[Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions]
[Social Security Administration Semiannual Regulatory Agenda]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]


Part XLIV





Social Security Administration





_______________________________________________________________________



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 23732]]



SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)                                   


  



_______________________________________________________________________

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Office of the Commissioner

20 CFR Ch. III

Semiannual Unified Regulatory Agenda

AGENCY: Social Security Administration.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: Executive Order 12866, entitled Regulatory Planning and 
Review, issued September 30, 1993, and the Regulatory Flexibility Act 
of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354) require each Federal agency to publish 
semiannually a brief description of all regulatory actions then under 
development or review, expected to be under development or review for 
the next 12 months, or completed since the previous publication of the 
agenda. Our last agenda of regulations was published on November 22, 
1999.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information about a 
specific regulatory action, contact the person identified as the agency 
contact for that action. Comments or inquiries of a general nature 
should be directed to Georgia E. Myers, Regulations Officer, Social 
Security Administration, L2109 West Low Rise Building, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401; Telephone (410) 965-3632 or TTY 
(410) 966-5609.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Social Security Administration (SSA) has 
responsibility for the retirement, survivors, and disability insurance 
programs under title II of the Social Security Act (the Act) and the 
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program under title XVI of the Act. 
We are not a regulatory agency. For the most part, our regulations do 
not impose burdens on the private sector or on State, local or tribal 
governments. Our regulations document the rules under which we make 
eligibility determinations and set forth both the responsibilities of 
the Agency towards the public and beneficiaries' rights and 
responsibilities under the programs we administer.

     Our regulatory efforts can be placed into one of the following 
three categories: 1) legislative implementation; 2) program 
improvements to provide better service to SSA customers; and 3) 
improvements or clarifications to fulfill commitments made as part 
of the President's Regulatory Reinvention initiative.

     We continue to seek legislative improvements for the programs 
we administer. However, because of the complexity of our programs, 
statutory language is rarely detailed enough to govern the actions 
of agency adjudicative decision-makers. Supporting regulations are 
often required. In some instances, Congress directs SSA to issue 
implementing regulations. For other legislative provisions, SSA 
regulations provide program information to applicants for benefits, 
current beneficiaries and their legal counsels.

     Included in our Agenda are items that will amend our 
regulations to provide more choices for people with disabilities 
who seek Return-to-Work services so that they may become self-
sufficient. These proposed regulations are required by provisions 
of ``The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 
1999,'' (Pub. L. 106-170), which was signed by the President on 
December 17, 1999. Among the provisions requiring regulations are 
provisions that will establish the Ticket to Work and Self-
Sufficiency program in SSA, suspend continuing disability reviews 
based on work activity, and expedite reinstatement of disability 
benefits terminated due to work activity.

     An area in which we are working hard to deliver high quality 
service is our disability determination process. Several of our 
agenda items support improvements to disability program 
administration. In addition, we have announced a prototype 
involving a combination of modifications to the disability 
determination process. Theprototype incorporates multiple 
modifications to the disability determinations procedures employed 
by State Disability Determination Services which have been shown to 
be effective in earlier tests. The prototype incorporates a series 
of changes that improve the initial disability determination 
process by: providing greater decisional authority to the 
disability examiner and more effective use of the expertise of the 
medical consultant; ensuring appropriate development and 
explanation of key issues; increasing opportunities for claimant 
interaction with the decision-maker before a determination is made; 
and simplifying the appeals process by eliminating the 
reconsideration step.

     One agenda item, Assessment of Residual Functional Capacity, 
implements elements of a major agency initiative known as ``process 
unification.'' Process unification is designed to produce similar 
results on similar cases at all stages of the process by 
consistently applying the law, regulations and rulings within SSA. 
The Assessment of Residual Functional Capacity regulation will 
clarify the guidelines in our regulations used in determining 
whether an individual who lacks the capacity to perform less than a 
full range of sedentary work is disabled.

     The Agenda contains several other regulations intended to 
improve the processing of disability claims. These include final 
rules regarding sources of evidence for establishing the existence 
of a medically determinable impairment, and adding a new medical 
listing for individuals age 18 or older who have non-mosaic Down 
syndrome. There is also a proposed rule to reflect advances in 
medical practices such as organ transplantation.

     SSA is committed to enhancing the service that we provide to 
our customers by reducing the time it takes them to receive a 
hearing and a decision. We believe that the new Hearings Process 
Improvement (HPI) Initiative will enhance the timeliness of 
decisions and improve customer service by effectively utilizing the 
staffing resources that are dedicated to this goal. The HPI 
Initiative is part of SSA's overall plan for managing the 
disability process. One important HPI initiative listed in the 
Agenda, Prehearing and Posthearing Conference, is expected to 
improve the hearings process by standardizing and increasing the 
efficiency of our procedures for holding prehearing and posthearing 
conferences. Another important HPI initiative listed in the Agenda, 
Expansion of the Use of Video Teleconference Technology in Hearings 
before Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) of the Social Security 
Administration, is expected to improve customer service by 
providing faster access to a hearing before an ALJ. It removes the 
need for the claimant (and representative, if any) and the ALJ to 
be physically present at the same location.

     Eliminating fraud and abuse in Social Security's programs is a 
vital goal of SSA. SSA's Strategic Plan asserts zero tolerance for 
fraud and abuse, and states that we will increase our attention on

[[Page 23733]]

deterring fraudulent activities. This initiative reflects SSA's 
idea that we must remain vigilant if we are to fulfill our role as 
capable stewards of the public trust. To further this goal, in this 
Agenda is an interim final regulation that implements a provision 
of The Foster Care Independence Act of 1999. This provision gives 
SSA the authority to administratively impose nonpayment of benefits 
on certain individuals who misstate or withhold material facts for 
use in determining title II or title XVI benefit eligibility or 
amount. Also in this Agenda are other proposed revisions based on 
the Foster Care Independence Act of 1999 that provide us with 
additional tools to strengthen the integrity of the Social Security 
and SSI programs. There is also a final rule implementing 
legislation to preclude eligibility for SSI benefits for certain 
fugitives and probation and parole violators.

     We remain committed to improving stewardship of the SSI 
program, for which we have had responsibility since the program's 
inception in 1974, as efficiently and effectively as possible. In 
this Agenda, in addition to the other SSI initiatives already 
discussed, is a proposed rule, Collection of SSI (Title XVI) 
Overpayment Debts from Title II Benefits, which will implement one 
of the debt collection tools authorized by legislation.

     In another regulatory action, SSA would, in favorably-decided 
cases, assess an attorney representative for withholding authorized 
attorney fees from a claimant's past-due Social Security benefits 
and paying all or part of the withheld fees directly to the 
attorney. This proposed regulation is based on a provision of ``The 
Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999,'' which 
is expected to generate $13 million in additional revenues in FY 
2000 to meet SSA's administrative expenses and $26 million in 
succeeding years.

     Consistent with the President's Regulatory Reinvention 
Initiative we are working diligently to improve our program benefit 
regulations and to develop partnerships with large segments of the 
community of stakeholders interested in Social Security programs. 
The remaining of our Unified Agenda items reflect such improvements 
and clarifications.

     The April 2000 regulatory agenda for the Social Security 
Administration follows.

Dated:  March 3, 2000.

 Georgia E. Myers,

SSA Regulations Officer.

