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


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Part XLV





Social Security Administration





-----------------------------------------------------------------------



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 74060]]



SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)






_______________________________________________________________________

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Office of the Commissioner

20 CFR Ch. III

Semiannual Unified Regulatory Agenda

AGENCY: Social Security Administration.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: Executive Order (E.O.) 12866 (as amended by E.O. 13258) 
entitled Regulatory Planning and Review, issued September 30, 1993, and 
the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354) require each 
Federal agency to publish semiannually a brief description of all 
regulatory actions under development or review, expected to be under 
development or review for the next 12 months, or completed since the 
previous publication of the agenda. Our last agenda of regulations was 
published June 28, 2004.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information about a 
specific regulatory action, contact the person identified as the agency 
contact for that action. Comments or inquiries of a general nature 
should be directed to Martin J. Sussman, Regulations Officer, Social 
Security Administration, 100 Altmeyer Building, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401; Telephone (410) 965-1767 or TTY 
(410) 966-5609.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Social Security Administration (SSA) 
administers the retirement, survivors, and disability insurance 
programs under title II of the Social Security Act (the Act), the 
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program under title XVI of the Act, 
and Special Benefits to Certain World War II Veterans under title VIII 
of the Act. Our regulations generally do not impose burdens on the 
private sector or on State, local, or tribal governments. Our 
regulations document the rules under which we make eligibility 
determinations and set forth both the responsibilities of the Agency 
towards the public and beneficiaries' rights and responsibilities under 
the programs we administer.

     Our regulatory efforts can be placed into one of the following 
three categories: (1) legislative implementation; (2) program 
changes to improve SSA service to the public; and (3) improvements 
or clarifications to enhance effective stewardship of SSA programs.

     We continue to seek legislative improvements for the programs 
we administer. However, because of the complexity of our programs, 
statutory language is rarely detailed enough to govern the actions 
of agency adjudicative decisionmakers. 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.

     Our regulatory agenda includes items to amend our regulations 
to reflect the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and 
Modernization Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-173). We are planning 
regulatory changes to reflect provisions of the Social Security 
Protection Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-203).

     Included in our agenda are items that will amend our 
regulations to include more provisions of ``The Ticket to Work and 
Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999,'' (Pub. L. 106-170), which 
was signed on December 17, 1999. Among the provisions still 
requiring regulations are provisions that will suspend continuing 
disability reviews based on work activity and expedited 
reinstatement of disability benefits terminated due to work 
activity. In addition, we expect to propose revisions to the 
existing rules that implement the Ticket to Work program.

     We continue to work diligently to improve our program benefit 
regulations and to develop partnerships with large segments of the 
community of interest groups concerned about Social Security 
programs. The remainder of our Unified Agenda reflects such 
improvements and clarifications.

     For this edition of SSA's regulatory agenda, the most 
important significant regulatory actions are included in The 
Regulatory Plan, which appears in part II of this issue of the 
Federal Register. The Regulatory Plan entries are listed in the 
table of contents below and are denoted by a bracketed bold 
reference, which directs the reader to the appropriate sequence 
number in part II.

     The fall 2004 regulatory agenda for the Social Security 
Administration follows.

Dated:  October 7, 2004.

 Martin J. Sussman,

SSA Regulations Officer.

                               Social Security Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3694        Revised Medical Criteria for Endocrine Disorders (436P)...............................    0960-AD78
3695        Supplemental Standards for Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Social Security           0960-AE48
            Administration (601P).................................................................
3696        Deeming of Income From an Ineligible Spouse to an Eligible Individual and an Eligible     0960-AE50
            Child (606P)..........................................................................
3697        Title VI (Civil Rights Act (1964)), Title IX (Education Amend. (1972)), Rehabilitation    0960-AE63
            Act (1973), and Age Discrimination Act (1975) in Programs/Activities Receiving
            Financial Assistance by SSA (617P)....................................................
3698        Enforcement of Nondiscrimination in Social Security Programs or Activities (661P).....    0960-AE78
3699        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information (711P) (Reg Plan Seq No.       0960-AE88
            150)..................................................................................
3700        Federal Salary Offset (Withholding a Portion of a Federal Employee's Salary To Collect    0960-AE89
            a Delinquent Debt Owed to the Social Security Administration) (721P) (Reg Plan Seq No.
            151)..................................................................................
3701        Exemption of Work Activity as a Basis for a Continuing Disability Review (Ticket to       0960-AE93
            Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) (725P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 152).......
3702        Medical Equivalence for Adults and Children (787P)....................................    0960-AF19
3703        SSI Trusts and Transfers of Resources (791P)..........................................    0960-AF22

