[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 131 (Monday, July 8, 1996)]
[Notices]
[Pages 35844-35857]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-17244]


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SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION


Statement of Organization, Functions and Delegations of Authority

    Notice is being given that two new chapters are being issued, 
Chapter TC, Office of the Chief Actuary and Chapter TE, Office of the 
Deputy Commissioner, Communications and that Chapter TA, Office of the 
Deputy Commissioner, Programs, Policy, Evaluation and Communications 
(TA) is being reissued.
    Within the Deputy Commissioner, Programs, Policy, Evaluation and 
Communications notice is given that the Office of the Actuary (TAC); 
the Office of Communications (TAL); the Resources Management Staff 
(TAA-1); the Office Automation Support Staff (TAA-2); the Office of 
Program Coordination and Planning (TAB); the Office of Policy Analysis 
and Evaluation (TAQ); the Office of Policy (TAK); and the Office of 
Disclosure Policy (TAG) are abolished. Notice is also given of the 
establishment of the Office of Policy and Planning (TAR) and the Office 
of Program Support (TAS) and the retitling of the Office of Research 
and Statistics (TAN) as the Office of Research, Evaluation and 
Statistics.
    Finally, notice is given that in the Office of Disability (TAE) the 
Office of Medical Evaluation (TAEA) is being abolished. The functions 
are being redistributed among the Office of the Associate Commissioner 
for Disability, the Division of Medical and Vocational Policy (TAEC) 
and the Federal Disability Determination Services (TAEB).
    The new and reissued Chapters read as follows:

ADD new chapter
Chapter TC--Office of the Chief Actuary
TC.00  Mission
TC.10  Organization
TC.20  Functions

    Section TC.00  The Office of the Chief Actuary--(Mission): The 
Office of the Chief Actuary (OCACT) plans and directs a program of 
actuarial estimates and analyses pertaining to the SSA-administered 
retirement, survivors and disability insurance programs and 
supplemental security income program and to projected changes in these 
programs. Evaluates operations of the

[[Page 35845]]

Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal 
Disability Insurance Trust Fund; estimates future operations of the 
trust funds; conducts studies of program financing; performs actuarial 
and demographic research on social insurance and related program 
issues; and estimates future workloads. Provides technical and 
consultative services to the Commissioner, the Board of Trustees of 
those two Trust Funds, and, as requested, congressional committees. 
Appears before congressional committees to provide expert testimony on 
the actuarial aspects of Social Security issues.
    Section TC.10  The Office of the Chief Actuary--(Organization): The 
Office of the Chief Actuary under the leadership of the Chief Actuary, 
includes:
    A. The Chief Actuary (TC).
    B. The Deputy Chief Actuary (Short-Range) (TC).
    C. The Deputy Chief Actuary (Long-Range) (TC).
    D. The Immediate Office of the Chief Actuary (TCA).
    E. The Office of Short-Range Actuarial Estimates (TCB).
    F. The Office of Long-Range Actuarial Estimates (TCC).
    Section TC.20  The Office of the Chief Actuary--(Functions):
    A. The Chief Actuary (TC) is directly responsible to the 
Commissioner for carrying out OCACT's mission and for providing 
supervision to the major components of OCACT.
    B. The Deputy Chief Actuary (Short-Range) (TC) assists the Chief 
Actuary in carrying out his/her OCACT-wide responsibilities and 
performs other duties as prescribed.
    C. The Deputy Chief Actuary (Long-Range) (TC) assists the Chief 
Actuary in carrying out his/her OCACT-wide responsibilities and 
performs other duties as prescribed.
    D. The Immediate Office of the Chief Actuary (TCA) provides the 
Chief Actuary and his/her Deputies with staff assistance on the full 
range of their responsibilities; provides liaison and coordination; and 
conducts special actuarial studies and analyses.
    E. The Office of Short-Range Actuarial Estimates (TCB) is 
responsible for planning, directing and coordinating the development of 
short-range cost estimates for all Social Security programs both under 
current provisions and proposed changes in law or regulation. The 
programs for which estimates are prepared include the retirement, 
survivors and disability insurance program, and the supplemental 
security income program. Develops special cost analyses involving 
technical actuarial issues; projects operations of the Trust Funds; 
provides a variety of data services including data collection, 
statistical support; and prepares estimates for general fund and 
interprogram reimbursement.
    F. The Office of Long-Range Actuarial Estimates (TCC) is 
responsible for planning, directing and coordinating the development of 
long-range cost estimates for the retirement, survivors and disability 
program both under current provisions and proposed changes in law or 
regulation. Provides all revenue estimates in both the near-term and 
the long-term for the retirement, survivors and disability insurance 
program and in the near-term for the hospital insurance program. 
Designs the economic, demographic and programmatic assumptions and the 
methods needed to develop these estimates; analyzes and publishes 
actuarial research based on projections and actual program experience; 
and provides authoritative advice to agency policy makers and 
congressional staffs relating to the long-range actuarial impact of 
current law and proposed program changes.

ADD new chapter.
Chapter TE--Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Communications
TE.00 Mission
TE.10 Organization
TE.20 Functions

    Section TE.00  The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, 
Communications--(Mission): The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, 
Communications (ODCCOMM) directs a program to develop and preserve 
working relationships with a wide variety of national organizations, 
special interest and advocacy groups, the media, other Federal agencies 
and State and local governments, for purposes of securing 
understanding, cooperation and acceptance of SSA programs, policies and 
procedures and for providing avenues of public participation in the 
decision making processes of SSA. Plans, directs, coordinates, effects 
and evaluates SSA's nationwide public communications program and 
activities. Develops public information programs and materials to 
ensure public knowledge and understanding of protections, rights and 
responsibilities under the programs administered by SSA. Plans, 
directs, implements and evaluates SSA's internal communications 
programs. Directs SSA's Satellite Communications Network activities. 
Coordinates the non-English communications activities within SSA. 
Provides a central receipt, control, acknowledgment, response, and 
referral program for all public inquiries. Serves as the focal point 
for conducting Focus Groups and coordinates public relations activities 
for SSA.
    Section TE.10  The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, 
Communications--(Organization): The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, 
Communications, under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner, 
Communications, includes:
    A. The Deputy Commissioner, Communications (TE).
    B. The Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications (TE).
    C. The Immediate Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Communications 
(TEA).
    D. The Office of Communications Technology (TEB).
    1. The Visual Graphics and Community Affairs Staff (TEB1).
    2. The Audiovisual Media Operations Staff (TEB2).
    E. The Office of Editorial Policy and Communications (TEC).
    1. The Editorial Policy and Communications Staff (TEC1).
    2. The Special Communications Staff (TEC2).
    F. The Office of National Affairs (TEE).
    G. The Office of Regional Affairs and Special Projects (TEG).
    H. The Office of Public Inquiries (TEH).
    1. The Policy, Procedures and Systems Group (TEH1).
    2. The Correspondence Analysis and Response Group (TEH2).
    Section TE.20  The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, 
Communications--(Functions):
    A. The Deputy Commissioner, Communications (TE) is directly 
responsible to the Commissioner for carrying out ODCCOMM's mission and 
providing managerial direction to the major components of ODCCOMM.
    B. The Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications (TE) assists 
the Deputy Commissioner in carrying out his/her responsibilities and 
performs other duties as the Deputy Commissioner may prescribe.
    C. The Immediate Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Communications 
(TEA) provides the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Deputy 
Commissioner with staff assistance on the full range of their 
responsibilities.
    D. The Office of Communications Technology (TEB) directs and 
implements technical information communications for the Agency. 
Develops the Agency's goals and objectives for using the media to

[[Page 35846]]