                               Social Security Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3859        Representative Payment Under Title II and XVI of the Social Security Act (295P).....     0960-AD22
3860        Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income for        0960-AD23
            the Aged, Blind, and Disabled; Fees for Representation of Claimants (296P)..........
3861        Supplemental Security Income; Plans for Achieving Self-Support (506P)...............     0960-AE17
3862        Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements With Institutions of       0960-AE25
            Higher Education, Hospitals, Other Non-Profit Organizations, and Commercial
            Organizations (547P)................................................................
3863        Administrative Wage Garnishment (To Repay a Debt Owed to the Social Security             0960-AE92
            Administration) (724P)..............................................................
3864        OASDI and SSI; Expansion of the Use of Video Teleconference Technology in Hearings       0960-AE97
            Before Administrative Law Judges of the Social Security Administration (737P).......
3865        Revised Medical Criteria for Determination of Disability, Appendix 1 to Subpart P--      0960-AE99
            Listing of Impairments (740F).......................................................
3866        Anti-Fraud Provisions (765P)........................................................     0960-AF09
3867        Ticket to Work and Self-sufficiency Program (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives          0960-AF11
            Improvement Act of 1999) (767P).....................................................
3868        Amount of Student-Earned Income Exclusion (777P)....................................     0960-AF12
3869        Title XVI, Cross-Program Recovery (746P)............................................     0960-AF13
3870        Administrative Review Process; Prehearing and Posthearing Conferences (778P)........     0960-AF17
3871        Extension of Disability Insurance Program Demonstration Project Authority (Ticket to     0960-AF18
            Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act) (789P)....................................
3872        Expedited Reinstatement of Disability Benefits (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives       0960-AF21
            Improvement Act) (790P).............................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3873        Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income            0960-AB73
            Programs, Determining Disability and Blindness; Substantial Gainful Activity Guides
            (147F)..............................................................................
3874        Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program; Medical Criteria for               0960-AC74
            Evaluating Mental Disorders and Traumatic Brain Injury in Adults (222F).............
3875        Elimination of Rounding Distortion in the Calculation of the Contribution and            0960-AE40
            Benefit Base and Earnings Test Exempt Amounts (512F)................................
3876        Federal Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance; Determining Disability and         0960-AE42
            Blindness; Revision to Medical-Vocational Guidelines (599F).........................

[[Page 23734]]

 
3877        Denial of SSI Benefits for Fugitive Felons and Probation and Parole Violators (660F)     0960-AE77
3878        Reduction of Title II Benefits Under the Family Maximum Provisions in Cases of Dual      0960-AE85
            Entitlement (692F)..................................................................
3879        Federal Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income     0960-AE96
            for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled; Clarification of ``Age'' as a Vocational Factor
            (736F)..............................................................................
3880        Addition of Medical Criteria for Evaluating Down Syndrome in Adults (743F)..........     0960-AF03
3881        Medical Equivalence for Adults and Children (787I)..................................     0960-AF19
3882        Administrative Procedures for Imposing Penalties for False or Misleading Statements      0960-AF20
            (784I)..............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3883        Musculoskeletal System and Related Criteria (143F)..................................     0960-AB01
3884        Election of Benefits Based on Age by Disabled Widow, Widower, and Surviving Divorced     0960-AD56
            Spouse Beneficiaries (343P).........................................................
3885        Revised Medical Criteria for Determination of Disability; Hemic and Lymphatic            0960-AD67
            System, and Malignant Neoplastic Diseases (399P)....................................
3886        Revised Medical Criteria for Determination of Disability, Endocrine System (436P)...     0960-AD78
3887        Federal Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security           0960-AD91
            Income, Medical and Other Evidence of Your Impairment(s) and Definition of Medical
            Consultant (469F)...................................................................
3888        Contributions for Support (475P)....................................................     0960-AD92
3889        Computation of SSI Benefits for the First Three Months of Payment (476P)............     0960-AD93
3890        Definition of ``Largest Benefit Amount'' for Simultaneous Entitlement to Child's         0960-AD95
            Benefits (481P).....................................................................
3891        Repeal of Facility of Payment Provision (508F)......................................     0960-AE02
3892        Administrative Review Process; Administrative Res Judicata and Related Rules (526P).     0960-AE11
3893        Modification of Private Printing and Prescribed Applications and Other Forms (530P).     0960-AE15
3894        OASDI; Nonpayment of Benefits to Incarcerated Individuals and Individuals Confined       0960-AE16
            in Criminal Cases, Pursuant to Conviction or by Court Order Based on Findings of
            Insanity (531P).....................................................................
3895        Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Benefits; Replacing Social Security         0960-AE18
            Number Cards (543F).................................................................
3896        Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide              0960-AE27
            Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace (Grants) (554F)................................
3897        Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State       0960-AE28
            and Local Governments and Indian Tribal Governments (555F)..........................
3898        Restrictions on Lobbying in Connection with the Award of Grants, Contracts, and          0960-AE29
            Cooperative Agreements (556F).......................................................
3899        Supplemental Standards for Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Social Security          0960-AE48
            Administration (601P)...............................................................
3900        Deeming of Income From an Ineligible Spouse to an Eligible Individual and an             0960-AE50
            Eligible Child (606P)...............................................................
3901        Dedicated Accounts and Installment Payments for Certain Past Due SSI Benefits (622F)     0960-AE59
3902        Effectuation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Rehabilitation Act of      0960-AE63
            1973, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 in Programs Receiving Financial
            Assistance by SSA (617F)............................................................
3903        Availability of Information and Records to the Public--Charging Fees for Providing       0960-AE64
            Personal Information (618P).........................................................
3904        Coverage of Employees of State and Local Governments; Office of Management and           0960-AE69
            Budget (OMB) Control Number (280F)..................................................
3905        Determining Disability and Blindness; Providing for Use of a Single Decisionmaker to     0960-AE73
            Make Determinations of Disability Under Titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act
            (668P)..............................................................................
3906        Enforcement of Nondiscrimination in Social Security Programs or Activities (661P)...     0960-AE78
3907        Adding New SSI Income and Resource Exclusion (VA Payments to Certain Vietnam             0960-AE79
            Veterans' Children with Spina Bifida) to Lists of Exclusions Provided by Other
            Federal Statutes (664F).............................................................
3908        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information (711P)...................     0960-AE88
3909        Federal Salary Offset (Withholding a Portion of a Federal Employee's Salary To           0960-AE89
            Collect a Delinquent Debt Owed to the Social Security Administration) (721P)........
3910        Private Collection Agencies (Using Private Collection Agencies to Help SSA Collect       0960-AE90
            Delinquent Title II Debts Owed by Former Beneficiaries) (722P)......................
3911        Charging Interest (Charging Interest on Delinquent Debts) (723P)....................     0960-AE91
3912        Work Activity Standard as a Basis for Review of an Individual's Disabled Status          0960-AE93
            (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act) (725P).........................
3913        Testimony By Employees and the Production of Records in Legal Proceedings (732P)....     0960-AE95
3914        Assignment of Social Security Administration Numbers (SSN) for Non-Work Purposes         0960-AF05
            (751P)..............................................................................

[[Page 23735]]

 
3915        Cost of Living Increases in Primary Insurance Amounts (759F)........................     0960-AF14
3916        Change in Retirement Age (775F).....................................................     0960-AF16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3917        Federal Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security           0960-AE56
            Income for the Aged, Blind and Disabled; Evaluating Opinion Evidence (624F).........
3918        20 CFR Parts 401, 402, 404, 410, 416 and 422--Revised as of April 1, 1999;               0960-AF04
            Correction (745F)...................................................................
3919        Assessing Attorney Representatives for Direct Payment (763P)........................     0960-AF08
3920        Extension of Expiration Dates for Several Body System Listings (764F)...............     0960-AF15
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)                Proposed Rule Stage


  



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3859. REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT UNDER TITLE II AND XVI OF THE SOCIAL 
SECURITY ACT (295P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 401(j); 42 USC 404(f); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 
405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 405(k); 42 USC 
421; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 405 note; 42 USC 421 note; 42 
USC 1383(a)(2); 42 USC 1383(d)(1)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.2011; 20 CFR 404.2022; 20 CFR 
404.2024; 20 CFR 404.2025; 20 CFR 404.2030; 20 CFR 404.2041; 20 CFR 
404.2050; 20 CFR 416.611; 20 CFR 416.622; 20 CFR 416.624; 20 CFR 
416.625; 20 CFR 416.630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Effective stewardship of SSA programs requires mechanisms to 
assure that benefits are used to meet the needs of beneficiaries who 
are not able to manage their own benefits due to legal incompetence or 
medical infirmity. Congress determined that improvements to the 
representative payment procedures were needed to assure program 
integrity as part of Public Law 101-508. Any costs associated with 
these regulations are reflected in the President's budget as part of 
legislative implementation. These regulations are required to further 
our program integrity efforts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/15/94                    59 FR 11949
NPRM Comment Period End         05/16/94
Second NPRM                     12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Betsy Byrd, Program Policy Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7981

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AD22
_______________________________________________________________________