[[Page 74061]]

 
3704        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Immune System Disorders (804P) (Reg Plan Seq      0960-AF33
            No. 153)..............................................................................
3705        Disability Insurance Program Demonstration Project Authority (Ticket to Work and Work     0960-AF41
            Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) (789P)............................................
3706        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cardiovascular Disorders (826P)...............    0960-AF48
3707        Amendments to the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (967P) (Reg Plan Seq No.    0960-AF89
            154)..................................................................................
3708        Elimination of Parent-to-Child Deeming for Individuals Who No Longer Meet the             0960-AF96
            Definition of Spouse of the Natural or Adoptive Parent (793P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 155)..
3709        Exclusion of Military Pay for Combat Service from Deemed Income and Resources (978P)..    0960-AF97
3710        $30 Private Insurance (794P)..........................................................    0960-AF99
3711        Rules for Helping Blind and Disabled Individuals Achieve Self-Support (506P) (Reg Plan    0960-AG00
            Seq No. 156)..........................................................................
3712        Liability of Representative Payees for Overpayments to Deceased Recipients (796P).....    0960-AG02
3713        Medicare Prescription Drug Premium and Cost-Sharing (1024P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 157)....    0960-AG03
3714        Civil Monetary Penalties, Assessments, and Recommended Exclusions (2362P) (Reg Plan       0960-AG08
            Seq No. 158)..........................................................................
3715        Representative Payment; Additional Protections for Persons With Representative Payees     0960-AG09
            (2422P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 159)........................................................
3716        Issuance of Work Report Receipts, Payment of Trial Work Period Months After a Fraud       0960-AG10
            Conviction and Changes to the Student Earned Income Exclusion (2502P) (Reg Plan Seq
            No. 160)..............................................................................
3717        Income Related Medicare Part B Premium Subsidy Reduction (2101P) (Reg Plan Seq No.        0960-AG11
            161)..................................................................................
3718        Denial of Title II Benefits to Persons Fleeing Prosecution, Custody, or Confinement,      0960-AG12
            and to Persons Violating Probation or Parole (2222P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 162)...........
3719        Changes to SSI Income and Resources Provisions Based on Sections 430, 435, and 436 of     0960-AG13
            the Social Security Protection Act (SSPA) of 2004 (2482P).............................
3720        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information; Availability of               0960-AG14
            Information and Records to the Public (2562P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 163)..................
3721        Representation of Parties; Recognition, Disqualification, and Reinstatement of            0960-AG15
            Representative (2602P)................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                                Social Security Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3722        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Malignant Neoplastic Diseases (399F) (Reg Plan    0960-AD67
            Seq No. 164)..........................................................................
3723        Technical Changes to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Regulations (664F)............    0960-AE79
3724        Expedited Reinstatement of Disability Benefits (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives        0960-AF21
            Improvement Act) (790F)...............................................................
3725        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments of the Digestive System (800F)....    0960-AF28
3726        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments Affecting Multiple Body Systems       0960-AF32
            (803F)................................................................................
3727        Revisions to the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (823F).................................    0960-AF47
3728        Amendments to Annual Earnings Test Regulations (866F).................................    0960-AF62
3729        Stepchild Entitlement and Termination Requirements (934F).............................    0960-AF78
3730        Referral of Persons Eligible for Disability or Blindness Benefits to Other Agencies       0960-AF80
            for Vocational Rehabilitation Services (929F).........................................
3731        Elimination of Clothing From the Definitions of Income and In-Kind Support and            0960-AF84
            Maintenance, Exclusions of One Automobile, and Household Goods and Personal Effects
            Under SSI From Resources (950F) (Reg Plan Seq No. 165)................................
3732        Mandatory Exclusion of Health Care Providers, Representatives, and Representative         0960-AF85
            Payees From Participation in SSA Programs (954F)......................................
3733        Continuation of Benefit Payments to Certain Individuals Who Are Participating in a        0960-AF86
            Program of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Employment Services, or Other Support
            Services (925F) (Reg Plan Seq No. 166)................................................
3734        Elimination of Deemed Military Wages (968F)...........................................    0960-AF90
3735        Administrative Review Process; Incorporation by Reference of Oral Findings of Fact and    0960-AF92
            Rationale in Wholly Favorable Written Decisions (964I) (Reg Plan Seq No. 167).........
3736        Expanded Authority for Cross-Program Recovery of Benefit Overpayments (2221F) (Reg        0960-AG06
            Plan Seq No. 168).....................................................................
3737        Work Activity and Income of Persons Working as Members of Advisory Committees             0960-AG07
            Established Under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) (2382I)...................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