promote SSA programs and policies. Is responsible for the design and 
production of audiovisual and graphics materials. Utilizes state-of-
the-art technological theories, principles and methodologies in 
determining and creating the most effective means of communicating the 
Agency's information.
    1. The Visual Graphics and Community Affairs Staff (TEB1).
    a. Plans, designs and produces Agency display, presentation, media 
and photographic materials for internal and external public information 
programs.
    b. Produces materials in various media formats for the observance 
of special ceremonial events.
    c. Plans and implements a program of community liaison in the 
Baltimore/Washington metropolitan area.
    2. The Audiovisual Media Operations Staff (TEB2).
    a. Plans, develops and directs electronic systems required for the 
Agency's television and audiovisual productions and management 
communications.
    b. Coordinates all technical activities related to the Agency's 
television and audiovisual production system.
    c. Plans, writes, directs and edits motion picture and television 
productions covering all aspects of Social Security for public 
information, SSA training and management information purposes.
    d. Plans, designs and coordinates satellite communication programs 
for SSA and other agencies nationwide.
    E. The Office of Editorial Policy and Communications (TEC) directs 
SSA's information activities to ensure public knowledge and 
understanding of programs administered by SSA. Develops and evaluates 
goals, objectives, policies, standards and guidelines for SSA public 
information needs, and carries out programs to inform the public of the 
purposes and provisions of SSA-administered programs, program changes 
and people's rights and responsibilities under these programs. Prepares 
and determines distribution of a wide variety of public information 
materials on all phases of SSA-administered programs, evaluates the 
quality of informational materials to ensure a high-quality product and 
helps in public affairs training in SSA.
    1. The Editorial Policy and Communications Staff (TEC1).
    a. Develops and evaluates goals and objectives, policies, standards 
and guidelines for SSA public information needs. Prepares public 
information workplans and SSA's National Communications objectives.
    b. Provides direction and quality control of information materials 
for the administration of SSA public affairs and public information 
programs.
    c. Writes, edits and produces a variety of public information 
materials. Provides advice and consultation to other components on 
editorial policy and methods of initiating and developing informational 
programs.
    d. Conducts editorial reviews and approves content, format and 
style of Social Security information materials for use in all media.
    e. Plans and conducts a public information management program. 
Determines public information strategies for a wide variety of public 
information materials on all phases of SSA-administered programs.
    f. Designs and conducts broad evaluation programs, incorporating 
and coordinating various evaluation methods, techniques and efforts.
    2. The Special Communications Staff (TEC2).
    a. Directs the internal communications program in SSA. Publishes a 
variety of informational materials, including a monthly national 
employee magazine and Central Office Bulletin. Prepares and edits 
administrative reports and presentations.
    b. Provides assistance to and appraises internal communications 
activities in SSA field organizations. Identifies weaknesses in 
communications SSA-wide and recommends improvements.
    F. The Office of National Affairs (TEE) implements and directs 
programs designed to develop and preserve working relationships with a 
wide variety of national organizations, special interest and advocacy 
groups, other Federal agencies and State and local governments. 
Presents, explains, advocates and defends the views and objectives of 
SSA. Provides the avenue for bringing the views and opinions of 
influential organizations into the Agency. Is responsible for reviewing 
and considering the validity of SSA-related issues and concerns raised 
by a variety of external sources and recommending changes or referring 
the matter to other SSA components for further study. Facilitates 
operational dealings between these organizations and other SSA 
components.
    G. The Office of Regional Affairs and Special Projects (TEG) 
provides onsite leadership and direction to the regional SSA public 
communications program. Analyzes and evaluates regional public 
communications activities and issues national public communications 
policies. Plans and coordinates the development of regional policies, 
directives and procedures concerning the relationships of SSA programs 
to public and private welfare and community service programs. Oversees 
the regional public information program. Prepares and disseminates 
public information materials. Coordinates the development and 
implementation of regional information and referral programs. Advises 
the Regional Public Affairs Officers in carrying out SSA public 
information policy, plans and activities. Provides guidance and assists 
in interpreting, analyzing and evaluating public communications/public 
information needs of the regions. Performs research to assess the 
public's and SSA employees' reactions to, and perceptions of, policies, 
products and services through content analysis and other evaluation 
studies/activities.
    H. The Office of Public Inquiries (TEH) provides a central receipt, 
control, acknowledgment, response and referral program for high 
priority and other inquiries addressed to SSA Headquarters. Develops 
correspondence policy and procedure and guide language on recurring 
topics and issues for use throughout the Agency.
    1. The Policy, Procedures and Systems Group (TEH1) develops policy 
and procedures concerning the style, control, workflow and signature of 
correspondence and disseminates the information to headquarters 
components. Performs a pre-release quality review of final replies 
prepared in the Office of Public Inquiries (OPI) to ensure that they 
are well-written, accurate and responsive. Designs and administers 
OPI's electronic correspondence management system and provides support 
to system users. Directs surveys and analyses to increase the 
effectiveness of the correspondence workflow process throughout SSA.
    2. The Correspondence Analysis and Response Group (TEH2) collects, 
stores and maintains information needed to respond to congressional, 
White House and public inquiries. Prepares responses in conformance 
with SSA standards, policies and procedures. Performs correspondence 
receipt, screening, imaging, routing and letter-writing functions. 
Identifies sensitive inquiries and trends and reports them to 
appropriate officials. Receives and responds to telephone inquiries.

REISSUE chapter.
Chapter TA--Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy
TA.00  Mission

[[Page 35847]]

TA.10  Organization
TA.20  Functions

    Section TA.00 The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and 
Policy--(Mission): The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and 
Policy (ODCPP) directs the formulation of overall program policy for 
SSA. Directs the formulation and issuance of program objectives. 
Directs and manages the planning, development, issuance and evaluation 
of program and operational policies, standards and instructions for the 
retirement and survivors insurance, disability insurance and 
supplemental security income programs. Serves as a focal point for 
international program policy issues and activities. Oversees Agency 
hearings and appeals activities. Serves as a focal point for all 
program-related litigation. Oversees the collection, use and 
dissemination of both personal and non-personal information to ensure 
consistency with Agency objectives, law and the expectations of the 
American public. Provides information on the effects on individuals and 
the economy of programs operated by SSA and the interactions among 
these programs, other tax and income-transfer programs and economic and 
demographic forces. Through an Executive Team, provides executive 
leadership for unified planning and resource management within ODCPP. 
Provides leadership to ODCPP's financial, personnel and administrative 
management programs.
    Section TA.10 The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and 
Policy--(Organization): The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs 
and Policy under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs 
and Policy includes:
    A. The Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy (TA).
    B. The Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy (TA).
    C. The Immediate Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and 
Policy (TAA).
    D. The Office of Policy and Planning (TAR).
    E. The Office of Disability (TAE).
    F. The Office of Hearings and Appeals (TAH).
    G. The Office of International Policy (TAJ).
    H. The Office of Research, Evaluation and Statistics (TAN).
    I. The Office of Program Benefits Policy (TAP).
    J. The Office of Program Support (TAS).
    Section TA.20  The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and 
Policy--(Functions):
    A. The Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy (TA) is directly 
responsible to the Commissioner for carrying out the ODCPP mission and 
for providing general supervision to the major components of ODCPP.
    B. The Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy (TA) 
assists the Deputy Commissioner in carrying out his/her 
responsibilities and performs other duties as the Deputy Commissioner 
may prescribe.
    C. The Immediate Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and 
Policy (TAA) provides the Deputy Commissioner with staff assistance on 
the full range of his/her responsibilities.
    D. The Office of Policy and Planning (TAR) provides Agency 
leadership in the policy-making process and manages all planning 
activities for the Deputy Commissioner. Serves as Agency liaison with 
the wider social welfare policy-making community in the public and 
private sectors, including the Office of Management and Budget, other 
governmental agencies and private sector committees and groups. In 
conjunction with the Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs 
develops the Agency's legislative program and addresses items of 
congressional concern. Directs a comprehensive ODCPP program to address 
policy-related issues. Ensures the integration of the Agency's policy 
development and analysis activities and its program evaluation and 
research plans. Conducts broad analyses of major social and economic 
trends and their impact on social security program policy. Conducts 
targeted evaluations of the effectiveness and appropriateness of 
specific current and/or proposed social welfare policy features of 
programmatic or operational concern. Applies the results of Agency 
analyses to position the Agency's leaders to participate fully and 
knowledgeably in various social welfare policy forums (e.g., internal 
Administration policy debates, congressional hearings and debates, 
Advisory Board deliberations). Develops and implements the Agency's 
programmatic litigation strategy and directs the management of all 
related litigation activities within SSA. Assures programmatic support 
to legislative planning activities. Provides staff support to the ODCPP 
Executive Team.
    E. The Office of Disability (TAE) develops, coordinates and 
evaluates the disability program and issues related operational 
policies, standards and procedures. Develops and issues policies and 
guidelines for use by State and Federal or private contractor providers 
which implement the disability provisions of the Social Security Act, 
as amended. Ensures that interrelated program policy and procedural 
areas are coordinated.
    F. The Office of Hearings and Appeals (TAH) holds hearings and 
issues decisions as part of the SSA appeals process. Directs a 
nationwide field organization which conducts impartial hearings and 
makes decisions on appealed determinations involving retirement, 
survivors, disability, health insurance, black lung and supplemental 
security income benefits. Performs central office reviews of decisions.
    G. The Office of International Policy (TAJ) serves as SSA's focal 
point for international program policy matters and for its 
participation in the international Social Security community. Serves as 
liaison to international agencies and associations which deal with 
Social Security matters. Negotiates international Social Security 
(totalization) agreements with foreign governments and develops 
policies and procedures to implement the agreements. Develops and 
implements policies and procedures relating to the operation of the 
Social Security program outside the United States. Provides training 
programs and technical consultation on Social Security and related 
fields to Social Security officials and other experts outside the 
United States. Serves as liaison with other Federal agencies, such as 
the Department of State and the Department of the Treasury, on Social 
Security matters outside the United States.
    H. The Office of Research, Evaluation and Statistics (TAN) is 
responsible for providing information on the effects on individuals and 
the economy of programs operated by SSA and the interactions among 
these programs, other tax and income-transfer programs and economic, 
social and demographic forces. Plans and directs a continuing program 
of economic and social research to evaluate the effectiveness of 
national policies in meeting desired program outcomes. Plans and 
directs studies and surveys to evaluate the effectiveness of policy 
development, implementation and program outcomes of the disability, 
retirement and survivors and supplemental security income programs.
    I. The Office of Program Benefits Policy (TAP) develops, 
coordinates and evaluates the retirement and survivors insurance and 
supplemental security income programs and issues related operational 
policies, standards and instructions. Develops and issues policies and 
guidelines for use by State and Federal organizations which implement 
supplemental security income provisions. Develops