3860. OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE AND SUPPLEMENTAL 
SECURITY INCOME FOR THE AGED, BLIND, AND DISABLED; FEES FOR 
REPRESENTATION OF CLAIMANTS (296P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: PL 101-508, sec 5106; PL 103-296, sec 321(f)3 to sec 
321(f)5; PL 106-170, sec 406

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1703; 20 CFR 404.1713; 20 CFR 404.1720; 20 CFR 
404.1715 to 404.1717; 20 CFR 404.1725; 20 CFR 416.1503; 20 CFR 
416.1513; 20 CFR 416.1520; 20 CFR 416.1515 to 416.1517; 20 CFR 416.1525

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend the regulations to reflect section 
5106(a) of Public Law 101-508, which modifies the manner in which past-
due benefits are calculated and the process by which SSA approves fees 
charged by persons representing claimants before the Agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AD23

[[Page 23736]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3861. SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME; PLANS FOR ACHIEVING SELF-SUPPORT 
(506P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: PL 103-296, sec 203; 42 USC 1383b(d)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1180; 20 CFR 416.1181; 20 CFR 416.1182; 20 CFR 
416.1224; 20 CFR 416.1225; 20 CFR 416.1226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed regulations will revise our rules on plans to 
achieve self-support (PASS) to take into account the time period an 
individual will need for completion of his or her PASS and other 
factors determined to be appropriate.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE17
_______________________________________________________________________




3862. UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTS AND AGREEMENTS WITH 
INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, HOSPITALS, OTHER NON-PROFIT 
ORGANIZATIONS, AND COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATIONS (547P)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 31 USC 7505; 41 USC 403(11)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 435.000

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed regulations migrate the HHS grants regulation 
at 45 CFR part 74 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR 435 now that SSA 
is an independent agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE25
_______________________________________________________________________




3863. ADMINISTRATIVE WAGE GARNISHMENT (TO REPAY A DEBT OWED TO THE 
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (724P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 1383; 31 USC 3720D

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This initiative will enable the Social Security 
Administration (SSA) to collect qualifying, delinquent titles II and 
XVI debts owed by former beneficiaries who are now employed (as other 
than Federal employees). Administrative wage garnishment allows SSA to 
direct an employer to deduct a percentage of the disposable wages 
earned by the worker/debtor, and to send that amount to SSA as payment 
toward the delinquent debt. Administrative wage garnishment does not 
require a court judgment to impose the withholding order.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Edward Johns, Financial Management Analyst, Social 
Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-
6401
Phone: 410 965-0392

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE92
_______________________________________________________________________




3864. OASDI AND SSI; EXPANSION OF THE USE OF VIDEO TELECONFERENCE 
TECHNOLOGY IN HEARINGS BEFORE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGES OF THE SOCIAL 
SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (737P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 205(a); 42 USC 205(b); 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 
1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.929; 20 CFR 416.1438; 20 CFR 404.936(b); 20 
CFR 404.936(c); 20 CFR 404.936(d)(8) (New); 20 CFR 404.938; 20 CFR 
416.1429; 20 CFR 416.1436(b); 20 CFR 416.1436(c); 20 CFR 416.1436(d)(8) 
(New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to permit us to conduct 
hearings before an administrative law judge (ALJ) by video 
teleconference (VTC). We also propose to add new sections to the 
regulations that state an ALJ will find good cause to change the time 
and place of a hearing if we schedule a VTC hearing, and the individual 
tells us he/she does not want a VTC hearing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/00
Final Action                    07/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE97
_______________________________________________________________________




3865. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR DETERMINATION OF DISABILITY, APPENDIX 
1 TO SUBPART P--LISTING OF IMPAIRMENTS (740F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 
405(d)

[[Page 23737]]

to 405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 422(c); 
42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); PL 104-193, sec 211(b)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404 subpart P, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to make a number of discrete revisions to 
the Listing of Impairments listings, appendix 1 to subpart P, parts A 
and B, of part 404 of our regulations, in order to reflect advances in 
medical practices, to clarify certain listing criteria, to remove a few 
rarely-used listings, and to add new listings to address current 
medical practices such as organ transplantation. We are also proposing 
to remove some technical references which have become obsolete and 
proposing to reword some listings to update medical terminology. We use 
these listings to adjudicate claims for disability under titles II and 
XVI of the Social Security Act when we evaluate claims of individuals 
at step three of our sequential evaluation process.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/11/00                     65 FR 6929
NPRM Comment Period End         04/11/00
Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Carolyn Kiefer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9104

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AE99
_______________________________________________________________________




3866. ANTI-FRAUD PROVISIONS (765P)

Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: PL 106-169

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: Not Yet Determined.

Abstract: These regulations will implement new authorities granted to 
SSA by the Foster Care Independence Act of 1999, to strengthen the 
integrity of the SSI and OASDI programs. One provision will bar for a 
specified period of time representatives and health-care providers from 
the program, if they are found to have helped commit fraud. Another 
provision will authorize SSA to obtain information from financial 
institutions in order to determine initial or continuing eligibility 
for SSI benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/00
Final Action                    09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Georgia E. Myers, SSA Regulations Officer, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-3632

RIN: 0960-AF09
_______________________________________________________________________




3867. TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM (TICKET TO WORK AND 
WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) (767P)

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320b-19; PL 106-170, sec 101

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.316; 20 CFR 404.337; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 
404.401; 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.1586; 20 CFR 404.1590; 20 CFR 
404.1596; 20 CFR 404.1597; 20 CFR 404.2101; 20 CFR 416.101; 20 CFR 
416.213; 20 CFR 416.708; 20 CFR 416.990; 20 CFR 416.1321; 20 CFR 
416.1328; 20 CFR 416.1331; 20 CFR 416.1338; 20 CFR 416.1402; 20 CFR 
416.1701 to 416.1715; 20 CFR 416.2040; 20 CFR 416.2201

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, December 17, 2000, One year after the 
date of enactment of Public Law 106-170.
Sec. 1148(l) of the Social Security Act (42 USC 1320b-19(1), as added 
by sec. 101(a) of PL 106.170, requires SSA to prescribe regulations to 
carry out the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program.

Abstract: The proposed regulations will implement the Ticket to Work 
and Self-Sufficiency Program under section 1148 of the Act, as added by 
section 101(a) of Public Law 106-170. They also will carry out 
provisions of sections 101(d) and (e) of Public Law 106-170 relating to 
the implementation of that program and section 101(b) providing 
conforming amendments to the Act. One of SSA's most important 
initiatives is to assure that Social Security (SSDI) and Supplemental 
Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work 
have the opportunity to do so. Individuals with disabilities face 
multiple barriers in attempting to return to work. The Ticket to Work 
and Self-Sufficiency Program, under section 1148 of the Act, removes 
such barriers by providing beneficiaries with disabilities with the 
opportunity to obtain rehabilitation, employment and support services 
from an approved vocational rehabilitation provider of their choice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/00
Final Action                    12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Geoffrey Funk, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltiimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9010

Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AF11

[[Page 23738]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3868. AMOUNT OF STUDENT-EARNED INCOME EXCLUSION (777P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1112(c)(3)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed regulation would update the amount of the 
student-earned-income exclusion (SEIE) to $1,290 a month, not to exceed 
$5,200 a year, and adjust the SEIE for inflation annually, using the 
consumer price index.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steve Fear, Social Security Administration, Office of 
Policy, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20254
Phone: 202 358-6121

RIN: 0960-AF12
_______________________________________________________________________




3869. TITLE XVI, CROSS-PROGRAM RECOVERY (746P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1320b-17

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.401; 20 CFR 416.558; 20 CFR 416.570; 20 CFR 
416.572

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations dealing with the 
recovery of overpayments under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 
Program to permit SSA to recover SSI overpayments by adjusting the 
amount of Social Security benefits payable to the individual under 
title II of the Act. This collection practice would be limited to 
individuals who are not currently eligible to receive an SSI cash 
benefit. Also, the amount of the title XVI overpayment recoverable in a 
month would be limited to 10 percent of the amount payable under title 
II unless the overpaid person (or his or her spouse) willfully 
misrepresented or concealed material information about the overpayment. 
In that case, the entire title II benefit amount would be adjusted to 
recover the overpayment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Edward Johns, Financial Management Analyst, Social 
Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-
6401
Phone: 410 965-0392

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AF13
_______________________________________________________________________




3870.  ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS; PREHEARING AND POSTHEARING 
CONFERENCES (778P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 31 USC 3720A; 42 USC 401(j); 42 USC 404(f); 42 USC 
405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 
405 note; 42 USC 421; 42 USC 421 note; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 
USC 1383; 42 USC 1383b

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.961; 20 CFR 416.1461

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations that authorize an 
administrative law judge (ALJ) to hold a prehearing or posthearing 
conference to specify that certain attorney advisors in our Office of 
Hearings and Appeals (OHA) may hold formal prehearing or posthearing 
conferences when requested by an ALJ. We also propose to amend these 
regulations to include procedures to govern the informal developmental 
conferences that we may hold with claimants or their representatives.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Georgia E. Myers, SSA Regulations Officer, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-3632

RIN: 0960-AF17
_______________________________________________________________________




3871.  EXTENSION OF DISABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM DEMONSTRATION 
PROJECT AUTHORITY (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT) 
(789P)

Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 434

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1599

Legal Deadline: No specific effective date. Section 301 provides title 
II demonstration authority for 5 years from the date of enactment 
(December 17, 1999).