[[Page 74062]]


                                Social Security Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3738        Dedicated Accounts and Installment Payments for Certain Past Due SSI Benefits (622F)..    0960-AE59
3739        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Genitourinary Disorders (802F)................    0960-AF30
3740        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Special Senses and Speech Disorders (805P)....    0960-AF34
3741        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Neurological Disorders (806P).................    0960-AF35
3742        Determining Disability for An Individual With Drug Addiction or Alcoholism (851P).....    0960-AF57
3743        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Respiratory System Disorders (859P)...........    0960-AF58
3744        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Growth Disorders (444P).......................    0960-AF67
3745        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Mental Disorders (886P).......................    0960-AF69
3746        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hematological Disorders (974P)................    0960-AF88
3747        Recontacting Your Medical Source(s) (2241P)...........................................    0960-AG04
3748        Medical and Other Evidence of Your Impairment(s) (2261P)..............................    0960-AG05
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3749        Filing Claims Under the Federal Tort Claims Act and the Military Personnel and            0960-AF39
            Civilian Employees Claims Act (785F)..................................................
3750        Representative Payment Under Titles II, VIII, and XVI of the Social Security Act          0960-AF83
            (949F)................................................................................
3751        Evidence Requirement for Assignment of Social Security Numbers (SSNs); Assignment of      0960-AF87
            SSNs to Foreign Students (960F).......................................................
3752        Coverage of Residents in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI);         0960-AG01
            Coverage of Ministers, Members of the Clergy, and Christian Science Practitioners
            (792F)................................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                Proposed Rule Stage






_______________________________________________________________________




3694. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR ENDOCRINE DISORDERS (436P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bonnie Davis, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-4172

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AD78
_______________________________________________________________________




3695. 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.

[[Page 74063]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Asim Akbari, Attorney, Social Security Administration, 
Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 
21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-6581

Richard M. Bresnick, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AE48
_______________________________________________________________________




3696. DEEMING OF INCOME FROM AN INELIGIBLE SPOUSE TO AN ELIGIBLE 
INDIVIDUAL AND AN ELIGIBLE CHILD (606P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1160; 20 CFR 416.1165; 20 CFR 416.1166

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed 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                            09/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sean Balser, Social Security Administration, Office of 
Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-7908
Email: [email protected]

Richard M Bresnick, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1758
Fax: 410 966-2830
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0960-AE50
_______________________________________________________________________




3697. TITLE VI (CIVIL RIGHTS ACT (1964)), TITLE IX (EDUCATION AMEND. 
(1972)), REHABILITATION ACT (1973), AND AGE DISCRIMINATION ACT (1975) IN 
PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES RECEIVING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE BY SSA (617P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 20 USC 1681; 29 USC 794; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 
2000d; 42 USC 6101