[[Page 35848]]

agreements with the States that govern State supplementation programs, 
Medicaid eligibility, data exchange programs, food stamps and fiscal 
reporting processes.
    J. The Office of Program Support (TAS) provides leadership in 
overseeing the Agency's system of programmatic instructions, notices to 
the public and technical documents. Develops and maintains standards 
governing the translation of policy decisions into operational 
policies, procedures and notices. Responsible for the Agency's 
Regulatory Program, including development of SSA's Regulatory Plan and 
the Agency's portion of the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulations. 
Oversees the Agency's implementation of policies which utilize 
technologies in providing service to the public and provides program 
management of such technological applications. Assures programmatic 
support to legislative implementation activities. Develops and 
interprets SSA policy governing requests for disclosure of information 
from Agency records under the provisions of the Privacy Act and the 
Freedom of Information Act. Sponsors and supports ODCPP 
Interdisciplinary Teams established to address cross-cutting policy 
issues and initiatives. Designs, implements and maintains automated 
information and communications systems ODCPP-wide.
Subchapter TAR--Office of Policy and Planning
TAR.00  Mission
TAR.10  Organization
TAR.20  Functions
    Section TAR.00  The Office of Policy and Planning--(Mission): The 
Office of Policy and Planning provides Agency leadership in the policy-
making process and manages all planning activities for the Deputy 
Commissioner. Serves as Agency liaison with the wider social welfare 
policy-making community in the public and private sectors, including 
the Office of Management and Budget, other governmental agencies and 
private sector committees and groups. In conjunction with the Office of 
Legislation and Congressional Affairs develops the Agency's legislative 
program and addresses items of congressional concern. Directs a 
comprehensive ODCPP program to address policy-related issues. Ensures 
the integration of the Agency's policy development and analysis 
activities and its program evaluation and research plans. Conducts 
broad analyses of major social and economic trends and their impact on 
social security program policy. Conducts targeted evaluations of the 
effectiveness and appropriateness of specific current and/or proposed 
social welfare policy features of programmatic or operational concern. 
Applies the results of Agency analyses to position the Agency's leaders 
to participate fully and knowledgeably in various social welfare policy 
forums (e.g., internal Administration policy debates, congressional 
hearings and debates, Advisory Board deliberations). Develops and 
implements the Agency's programmatic litigation strategy and directs 
the management of all related litigation activities within SSA. Assures 
programmatic support to legislative planning activities. Provides staff 
support to the ODCPP Executive Team. Section TAR.10 The Office of 
Policy and Planning--Organization): The Office of Policy and Planning, 
under the leadership of the Associate Commissioner for Policy and 
Planning, includes:
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Policy and Planning (TAR).
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Policy and Planning (TAR).
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Policy 
and Planning (TAR).
    Section TAR .20  The Office of Policy and Planning--(Functions):
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Policy and Planning (TAR) is 
directly responsible to the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy 
for carrying out OPP's mission and providing managerial direction to 
OPP.
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Policy and Planning 
assists the Associate Commissioner in carrying out his/her 
responsibilities and performs other duties as the Associate 
Commissioner may prescribe.
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Policy 
and Planning (TAR) provides the Associate Commissioner with staff 
assistance on the full range of his/her responsibilities.
    1. Serves as Agency liaison with the wider social welfare policy-
making community in the public and private sectors, including the 
Office of Management and Budget, other governmental agencies and 
private sector committees and groups.
    2. In conjunction with the Office of Legislation and Congressional 
Affairs develops the Agency's legislative program and addresses items 
of congressional concern.
    3. Directs a comprehensive ODCPP program to address policy-related 
issues, ensuring the integration of the Agency's policy development and 
analysis activities and its program evaluation and research plans.
    4. Conducts broad analyses of major social and economic trends and 
their impact on social security program policy.
    5. Conducts targeted evaluations of the effectiveness and 
appropriateness of specific current and/or proposed social welfare 
policy features of programmatic or operational concern. Applies the 
results of Agency analyses to position the Agency's leaders to 
participate fully and knowledgeably in various social welfare policy 
forums.
    6. Develops and implements the Agency's programmatic litigation 
strategy and directs the management of all related litigation 
activities within SSA.
    7. Assures programmatic support to legislative planning activities.
    8. Provides staff support to the ODCPP Executive Team.
Subchapter TAE--Office of Disability
TAE.00  Mission
TAE.10  Organization
TAE.20  Functions

    Section TAE.00  The Office of Disability--(Mission): The Office of 
Disability (OD) plans, develops, evaluates and issues the operational 
and administrative appeals process policies, standards and instructions 
for the SSA administered disability programs. Develops and promulgates 
policies and guidelines for use by State, Federal or private contractor 
providers which implement the disability provisions of the Social 
Security Act as amended. Provides operational policy advice, technical 
support and management direction to central office, regional office and 
field components in the administration of the disability programs. 
Evaluates the effects of proposed legislation and legislation pending 
before Congress to determine the impact on the disability programs. 
Ensures that interrelated policy areas are coordinated. Processes State 
agency workloads on a temporary or transitional basis.
    Section TAE.10  The Office of Disability--(Organization): The 
Office of Disability under the leadership of the Associate Commissioner 
for Disability, includes:
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Disability (TAE).
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner(s) for Disability (TAE).
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for 
Disability (TAE).
    D. The Federal Disability Determination Services (TAEB).
    E. The Division of Medical and Vocational Policy (TAEC).

[[Page 35849]]

    F. The Division of Field Disability Operations (TAEE).
    G. The Division of Disability Process Policy (TAEG).
    H. The Division of Disability Program Information and Studies 
(TAEH).
    I. The Division of Employment and Rehabilitation Programs (TAEJ).
    Section TAE.20  The Office of Disability--(Functions):
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Disability (TAE) is directly 
responsible to the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy for 
carrying out OD's mission and provides general supervision to the major 
components of OD.
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner(s) for Disability (TAE) 
assists the Associate Commissioner in carrying out his/her 
responsibilities and performs other duties as the Associate 
Commissioner may prescribe.
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for 
Disability (TAE) provides the Associate Commissioner and the Deputy 
Associate Commissioner(s) with advisory services and staff assistance 
on the full range of their responsibilities and coordinates the 
administrative and program activities of OD components.
    D. The Federal Disability Determination Services (TAEB):
    1. Develops and adjudicates disability determinations either 
temporarily as help for one or more Disability Determination Services 
(DDS) or as a transition until a permanent alternative case processing 
operation is fully operational in the event that SSA must assume the 
disability determination function for a State because of noncompliance 
with regulations and guidelines, or voluntary withdrawal.
    2. Pilot tests new work processes, procedures and systems prior to 
nationwide implementation; validates and conducts useability tests on 
new and/or revised systems processes; evaluates new or revised 
disability adjudication policies for national consistency and practical 
application; and conducts special studies and policy reviews required 
for management purposes.
    3. Reviews and makes disability decisions on applications for 
disability under Title II and Title XVI of the Social Security Act on 
initial applications, on reconsideration requests and continuing 
disability.
    4. Screens disability applicants for, and makes referrals to, 
vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies; develops and evaluates 
medical/vocational evidence; and arranges for procurement and payment 
of such evidence, as required.
    5. Reviews State hearing officer and Federal hearing officer 
decisions; prepares decisions on foreign claims and revises hearing 
officers' determinations in accordance with the regulations at 404.918 
and 416.1418; participates in hearing process studies; and prepares 
statistical and narrative reports and recommendations for training and 
policy and procedural changes based on case review and analysis or 
study findings.
    6. In conjunction with the Division of Medical and Vocational 
Policy, provides medical consultation required in the formulation of 
medical evaluation policies and guides. Conducts medical reviews of 
evidence for purposes of adjudication of medical aspects of claims, as 
part of an evaluation of the application of policies and procedures 
and/or as part of a study to develop new medical policies, guides and 
training.
    E. The Division of Medical and Vocational Policy (TAEC).
    1. Develops broad medical concepts and policies for the 
administration of the Title II and Title XVI programs, and provides 
consultation for research evaluating impairment severity and 
disability.
    2. Provides leadership and professional direction to Regional 
Medical Officers and consultants, and to State Disability Determination 
Services (DDS) medical personnel engaged in Title II and Title XVI 
related activities.
    3. Provides medical consultation required in the formulation of 
medical evaluation policies and guides and develops orientation and 
training programs for medical personnel in regional offices and State 
DDS's.
    4. Develops, evaluates, implements and maintains medical policy for 
deciding disability claims for all body systems to be used at all 
adjudicative levels.
    5. Develops, evaluates, implements and maintains policy for 
deciding disability claims, including such areas as residual functional 
capacity, medical improvement review standard and other continuing 
disability issues, onset, duration, weighing of evidence and other 
issues affecting disability claims at all adjudicative levels.
    6. Develops, evaluates, implements and maintains policy for all 
vocational issues, such as age, education, work experience the 
vocational rules and work evaluations which are used to decide 
disability claims at all adjudicative levels.
    7. Develops, evaluates, implements and maintains all policy used to 
decide disability in childhood disability claims, including the 
childhood Listings of Impairments, individualized functional assessment 
and functional equivalency for all adjudicative levels.
    8. Coordinates recommendations concerning which court decisions 
should be appealed; coordinates development of responses to 
interrogatories and court orders; and ensures that policies and 
procedures are changed to reflect specific court orders and legal 
precedents.
    F. The Division of Field Disability Operations (TAEE).
    1. Provides national guidance for the administrative aspects of the 
disability determination function whether administered through State 
DDS, contracted out to the private sector, or accomplished by 
designated SSA organizational components.
    2. Develops pertinent policies, regulations and procedures by 
establishing standards and guides for performance; monitoring 
performance; initiating corrective action where needed; coordinating 
workloads and administering the funds for the DDSs, etc. Conducts such 
studies and reviews as are necessary to the disability determination 
function.
    3. Works through SSA regional offices, interested national 
organizations and other SSA central office components to accomplish 
objectives or, in special situations, works directly with the component 
performing the disability determination function.
    4. Plans, coordinates and manages the Office of Disability systems 
related activities, including DDS and Federal Disability Determination 
Services automation, information resource management, expert systems, 
development of user specifications, and installation and testing of 
hardware, networks and communications links for DDSs.
    5. Analyzes, plans, distributes and monitors all DDS funding on a 
State-by-State basis. This includes establishing and monitoring 
workload and productivity targets for each DDS.
    G. The Division of Disability Process Policy (TAEL).
    1. Develops procedures and instructions for the disability 
provisions of other programs including certain Title XVI and XVIII 
provisions unique to the disability programs. Maintains the integrity 
of the consultative examination process by developing regulations and 
conducting oversight activities.
    2. Develops and issues the policies, procedures and instructions 
relating to the development of nonmedical evidence and the processing 
of initial disability claims and fraud situations. Develops policy 
guidelines and technical procedures for the Continuing Disability 
Review process and oversees