Abstract: One of SSA's most important initiatives is to assure that 
Social Security (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 
beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work have the opportunity 
to do so. Section 301 of Public Law 106-170 provides the Commissioner 
of Social Security with the authority to develop and carry out 
experiments and demonstration projects designed to determine the 
relative advantages and disadvantages of various alternative methods of 
treating the work activity of individuals entitled to disability 
insurance benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/00
Final Action                    12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Geoffrey Funk, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltiimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9010

RIN: 0960-AF18

[[Page 23739]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3872.  EXPEDITED REINSTATEMENT OF DISABILITY BENEFITS (TICKET TO 
WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT) (790P)

Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 423

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: Section 112 of Public Law 106-170, effective January 1, 
2001.

Abstract: One of SSA's most important initiatives is to assure that 
Social Security (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 
beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work have the opportunity 
to do so. Individuals with disabilities face multiple barriers in 
attempting to return to work. Section 112 of Public Law 106-170 
provides a new statutory work incentive by providing for expedited 
reinstatement of SSDI and SSI benefits terminated due to work activity, 
when the former beneficiary requests reinstatement within 60 months 
because his or her disability prevents work activity. Section 112 also 
provides for payment of provisional benefits up to 6 months until SSA 
makes a determination on the requester's entitlement to reinstated 
benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Geoffrey Funk, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltiimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9010

Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AF21
_______________________________________________________________________


SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)                   Final Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3873. OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE AND SUPPLEMENTAL 
SECURITY INCOME PROGRAMS, DETERMINING DISABILITY AND BLINDNESS; 
SUBSTANTIAL GAINFUL ACTIVITY GUIDES (147F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: PL 98-460, sec 10; PL 99-643; PL 100-203; PL 101-508; 
42 USC 902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404; 20 CFR 416

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final regulations will clarify how the Social Security 
Administration evaluates a person's work activity to determine whether 
work is substantial gainful activity and whether an individual is 
entitled to a trial work period. These regulations also reflect 
statutory changes with respect to the trial work period and the re-
entitlement period.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/06/95                    60 FR 12166
NPRM Comment Period End         05/15/95
Final Action                    04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




3874. OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM; MEDICAL 
CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MENTAL DISORDERS AND TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY IN 
ADULTS (222F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1; 20 CFR 404.1520a; 20 CFR 
404.1528; 20 CFR 416.920a; 20 CFR 416.928

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On July 18, 1991, we published a Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking (NPRM) (56 FR 33130) that proposed more extensive revisions 
to the regulations and the mental disorders listings than are in these 
final rules. The proposed rules included comprehensive revisions to the 
regulations on the evaluation of mental disorders in sections 404.1520a 
and 416.920a and the adult mental disorders listings, as well as 
proposed guidelines for evaluating traumatic brain injury in section 
11.00 of the listings. The proposed revisions also included both new 
and revised rules for the evaluation of mental disorders in children 
claiming disability benefits under the Supplemental Security Income 
(SSI) Program. Although the NPRM reflected advances in medical 
knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating mental impairments that 
were up-to-date at the time it was published, there have been 
additional advances since then that impact on many of the revisions we 
had proposed. There have also been changes in the SSI law and 
regulations regarding the evaluation of disability in children. 
Consequently, we are deferring action on the proposed revisions in the 
1991 NPRM that are not finalized by these regulations. We will consider 
the public comments we received on the proposed revisions that we are 
not finalizing by these regulations as we assess those proposals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/18/91                    56 FR 33130

[[Page 23740]]

NPRM Comment Period End         09/18/91
Final Action                    04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AC74
_______________________________________________________________________




3875. ELIMINATION OF ROUNDING DISTORTION IN THE CALCULATION OF THE 
CONTRIBUTION AND BENEFIT BASE AND EARNINGS TEST EXEMPT AMOUNTS (512F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 1302; 42 USC 1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.211(c); 20 CFR 404.430(c); 20 CFR 404.1047 to 
1048; 20 CFR 404, subpart C, app 1; 20 CFR 404.403(d); 20 CFR 
404.408ff; 20 CFR 404.1048(c); 20 CFR 404.1918(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 321(g) of Public Law 103-296 designated 1994 as the 
base year to be used in calculating increases in the OASDI contribution 
and benefit base and the earnings test exempt amounts. The provision is 
effective for the contribution and benefit base and for the earnings 
test exempt amount for taxable years ending after 1994. Section 102 of 
Public Law 104-121, however, established a schedule of earnings test 
exempt amounts for persons at or above the normal retirement age for 
1996 through 2002. Thereafter, the provision calculates the increase in 
this exempt amount in the same manner as provided by Public Law 103-
296, but designates 2002 as the base year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE40
_______________________________________________________________________




3876. FEDERAL OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE; DETERMINING 
DISABILITY AND BLINDNESS; REVISION TO MEDICAL-VOCATIONAL GUIDELINES 
(599F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 423; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will make clarifications to the Social Security 
Medical-Vocational guidelines used to evaluate disability in 
individuals under age 50 who have severe impairments that do not meet 
or equal the criteria of any listed impairment, but have a residual 
functional capacity for no more than the full range of sedentary work. 
The guidelines are contained in appendix 2 of subpart P of 20 CFR 404.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/23/97                    62 FR 49636
NPRM Comment Period End         11/24/97
Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE42
_______________________________________________________________________




3877. DENIAL OF SSI BENEFITS FOR FUGITIVE FELONS AND PROBATION AND 
PAROLE VIOLATORS (660F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.202; 20 CFR 416.708; 20 CFR 416.1331

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final regulations carry out section 202(a) of Public 
Law 104-193, which prohibits payment of SSI benefits to individuals who 
are fleeing to avoid prosecution for a crime which is a felony; or 
fleeing to avoid custody or confinement after conviction for a crime 
which is a felony; or violating a condition of probation or parole 
imposed under Federal or State law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/12/98                    63 FR 32161
NPRM Comment Period End         08/11/98
Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Teresa Robinson, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7960

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AE77
_______________________________________________________________________




3878. REDUCTION OF TITLE II BENEFITS UNDER THE FAMILY MAXIMUM PROVISIONS 
IN CASES OF DUAL ENTITLEMENT (692F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 
42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 422(b); 42 USC 423(e); 42 USC 
424a; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.402; 20 CFR 404.403

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are revising our regulations to reflect the adoption by 
the Social Security Administration of the holding in Parisi by Cooney 
v. Chater as national policy. This policy has been an Acquiescence 
Ruling, which applied in the First Circuit. The policy is that, when 
determining the benefits for auxiliaries or survivors after reduction 
for the family maximum, dually entitled beneficiaries will be 
considered only to the extent that such

[[Page 23741]]

persons actually receive a benefit. In Parisi, a child's benefits had 
been lowered due to the entitlement of another auxiliary on that Social 
Security number (SSN), even though the other auxiliary did not receive 
benefits on that same SSN but rather received benefits on another SSN.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule With Comments10/27/99                    64 FR 57774
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/27/99
Final Action                    06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bill Hilton, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-2468

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AE85
_______________________________________________________________________