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 431

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Prior to March 31, 1995, SSA was an operating component of 
HHS and the general regulatory authority for SSA programs and 
administration was vested in the Secretary of Health and Human Services 
(the Secretary) based on section 1102 of the Social Security Act (the 
Act) (42 U.S.C. 1302). The Social Security Independence and Program 
Improvements Act (SSIPIA) established SSA as an independent agency in 
the executive branch of the Federal Government effective March 31, 
1995, and vested general regulatory authority in the Commissioner of 
Social Security (the Commissioner). Under section 106(b) of SSIPIA, HHS 
regulations in effect immediately prior to March 31, 1995, which relate 
to functions now vested in the Commissioner by reason of SSA's 
independence, continue to apply to SSA until such time as they are 
modified, suspended, terminated, or repealed by the Commissioner. SSA 
is promulgating regulations at 20 CFR part 431, which are based in 
large measure upon the HHS regulations at 45 CFR parts 80, 81, 84, 86, 
and 91. These SSA regulations reflect changes necessary to adapt the 
HHS regulations to SSA procedures. Upon SSA's rules becoming final 
regulations, the HHS regulations will cease to have application to SSA 
in accordance with section 106(b) of SSIPIA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Eileen Inglesby-Houghton, Attorney, Social Security 
Administration, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-4816

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

RIN: 0960-AE63
_______________________________________________________________________




3698. ENFORCEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION IN SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAMS OR 
ACTIVITIES (661P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 29 USC 794; 42 USC 902

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 432

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235

[[Page 74064]]

Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AE78
_______________________________________________________________________




3699. PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND INFORMATION (711P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 150 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AE88
_______________________________________________________________________




3700. FEDERAL SALARY OFFSET (WITHHOLDING A PORTION OF A FEDERAL 
EMPLOYEE'S SALARY TO COLLECT A DELINQUENT DEBT OWED TO THE SOCIAL 
SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (721P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 151 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AE89
_______________________________________________________________________




3701. EXEMPTION OF WORK ACTIVITY AS A BASIS FOR A CONTINUING DISABILITY 
REVIEW (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) 
(725P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 152 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AE93
_______________________________________________________________________




3702. MEDICAL EQUIVALENCE FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN (787P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1525 to 404.1527; 20 CFR 404.1529; 20 CFR 
416.925; 20 CFR 416.926; 20 CFR 416.926a; 20 CFR 416.927; 20 CFR 
416.929

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This notice of proposed rulemaking will clarify that we will 
consider the medical severity of the individual's impairment, based on 
all relevant evidence in the case record when we make a finding 
regarding medical equivalence. These rules will clarify our medical 
equivalence policy in light of the decision in Hickman v. Apfel, 187 
F.3d 683 (7th Cir. 1999).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jane Deweib, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9878

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF19
_______________________________________________________________________




3703. SSI TRUSTS AND TRANSFERS OF RESOURCES (791P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1382a(a); 42 USC 1382b(c); 42 USC 1382b(e); PL 
106-169, sec 205; PL 106-169, sec 206

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to reflect sections 205 
and 206 of Public Law 106-169, the Foster Care Independence Act of 
1999. Section 205 generally provides for counting certain trusts as 
resources in the SSI program. Section 206 generally provides for a 
period of ineligibility for SSI benefits as a result of transferring 
resources for less than fair market value.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Albert Fatur, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, Office of 
Income Security Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-
6401
Phone: 410 965-9855

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF22
_______________________________________________________________________




3704. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS 
(804P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 153 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF33
_______________________________________________________________________




3705. DISABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM DEMONSTRATION PROJECT AUTHORITY 
(TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) (789P)

Priority: Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 434

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1599

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ed Beane, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Program Development and Research, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9866

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

RIN: 0960-AF41

[[Page 74065]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3706. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS 
(826P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Listings 4.00 and 104.00 of appendix 1 to subpart P of our 
regulation (20 CFR 404.1501 through 404.1599) describe those 
cardiovascular impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent 
a person from doing any gainful activity, or for a child claiming SSI 
payments under title XVI, that cause marked and severe functional 
limitations. We propose to revise the criteria that we use to evaluate 
cardiovascular impairments under the listings to reflect our program 
experience and advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of 
evaluating these disorders. The SSI program incorporates by reference 
and uses the same medical criteria as the old-age, survivors, and 
disability insurance program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/16/04                    69 FR 55874
NPRM Comment Period End         11/15/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bonnie Davis, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-4172