[[Page 35850]]

this process. Prepares Office of Disability positions for response to 
court suits against SSA on disability cases.
    3. Develops the procedures and instructions which define the 
administrative appeals process, including policies and procedures for 
the disability hearings process. Develops notice policy and issues 
language and forms for use in disability claims and notices including 
foreign language and Braille notices.
    4. Carries out professional relations efforts in support of SSA's 
efforts to gain support from professional medical associations. 
Maintains liaison and assists with professional relations efforts to 
gain the support of nonvocational rehabilitation advocacy groups, 
Federal, State and local agencies and the public and provides guidance 
and assistance on disability professional relations issues to the SSA 
regional and Disability Determination Services' field networks.
    H. Division of Disability Program Information and Studies (TACH).
    1. Conducts studies on the disabled population and recipients 
relative to specific operational/administrative program issues.
    2. Designs evaluation systems for and evaluates demonstration 
projects.
    3. Develops and maintains data bases for statistical activities and 
program information. Provides recurring and specialized reports, and 
coordinates information requirements.
    I. The Division of Employment and Rehabilitation Programs (TAEJ).
    1. Implements the provisions of the Social Security Act which call 
for the referral of beneficiaries and recipients to the State or 
alternate vocational rehabilitation (VR) providers, evaluates VR 
provider services, reimburses VR providers for successful 
rehabilitations, ensures that client participation in a program is 
appropriate and meets the requirements of the Act and develops 
proposals and plans for new VR initiatives.
    2. Implements and evaluates test models for delivering 
rehabilitation, job placement and post-employment services and for 
making appropriate referrals to public and private agencies. 
Administers contracts to support projects.
    3. Develops initiatives to promote public understanding and use of 
work incentives through enhanced outreach activities and by building 
networks with community-based agencies and service providers.
    4. Prepares and revises regulations, operating policies and 
training materials. Develops proposals and plans for new work 
incentives.
    5. Develops procedures and instructions for implementation of the 
drug addiction and alcoholism referral and monitoring provisions. 
Administers agreements implementing the provisions.
    6. Maintains liaison and assists professional relations efforts to 
gain the support of private advocacy groups, Federal, State and local 
agencies and the public and provides guidance and assistance on 
disability professional relations issues to the SSA regional and 
Disability Determination Services' field networks.
    Subchapter TAH Office of Hearings and Appeals
    TAH.00 Mission
    TAH.10 Organization
    TAH.20 Functions

    Section TAH.00  The Office of Hearings and Appeals--(Mission): The 
Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) administers the nationwide 
hearings and appeals program for SSA. Provides the basic mechanisms 
through which individuals and organizations dissatisfied with 
determinations affecting their rights to and amounts of benefits or 
their participation in programs under the Social Security Act may 
administratively appeal these determinations in accordance with the 
requirements of the Administrative Procedure and Social Security Acts. 
OHA includes a nationwide field organization staffed with 
Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) who conduct impartial hearings and 
make decisions on appeals filed by claimants, their representatives, 
providers-of-service institutions and others under the Social Security 
Act. The Appeals Council of OHA impartially reviews ALJ decisions, 
either on the Appeals Council's own motion or at the request of the 
claimant, and renders the Commissioner's final decision when review is 
taken. Reviews new court cases to determine whether the case should be 
defended on the record or the Commissioner should seek voluntary 
remand, and reviews final court decisions in light of the programmatic 
and administrative implications involved and makes recommendations as 
to whether appeal should be sought. Provides advice and recommendations 
on Social Security Administration program policy and related matters, 
including proposed Social Security Rulings.
    Section TAH.10  The Office of Hearings and Appeals--(Organization): 
The Office of Hearings and Appeals, under the leadership of the 
Associate Commissioner for Hearings and Appeals, includes:
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Hearings and Appeals (TAH).
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Hearings and Appeals 
(TAH).
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Hearings 
and Appeals (TAH) which includes:
    1. The Executive Secretariat (TAH-1).
    2. The Special Counsel Staff (TAH-2).
    D. The Office of the Chief Administrative Law Judge (TAHA).
    1. The Division of Field Operations and Liaison (TAHAl).
    2. The Division of Field Practices and Procedures (TAHA2).
    3. The Vocational Expert and Medical Advisor Staff (TAHA3).
    4. The Division of Medicare Part B (TAHA4).
    E. The Offices of the Regional Chief Administrative Law Judges 
(TAH-F1--TAH-FX).
    F. The Office of Appellate Operations (TAHB), which includes the 
Executive Director who also serves as Deputy Chair of the Appeals 
Council, the Appeals Council and its Administrative Appeals Judges, 
Appeals Officers, a Deputy Director to the Executive Director, and a 
Director of Operations.
    1. The Operations Management, Analysis and Coordination Staff 
(TAHB1).
    2. The Division of Program Support (TAHB2).
    3. The Medical Support Staff (TAHB3).
    4.-22. The Disability Program Branches l-19 (TAHB4-9 and TAHBA-Q).
    23.-24. The Court Case Preparation and Review Branches 1-2 (TAHBR-
S).
    25. The Division of Retirement and Survivors Insurance, 
Supplemental Security Income and Health Insurance (TAHBT).
    G. The Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation (TAHC).
    1. The Division of Litigation Analysis and Implementation (TAHC1).
    2. The Division of Planning and Evaluation (TAHC2).
    3. The Division of Policy (TAHC3).
    H. The Office of Management (TAHE).
    1. The Equal Employment Opportunity Staff (TAHE1).
    2. The Division of Congressional and Public Inquiries (TAHE2).
    3. The Division of Budget and Financial Management (TAHE3).
    4. The Division of Materiel Resources (TAHE4).
    5. The Division of Systems Resources (TAHE5).
    6. The Division of Management Analysis and Employee Development 
(TAHE6).
    Section TAH.20. The Office of Hearings and Appeals--(Functions):
    A. The Associate Commissioner of Hearings and Appeals (TAH) is 
directly

[[Page 35851]]