3879. FEDERAL OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS AND DISABILITY INSURANCE AND 
SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME FOR THE AGED, BLIND, AND DISABLED; 
CLARIFICATION OF ``AGE'' AS A VOCATIONAL FACTOR (736F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 423; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 
1383(d)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1563; 20 CFR 404.1568(d)(4) (New); 20 CFR 
416.963; 20 CFR 416.968(d)(4) (New); 20 CFR 404 subpart P, app 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final regulations will clarify our consideration of 
``age'' as a vocational factor at the last step of our sequential 
evaluation process for determining whether an individual is disabled. 
We will explain how we consider transferability of skills for 
individuals who are of ``advanced age'' (age 55 or older) in deciding 
whether such individuals can make an adjustment to other work. These 
final regulations will also update the age category of ``closely 
approaching retirement age'' throughout our rules.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/04/99                    64 FR 42310
NPRM Comment Period End         10/04/99
Final Action                    11/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Elaine Tocco, Vocational Policy Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability, Vocational Policy 
Branch, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-6356

Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE96
_______________________________________________________________________




3880. ADDITION OF MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING DOWN SYNDROME IN 
ADULTS (743F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 
405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 
422(c); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are adding a new listing 10.06 to part A of appendix 1, 
subpart P of part 404, the Listing of Impairments (the Listings). The 
new listing provides for the evaluation of Down syndrome for 
individuals age 18 and over. We currently have a listing for Down 
syndrome only in part B, listing 110.06, for individuals who have not 
attained age 18. In our current listings, section 10.00 is reserved for 
future use. Accordingly, we also are adding the heading ``Multiple Body 
Systems'' to this section to contain the new listing. The heading 
conforms to the corresponding heading of section 110.00 in part B of 
the Listings.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/12/99                    64 FR 55215
NPRM Comment Period End         12/13/99
Final Action                    09/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michelle Hungerman, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-2289

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AF03
_______________________________________________________________________




3881.  MEDICAL EQUIVALENCE FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN (787I)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320b-13; PL 104-193, sec 
211(b)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1526; 20 CFR 404.1529; 20 CFR 416.926; 20 CFR 
416.929

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These interim final rules will clarify that a determination 
of medical equivalence will consider the severity of the individual's 
impairment, based on all relevant evidence in the case record. These 
rules will clarify our medical equivalence policy in light of the 
decision in Hickman v. Apfel, 187 F.3d 683 (7th Cir. 1999).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jane Deweib, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401

[[Page 23742]]

Phone: 410 965-9878

RIN: 0960-AF19
_______________________________________________________________________




3882.  ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES FOR IMPOSING PENALTIES FOR 
FALSE OR MISLEADING STATEMENTS (784I)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 
42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 422(b); 42 USC 423(e); 42 USC 
424a; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320a-8a; 42 USC 1382 to 
1382d; 42 USC 1382h; 42 USC 1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.475; 20 CFR 416.1339

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 14, 2000.

Abstract: These interim final rules implement section 207 of Public Law 
106-169, which provides that SSA may impose a penalty on any person who 
knowingly makes, or causes to be made, a false or misleading statement 
or representation of a material fact for use in determining any initial 
or continuing right to or the amount of monthly insurance benefits 
under title II or benefits or payments under title XVI.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gareth N. Dence, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Division of Payment Policy, Office of Program 
Benefits Policy, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-9872

RIN: 0960-AF20
_______________________________________________________________________


SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)                  Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3883. MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM AND RELATED CRITERIA (143F)

Priority: Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 405; 42 USC 1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Listings 1.00 and 101.00 of appendix 1 to the disability 
regulations at 20 CFR 404.1501 through 404.1599 describe those 
musculoskeletal impairments that are considered severe enough to 
prevent a person from doing any gainful activity or, for a child 
claiming SSI payments under title XVI, that causes marked and severe 
functional limitations. Comprehensive revisions to these listings are 
being made to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up to 
date and consistent with the latest advances in medicine. The SSI 
program incorporates by reference and uses the same medical criteria as 
the old-age, survivors, and disability insurance program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/21/93                    58 FR 67574
NPRM Comment Period End         02/22/94
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Victoria Dorf, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9245

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AB01
_______________________________________________________________________




3884. ELECTION OF BENEFITS BASED ON AGE BY DISABLED WIDOW, WIDOWER, AND 
SURVIVING DIVORCED SPOUSE BENEFICIARIES (343P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.335; 20 CFR 404.336; 20 CFR 404.337

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to permit the election of 
benefits based on age by widows, widowers and surviving divorced 
spouses (hereinafter, collectively widows) who are at least age 60 and 
who are already entitled to widow's benefits based on disability. This 
proposal would allow the widow to choose which of the two types of 
widow's benefits is more advantageous.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AD56
_______________________________________________________________________




3885. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR DETERMINATION OF DISABILITY; HEMIC 
AND LYMPHATIC SYSTEM, AND MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC DISEASES (399P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1302; 42 USC 1383; 42 USC 405

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

[[Page 23743]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Sections 7.00 and 107.00 (hemic and lymphatic system), and 
13.00 and 113.00 (malignant neoplastic diseases) of appendix 1 to 
subpart P of part 404 of the Disability Regulations (404.1501 through 
404.1599) describe those impairments that are considered severe enough 
to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or for a child 
claiming SSI payments under title XVI, that causes marked and severe 
functional limitations. We are proposing revisions to these sections to 
ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up-to-date and 
consistent with the latest advances in medical knowledge and treatment. 
The Supplemental Security Income Program incorporates and uses the same 
medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance 
Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michelle Hungerman, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-2289

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AD67
_______________________________________________________________________




3886. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR DETERMINATION OF DISABILITY, 
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM (436P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 1302; 42 USC 1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Sections 9.00 and 109.00 of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 
404 of the Disability Regulations (404.1501 through 404.1599) describe 
those impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person 
from doing any gainful activity, or in the case of a child claiming SSA 
payments under title XVI, that cause marked and severe functional 
limitations. We are proposing to revise the criteria in these sections 
to reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of 
evaluating endocrine impairments. The Supplemental Security Income 
Program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, 
Survivors and Disability Insurance Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AD78
_______________________________________________________________________




3887. FEDERAL OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE AND 
SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME, MEDICAL AND OTHER EVIDENCE OF YOUR 
IMPAIRMENT(S) AND DEFINITION OF MEDICAL CONSULTANT (469F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383; 42 USC 405

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1512; 20 CFR 404.1513; 20 CFR 416.912; 20 CFR 
416.913

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We will add speech-language pathologists, licensed 
podiatrists, and licensed or certified school psychologists to the list 
of acceptable medical sources in our current regulations. These sources 
will assist us in establishing the existence of impairments within 
their areas of expertise. We will also revise the definition of the 
term ``medical consultant'' to clarify what we mean by an acceptable 
medical source.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/09/98                    63 FR 54417
NPRM Comment Period End         12/08/98
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AD91
_______________________________________________________________________




3888. CONTRIBUTIONS FOR SUPPORT (475P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 403(b); 42 USC 
405(a); 42 USC 416; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 
USC 902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.366

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To provide more uniformity in our decisionmaking, we are 
proposing to amend our rules on the contributions for support that must 
be provided by the insured to certain categories of claimants for 
child's benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AD92

[[Page 23744]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3889. COMPUTATION OF SSI BENEFITS FOR THE FIRST THREE MONTHS OF PAYMENT 
(476P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1302; 42 USC 1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.320

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: SSI eligibility and payment are calculated by taking into 
account income received by the applicant/recipient. Two calculations 
must be made for each month. The first is the eligibility computation 
and is based on the current (payment) month's income. The second is the 
payment computation, which, under retrospective monthly accounting, is 
based (usually) on the income of a prior month called the budget month. 
Generally the budget month is 2 months prior to the payment month. The 
transitional computation for the first 3 months of SSI payment is an 
exception to the general rule described above. While the eligibility 
computation continues to apply to the current month's income, the 
budget month on which each of the first 3 months' payments are based is 
the first month of eligibility. This policy was intended to facilitate 
the transition into the 2 month retrospective accounting cycle and to 
avoid penalizing the recipient for income received prior to initial SSI 
eligibility. However, the policy also has the effect of counting income 
which is only received in one month more than one time. In Jones v. 
Shalala, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that SSA's 
transitional computation for the first 3 months of eligibility is not 
permissible because it will result in the triple counting of 
nonrecurring income received only in the first month of eligibility. 
The proposed policy addresses the triple counting of nonrecurring 
income.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AD93
_______________________________________________________________________




