference to a pilot no longer under consideration by SSA pertaining to the processing of replacement SSN cards for United States (U.S.) citizens. We also propose to clarify our rules regarding when we will assign an SSN to an alien who is legally in the U.S. but not under authority of law permitting him or her to work in the U.S. We are proposing to define a ``valid nonwork purpose'' as those instances when a Federal statute or regulation requires an alien to have an SSN in order to receive a federally-funded benefit to which the alien has established entitlement, or when a State or local law requires an alien to have an SSN in order to receive general public assistance benefits (i.e., a public benefit that is means-tested) to which the alien has established entitlement. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 10/12/99 64 FR 55217 ANPRM Comment Period End 12/13/99 NPRM 03/26/03 68 FR 14564 NPRM Comment Period End 05/27/03 Final Action 08/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: State Agency Contact: Arthur LaVeck, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-5665 [[Page 31245]] Karen Cool, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-7094 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF05 _______________________________________________________________________ 3694. MEDICAL EQUIVALENCE FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN (787P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1526; 20 CFR 404.1529; 20 CFR 416.926; 20 CFR 416.929 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This notice of proposed rulemaking will clarify that we will consider the medical severity of the individual's impairment, based on all relevant evidence in the case record when we make a finding regarding medical equivalence. These rules will clarify our medical equivalence policy in light of the decision in Hickman v. Apfel, 187 F.3d 683 (7th Cir. 1999). Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jane Deweib, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9878 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF19 _______________________________________________________________________ 3695. EXPEDITED REINSTATEMENT OF DISABILITY BENEFITS (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT) (790P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 423(i); 42 USC 1383(p) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1592b to 404.1592f; 20 CFR 416.999 to 416.999d Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Individuals with disabilities face multiple barriers in attempting to return to work. Section 112 of Public Law 106-170 provides a new statutory work incentive by providing for expedited reinstatement of SSDI and SSI benefits terminated due to work activity, when the former beneficiary requests reinstatement within 60 months of termination because his or her disability prevents work activity. Section 112 also provides for payment of provisional benefits for up to six months until SSA makes a determination on the requester's entitlement to reinstated benefits. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jack Baumel, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9834 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF21 _______________________________________________________________________ 3696. SSI TRUSTS AND TRANSFERS OF RESOURCES (791P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1382a(a); 42 USC 1382b(c); 42 USC 1382b(e); PL 106-169, sec 205; PL 106-169, sec 206 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to reflect sections 205 and 206 of Public Law 106-169, the Foster Care Independence Act of 1999. Section 205 generally provides for counting certain trusts as resources in the SSI program. Section 206 generally provides for a period of ineligibility for SSI benefits as a result of transferring resources for less than fair market value. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Albert Fatur, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9855 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF22 _______________________________________________________________________ 3697. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GENITOURINARY DISORDERS (802P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments (the Listings) that we use to evaluate genitourinary impairments. We apply these criteria at step three of our sequential evaluation processes for adults and children who claim Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits based on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. The revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating genitourinary impairments. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/04 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No [[Page 31246]] Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Paul J. Scott, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Bouleveard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-1192 RIN: 0960-AF30 _______________________________________________________________________ 3698. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING SPECIAL SENSES AND SPEECH DISORDERS (805P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving special senses and speech disorders. We apply these criteria when you claim benefits based on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. The proposed revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating special senses and speech disorders. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 11/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Michelle Hungerman, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-2289 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF34 _______________________________________________________________________ 3699. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS (806P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments (the listings) that we use to evaluate claims involving neurological disorders at the third step of our sequential evaluation processes for adults and children under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act (the Act). The proposed revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating neurological disorders. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/04 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Carolyn Kiefer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9104 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF35 _______________________________________________________________________ 3700. WAGE REPORTS AND PENSION INFORMATION (809P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 432; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.114 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Social Security Administration (SSA) proposes to amend its rules on processing reports of wages (paper Forms W-2, ``Wage and Tax Statement,'' and W-3 ``Transmittal of Income and Tax Statements,'' or equivalent W-2 and W-3 magnetic media or electronic reports) submitted annually by employers. We are proposing to eliminate the acceptance level for wage reports with unidentified or incorrectly identified wage items. We are proposing to include electronic filing as a means of wage reporting. Also, we propose replacing references to obsolete technical instruction bulletins with Magnetic Media Reporting and Electronic Filing instructions. We have updated form names and updated the address for obtaining a publication. These rules are intended to ensure that wages are reported to SSA with accurate information so that earnings can be properly credited to employees' Social Security records. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF38 _______________________________________________________________________ 3701. DISABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM DEMONSTRATION PROJECT AUTHORITY (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) (789P) Priority: Other Significant Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 434 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1599 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: One of SSA's most important initiatives is to ensure that Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work have the opportunity to do so. Section 301 of Public Law 106-170 provides the Commissioner of Social Security the authority to develop and carry out experiments and demonstration projects designed to determine the relative advantages and disadvantages of various alternative methods of treating the work activity of individuals entitled to disability insurance benefits. [[Page 31247]] Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/00/04 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF41 _______________________________________________________________________ 3702. REVISIONS TO THE MEDICAL-VOCATIONAL GUIDELINES (823P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 2; 20 CFR 404.1564; 20 CFR 416.964 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will make several clarifications to our medical- vocational guidelines. First, for individuals whose previous semiskilled or skilled work does not allow him or her to transfer skills to other semiskilled or skilled work within his or her residual functional capacity (RFC), we will treat the past work experience as if it were unskilled. It will also clarify which medical-vocational rules apply to individuals who are illiterate or unable to communicate in English. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Elaine Tocco, Vocational Policy Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-6356 RIN: 0960-AF47 _______________________________________________________________________ 3703. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS (826P) Priority: Other Significant Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Listings 4.00 and 104.00 of appendix 1 to subpart P of our regulation (20 CFR 404.1501 through 404.1599) describe those cardiovascular impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or for a child claiming SSI payments under title XVI, that cause marked and severe functional limitations. We propose to revise the criteria that we use to evaluate cardiovascular impairments under the listings to reflect our program experience and advances in medical knowledge, treatment and methods of evaluating these disorders. The SSI program incorporates by reference and uses the same medical criteria as the old-age, survivors, and disability insurance program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Bonnie Davis, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-4172 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF48 _______________________________________________________________________ 3704. DETERMINING DISABILITY FOR AN INDIVIDUAL WITH DRUG ADDICTION OR ALCOHOLISM (851P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 104-121, sec 105; PL 105-33, sec 5525; PL 106-170, sec 401 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.315; 20 CFR 404.316; 20 CFR 404.321; 20 CFR 404.332; 20 CFR 404.335; 20 CFR 404.337; 20 CFR 404.350; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.402; 20 CFR 404.470; 20 CFR 404.480; 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.1535 to 404.1541; 20 CFR 1500, app 1; 20 CFR 416.202; 20 CFR 416.214; 20 CFR 416.262; 20 CFR 416.265; 20 CFR 416.535; 20 CFR 416.542; 20 CFR 416.544; 20 CFR 416.558; 20 CFR 416.601; 20 CFR 416.610; 20 CFR 416.925; 20 CFR 416.935 to 416.941; 20 CFR 416.1123; 20 CFR 416.1326; 20 CFR 416.1331; 20 CFR 416.1335; 20 CFR 416.1402; 20 CFR 416.1701; 20 CFR 416.1720; 20 CFR 416.1725 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations that address drug addiction and alcoholism (DAA) under title II and XVI of the Social Security Act. The proposed rules reflect provisions of section 105 of the Contract with America Advancement Act of 1996, Public Law 104-121; section 5525 of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, Public Law 105-33; and section 401 of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, Public Law 106-170. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Larry P. Spain, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9139 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF57 _______________________________________________________________________ 3705. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING RESPIRATORY SYSTEM DISORDERS (859P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 [[Page 31248]] CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving respiratory system disorders. The proposed revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating respiratory disorders. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Carolyn Kiefer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9104 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF58 _______________________________________________________________________ 3706. AMENDMENTS TO ANNUAL EARNINGS TEST REGULATIONS (866P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 416; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 902(a)(5); PL 106-182 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.415; 20 CFR 404.416 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Senior Citizen's Freedom to Work Act of 2000, enacted on April 7, 2000, eliminates the annual earnings test for beneficiaries, starting from the month in which they reach full retirement age. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF62 _______________________________________________________________________ 3707. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GROWTH DISORDERS (444P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1302; 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1; 20 CFR 416 subpart I Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Section 100.00 of part B of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of the Disability Regulations describes growth impairments considered severe enough to cause marked and severe functional limitations in a child under age 18. We are proposing revisions to the growth impairment listings. The revisions contained in these regulations reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating growth impairments. The Supplemental Security Income program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Regina Connell, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1891 Related RIN: Related To 0960-AD80 RIN: 0960-AF67 _______________________________________________________________________ 3708. CLARIFICATION OF THE DISABILITY EXCLUSION (915P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 402(a); 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 403(b); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 412 to 417; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.130(f); 20 CFR 404.211(b)(2); 20 CFR 404.211(e)(1); 20 CFR 404.320(a) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These proposed rules amend our regulations at sections 404.130, 404.211 and 404.320 to clarify that if we count a prior period of disability in determining a person's insured status or benefit amount, the period of disability must be counted for both purposes. Similarly, if we exclude a prior period of disability when either determining insured status or the benefit amount, we must exclude it for both purposes. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Ines Riley, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-4138 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF71 _______________________________________________________________________ 3709. SPECIAL BENEFITS FOR CERTAIN WORLD WAR II VETERANS; REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, SUSPENSION AND TERMINATION EVENTS, OVERPAYMENTS, AND ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS (922P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 31 USC 3720A; 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 422(b); 42 USC 423(e); 42 USC 424a; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1001 to 1013; 42 USC 1104; 42 USC 1106; 42 USC 1320a-8a CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.401; 20 CFR 408.101; 20 CFR 408.701; 20 CFR 408.704; 20 CFR 408.708; 20 CFR 408.710; 20 CFR 408.712; 20 CFR [[Page 31249]] 408.714; 20 CFR 408.801 to 408.809; 20 CFR 408.810; 20 CFR 408.812; 20 CFR 408.814; 20 CFR 408.816; 20 CFR 408.818; 20 CFR 408.820; 20 CFR 408.900 to 408.905; 20 CFR 408.910 to 408.915; 20 CFR 408.918; 20 CFR 408.920; 20 CFR 408.922; 20 CFR 408.923; 20 CFR 408.930 to 408.933; 20 CFR 408.940 to 408.946; 20 CFR 408.950; 20 CFR 408.1000 to 408.1007; 20 CFR 408.1009; 20 CFR 408.1011; 20 CFR 408.1013 to 408.1016; 20 CFR 408.1020 to 408.1022; 20 CFR 408.1040; 20 CFR 408.1045; 20 CFR 408.1050; 20 CFR 408.1060; 20 CFR 408.1070; 20 CFR 408.1101; 20 CFR 408.1201; 20 CFR 408.1205; 20 CFR 408.1210; 20 CFR 408.1215; 20 CFR 408.1220; 20 CFR 408.1225; 20 CFR 408.1226; 20 CFR 408.1230; 20 CFR 408.1235; 20 CFR 416.570 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to add six additional subchapters to part 408 (proposed) of our regulations. The title VIII program provides monthly benefits to certain World War II veterans who were previously eligible for supplemental security income payments under title XVI of the Act and reside outside the United States. These additional subparts would codify the title VIII requirements on reporting responsibilities, suspension and termination events, overpayment and underpayment policies, and the administrative review process. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF72 _______________________________________________________________________ 3710. STEPCHILD ENTITLEMENT AND TERMINATION REQUIREMENTS (934P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 403(b); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 416; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.339; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.363; 42 CFR 404.364 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: SSA proposes to amend its regulations to incorporate the changes to the entitlement and termination requirements for stepchild's benefits introduced by the Contract with America Advancement Act of 1996. The statutory changes allow a stepchild to be considered dependent upon an insured stepparent for purposes of entitlement to benefits as a stepchild, only if he or she is receiving at least one- half support from the insured person (stepparent). The changes also require benefit termination when the stepchild's natural parent and the insured stepparent divorce. We propose to extend the termination requirement to include: (1) a divorce that ends the marriage between a stepchild's adoptive parent and the insured stepparent; and (2) a prospective annulment that ends the marriage between a stepchild's natural or adoptive parent and the stepparent. We also propose to include in the regulations our longstanding policy that a stepchild's benefits are terminated when the marriage between the stepchild's parent and the stepparent is annulled from the beginning (ab initio). These proposed rules also correct a cross-reference affecting entitlement to mother's or father's benefits, and reintroduce an inadvertently deleted definition concerning dependency determinations for grandchildren and stepgrandchildren born during the one-year support period relevant to a child's entitlement on the basis of those relationships to insured persons. These rules will reflect enacted legislation and provide accurate and complete guidelines for determining entitlement to benefits. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Sherry Pollack, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-7915 RIN: 0960-AF78 _______________________________________________________________________ 3711. REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT UNDER TITLES II, VIII, AND XVI OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT (949P) Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 405 note; 42 USC 421 note; 42 USC 1383(a)(2); 42 USC 1383(d)(1); 42 USC 404(f); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 405(k); 42 USC 421; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 1007 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.2011; 20 CFR 404.2021; 20 CFR 404.2022; 20 CFR 404.2024; 20 CFR 404.2025; 20 CFR 404.2030; 20 CFR 404.2035; 20 CFR 404.2040(a); 20 CFR 404.2041; 20 CFR 404.2045; 20 CFR 404.2050; 20 CFR 404.2065; 20 CFR 416.611; 20 CFR 416.621; 20 CFR 416.622; 20 CFR 416.624; 20 CFR 416.625; 20 CFR 416.630; 20 CFR 416.635; 20 CFR 416.640(a); 20 CFR 416.641; 20 CFR 416.645; 20 CFR 416.650; 20 CFR 416.665; 20 CFR 416.1402 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Effective stewardship of SSA programs requires mechanisms to assure that benefits are used to meet the needs of beneficiaries determined incapable of managing or directing someone else to manage their benefits. Congress determined that improvements to the representative payment procedures were needed to assure program integrity. These regulations are required to reflect these legislative improvements and to further our program integrity efforts. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/00/03 Final Action 04/00/04 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations Government Levels Affected: State, Local Agency Contact: Betsy Byrd, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 [[Page 31250]] Phone: 410 965-7981 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF83 _______________________________________________________________________ 3712. REMOVAL OF CLOTHING FROM THE DEFINITIONS OF INCOME AND IN-KIND SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE, EXCLUSIONS OF ONE AUTOMOBILE, AND HOUSEHOLD GOODS AND PERSONAL EFFECTS UNDER SSI FROM RESOURCES (950P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: Sec 1612 of the Social Security Act; Sec 1613(a)(2)(A) of the Social Security Act CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1102 to 416.1104; 20 CFR 416.1121; 20 CFR 416.1124; 20 CFR 416.1130; 20 CFR 416.1133; 20 CFR 416.1140; 20 CFR 416.1142; 20 CFR 416.1144 to 416.1145; 20 CFR 416.1147 to 416.1149; 20 CFR 416.1157; 20 CFR 416.1210; 20 CFR 416.1216; 20 CFR 416.1218 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to make the following changes to our rules on determining income and resources under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. 1. We propose to remove clothing from the definition of income and from the definition of in-kind support and maintenance. As a result, we generally will not count gifts of clothing as income when we decide whether a person can receive SSI benefits or when we compute the amount of benefits. 2. We propose to simplify our rules on how we exclude an automobile in determining the resources of a SSI applicant or recipient. Specifically, we propose to exclude one automobile from resources if it is used for transportation, without consideration of its value. 3. We propose to change our resources counting rules in the SSI program by eliminating the dollar value limit for the exclusion of household goods and personal effects. As a result, we would not count household goods and personal effects as resources when we decide whether a person can receive SSI benefits. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/00/03 Final Action 12/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Kenneth A. Brown, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9772 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF84 _______________________________________________________________________ 3713. [bull] REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING HEMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS (974P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Sections 7.00 and 107.00 (hemic and lymphatic system) of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (404.1501 through 404.1599) describe hematological disorders that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or for a child claiming SSI payments under title XVI, which causes marked and severe functional limitation. We are proposing to revise these sections to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up-to-date and consistent with the latest advances in medical knowledge and treatment. The Supplemental Security Income program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/04 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Michelle Hungerman, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-2289 RIN: 0960-AF88 _______________________________________________________________________ 3714. [bull] ELIMINATION OF DEEMED MILITARY WAGES (968P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 107-117 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1301 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations to reflect a provision in Public Law 107-117 that eliminates deemed military service wage credits for members of the uniformed services for all years after calendar year 2001. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 11/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Gareth N. Dence, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9872 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF90 [[Page 31251]] _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Final Rule Stage _______________________________________________________________________ 3715. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC DISEASES (399F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Sections 13.00 and 113.00 (malignant neoplastic diseases) of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (404.1501 through 404.1599) describe those impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or for a child claiming SSI payments under title XVI, that causes marked and severe functional limitations. We are revising these sections to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up-to-date and consistent with the latest advances in medical knowledge and treatment. The Supplemental Security Income program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 11/27/01 66 FR 59305 NPRM Comment Period End 01/28/02 NPRM Comment Period End Extended04/18/02 67 FR 19138 Final Action 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Michelle Hungerman, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-2289 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AD67 _______________________________________________________________________ 3716. UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTS AND AGREEMENTS WITH INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, HOSPITALS, OTHER NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, AND COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATIONS (547F) Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 31 USC 7505; 41 USC 403(11); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 435.000 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule will create a new part in the Code of Federal Regulations. The new part will provide standards in the administration of grants and agreements with institutions of higher education, hospitals, other nonprofit organizations, and commercial organizations. The Social Security Independence and Program Improvements Act of 1994, enacted August 15, 1994, established SSA as an independent agency separate from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), effective March 31, 1995. To implement its own set of grants regulations, SSA proposes to codify almost verbatim the text of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular Number A-110 ``Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Nonprofit Organizations.'' These regulations will establish SSA grants regulations, separate from the HHS regulations. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/27/00 65 FR 24767 NPRM Comment Period End 06/26/00 Final Action 05/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE25 _______________________________________________________________________ 3717. UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTS AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS AND INDIAN TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS (555F) Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 41 USC 403(ii); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 437.000 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 45 CFR part 92 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 437 now that SSA is an independent agency. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 05/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE28 _______________________________________________________________________ 3718. RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING IN CONNECTION WITH THE AWARD OF GRANTS, CONTRACTS, AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS (556F) Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 31 USC 1352; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 438.000 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 45 CFR part 93 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 438 now that SSA is an independent agency. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 05/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 [[Page 31252]] Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE29 _______________________________________________________________________ 3719. TECHNICAL CHANGES TO SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI) REGULATIONS (664F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1236; 20 CFR 416, subpart K, app Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are amending the SSI regulations by making technical changes to our rules on income and resources. These technical changes update lists of exclusions from income and resources under the SSI program that are based on statutes other than the Social Security Act and make additional technical changes. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 12/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Eric Ice, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-3233 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE79 _______________________________________________________________________ 3720. ADMINISTRATIVE WAGE GARNISHMENT (TO REPAY A DEBT OWED TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (724F) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 31 USC 3720D; 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902; 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.527; 20 CFR 404.903; 20 CFR 416.590; 20 CFR 416.1403; 20 CFR 422.401 to 422.403; 20 CFR 422.405; 20 CFR 422.410; 20 CFR 422.415; 20 CFR 422.420; 20 CFR 422.425; 20 CFR 422.430; 20 CFR 422.435; 20 CFR 422.440; 20 CFR 422.445 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This initiative will enable the Social Security Administration (SSA) to use administrative wage garnishment to collect administrative debts and to collect qualifying, delinquent titles II and XVI overpayment debts owed by individuals who are now employed in other than Federal employment. Administrative wage garnishment allows SSA to order an employer to deduct a percentage of the disposable pay earned by the worker/debtor and to send that amount to SSA as payment toward satisfying the delinquent debt. Administrative wage garnishment does not require a court judgment to impose the withholding order. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 11/15/02 67 FR 69164 NPRM Comment Period End 01/14/03 Final Action 09/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal Agency Contact: Edward Johns, Financial Management Analyst, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-0392 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE92 _______________________________________________________________________ 3721. OASDI AND SSI; ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS; VIDEO TELECONFERENCING APPEARANCES BEFORE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGES OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (737F) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 31 USC 3720A; 42 USC 401(d); 42 USC 404(f); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(L); 42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 421; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383; 42 USC 1383b CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.929; 20 CFR 404.936; 20 CFR 404.938; 20 CFR 404.950; 20 CFR 416.1429; 20 CFR 416.1436; 20 CFR 416.1438; 20 CFR 416.1450 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule revises our rules to permit us to conduct hearings before an administrative law judge (ALJ) at which a party or parties to the hearing and/or witness or witnesses may appear before the ALJ by video teleconference (VTC). The revised rules provide that if we schedule a hearing as one at which a party would appear by VTC, rather than in person, and the party objects to use of that procedure, we will reschedule the hearing as one at which the party may appear in person. We requested public comments on this final rule, which was published on February 3, 2003. The final rule became effective on March 5, 2003. The comment period ended April 4, 2003. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/05/01 66 FR 1059 NPRM Comment Period End 03/06/01 Final Rule with Request for Comment 02/03/03 68 FR 5210 Final Rule Effective 03/05/03 Final Action 08/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 Related RIN: Previously reported as 0960-AA05 RIN: 0960-AE97 _______________________________________________________________________ 3722. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM (800F) Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 1302; 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Listings 5.00 and 105.00 of appendix 1 to the disability regulation at 20 CFR part 404, subpart P describe those digestive impairments that are [[Page 31253]] considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity or, for a child claiming SSI payments under title XVI, that are considered severe enough to result in marked and severe functional limitations. Comprehensive revisions to these listings are being made to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up to date and consistent with the latest advances in medicine. The SSI program incorporates by reference and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 11/14/01 66 FR 57009 NPRM Comment Period End 01/14/02 Final Action 12/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cheryl Wrobel, Policy Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9108 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF28 _______________________________________________________________________ 3723. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING SKIN DISORDERS (801F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule will revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments (the Listings) we use for evaluating skin disorders in adults and to introduce corresponding medical criteria for evaluating skin disorders in children. We will revise the skin listings to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up-to-date and consistent and that the latest advances in medical knowledge and treatment are included. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/10/01 66 FR 63634 NPRM Comment Period End 02/08/02 Final Action 01/00/04 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cheryl Wrobel, Policy Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9108 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF29 _______________________________________________________________________ 3724. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA OF EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS AFFECTING MULTIPLE BODY SYSTEMS (803F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These final rules revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving impairments affecting multiple body systems. We apply these criteria when you claim benefits based on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. The proposed revisions reflect current medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating impairments affecting multiple body systems. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/23/02 67 FR 78196 NPRM Comment Period End 02/21/03 Final Action 01/00/04 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Sharon Arden, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9098 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF32 _______________________________________________________________________ 3725. CLARIFICATION OF RULES INVOLVING RFC ASSESSMENTS; CLARIFICATION OF USE OF VOCATIONAL EXPERTS AND OTHER SOURCES OF THE SEQUENTIAL EVALUATION PROCESS; INCORPORATION OF ``SPECIAL PROFILE'' INTO REGS (808F) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 422(c); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 1382h; 42 USC 1383(a); 42 USC 1383(c); 42 USC 1383(d)(l); 42 USC 1383b CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1501; 20 CFR 404.1505; 20 CFR 404.1512; 20 CFR 404.1520; 20 CFR 404.1545; 20 CFR 404.1546; 20 CFR 404.1560; 20 CFR 404.1561; 20 CFR 404.1563; 20 CFR 404.1569a; 20 CFR 404.1594; 20 CFR 416.901; 20 CFR 416.905; 20 CFR 416.912; 20 CFR 416.920; 20 CFR 416.945; 20 CFR 416.946; 20 CFR 416.960 to 416.963; 20 CFR 416.969a; 20 CFR 416.994 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These final rules will change several sections of our rules to clarify how we make determinations and decisions at steps 4 and 5 of the sequential evaluation process. Among other things, the final rules would clarify (1) the responsibility that claimants have to provide evidence of their disability (including evidence related to their residual functional capacity), and (2) that SSA may use a vocational expert to help determine whether a claimant is able to do his or her past relevant work at step 4 of the sequential evaluation process. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/11/02 67 FR 39904 [[Page 31254]] NPRM Comment Period End 08/12/02 Final Action 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF37 _______________________________________________________________________ 3726. FILING CLAIMS UNDER THE FEDERAL TORT CLAIMS ACT AND THE MILITARY PERSONNEL AND CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES CLAIMS ACT (785F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 28 USC 2672; 31 USC 3721; 42 USC 905(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 429.101 to 429.110; 20 CFR 429.201 to 429.211; 28 CFR 14 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These final rules will establish a new subpart B in part 429 that will prescribe the procedures SSA follows when claims are filed by employees against SSA for personal property damage or loss incident to their service with SSA. We will also make corrections and clarifications to our current procedures and practices on claims against the government for damage to or loss of property or personal injury or death that is caused by the negligent or wrongful act or omission of an SSA employee. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/20/02 67 FR 77942 NPRM Comment Period End 02/18/03 Final Action 08/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Jonathan R. Cantor, General Attorney, Social Security Administration, General Law Division, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235 Phone: 410 965-3166 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF39 _______________________________________________________________________ 3727. ACCESS TO INFORMATION HELD BY FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS (815F) Priority: Other Significant Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 1383(e); PL 106-169, sec 213 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.200; 20 CFR 416.207; 20 CFR 416.421; 20 CFR 416.640; 20 CFR 416.1231; 20 CFR 416.1242; 20 CFR 416.1245; 20 CFR 416.1247; 20 CFR 416.1320; 20 CFR 416.1321; 20 CFR 416.1335; 20 CFR 416.1337; 20 CFR 416.1618 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These final rules implement law that will enhance our access to bank account information of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applicants and recipients and other individuals whose income and resources we consider to be available to the applicant or recipient. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 05/02/02 67 FR 22021 NPRM Comment Period End 07/01/02 Final Action 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Eric Ice, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-3233 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF43 _______________________________________________________________________ 3728. NEW DISABILITY CLAIMS PROCESS--ROLES OF STATE AGENCY (816F) Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1512; 20 CFR 404.1513; 20 CFR 404.1526; 20 CFR 404.1527; 20 CFR 404.1529; 20 CFR 404.1546; 20 CFR 404.1615; 20 CFR 404.1616; 20 CFR 416.912; 20 CFR 416.913; 20 CFR 416.926; 20 CFR 416.927; 20 CFR 416.929; 20 CFR 416.946; 20 CFR 416.1015; 20 CFR 416.1016 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We plan to revise our regulations that pertain to the processing of initial claims for disability benefits under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act at the initial and reconsideration steps of the administrative review process. Under these final rules, certain State agency disability examiners, familiarly called ``single decisionmakers,'' will be responsible for the disability determinations in many initial claims for disability benefits. However, they will be able to ask for advice from State agency medical or psychological consultants when they decide they need it. We also plan to review other rules to reflect these changes, including our rules about how we decide whether a person's impairment(s) medically equals a listing. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/19/01 66 FR 5494 NPRM Comment Period End 03/20/01 Final Action 05/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: State, Federal Agency Contact: Susan Grier, Social Security Administration, Disability Process Redesign Staff, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-5005 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, [[Page 31255]] 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 Related RIN: Merged With 0960-AE73 RIN: 0960-AF44 _______________________________________________________________________ 3729. FILING OF APPLICATIONS AND RELATED FORMS (797F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(i); 42 USC 402(j); 42 USC 402(o); 42 USC 402(p); 42 USC 402(r); 42 USC 405; 42 USC 416(i)(2); 42 USC 423(b); 42 USC 428(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.610; 20 CFR 404.611; 20 CFR 422.505 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule includes language that explains the Internet applications completed on SSA's website and submitted to SSA are prescribed applications for filing for social security benefits. It incorporates an explanation that once SSA has an approved electronic signature method in place, the signature method will be included as part of the Internet application process and will be required for the applications. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/17/01 66 FR 43136 NPRM Comment Period End 10/16/01 Final Action 05/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Saundra Robinson, Social Insurance Speecialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-640 Phone: 410 965-4327 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF52 _______________________________________________________________________ 3730. REFERRAL OF PERSONS ELIGIBLE FOR DISABILITY OR BLINDNESS BENEFITS TO OTHER AGENCIES FOR VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES (929F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 106-170; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 421; 42 USC 422; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381 to 1383d; 42 USC 1383(e); 48 USC 1681 note CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1630; 20 CFR 404.2104; 20 CFR 404.2106; 20 CFR 416.101; 20 CFR 416.110; 20 CFR 4116.1030; 20 CFR 416.1701; 20 CFR 416.1710; 20 CFR 416.2204; 20 CFR 416.2206 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are revising our regulations pertaining to the requirement to refer for vocational rehabilitation (VR) services those individuals who filed for disability benefits, thereby conforming them to provisions in the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 repealed the VR referral requirement effective with January 1, 2001. For States in which we have implemented the Ticket to Work program, we are no longer referring beneficiaries eligible for disability benefits to State vocational rehabilitation agencies. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 12/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Melvin Winer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9175 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF80 _______________________________________________________________________ 3731. ELIMINATION OF SANCTIONS FOR REFUSAL OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES WITHOUT CAUSE (938F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 423(e); 42 USC 424a; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320a-8a CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.401; 20 CFR 404.402; 20 CFR 404.412; 20 CFR 404.421 to 404.423; 20 CFR 404.425; 20 CFR 404.435 to 404.437; 20 CFR 404.458; 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.1596; 20 CFR 404.2101 to 2103; 20 CFR 404.2109; 20 CFR 404.2113; 20 CFR 404.2116; 20 CFR 404.2117; 20 CFR 416.213; 20 CFR 416.708; 20 CFR 416.1701; 20 CFR 416.1715; 20 CFR 416.2040; 20 CFR 416.2201 to 416.2203; 20 CFR 416.2209; 20 CFR 416.2213; 20 CFR 416.2216; 20 CFR 416.2217 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are revising our regulations to eliminate the sanctions for refusal of vocational rehabilitation (VR) services without good cause, thereby conforming them to the amendments made by the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, which established the Ticket to Work program, repealed the VR refusal sanctions (i.e., deductions from social security disability or suspension of Supplemental Security Income benefits) effective with January 1, 2001. Under the obsolete sanctions, we were required to suspend disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for any disability beneficiary or disabled or blind SSI recipient who refused rehabilitation services without good cause. Since January 1, 2001, refusal of rehabilitation services is no longer a reason for us to sanction disability benefits. Accordingly, we are eliminating the rules regarding the sanctions for refusal of vocational rehabilitation services without good cause. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No [[Page 31256]] Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Melvin Winer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9175 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF81 _______________________________________________________________________ 3732. INTERRELATIONSHIP OF OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM WITH THE RAILROAD RETIREMENT PROGRAM (943I) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: PL 107-90, sec 103; 42 USC 405(i); 45 USC 231(a) to 231(e); 45 USC 231(l); 45 USC 231(q); 45 USC 231(r) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1401; 20 CFR 404.1402; 20 CFR 404.1404; 20 CFR 404.1405; 20 CFR 404.1413 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These interim final rules implement section 103 of the Railroad Retirement and Survivors' Improvement Act of 2001, that established an alternative railroad annuity vesting requirement for certain categories of individuals. Under the alternative provision, affected railroad workers with 5 or more years of service (but less than 10) become vested under the Railroad Retirement Act provided all of those years of service accrued after December 31, 1995. The provision was effective on January 1, 2002. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 07/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Marylin Buster, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235 Phone: 410 965-5555 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF82 _______________________________________________________________________ 3733. [bull] F-1 STUDENTS (960I) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Sec 205(c)(2) of the Social Security Act CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.105; 20 CFR 422.107 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are clarifying our rules for assigned SSNs to foreign academic students in INS classification status F.1. In addition to meeting SSA's requirements to provide evidence of age, identity, legal alien status, and work authorization, F-1 students will also be required to present evidence that employment has been secured before we will assign the F-1 student an SSN card that is valid for work. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 07/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Susan Werych, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9145 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF87 _______________________________________________________________________ 3734. [bull] AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION AND RECORDS TO THE PUBLIC (969F) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; 8 USC 1360; 18 USC 1905; 26 USC 6103; 31 USC 9701; 36 USC 923b; 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1306 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 402.125; 20 CFR 402.135; 20 CFR 402.180; 20 CFR 402.190; 20 CFR 402.195 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These final rules amend our regulations to reflect organizational changes and to correct a typographical error. We are changing the title of the official responsible for decisions on Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to conform to organizational changes. We published a notice on October 10, 2002, of organizational and functional changes within the Office of the General Counsel (OGC). The Office of Public Disclosure in OGC is now responsible for FOIA activities in SSA. This function previously was performed by the Office of Program Support, Office of Disclosure Policy in the Office of Disability and Income Security programs. We published a notice on November 15, 2002, deleting the Office of Program Support. These revisions will inform the public of the change in the official designated as SSA's Freedom of Information Officer. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 08/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Ethel Burrows, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of the General Counsel, Office of Public Disclosure, 6401 Security Bouleveard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-3948 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF91 [[Page 31257]] _______________________________________________________________________ 3735. [bull] ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS; INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF ORAL FINDINGS OF FACT AND RATIONALE IN WHOLLY FAVORABLE WRITTEN DECISIONS (964I) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.953; 20 CFR 416.1453 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This interim final rule revises our regulations to provide that if an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) enters a wholly favorable, oral decision into the record of a hearing, the ALJ may subsequently issue a written decision that gives the findings and the reasons for the decision by incorporating by reference the findings and reasons stated orally at the hearing, provided that the ALJ does not determine subsequent to the hearing that the oral findings and reasons should be changed. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 05/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF92 _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Long-Term Actions _______________________________________________________________________ 3736. GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT) AND GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (GRANTS) (554F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 41 USC 403(11); 41 USC 701 et seq; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 436.000 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 45 CFR part 76 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 436 now that SSA is an independent agency. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/23/02 67 FR 3266 NPRM Comment Period End 03/25/02 Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE27 _______________________________________________________________________ 3737. SUPPLEMENTAL STANDARDS FOR ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (601P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC app, Ethics in Government Act of 1978; 5 USC 7301; 5 USC 7353 CFR Citation: 5 CFR ch LXXXI (New) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Social Security Administration (SSA), with the concurrence of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), proposes to issue regulations for officers and employees of SSA that supplement the OGE Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch, which became effective February 3, 1993. The proposed rule specifies procedural and substantive requirements that are necessary to address ethical issues unique to SSA. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Stuart M. Besser, Attorney, Social Security Administration, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-3194 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE48 _______________________________________________________________________ 3738. DEDICATED ACCOUNTS AND INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS FOR CERTAIN PAST DUE SSI BENEFITS (622F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381; 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 1382(c); 42 USC 1382(e); 42 USC 1383(a) to 1383(d); 42 USC 1383(g) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.545; 20 CFR 416.546; 20 CFR 416.640; 20 CFR 416.1210; 20 CFR 416.1247 Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, November 22, 1996. Interim Final Rules were published on December 20, 1996. Abstract: These regulations reflect amendments to the Social Security Act made by sections 213 and 221 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. Section 213 requires the establishment of accounts in financial institutions for the payment of past due SSI benefits after reimbursement to a State for Interim Assistance Reimbursement exceeding 6 months' benefits to representative payees on behalf of children under age 18. These accounts will be dedicated for certain [[Page 31258]] purposes by restrictions on the use of such past due benefits. Section 221 requires past due SSI benefits after reimbursement to a State for Interim Assistance Reimbursement that equals or exceeds 12 months' benefits to be paid in installments, with certain exceptions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 12/20/96 61 FR 67203 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 02/18/97 Final Action To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE59 _______________________________________________________________________ 3739. TITLE VI (CIVIL RIGHTS ACT (1964)), TITLE IX (EDUCATION AMEND. (1972)), REHABILITATION ACT (1973), AND AGE DISCRIMINATION ACT (1975) IN PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES RECEIVING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE BY SSA (617P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 20 USC 1681; 29 USC 794; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 2000d; 42 USC 6101 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 431 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Prior to March 31, 1995, SSA was an operating component of HHS and the general regulatory authority for SSA programs and administration was vested in the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) based on section 1102 of the Social Security Act (the Act) (42 U.S.C. 1302). The Social Security Independence and Program Improvements Act (SSIPIA) established SSA as an independent agency in the Executive Branch of the Federal Government effective March 31, 1995, and vested general regulatory authority in the Commissioner of Social Security (the Commissioner). Under section 106(b) of SSIPIA, HHS regulations in effect immediately prior to March 31, 1995, which relate to functions now vested in the Commissioner by reason of SSA's independence, continue to apply to SSA until such time as they are modified, suspended, terminated or repealed by the Commissioner. SSA is promulgating regulations at 20 CFR part 431, which are based in large measure upon the HHS regulations at 45 CFR parts 80, 81, 84, 86, and 91. These SSA regulations reflect changes necessary to adapt the HHS regulations to SSA procedures. Upon SSA's rules becoming final regulations, the HHS regulations will cease to have application to SSA in accordance with section 106(b) of SSIPIA. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Eileen Inglesby-Houghton, Attorney, Social Security Administration, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-4816 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE63 _______________________________________________________________________ 3740. ENFORCEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION IN SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAMS OR ACTIVITIES (661P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 29 USC 794; 42 USC 902 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 432 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These proposed regulations are intended to ensure that individuals are not subjected to discrimination on the basis of disability, race, color, national origin, sex, age, or religion in any program or activity conducted by SSA. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE78 _______________________________________________________________________ 3741. PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND INFORMATION (711P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; 42 USC 1306(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 401.30; 20 CFR 401.45; 20 CFR 401.55; 20 CFR 401.150; 20 CFR 401.180 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise our privacy and disclosure rules to: 1. Describe safeguards against inappropriate disclosure of personal information when individuals request information about themselves by electronic means (e.g., through the Internet); 2. Revise our special procedures on an individual's access to medical records; 3. Add a new section to grant direct access to a minor's medical records by the minor's parent or legal guardian acting on the minor's behalf; and 4. Fully describe the role and function of the Privacy Officer. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Chris W. Johnson, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Public Disclosure, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-8563 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 [[Page 31259]] Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE88 _______________________________________________________________________ 3742. PAYMENT OF BENEFITS TO ALIENS RESIDING OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES (909F) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(t); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.460 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are revising our rules to remove Democratic Kampuchea (now Cambodia) and Vietnam from the list of countries to which social security benefits may not be sent to aliens in those countries under Department of the Treasury (Treasury) restrictions. The removal of the Treasury restrictions on these countries permits benefit payments to accrue for aliens who are entitled to title II benefits for months in which they reside in either Cambodia or Vietnam provided they are not subject to other nonpayment provisions for those months. These benefits may be paid to them if they go to the United States or to another country to which SSA sends benefits, or if we receive assurance of free access to beneficiaries and vital records from appropriate officials in the country in which they reside. The revisions are necessary to reflect that Treasury has published regulations that have removed restrictions on sending Federal payments to any payees living in Cambodia or Vietnam. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF70 _______________________________________________________________________ 3743. [bull] MANDATORY EXCLUSION OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS, REPRESENTATIVES, AND REPRESENTATIVE PAYEES FROM PARTICIPATION IN SSA PROGRAMS (954P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 106-169, sec 208; 42 USC 1320b-6 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1503b; 20 CFR 416.903b Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This proposed rule creates a new administrative procedure that requires the SSA to exclude representatives and health care providers who are convicted under title 18 of the U.S. Code of fraud in the title II or title XVI disability programs administered by SSA, or who are assessed civil monetary penalties under section 1129a of the Social Security Act from further participation in those programs for at least five years and may result in permanent exclusion. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF85 _______________________________________________________________________ 3744. [bull] CONTINUATION OF BENEFIT PAYMENT TO CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE PARTICPATING IN A PROGRAM OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES, OR OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES (925P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 425(b); 42 USC 1383(a)(6) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.316; 20 CFR 404.327 (New); 20 CFR 404.328 (New); 20 CFR 404.337; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.392; 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.1586; 20 CFR 404.1596; 20 CFR 404.1597; 20 CFR 416.1321; 20 CFR 416.1331; 20 CFR 416.1338; 20 CFR 416.1402 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations that provide for the continuation of Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefit payments to certain individuals who recover medically while participating in a vocational rehabilitation (VR) program with a State VR agency. For benefit payments to continue, we must determine that completion of the program, or its continuation for a specified period of time, will increase the likelihood that the individual may be permanently removed from the benefit rolls. The proposed changes to the regulations take account of statutory amendments that extend eligibility for these continued benefit payments to certain individuals who recover medically while participating in another appropriate program of VR services. These include individuals participating in the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency program or another program of VR services, employment services, or other support services approved by the Commissioner of Social Security. The proposed rules also reflect a statutory amendment to cover certain individuals who receive SSI benefits based on blindness and who recover medically while in an appropriate VR program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF86 _______________________________________________________________________ 3745. [bull] WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A TICKET UNDER THE TICKET TO WORK PROGRAM (967P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 20 CFR 411.125 Legal Deadline: None [[Page 31260]] Abstract: These proposed rules eliminate exceptions in the current rules to expand the eligibility under the Ticket to Work and Self- Sufficiency Program to three additional groups of individuals. The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Act of 1999 added section 1148 to the Social Security Act, to establish the Ticket to Work and Self- Sufficiency Program, to expand the universe of service providers available to beneficiaries with disabilities who are seeking employment to assist them in obtaining, regaining, and maintaining self-supporting employment. These rules propose to extend eligibility under the Program to beneficiaries between the ages of 16 and 18, beneficiaries whose impairments are expected to improve and for whom we have not yet conducted at least one continuing disability review, and beneficiaries who have received title XVI payments prior to age 18, but for whom we have not yet conducted a redetermination of their eligibility under the disability standard for adults. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Geoffrey Funk, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9010 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF89 _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Completed Actions _______________________________________________________________________ 3746. REPEAL OF FACILITY OF PAYMENT PROVISION (508F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.402(b); 20 CFR 404.458 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/01/03 68 FR 15658 Final Action Effective 04/01/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE02 _______________________________________________________________________ 3747. CHANGE IN RETIREMENT AGE (775F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.201; 20 CFR 404.277; 20 CFR 404.304; 20 CFR 404.310 to 404.313; 20 CFR 404.317; 20 CFR 404.335 to 404.338; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.409 to 404.413; 20 CFR 404.421; 20 CFR 404.621; 20 CFR 404.623; 20 CFR 404.762 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 01/30/03 68 FR 4700 Final Action Effective 01/30/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Bill Hilton Phone: 410 965-2468 Suzanne DiMarino Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF16 _______________________________________________________________________ 3748. SPECIAL BENEFITS FOR CERTAIN WORLD WAR II VETERANS (880F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 20 CFR 408.101 (New); 20 CFR 408.105 (New); 20 CFR 408.110 (New); 20 CFR 408.120 (New); 20 CFR 408.201 (New); 20 CFR 408.202 (New); 20 CFR 408.204 (New); 20 CFR 408.206 (New); 20 CFR 408.208 (New); 20 CFR 408.210 (New); 20 CFR 408.212 (New); 20 CFR 408.214 (New); 20 CFR 408.216 (New); 20 CFR 408.218 (New); 20 CFR 408.220 (New); 20 CFR 408.222 (New); 20 CFR 408.224 (New); 20 CFR 408.226 (New); 20 CFR 408.228 (New); 20 CFR 408.230 (New); 20 CFR 408.232 (New); 20 CFR 408.234 (New); 20 CFR 408.301 (New); 20 CFR 408.305 (New); 20 CFR 408.310 (New); 20 CFR 408.315 (New); 20 CFR 408.320 (New); 20 CFR 408.325 (New); 20 CFR 408.330 (New); 20 CFR 408.340 (New); 20 CFR 408.345 (New); 20 CFR 408.351 (New); 20 CFR 408.355 (New); 20 CFR 408.360 (New); 20 CFR 408.401 (New) to 408.406 (New); 20 CFR 408.410 (New); 20 CFR 408.412 (New); 20 CFR 408.413 (New); 20 CFR 408.420 (New); 20 CFR 408.425 (New); 20 CFR 408.430 (New); 20 CFR 408.432 (New); 20 CFR 408.435 (New); 20 CFR 408.437 (New); 20 CFR 408.501 (New); 20 CFR 408.505 (New); 20 CFR 408.510 (New); 20 CFR 408.515 (New); 20 CFR 408.601 (New); 20 CFR 408.610 (New); 20 CFR 408.615 (New); 20 CFR 408.620 (New) to 408.622 (New); 20 CFR 408.624 (New); 20 CFR 408.625 (New); 20 CFR 408.635 (New); 20 CFR 408.640 (New); 20 CFR 408.641 (New); 20 CFR 408.645 (New); 20 CFR 408.650 (New); 20 CFR 408.655 (New); 20 CFR 408.660 (New); 20 CFR 408.665 (New) Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/04/03 68 FR 16415 Final Action Effective 05/05/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF61 _______________________________________________________________________ 3749. CLAIMANT IDENTIFICATION PILOT PROJECTS (937F) Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.617 (New); 20 CFR 416.217 (New) Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 11/15/02 67 FR 69161 Final Action 05/01/03 68 FR 23192 Final Action Effective 05/31/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino [[Page 31261]] Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF79 [FR Doc. 03-8009 Filed 05-23-03; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4191-02-S