responsible to the Deputy Commissioner for Programs and Policy for 
carrying out OHA's mission of holding hearings and rendering decisions 
on appeals filed under Titles II, XVI, and XVIII of the Social Security 
Act, as amended, and Title IV of the Federal Coal Mine Health and 
Safety Act of l969, as amended. The Associate Commissioner is 
responsible for planning, directing, managing, coordinating and 
maintaining the integrity of the nationwide SSA hearings and appeals 
system. As Chair of the Appeals Council, the Associate Commissioner is 
responsible for the decisions issued at the final administrative level 
of the Social Security Administration.
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Hearings and Appeals (TAH) 
assists the Associate Commissioner in carrying out his/her OHA-wide 
responsibilities and performs other duties as the Associate 
Commissioner may prescribe.
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Hearings 
and Appeals (TAH) provides the
    Associate Commissioner and the Deputy Associate Commissioner with 
staff assistance on the full range of their responsibilities.
    1. The Executive Secretariat (TAH-l) is the liaison and 
coordination point between the Office of the Associate Commissioner and 
major SSA and OHA components. It serves as the primary point of contact 
with the Office of the Commissioner, ODCPP, other Deputy and Associate 
Commissioners and other top SSA staff for sensitive and urgent matters 
and to ensure OHA support to those officials.
    2. The Special Counsel Staff (TAH-2) serves as professional legal 
advisor to the Associate Commissioner, OHA, and to other members of the 
OHA Executive Staff on all matters pertaining to the legislative 
process, labor relations law, ethics and administrative law, with 
special emphasis on the Administrative Procedure Act.
    D. The Office of the Chief Administrative Law Judge (TAHA) serves 
as the principal consultant and advisor to the Associate Commissioner 
on all matters concerning the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing 
function. Under the executive leadership of the Associate Commissioner, 
the Chief Administrative Law Judge manages and administers a hearings 
organization consisting of a nationwide network of hearing offices and 
supporting regional offices nationwide. The Chief Administrative Law 
Judge has primary responsibility for maintaining effective channels of 
communication between the Associate Commissioner and the Regional Chief 
Administrative Law Judges (RCALJs) and the ALJ corps. Formulates and 
develops broad policies and objectives and establishes program goals 
for OHA's ALJ corps. Maintains a continuous review of all aspects of 
OHA field operations and implements improvements where needed. Is 
responsible for developing and maintaining the procedures for effective 
operation of the hearings process. Provides management oversight for 
all administrative and managerial functions involved in the day-to-day 
operations of field activities; coordinates regional and hearing office 
activities; prepares, reviews and drafts decisions and dismissals in 
Medicare Part B cases; and conducts liaison with other government and 
private agencies on issues falling within the Office's area of 
responsibility.
    1. The Division of Field Operations and Liaison
    (TAHA1) serves as liaison for the field with all headquarters 
components, and provides advice, guidance and counsel to field units in 
all areas of identified needs. Assists the Chief Administrative Law 
Judge in setting field office objectives. Analyzes field resource 
needs, including staffing, equipment, training and travel and 
recommends resource allocations to meet those needs. Represents the 
field on ongoing or ad hoc workgroups, task forces, etc.
    2. The Division of Field Practices and Procedures (TAHA2) 
formulates, develops, communicates and oversees field practices and 
procedures governing the conduct of the hearing process and other 
program operations issues in response to the Associate Commissioner, 
the Chief Administrative Law Judge, or other OHA management officials, 
as well as a result of court orders and/or changes in the law and 
regulations.
    3. The Vocational Expert and Medical Expert Staff (TAHA3) 
formulates, develops and oversees the national program for recruitment 
and use of Vocational Experts and Medical Experts at hearings before 
Administrative Law Judges. On an ongoing basis, monitors Regional and 
Hearing Office operations regarding the program and when appropriate 
provides guidance and makes necessary changes.
    4. The Division of Medicare Part B (TAHA4) processes Medicare Part 
B cases on receipt from Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) 
contractors. Researches the law, regulations and relevant policy to 
resolve case-related issues as necessary. Drafts all decisions where an 
on-the-record decision is requested and drafts decisions where hearings 
are held by an Administrative Law Judge who is attached directly to the 
division. Provides technical and staff assistance to the Chief 
Administrative Law Judge and all Administrative Law Judges concerning 
the adjudication of Medicare Part B cases.
    E. Each Office of the Regional Chief Administrative Law Judge (TAH-
F1--TAH-FX) acts on behalf of the Associate Commissioner and the Chief 
Administrative Law Judge at the respective regional levels on all 
matters involving the hearings process and is directly responsible for 
the effective execution of the hearings process within the region. 
Provides direction, leadership, management and guidance to the regional 
office staff and to the hearing offices in the region, including 
Administrative Law Judges and their staffs. Is responsible for the 
regional implementation of national policies, goals, objectives, and 
procedures pertaining to the hearings process, and formulates policies, 
goals, and objectives for the ALJs and support staff in the region. 
Develops and recommends OHA action with respect to allegations of 
unfair hearings within the region. Is responsible for evaluating the 
effectiveness of regional and hearing office management. Reviews 
hearing practices and procedures to detect trends, training needs, and 
operational problems. Investigates allegations of improper employee 
conduct, and makes recommendations as to necessary corrective action. 
Has responsibility for the acquisition and distribution of human and 
materiel resources within the region. Coordinates operational and 
administrative activities with SSA regional offices, other SSA regional 
components, State Agencies, and others, as necessary. Establishes a 
program to maintain ongoing communication with congressional offices on 
issues of mutual interest and ensures timely and accurate responses to 
congressional inquiries. Ensures that court remands are processed 
efficiently within the region, and coordinates with the Office of the 
Chief Counsel in the region to foster OHA compliance with court 
requirements. Serves as an expert advisor on substantive issues within 
the region, and upon request by ALJs, provides advice and guidance in 
matters relating to adjudicating cases under the provisions of the 
Social Security Act, as amended. Reviews and analyzes fee petitions 
from attorneys and representatives of claimants for the provision of 
services at the hearing level, and authorizes payment of fees in those 
cases where the fees are beyond

[[Page 35852]]

the authority of a hearing office Administrative Law Judge.
    F. The Office of Appellate Operations (TAHB) consists of the 
Appeals Council and its support staff. In accordance with a direct 
delegation of authority from the Commissioner of Social Security, the 
Appeals Council is the final level of administrative review under the 
Administrative Procedure Act for claims filed under Titles II, XVI, and 
XVIII of the Social Security Act, as amended, and Title IV of the 
Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, as amended. The 
Executive Director of the Office of Appellate Operations (OAO) is the 
Deputy Chair of the Appeals Council and is responsible for the day-to-
day operations of a program of administrative review of ALJ decisions 
issued under the provisions of the Social Security Act. Upon claimant 
request or on the Appeals Council's own motion, OAO reviews ALJ 
decisions and dismissals involving claims for benefits filed under 
Titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act, as amended, health 
insurance cases under Title XVIII of the Act, including claims for 
individual enrollment to participate under Parts A and/or B of Title 
XVIII and claims by hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and 
independent laboratories seeking certification or continued 
certification under the Act, and claims under Title IV of the Federal 
Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, as amended, to determine if 
jurisdiction exists, and, if so, takes appropriate action. The Appeals 
Council identifies cases which represent broad policy matters or have 
national impact, conducts oral hearings and acts to resolve the issues 
in such cases, establishing binding adjudicatory standards and 
decisional principles that govern OHA's adjudicatory process. Tracks 
and analyzes court case trends and disseminates information to guide 
adjudicators with respect to case law, to implement an effective 
appeals strategy, and to identify areas and make recommendations as to 
policies which need to be developed and/or clarified, new regulations 
which need to be developed, or clarifying legislation which should be 
sought.
    1. The Operations Management, Analysis and Coordination Staff 
(TAHB1) provides a comprehensive program of management analysis and 
evaluative services to assist the Appeals Council in adjudicating 
cases, to assist the Executive Director of OAO, and to assist the 
support staff of the Appeals Council in performing their program review 
function.
    2. The Division of Program Support (TAHB2) under the direction of 
the Director of Operations of OAO, provides support services to the 
Appeals Council, including reconstruction of lost claim files and 
receiving and analyzing fee petitions. Provides reprographic services 
and controls transcription of hearing cassettes in preparation of the 
official answer to civil actions filed against the Commissioner of SSA.
    3. The Medical Support Staff (TAHB3) consists of staff physicians, 
consulting physicians, and support staff and provides expert 
professional judgment to the Appeals Council on individual disability 
and health insurance claims. Provides informational, advisory and 
consultant services to the Appeals Council and its support staff on 
matters of interpretation and application of national policy on SSA and 
OHA disability criteria and regulations. It reviews disability 
evaluation training manuals for consistency and national uniformity, 
represents OHA in contacts with appropriate professional affiliations, 
and coordinates with the Office of Disability and International 
Operations all matters of joint interest in the area of medical 
disability evaluation.
    4.-22. The Disability Program Branches 1-19 (TAHB4-9 and TAHBA-Q) 
serve as support staff providing advice to the Appeals Council in its 
review of ALJ decisions and dismissals involving claims for benefits. 
Following an analysis of the record and any additional evidence and/or 
argument submitted, and applying a thorough knowledge of the Act, 
Regulations, Rulings and applicable case law, the staff in the program 
review branches examine hearing decisions and other final actions of 
the Administrative Law Judges, and requests for Appeals Council review, 
and make recommendations to the Appeals Council as to what action 
should be taken on cases pending before the Council. Analyze and 
recommend action on cases remanded by the courts and those referred by 
the Office of General Counsel for consideration of whether remand 
should be requested at the Commissioner's motion. Recommend to OGC 
defense on the record of certain litigated cases if further 
administrative action is not warranted.
    23.-24. The Court Case Preparation and Review Branches 1-2 (TAHBR-
S) serve as a support staff to OAO. Prepare remand orders and 
affidavits and related correspondence on cases in which a complaint has 
been filed in Federal court. Within published guidelines, recommend to 
OGC defense on the record for certain litigated cases if further 
administrative action is not warranted. Analyze and recommend action on 
cases remanded by the courts. Prepare all court transcripts and control 
and maintain all certified records of claims at the civil actions 
level.
    25. The Division of Retirement and Survivors Insurance, 
Supplemental Security Income and Health Insurance (TAHBT) serves as a 
support staff and provides advice to the Appeals Council in its review 
of decisions and dismissals involving claims to establish entitlement 
to Health Insurance benefits under Title XVIII of the Social Security 
Act, including claims for individual enrollment to participate under 
Parts A and/or B of Title XVIII and claims by hospitals, skilled 
nursing facilities and independent laboratories seeking certification 
under the Social Security Act, decisions and dismissals involving 
claims to establish entitlement and the amount of benefits in old-age, 
survivors and disability under Title II of the Social Security Act; and 
claims to establish eligibility for and benefits payable in Title XVI 
cases. Following an analysis of the record and any additional evidence 
and/or argument submitted, and applying a thorough knowledge of the 
Act, Regulations, Rulings and applicable case law, examines hearing 
decisions and other final actions of the ALJ, and requests for Appeals 
Council review, and makes recommendations to the Administrative Appeals 
Judges as to what action should be taken on cases pending before the 
Council whether before or after a civil action is filed.
    G. The Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation (TAHC) plans, 
analyzes and develops OHA-wide policy for the hearings, appeals and 
civil actions processes. Responsible for SSA policy with respect to 
claimant representation and fees charged for their services. Manages 
the overall OHA hearings and appeals process policy communications 
system. Is responsible for OHA activity with respect to Social Security 
regulations, including developing an OHA position with respect to 
program regulations proposed by SSA components. Monitors OHA's 
implementation of program regulations governing the hearings and 
appeals process. Plans and conducts a comprehensive OHA-wide evaluation 
program designed to support OHA policy and regulatory initiatives and 
measure the overall effectiveness of the nationwide hearings and 
appeals process. Provides advice and guidance throughout OHA on matters 
involving program policies, planning and evaluation. Coordinates 
policy, planning and evaluation matters within OHA, with OGC, other SSA 
components, with HCFA and with other Federal agencies and private