3890. DEFINITION OF ``LARGEST BENEFIT AMOUNT'' FOR SIMULTANEOUS 
ENTITLEMENT TO CHILD'S BENEFITS (481P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 403(b); 
42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 416; 
42 USC 422(b); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 424a; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 
902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.304; 20 CFR 404.353b; 20 CFR 404.407d

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 202(k)(2)(A) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 402(k)(2)(A)) 
contains the statutory requirements for determining the earnings record 
on which SSA will pay a person, who is simultaneously entitled to 
child's insurance benefits on the earnings records of more than one 
worker. Generally, the child's benefits will be paid on the earnings 
record that yields the highest primary insurance amount (PIA). However, 
under certain circumstances, the child's benefits will be paid on the 
earnings record that yields a lower PIA if that record produces the 
``largest benefit'' to which the child could be entitled under section 
202(d) without the application of the reduction under the ``family 
maximum'' provisions. In implementing section 202(k)(2)(A), SSA has 
determined the ``largest benefit'' under section 202(k)(2)(A) by 
comparing the original benefit amount (i.e., 50 percent of the PIA of a 
living worker and 75 percent of the PIA of a deceased worker) 
calculated on the dependent and/or survivor claim of the child on the 
earnings record of each worker without applying any reductions or 
deductions. The United States District Court for the Northern District 
of Alabama in Agee v. Sullivan rejected this interpretation and held 
that SSA must compare the amounts payable to the child under each 
earnings record after considering all applicable deductions and 
reductions other than the reduction under the family maximum 
provisions. Legal support for both interpretations can be found in the 
statutory language and legislative history of section 202(k)(2)(A). We 
have found current regulations implementing section 202(k)(2)(A) to be 
ambiguous. We propose to amend these regulations to reflect the 
longstanding SSA interpretation, rather than the interpretation adopted 
by the district court in the Agee decision.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bill Hilton, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-2468

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AD95
_______________________________________________________________________




3891. REPEAL OF FACILITY OF PAYMENT PROVISION (508F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 403

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.402(b); 20 CFR 404.458

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation will reflect section 309 of Public Law 103-
296 that repeals the facility of payment provision under which Social 
Security benefits, subject to the family maximum, would not be 
redistributed in certain cases, and provides that the reduction for the 
family maximum will be made prior to a temporary suspension for work 
when the non-working auxiliary resides in a separate household from the 
working auxiliary.

[[Page 23745]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE02
_______________________________________________________________________




3892. ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS; ADMINISTRATIVE RES JUDICATA AND 
RELATED RULES (526P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 
42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 421; 42 USC 401(j); 42 USC 425; 42 USC 405 note; 
42 USC 421 note; 42 USC 1383; 42 USC 1383b; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 
902(a)(5); 42 USC 404(f)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.903a (New); 20 CFR 404.903b (New); 20 CFR 
404.950; 20 CFR 404.957; 20 CFR 404.967; 20 CFR 416.1403a (New); 20 CFR 
416.1403b (New); 20 CFR 416.1450; 20 CFR 416.1457; 20 CFR 416.1467

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed changes will amend our regulations governing 
the administrative review process for the Social Security and 
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs to update our procedures 
and to reflect and implement sections 205(b)(3)(A) and 1631(c)(1)(B)(i) 
of the Act, as added by section 5107 of Public Law 101-508. Section 
5107 specifies certain cases in which our policy on administrative res 
judicata may not be applied to deny a claimant's subsequent application 
for benefits under the Social Security or SSI Program. In general, 
section 5107 provides that an individual's failure to timely request 
review of an adverse determination (initial or reconsidered) under the 
Social Security or SSI Program may not be used by us as a basis for a 
denial of the claimant's subsequent application for benefits under the 
same program, if the failure to request review was due to certain 
circumstances specified in the statute.
We are also proposing to amend our regulations to expand and clarify 
our policy on administrative res judicata and on collateral estoppel.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stan Axel, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7927

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AE11
_______________________________________________________________________




3893. MODIFICATION OF PRIVATE PRINTING AND PRESCRIBED APPLICATIONS AND 
OTHER FORMS (530P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: PL 103-296, sec 312

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.527

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation will implement section 312 of Public Law 103-
296, which expands prohibitions on the use of certain letters and 
symbols and also the reproduction for a fee of forms and publications 
of SSA and HHS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AE15
_______________________________________________________________________




3894. OASDI; NONPAYMENT OF BENEFITS TO INCARCERATED INDIVIDUALS AND 
INDIVIDUALS CONFINED IN CRIMINAL CASES, PURSUANT TO CONVICTION OR BY 
COURT ORDER BASED ON FINDINGS OF INSANITY (531P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(x); 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.468

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulation will implement section 4 of Public Law 103-
387, which modifies and expands the current prisoner nonpayment 
provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE16
_______________________________________________________________________




3895. OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE BENEFITS; REPLACING 
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER CARDS (543F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.103

[[Page 23746]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final rules will support our pilot test for replacing 
social security number cards when we receive a request by telephone. We 
will test replacing the card based on information furnished by 
telephone, without requiring additional documentation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/22/95                    60 FR 32444
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/21/95
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel T. Bridgewater, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-3298

RIN: 0960-AE18
_______________________________________________________________________




3896. GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT) AND 
GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (GRANTS) (554F)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 41 USC 403(11); 41 USC 701 et seq

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 436.000

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 
45 CFR part 76 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 436 now that 
SSA is an independent agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE27
_______________________________________________________________________




3897. UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTS AND COOPERATIVE 
AGREEMENTS TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS AND INDIAN TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS 
(555F)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 41 USC 403(ii)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 437.000

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 
45 CFR part 92 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 437 now that 
SSA is an independent agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE28
_______________________________________________________________________




3898. RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING IN CONNECTION WITH THE AWARD OF GRANTS, 
CONTRACTS, AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS (556F)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 31 USC 1352

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 438.000

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 
45 CFR part 93 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 438 now that 
SSA is an independent agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE29
_______________________________________________________________________




3899. SUPPLEMENTAL STANDARDS FOR ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE 
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (601P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC APP (Ethics in Government Act of 1978); 5 USC 
7301; 5 USC 7353

CFR Citation: 5 CFR ch LXXXI (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Social Security Administration (SSA), with the 
concurrence of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), proposes to issue 
regulations for officers and employees of SSA that supplement the OGE 
Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch, 
which became effective February 3, 1993. The proposed rule specifies 
procedural and substantive requirements that are necessary to address 
ethical issues unique to SSA. There were no alternatives considered for 
these proposed rules. Any costs or savings will be insignificant.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Stuart M. Besser, Attorney, Social Security 
Administration, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-3194

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AE48

[[Page 23747]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3900. DEEMING OF INCOME FROM AN INELIGIBLE SPOUSE TO AN ELIGIBLE 
INDIVIDUAL AND AN ELIGIBLE CHILD (606P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 
1382a; 42 USC 1382c(f); 42 USC 1383; 42 USC 1382b; 42 USC 1382j

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1160 (c)(3)(iii); 20 CFR 416.1165 (g)(1); 20 
CFR 416.1166

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would revise the method used under the SSI program 
to determine income for a child who lives with both parents where one 
parent is ineligible for SSI because of income deemed from an 
ineligible spouse. Instead of deeming any excess income from the 
ineligible spouse to the child, referred to as ``pass-through 
deeming,'' we would deem income to the child using the method we use 
where neither parent files for SSI. Under current rules, ``pass-
through'' deeming has had the unintended effect of deeming more income 
than would have been deemed if the regular rules for deeming from 
ineligible parents who do not file for SSI are used.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE50
_______________________________________________________________________




3901. DEDICATED ACCOUNTS AND INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS FOR CERTAIN PAST DUE 
SSI BENEFITS (622F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381; 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 
1382(c); 42 USC 1382(e); 42 USC 1383(a) to 1383(d); 42 USC 1383(g)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.545; 20 CFR 416.546; 20 CFR 416.640

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, November 22, 1996.