[[Page 35853]]

organizations. Develops and coordinates program training in conjunction 
with appropriate OHA, SSA, HCFA and OGC components. Develops and 
implements an appeals strategy, in conjunction with other OHA 
components, that identifies the issues and types of cases which OHA 
believes should be appealed. Captures court trend information for 
dissemination to other components to assist in formulating the Agency's 
litigation strategy and improving the adjudication process.
    1. The Division of Litigation Analysis and Implementation (TAHC1) 
develops and implements, in conjunction with other OHA components, an 
appeals strategy that identifies the issues and types of cases which 
OHA believes should be appealed. Captures court trend information for 
dissemination to other components to assist in formulating the Agency's 
litigation strategy and improving the adjudication process. Develops 
and maintains a compendium of circuit court case law with systems-based 
access. Tracks pending class actions, forecasts potential workload 
impact, and makes recommendations to workload components regarding 
workload impact. Uses court trend information to identify and make 
appropriate recommendations with respect to areas in which policies 
need to be developed and/or clarified, new regulations need to be 
developed, or clarifying legislation should be sought. Prepares and 
updates significant court case requirements used in reviewing court 
cases. Uses court trend information to identify areas where additional 
training is needed or other measures are needed to improve 
defensibility. Advises OHA officials of significant cases and trends 
and of litigation issues which may require revision of operating 
instructions, and assists with the preparation of the instructions. 
Coordinates OHA's views on proposed Social Security Acquiescence 
Rulings. In response to OHA-identified cases and to requests for 
appeals recommendations from ODCPP, obtains the views of affected OHA 
components and formulates an OHA position on appeal. Maintains liaison 
with OGC and ODCPP to coordinate the settlement of class actions and 
class action implementation. In coordination with other OHA components, 
develops instructions for OHA implementation of class action orders, 
monitors implementation and serves as a focal point for questions from 
OHA adjudicators. Responds to requests from OGC and ODCPP regarding 
information about OHA operations requested in the course of litigation. 
Coordinates OHA's response to discovery requests. Administers and 
coordinates the Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act provisions 
for OHA.
    2. The Division of Planning and Evaluation (TAHC2) develops, 
coordinates and conducts a comprehensive OHA-wide program of studies 
and analyses of the application of and compliance with SSA and OHA 
policies and procedures in all phases of OHA's hearings and appeals 
processes and SSA's claimant representation process and the quality of 
results achieved. Provides advice and assistance to other OHA 
components in designing and implementing appropriate systems and 
procedures for collecting, recording, analyzing and evaluating data to 
assess the quality of work emanating from the hearings and appeals 
processes. Conducts studies of policy implementation within OHA. 
Identifies problem areas and deficiencies in policies. Develops 
techniques and systems for conducting evaluations of the substantive 
and technical aspects of claims throughout OHA.
    3. The Division of Policy (TAHC3) plans, develops and coordinates 
the preparation of regulations, policies and guidelines for the 
hearings, appeals, civil actions and claimant representation processes 
under Titles II, XVI and XVIII of the Social Security Act, as amended, 
and under Title IV of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 
1969, as amended. Ensures that operating procedures and instructions 
developed to implement the hearings and appeals process conform with 
SSA benefit program policy and OHA hearings and appeals process policy. 
Provides advisory services, consultation, and staff assistance to other 
components of OHA. Maintains ongoing liaison with SSA, HCFA, OGC and 
others with respect to program, legislative and policy matters. Reviews 
current and developing trends in administrative law and litigation; 
analyzes and prepares policy recommendations; and develops long-range 
and short-range plans for hearing and appeals policy matters and OHA's 
implementation of benefit program policy matters. Develops and 
coordinates program training in conjunction with other OHA, SSA, and 
OGC program components.
    H. The Office of Management (TAHE) provides administrative support 
to the Associate Commissioner for all management and systems related 
activities for OHA. Coordinates with the Chief Administrative Law Judge 
with respect to management, financial, materiel resources and systems 
support functions which affect field operations. Has direct line 
authority for all management and administrative support functions for 
Headquarters' components of OHA and in coordination with the Chief ALJ, 
for all field components of OHA including its regional offices (ROs) 
and hearing offices nationwide. Coordinates and integrates the 
management programs and administrative planning initiatives of OHA into 
the long-range goals and objectives of SSA. Monitors OHA's progress 
toward meeting established Agency goals and makes recommendations for 
needed adjustments to enable OHA to meet these goals. Plans, directs 
and implements an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) program within 
OHA. Plans, directs, administers and evaluates the congressional and 
public inquiries activities for OHA. Plans, directs and administers a 
comprehensive nationwide management analysis program to identify areas 
requiring improvement to enhance the quality and effectiveness of 
management practices and to assess trends in management.
    1. The Equal Employment Opportunity Staff (TAHE1) is responsible 
for OHA's EEO program. Plans, develops, implements and monitors OHA's 
affirmative action program, and administers the EEO complaint process 
for OHA headquarters. Provides guidance for, and monitoring of, OHA 
regional EEO programs.
    2. The Division of Congressional and Public Inquiries (TAHE2) 
formulates policies, procedures and guidelines for use in responding to 
high priority correspondence from the public and congressional offices. 
Serves as the correspondence liaison staff with the Commissioner's 
Office, the Office of Communications and other SSA components.
    3. The Division of Budget and Financial Management (TAHE3) plans, 
develops and coordinates OHA's budget and financial management 
programs, advising the Director of OM and/or the Associate Commissioner 
of the financial impact of all decisions which may affect the program 
and administrative operations of the Agency. Formulates, justifies and 
presents OHA's annual and multi-year budget submissions. Reviews and 
analyzes budget requests submitted by OHA components and formulates 
OHA's financial operating plans and budget projections. Works with SSA 
budget officials to obtain the resources necessary to meet OHA goals 
and objectives. Develops all necessary applications for generating 
budget data

[[Page 35854]]

and financial management reports. Executes and administers a financial 
management system, integrating resource management controls. Ensures 
that employment ceilings and obligations and expenditures of funds are 
in conformance with authorized allotments and allowances. Administers 
the travel and payroll function for all OHA headquarters components and 
ALJs nationwide.
    4. The Division of Materiel Resources (TAHE4) plans, directs and 
provides administrative support services in the areas of space planning 
and management; forms and records management; property management; 
equipment control and maintenance; graphic arts; safety and self-
protection, including emergency planning; security; procurement and 
supply; laboring services; mail and messenger services; motor vehicle 
operations; and communications systems management. Organizes, controls 
and coordinates procurement and property management activities, 
including development of specifications and requisitions for 
procurement of property, inspections of property owned or leased by the 
United States Government and property accountability. Administers an 
occupational health and safety program in compliance with established 
health and safety concepts, regulations, standards and procedures.
    Administers security programs and inspections, and coordinates with 
local law enforcement officials to ensure protection of OHA property 
and personnel.
    5. The Division of Systems Resources (TAHE5) is the focal point for 
all OHA systems-related activities. Provides office automation and data 
processing support to all OHA components. Develops OHA's long-range 
systems goals and objectives. Provides computer programming and systems 
support for the planning, design, development and implementation of all 
OHA automated data processing systems. Serves as liaison with the 
Office of Systems on all matters pertaining to systems, and ensures 
that OHA systems efforts are undertaken, that projects underway are 
carried out successfully and that OHA participates fully in the SSA 
systems strategy.
    6. The Division of Management Analysis and Employee Development 
(TAHE6) advises the Director of OM and the Associate Commissioner in 
all management areas involving management practices, management 
analysis, operational analysis and the resolution of management/
employee concerns and problems. Plans, designs and administers 
evaluation programs and tracking systems to assess the efficiency and 
effectiveness of OHA operations in the field and headquarters. Serves 
as the focal point of contact for coordinating the General Accounting 
Office, the Office of the Inspector General, SSA and other studies of 
OHA operations. Coordinates, develops and publishes administrative 
delegations of authority for OHA. Administers OHA's Employee 
Development Program. Develops and administers an OHA-wide program to 
identify training needs; develops mechanisms to meet identified 
training needs; and assesses the effectiveness of the OHA training 
program in meeting the training needs of managers, supervisors and 
employees.
Subchapter TAJ--Office of International Policy
TAJ.00  Mission
TAJ.10  Organization
TAJ.20  Functions

    Section TAJ.00  The Office of International Policy--(Mission): The 
Office of International Policy serves as SSA's focal point for 
international program policy matters and for its participation in the 
international Social Security community. Serves as liaison to 
international agencies and associations which deal with Social Security 
matters. Negotiates international Social Security (totalization) 
agreements with foreign governments, and develops policies and 
procedures to implement the agreements. Develops and implements 
policies and procedures relating to the operation of the Social 
Security program outside the United States. Provides programs of 
training and technical consultations on Social Security and related 
fields to Social Security officials and other experts outside the 
United States. Serves as liaison with other Federal agencies, such as 
the Department of State and the Department of the Treasury, on Social 
Security program matters outside the United States.
    Section TAJ.10  The Office of International Policy--(Organization): 
The Office of International Policy, under the leadership of the 
Associate Commissioner of the Office of International Policy includes:
    A. The Associate Commissioner for International Policy (TAJ).
    B. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for 
International Policy (TAJ).
    C. The Division of International Program Policy and Agreements 
(TAJA).
    D. The International Activities Staff (TAJB).
    Section TAJ.00  The Office of International Policy--Functions):
    A. The Associate Commissioner for International Policy (TAJ) is 
directly responsible to the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy 
for carrying out the OIP mission and provides supervision to the major 
components of OIP.
    B. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for 
International Policy (TAJ) provides the Associate Commissioner with 
staff assistance on the full range of his/her responsibilities, helps 
coordinate the activities of OIP components, and acts as the SSA or 
United States Government representative to international organizations 
and world bodies involved with international social security matters.
    C. The Division of International Program Policy and Agreements 
(TAJA).
    1. Plans, develops and evaluates program policies and procedures 
relating to foreign claims administration, foreign evidence and 
beneficiaries and modifies policies and procedures to meet program 
requirements in foreign countries.
    2. Negotiates international Social Security (totalization) 
agreements with foreign governments and takes the actions necessary to 
secure their approval, develops policies and procedures to implement 
agreements and administers the coverage provisions of the agreements.
    3. Issues certificates of coverage to United States-based workers 
who are on temporary assignments in countries with which the United 
States has international totalization agreements to exempt them (and 
their employers) from foreign social security taxes.
    4. Interacts with various SSA components, other Federal agencies 
and governments of other countries on all foreign program matters, 
including evaluation of foreign social insurance systems for alien 
nonpayment purposes, benefit payment delivery and restrictions, 
acceptability of foreign evidence, program integrity and mutual 
assistance arrangements with other countries.
    5. Conducts legislative and regulatory reviews, studies and 
analyses of all matters relating to international policy and 
international Social Security agreements and takes necessary 
legislative or regulatory action on foreign program and agreement 
problems requiring such remedy.
    D. The International Activities Staff (TAJB).
    1. Develops and coordinates individualized programs of consultation 
and observation for foreign Social

[[Page 35855]]

Security officials and experts in related fields on the United States 
Social Security system.
    2. Coordinates SSA's technical assistance to foreign countries in 
designing and/or modernizing existing social security systems.
    3. Serves as SSA's focal point in disseminating information about 
the United States Social Security program to foreign organizations.
    4. Plans and coordinates SSA's international travel plan, including 
providing logistical support and administering all activities relating 
to control of official passports for SSA staff traveling abroad.
    5. Plans, implements and manages SSA-hosted international 
conferences, meetings and seminars.
Subchapter TAN--Office of Research, Evaluation and Statistics
TAN.00  Mission
TAN.10  Organization
TAN.20  Functions

    Section TAN.00  The Office of Research, Evaluation and Statistics--
(Mission): The Office of Research, Evaluation and Statistics is 
responsible for providing information on the effects on individuals and 
the economy of programs operated by SSA and the interactions among 
these programs, other tax and income-transfer programs and economic, 
social and demographic forces. Plans and directs a continuing program 
of economic and social research to evaluate the effectiveness of 
national policies in meeting desired program outcomes. Plans and 
directs studies and surveys to evaluate the effectiveness of policy 
development, implementation and program outcomes of the disability, 
retirement and survivors and supplemental security income programs.
    Section TAN.10  The Office of Research, Evaluation and Statistics--
(Organization): The Office of Research, Evaluation and Statistics under 
the leadership of the Associate Commissioner for Research, Evaluation 
and Statistics, includes:
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Research, Evaluation and 
Statistics (TAN).
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Research, Evaluation and 
Statistics (TAN).
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Research, 
Evaluation and Statistics (TAN).
    D. The Publications Staff (TANA).
    E. The Division of Program Analysis (TANB).
    F. The Division of Economic Research (TANC).
    G. The Division of Earnings Statistics and Analysis (TANE).
    H. The Division of Retirement, Survivors, Disability Insurance 
Research Statistics (TANG).
    I. The Division of SSI Analysis/Management Statistical Support 
(TANH).
    J. The Disability Research Staff (TANJ).
    Section TAN.20  The Office of Research, Evaluation and Statistics 
(Functions):
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Research, Evaluation and 
Statistics (TAN) is directly responsible to the Deputy Commissioner, 
Programs and Policy for carrying out ORES' mission, and providing 
general supervision to the major components of ORES.
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Research, Evaluation and 
Statistics (TAN) assists the Associate Commissioner in carrying out 
his/her responsibilities and performs other duties the Associate 
Commissioner may prescribe.
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Research, 
Evaluation and Statistics (TAN) provides the Associate Commissioner and 
Deputy Associate Commissioner with staff assistance on the full range 
of their responsibilities and helps coordinate the activities of ORES 
components.
    D. The Publications Staff (TANA).
    1. Advises ORES on the development, organization and presentation 
of research and statistical studies.
    2. Publishes and distributes these studies to national and 
international audiences.
    3. Assesses informational needs of SSA staff, staff in other 
Government agencies, the social science research community and the 
public for data and findings from the ORES research program.
    E. The Division of Program Analysis (TANB).
    1. Plans, designs and conducts surveys of program target groups and 
performs policy-relevant research.
    2. Analyzes the impact of proposed policy options, legislative 
proposals and special high-priority issues and prepares briefing 
materials for SSA administrators.
    3. Plans, conducts and publishes the results of cross-national 
research on social security programs worldwide.
    F. The Division of Economic Research (TANC).
    1. Plans, directs and executes issue-oriented research to provide 
information about relationships between the Social Security program, 
the economy and other aspects of society.
    2. Interprets changing demographic and economic trends as they 
relate to the broad field of economic security and to overall economic 
and social policy.
    3. Studies such major areas as: Social Security financing, economic 
impacts of Social Security, income maintenance, effect of Social 
Security on lifetime income redistribution, alternative measures of 
income adequacy, and labor market and retirement behavior.
    G. The Division of Earnings Statistics and Analysis (TANE).
    1. Plans, coordinates and directs the preparation of statistical 
and analytical data pertaining to earnings, employment and employer 
classification. Analyzes these data with emphasis on demographic, 
economic, social and program characteristics. These data are used to 
support program and legislative planning and serve as important sources 
for program evaluation, research and administrative information within 
SSA, and for research by other Federal and State and local government 
agencies, universities, and private research organizations.
    2. Provides ORES and other SSA researchers with support in the 
development of social science survey data linked with SSA 
administrative record data.
    H. The Division of Retirement, Survivors and Disability Insurance 
Research Statistics (TANG).
    1. Plans, coordinates and directs the preparation of statistical 
and analytical data pertaining to RSDI claims and benefits provisions 
of Title II of the Social Security Act. Analyzes these data with 
emphasis on demographic, economic, social and program characteristics. 
These data are used to support program and legislative planning and 
serve as important sources for program evaluation, research and 
administrative information within SSA, and for research by other 
Federal and State and local government agencies, universities and 
private research organizations.
    I. The Division of SSI Analysis/Management Statistical Support 
(TANH).
    1. Plans, coordinates and directs the preparation of statistical 
and analytical data pertaining to the Supplemental Security Income 
provisions of Title XVI of the Social Security Act. Analyzes these data 
with emphasis on demographic, economic, social and program 
characteristics. These data are used to support program and legislative 
planning and serve as important sources for program evaluation, 
research and administrative information within SSA and for research by 
other Federal and State and local government agencies,

[[Page 35856]]

universities and private research organizations.
    2. Provides management statistical services to SSA operating and 
policy components, including such activities as the development of 
general purpose and customized field office samples, development of 
work sampling systems and quality assurance systems, and the design and 
analysis of operational pilot studies. Provides support for the 
development and use of mathematical models and statistical methods.
    J. The Disability Research Staff (TANJ).
    1. Plans, directs and implements a wide range of studies and 
analyses, utilizing data from surveys and administrative records, on 
the national disabled population, disability applicants and disability 
beneficiaries.
    2. Develops research in response to DI program issues.
    3. Maintains and develops research surveys and administrative data 
files used in the analysis of disability data.
Subchapter TAP--Office of Program Benefits Policy
TAP.00  Mission
TAP.10  Organization
TAP.20  Functions