Abstract: These regulations reflect amendments to the Social Security 
Act made by sections 213 and 221 of the Personal Responsibility and 
Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. Section 213 requires the 
establishment of accounts in financial institutions for the payment of 
past-due SSI benefits after reimbursement to a State for Interim 
Assistance Reimbursement exceeding 6 months' benefits to representative 
payees on behalf of children under age 18. These accounts will be 
dedicated for certain purposes by restrictions on the use of such past-
due benefits.
Section 221 requires past-due SSI benefits after reimbursement to a 
State for Interim Assistance Reimbursement which equals or exceeds 12 
months' benefits to be paid in installments, with certain exceptions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/20/96                    61 FR 67203
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/18/97
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AE59
_______________________________________________________________________




3902. EFFECTUATION OF TITLE VI OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964, THE 
REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973, AND THE AGE DISCRIMINATION ACT OF 1975 IN 
PROGRAMS RECEIVING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE BY SSA (617F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 5 USC 301; 20 USC 1405; 21 USC 1174; 
29 USC 794; 42 USC 290dd-2; 42 USC 2000d-1; 42 USC 6101

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 431

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Prior to March 31, 1995, SSA was an operating component of 
HHS and the general regulatory authority for SSA programs and 
administration was vested in the Secretary of Health and Human Services 
(the Secretary) based on section 1102 of the Social Security Act (the 
Act) (42 U.S.C. 1302). The SSIPIA established SSA as an independent 
agency in the Executive Branch of the Federal Government effective 
March 31, 1995, and vested general regulatory authority in the 
Commissioner of Social Security (the Commissioner). Under section 
106(b) of SSIPIA, HHS regulations in effect immediately prior to March 
31, 1995, which relate to functions now vested in the Commissioner by 
reason of SSA's independence, continue to apply to SSA until such time 
as they are modified, suspended, terminated or repealed by the 
Commissioner. SSA is promulgating regulations at 20 CFR part 431 which 
are based in large measure upon the HHS regulations at 45 CFR parts 80, 
81, 84, 85, 90, and 91. These SSA regulations reflect changes necessary 
to adapt the HHS regulations to SSA procedures. Upon SSA's rules 
becoming final regulations, the HHS regulations will cease to have 
application to SSA in accordance with section 106(b) of SSIPIA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AE63
_______________________________________________________________________




3903. AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION AND RECORDS TO THE PUBLIC--CHARGING 
FEES FOR PROVIDING PERSONAL INFORMATION (618P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; 8 USC 1360; 18 USC 1905; 26 USC 
6103; 30 USC 923(b); 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 
1306

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 402

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 23748]]

Abstract: These proposed rules will, in general, provide that SSA will 
not charge fees for personal information if it is to be used for a 
publicly administered program whose purpose is compatible with a Social 
Security Act program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE64
_______________________________________________________________________




3904. COVERAGE OF EMPLOYEES OF STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS; OFFICE OF 
MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET (OMB) CONTROL NUMBER (280F)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 410; 42 USC 418; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 
42 USC 418 note

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1215; 20 CFR 404.1203; 20 CFR 404.1204; 20 CFR 
404.1214; 20 CFR 404.1216; 20 CFR 404.1220; 20 CFR 404.1225; 20 CFR 
404.1237; 20 CFR 404.1239; 20 CFR 404.1242; 20 CFR 404.1243; 20 CFR 
404.1247; 20 CFR 404.1249; 20 CFR 404.1251; 20 CFR 404.1265; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: SSA regulations providing Social Security coverage for the 
services of employees of State and local governments and interstate 
instrumentalities were published in the Federal Register on August 29, 
1988 (53 FR 32972). Those regulations included sections, which 
contained information collection and recordkeeping requirements, which 
were not effective until they were approved by OMB. This document 
notifies the public that the information collection and recordkeeping 
requirements were approved by OMB and provides the OMB control number. 
This document also adds an OMB approval number to section 404.1215.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AE69
_______________________________________________________________________




3905. DETERMINING DISABILITY AND BLINDNESS; PROVIDING FOR USE OF A 
SINGLE DECISIONMAKER TO MAKE DETERMINATIONS OF DISABILITY UNDER TITLES 
II AND XVI OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT (668P)

Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 421; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 
902(a); 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 1383b

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1546; 20 CFR 404.1615; 20 CFR 416.946; 20 CFR 
416.1015

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend our rules to provide for a single 
decisionmaker who will make determinations of disability under title II 
and title XVI of the Act after consultation with a medical or 
psychological consultant, as appropriate. The decisionmaker would have 
the authority to request, review, and evaluate evidence and to make the 
disability determination without having the medical consultant sign the 
disability determination forms.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE73
_______________________________________________________________________




3906. ENFORCEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION IN SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAMS OR 
ACTIVITIES (661P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1302; PL 103-296

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 431.100; 20 CFR 431.105; 20 CFR 431.110; 20 CFR 
431.115; 20 CFR 431.120; 20 CFR 431.125; 20 CFR 431.200; 20 CFR 
431.205; 20 CFR 431.210; 20 CFR 431.215; 20 CFR 431.220; 20 CFR 
431.225; 20 CFR 431.230; 20 CFR 431.235; 20 CFR 431.240; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed regulations are intended to ensure that 
individuals are not subjected to discrimination on the basis of 
disability, race, color, national origin, sex, age, or religion in any 
program or activity conducted by SSA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AE78
_______________________________________________________________________




3907. ADDING NEW SSI INCOME AND RESOURCE EXCLUSION (VA PAYMENTS TO 
CERTAIN VIETNAM VETERANS' CHILDREN WITH SPINA BIFIDA) TO LISTS OF 
EXCLUSIONS PROVIDED BY OTHER FEDERAL STATUTES (664F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 38 USC 1805(d)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1182, app; 20 CFR 416.1236

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 23749]]

Abstract: Public Law 104-204 provides that a Department of Veterans 
Affairs monthly allowance paid to children of Vietnam veterans for 
disabilities resulting from spina bifida will not be considered income 
or resources in determining eligibility for or the amount of benefits 
under any Federal or federally assisted program. These regulations 
update the lists of exclusions from income and resources under the SSI 
program that are in statutes other than the Social Security Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Process and Innovation 
Management, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE79
_______________________________________________________________________




3908. PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND INFORMATION (711P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; 42 USC 1306(a); 42 USC 
902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 401.30; 20 CFR 401.45; 20 CFR 401.55; 20 CFR 
401.150; 20 CFR 401.180

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our privacy and disclosure rules to 
describe the role and function of the Privacy Officer; describe 
safeguards against inappropriate disclosure of personal information by 
electronic means (e.g., through the Internet); revise our special 
procedures on access to medical records; permit disclosures to certain 
government agencies for various administrative purposes related to 
income-maintenance and health-maintenance programs; permit disclosures 
of Social Security number information to Government agencies under 
specific circumstances; and clarify our rules on disclosure under legal 
process from courts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Tom Price, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Disclosure Policy, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-6011

Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AE88
_______________________________________________________________________




3909. FEDERAL SALARY OFFSET (WITHHOLDING A PORTION OF A FEDERAL 
EMPLOYEE'S SALARY TO COLLECT A DELINQUENT DEBT OWED TO THE SOCIAL 
SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (721P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 404; 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902; 5 USC 5514

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This initiative will enable the Social Security 
Administration (SSA) to collect qualifying, delinquent title II debts 
owed by former beneficiaries who are currently Federal employees. The 
debt collection will be accomplished by the partial reduction of the 
employee's disposable salary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Edward Johns, Financial Management Analyst, Social 
Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-
6401
Phone: 410 965-0392

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE89
_______________________________________________________________________




3910. PRIVATE COLLECTION AGENCIES (USING PRIVATE COLLECTION AGENCIES TO 
HELP SSA COLLECT DELINQUENT TITLE II DEBTS OWED BY FORMER BENEFICIARIES) 
(722P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 404; 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902; 31 USC 3718

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This initiative will enable the Social Security 
Administration (SSA) to refer delinquent title II debts owed by former 
beneficiaries to private collection agencies for further debt 
collection efforts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Edward Johns, Financial Management Analyst, Social 
Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-
6401
Phone: 410 965-0392

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE90
_______________________________________________________________________




3911. CHARGING INTEREST (CHARGING INTEREST ON DELINQUENT DEBTS) (723P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 404; 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902; 31 USC 3717

[[Page 23750]]

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under this initiative, the Social Security Administration 
(SSA) will charge interest and penalties on qualifying, delinquent 
title II debts owed by former beneficiaries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Edward Johns, Financial Management Analyst, Social 
Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-
6401
Phone: 410 965-0392

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AE91
_______________________________________________________________________




3912. WORK ACTIVITY STANDARD AS A BASIS FOR REVIEW OF AN INDIVIDUAL'S 
DISABLED STATUS (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT) 
(725P)

Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 421

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1590

Legal Deadline: Section 111 of Public Law 106-170, effective January 1, 
2002.

Abstract: One of SSA's most important initiatives is to assure that 
Social Security (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 
beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work have the opportunity 
to do so. Individuals with disabilities face multiple barriers in 
attempting to return to work. Section 111 of Public Law 106-170 
provides a new statutory work incentive by eliminating the scheduling 
of continuing disability medical reviews solely because of an SSDI 
beneficiary's work activity, once the beneficiary has been entitled to 
SSDI benefits for 24 months. (Such beneficiaries will continue to be 
subject to regularly scheduled continuing disability reviews, work 
investigations, and benefit termination due to work activity at the 
level of substantial gainful activity.)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Geoffrey Funk, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltiimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9010

Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AE93
_______________________________________________________________________




3913. TESTIMONY BY EMPLOYEES AND THE PRODUCTION OF RECORDS IN LEGAL 
PROCEEDINGS (732P)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 1306; 42 USC 902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 403

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Social Security Administration (SSA) is proposing to 
establish procedures governing the appearance of SSA employees as 
witnesses and the production of official documents in legal 
proceedings, to which SSA is not a party, in response to requests for 
such documents or testimony. The proposed rule provides procedures, 
requirements and information concerning how SSA will handle these 
matters and expressly prohibits any disclosure or testimony except as 
approved by the Commissioner. The proposed rule would conserve and 
ensure more efficient use of SSA resources in meeting the Agency's 
mission, promote consistency in decisions, minimize the possibility of 
involving SSA in issues not related to its mission, maintain the 
impartiality of SSA, protect sensitive and confidential information and 
the deliberative processes of SSA, and enhance SSA's ability to respond 
efficiently to requests involving such legal proceedings. When 
published in final, the rule would replace other regulations currently 
applicable to SSA under 45 CFR part 2.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Brad Howard, Attorney, Social Security Administration, 
Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 
21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-1817

Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AE95
_______________________________________________________________________




3914. ASSIGNMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION NUMBERS (SSN) FOR 
NON-WORK PURPOSES (751P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 432; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 
1320b-1; 42 USC 1320b-13

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.104

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: SSA published an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking 
regarding when we will assign an SSN to an alien who is legally in the 
United States (U.S.) but not under authority of law permitting him or 
her to work in the U.S. We are considering a proposal to assign an SSN 
to an alien who is legally in the U.S. but does not have authorization 
to work only if there is a Federal statute or regulation that requires 
the alien to furnish an SSN to receive a federally-funded benefit or 
service. Under such a proposal, we would no longer assign an SSN to an 
alien if the alien's sole reason for applying for the SSN is to satisfy 
a State or local statute or regulation that requires an individual to 
furnish an SSN in order to receive a benefit or service. The intent of 
such a proposed

[[Page 23751]]

change would be to reduce the possibility of fraud through misuse of 
SSNs. We are still evaluating the public comments received.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/12/99                    64 FR 55217
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/13/99
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Nancy Grace, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7911

Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-9822

RIN: 0960-AF05
_______________________________________________________________________




3915. COST OF LIVING INCREASES IN PRIMARY INSURANCE AMOUNTS (759F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(a); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 415; 42 USC 
902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.273 to 404.275

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule revises our rules dealing with automatic 
cost-of-living increases to primary insurance amounts under title II of 
the Social Security Act. The revisions eliminate the restriction that 
we could only grant cost-of-living increases based on rises in the 
Consumer Price Index (CPI) or the Average Wage Index (AWI) if either 
the CPI or AWI increased by 3 percent or more during the prescribed 
measuring period. The 3 percent restriction was removed by legislation 
enacted in 1986.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeff Kunkel, Actuary, Social Security Administration, 
Office of the Actuary, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-
6401
Phone: 410 965-3013

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5121

RIN: 0960-AF14
_______________________________________________________________________




3916.  CHANGE IN RETIREMENT AGE (775F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 
42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 415; 42 USC 416; 42 USC 422(b); 42 
USC 423; 42 USC 424a; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 
902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.201; 20 CFR 404.277; 20 CFR 404.304; 20 CFR 
404.310; 20 CFR 404.311; 20 CFR 404.312; 20 CFR 404.313; 20 CFR 
404.317; 20 CFR 404.335; 20 CFR 404.336; 20 CFR 404.337; 20 CFR 
404.338; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.409; 20 CFR 404.410; 20 CFR 
404.411; 20 CFR 404.412; 20 CFR 404.413; 20 CFR 404.421; 20 CFR 
404.621; 20 CFR 404.623; 20 CFR 404.762

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final rules amend our regulations to reflect section 
201 of Public Law 98-21, the Social Security amendments of 1983. 
Section 201 increases the retirement age for unreduced old-age, wife or 
husband and widow or widower benefits from age 65 to age 67.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bill Hilton, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-2468

Lois A. Berg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Process and Innovation Management, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1713

RIN: 0960-AF16
_______________________________________________________________________


SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)                  Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3917. FEDERAL OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE AND 
SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME FOR THE AGED, BLIND AND DISABLED; 
EVALUATING OPINION EVIDENCE (624F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1502; 20 CFR 416.927; 20 CFR 404.1512; 20 CFR 
404.1513; 20 CFR 404.1519; 20 CFR 404.1527; 20 CFR 416.902; 20 CFR 
416.912; 20 CFR 416.913; 20 CFR 416.919

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/07/00                    65 FR 11866
Final Action Effective          04/06/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AE56
_______________________________________________________________________




3918. 20 CFR PARTS 401, 402, 404, 410, 416 AND 422--REVISED AS OF APRIL 
1, 1999; CORRECTION (745F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 401.20; 20 CFR 402.35; 20 CFR 404.401; 20 CFR 
404.403; 20 CFR 404.450; 20 CFR

[[Page 23752]]

404.457; 20 CFR 404.1275; 20 CFR 404.1408; 20 CFR 404.1410; 20 CFR 
410.240; 20 CFR 410.601; 20 CFR 416.428; 20 CFR 416.702; 20 CFR 
416.929; 20 CFR 416.993; 20 CFR 416.1104; 20 CFR 416.1202; 20 CFR 
416.1323; 20 CFR 416.1336; 20 CFR 416.1442; 20 CFR 416.1801; 20 CFR 
416.2045; 20 CFR 416.2096; 20 CFR 422.125; 20 CFR 422.130; 20 CFR 
422.135

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/30/00                    65 FR 16811
Final Action Effective          03/30/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel T. Bridgewater
Phone: 410 965-3298

RIN: 0960-AF04
_______________________________________________________________________




3919. ASSESSING ATTORNEY REPRESENTATIVES FOR DIRECT PAYMENT (763P)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1700 et seq

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With RIN 0960-AD23       03/01/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Lawrence V. Dudar
Phone: 410 965-5995

RIN: 0960-AF08
_______________________________________________________________________




3920.  EXTENSION OF EXPIRATION DATES FOR SEVERAL BODY SYSTEM 
LISTINGS (764F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 
405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 
422(c); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); PL 104-193, sec 
211(b)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: SSA adjudicates claims at the third step of its sequential 
evaluation process for evaluating disability using the Listing of 
Impairments (the Listings) under the Social Security and supplemental 
Security Income programs. This final rule extends the dates on which 
several body system listings will no longer be effective.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/03/99                    64 FR 67719
Final Action Effective          12/03/99

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Deborah Barnes, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-4171

RIN: 0960-AF15
[FR Doc. 00-6927 Filed 04-21-00; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4190-29-F