    Section TAP.00  The Office of Program Benefits Policy--(Mission): 
The Office of Program Benefits Policy provides SSA-wide leadership and 
direction to the development, coordination and promulgation of RSI and 
SSI policies and procedures. Develops, coordinates and evaluates the 
program and issues the operational policies, standards and instructions 
for the RSI and SSI programs. Develops and issues policies and 
guidelines for use by State and Federal organizations which implement 
the SSI provisions. Develops agreements with the States and other 
agencies that govern State supplementation programs, Medicaid 
eligibility, data exchange programs, food stamps and fiscal reporting 
processes.
    Section TAP.10  The Office of Program Benefits Policy--
(Organization): The Office of Program Benefits Policy, under the 
leadership of the Associate Commissioner for Program Benefits Policy 
includes:
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Program Benefits Policy (TAP).
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner(s) for Program Benefits Policy 
(TAP).
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Program 
Benefits Policy (TAP).
    D. The Division of Benefit Continuity (TAPA).
    E. The Division of Coverage (TAPB).
    F. The Division of Entitlement (TAPC).
    G. The Division of Payment Policy (TAPE).
    H. The Division of Program Requirements Policy (TAPG).
    I. The Division of Program Management, Research and Demonstration 
(TAPH).
    Section TAP.20  The Office of Program Benefits Policy--(Functions):
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Program Benefits Policy (TAP) is 
directly responsible to the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy 
for carrying out OPBP's mission and provides general supervision to the 
major components of OPBP.
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner(s) for Program Benefits Policy 
(TAP) assists the Associate Commissioner in carrying out his/her 
responsibilities and performs other duties as the Associate 
Commissioner may prescribe.
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Program 
Benefits Policy (TAP) provides the Associate Commissioner and Deputy 
Associate Commissioner(s) with staff assistance on the full range of 
their responsibilities and helps coordinate the activities of OPBP 
components.
    D. The Division of Benefit Continuity (TAPA).
    1. Plans, develops and evaluates the operational policies, 
standards and instructions and provides guidance to field components on 
issues related to the retirement and survivors insurance program and 
common to one or more of the other SSA programs in the area of benefit 
continuity.
    2. Develops, issues and evaluates guidelines, directives, 
instructions and operating procedures for such areas as work notices, 
annual and monthly earnings tests, suspensions and terminations, 
governmental pension offset and enforcement and beneficiary compliance, 
overpayments, underpayments, recovery and waiver, garnishment, payment 
delivery, onsite review, accounting, representative payee selection, 
advance notice, capability/incapability and use and misuse.
    E. The Division of Coverage (TAPB).
    1. Plans, develops and evaluates the operational policies, 
standards and instructions and provides guidance to field components on 
issues related to the retirement and survivors insurance program and 
common to one or more of the other SSA programs in the area of 
coverage.
    2. Develops and issues guidelines, directives, instructions and 
operating procedures for such coverage and employment subject areas as 
wages, coverage and exceptions, anti-poverty programs, earnings records 
and earnings records discrepancies, coverage aspects of international 
agreements, self-employment status and income, religious exemptions, 
State and local coverage and statutes of limitations.
    F. The Division of Entitlement (TAPC).
    1. Plans, develops and evaluates the operational policies, 
standards and instructions and provides guidance to field components on 
issues related to the retirement and survivors insurance program and 
common to one or more of the other SSA programs in the area of 
entitlement.
    2. Develops and issues guidelines, directives, instructions and 
operating procedures for such entitlement subject areas as 
applications, insured status, veterans' benefits, railroad employment, 
family relationships, dependency and support, evidence, school 
attendance, indexing of earnings, primary insurance amount computation, 
reduction of benefits for age, family maximums, saving clauses, 
recomputations and recalculations of benefits, period of disability 
computations, awards, disallowances and abatements of claims, earnings 
records, claims application forms, administrative finality, 
adjudicative standards, evidence, documentation, conspicuous 
characteristics and social security numbers.
    G. The Division of Payment Policy (TAPE).
    1. Plans, develops and evaluates the operational policies, 
standards and instructions and provides guidance to field components on 
issues related to the supplemental security income program in the area 
of payment policy.
    2. Develops and issues guidelines, directives, instructions and 
operating procedures for such payment policy subject areas as 
redeterminations, SSI notices, SSI appeals and overpayments/ 
underpayments matching and interfaces, mandatory and optional State 
supplemental payments, pass through of rate increases, monitoring of 
fiscal information systems with the States, maintenance of State 
agreements, food stamps, Medicaid, State assistance reimbursements, 
energy assistance, State data exchange systems and postadjudicative 
issues.
    H. The Division of Program Requirements Policy (TAPG).
    1. Plans, develops and evaluates the operational policies, 
standards and instructions and provides guidance to field components on 
issues related to the supplemental security income

[[Page 35857]]

program in the area of program requirements policy.
    2. Develops and issues guidelines, directives, instructions and 
operating procedures for such program requirements subject areas as 
individual/couple/child eligibility status, in-kind income, support and 
maintenance, in-kind living arrangements, institutionalization, special 
classifications of income and medical social services, generic income 
issues, deeming of income and resources, computation of income, certain 
grandfather clauses, special sponsored alien deeming, color of law 
alien status, presence in the United States, generic resources issues, 
trust policy, filing for other benefit requirements and property 
essential for self-support.
    I. The Division of Program Management, Research and Demonstration 
(TAPH).
    1. Designs, manages and conducts studies to measure and evaluate 
the impact and effectiveness of the supplemental security income and 
the retirement and survivors insurance program policies, procedures and 
programs on the population.
    2. Establishes, maintains and operates statistical program data 
base extract systems to provide program information for internal and 
external use; develops functional specifications and programs; 
validates output; and assists requestors in verifying final product.
    3. Manages demonstration cooperative agreements and initiatives to 
target special populations and program issues. Evaluates the 
effectiveness of demonstrations and initiatives and develops new and 
revised policies and procedures to implement program improvements.
    4. Coordinates and directs assignments and projects related to 
program redesign and systems modernization efforts, including 
development of program specifications for expert systems. Formulates, 
plans and implements computer programs and other automation activities 
in support of program policy, research and administrative needs.
    5. Develops and issues guidelines, directives, instructions and 
operating procedures for SSI applications policy, including protective 
filing and advance filing and SSI work incentive provisions, including 
plans for achieving self support and Section 1619 provisions.
Subchapter TAS--Office of Program Support
TAS.00  Mission
TAS.10  Organization
TAS.20  Functions

    Section TAS.00  The Office of Program Support (Mission): The Office 
of Program Support provides leadership in overseeing the Agency's 
system of programmatic instructions, notices to the public and 
technical documents. Develops and maintains standards governing the 
translation of strategic policy decisions into operational policies, 
procedures and notices. Responsible for the Agency's Regulatory 
Program, including development of SSA's Regulatory Plan and the 
Agency's portion of the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulations. Oversees 
the Agency's implementation of policies which utilize technologies in 
providing service to the public. Assures programmatic support to 
legislative implementation activities. Develops and interprets SSA 
policy governing requests for disclosure of information from Agency 
records under provisions of the Privacy Act and the Freedom of 
Information Act. Sponsors and supports ODCPP Interdisciplinary Teams 
established to address cross-cutting policy issues and initiatives. 
Designs, implements and maintains automated information and 
communications systems ODCPP-wide. Section TAS.10  The Office of 
Program Support (Organization): The Office of Program Support, under 
the leadership of the Associate Commissioner for Program Support 
includes:
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Program Support (TAS).
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Program Support (TAS).
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner for Program 
Support (TAS).
    Section TAS.20  The Office of Program Support (Functions):
    A. The Associate Commissioner for Program Support (TAS) is directly 
responsible to the Deputy Commissioner, Programs and Policy for 
carrying out OPS's mission and providing managerial direction to OPS.
    B. The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Program Support (TAS) 
assists the Associate Commissioner in carrying out his/her 
responsibilities and performs other duties as the Associate 
Commissioner may prescribe.
    C. The Immediate Office of the Associate Commissioner of the Office 
of Program Support(TAS) provides the Associate Commissioner with staff 
assistance on the full range of his/her responsibilities.
    1. Provides leadership in overseeing the Agency's system of 
programmatic instructions, notices to the public and technical 
documents. Develops and maintains standards governing the translation 
of strategic policy decisions into operational policies, procedures and 
notices.
    2. Responsible for the Agency's Regulatory Program.
    3. Oversees the Agency's implementation of policies which utilize 
technologies in providing service to the public.
    4. Assures programmatic support to legislative implementation 
activities.
    5. Develops and interprets SSA policy governing requests for 
disclosure of information from Agency records under provisions of the 
Privacy Act and the Freedom of Information Act.
    6. Sponsors and supports ODCPP Interdisciplinary Teams.
    7. Designs, implements and maintains automated information and 
communications systems ODCPP-wide.

    Dated: June 19, 1996.
Shirley S. Chater,
Commissioner of Social Security.
[FR Doc. 96-17244 Filed 7-5-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4190-29-P