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

RIN: 0960-AF48
_______________________________________________________________________




3707. AMENDMENTS TO THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM 
(967P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 154 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF89
_______________________________________________________________________




3708. ELIMINATION OF PARENT-TO-CHILD DEEMING FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO NO 
LONGER MEET THE DEFINITION OF SPOUSE OF THE NATURAL OR ADOPTIVE PARENT 
(793P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 155 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF96
_______________________________________________________________________




3709. EXCLUSION OF MILITARY PAY FOR COMBAT SERVICE FROM DEEMED INCOME 
AND RESOURCES (978P)

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

Legal Authority: Sec 1614(f) of the Social Security Act

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1161; 20 CFR 416.1202

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed rules would provide for excluding additional 
military pay for combat service from countable income and resources 
when we determine the eligibility of children and spouses of military 
personnel for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The exclusions ensure 
that the SSI benefits of children and spouses of military personnel are 
not adversely affected by the deployment of their family members to a 
combat zone.
Under these rules, in determining an individual's eligibility for SSI, 
we would not count the following types of income of an ineligible 
parent or spouse:
Any additional increment in pay, other than any increase in basic pay, 
received while serving as a member of the uniformed services, if:
1. The spouse or parent received the pay as a result of deployment to 
or while serving in a combat zone; and
2. The spouse or parent was not receiving the additional pay 
immediately prior to deployment to or service in a combat zone.
Under these rules, we also would exclude from deemed resources for nine 
months following the month of receipt, the unspent portion of any 
retroactive payment of:
1. Special pay (hostile fire and imminent danger pay) received by the 
ineligible spouse or ineligible parent from one of the uniformed 
services pursuant to 37 U.S.C. 310; and
2. Family separation allowance received by the ineligible spouse or 
ineligible parent from one of the uniformed services pursuant to 37 
U.S.C. 427 as a result of deployment to or while serving in a combat 
zone.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Karen E. Kerwath, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9835

RIN: 0960-AF97
_______________________________________________________________________




3710. $30 PRIVATE INSURANCE (794P)

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1382(e)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.201; 20 CFR 416.211; 20 CFR 416.212; 20 CFR 
416.414; 20 CFR 416.571; 20 CFR 416.1149; 20 CFR 416.1165; 20 CFR 
416.1167; 20 CFR 416.1202

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed rules make technical and conforming updates to 
the title XVI regulations based on section 5522(c) of the Balanced 
Budget Act of 1997 (Pub. L. 105-33). Section 5522(c) eliminated 
obsolete terminology in section 1611(e)(1) of the Social Security Act 
that specified particular kinds of medical facilities where the $30 
reduced benefit rate could apply. Section 5522(c) also amended section 
1611(e)(1)(G) of the Social Security Act to extend applicability of 
temporary institutionalization benefits to children who enter private 
medical treatment facilities and who otherwise would be subject to a 
reduced benefit because of private insurance coverage.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/05

[[Page 74066]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Karen E. Kerwath, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9835

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

Related RIN: Previously reported as 0960-AF25
RIN: 0960-AF99
_______________________________________________________________________




3711. RULES FOR HELPING BLIND AND DISABLED INDIVIDUALS ACHIEVE SELF-
SUPPORT (506P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 156 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG00
_______________________________________________________________________




3712. LIABILITY OF REPRESENTATIVE PAYEES FOR OVERPAYMENTS TO DECEASED 
RECIPIENTS (796P)

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

Legal Authority: PL 106-169, sec 201; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 405(a) ; 42 
USC 902(a); 42 USC 1383(b); 42 USC 1383(d)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.501; 20 CFR 416.537

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations to reflect section 201 
of Public Law 106-169 that amended 42 U.S.C. sections 404(a) and 
1383(b) to make a representative payee personally liable for repayment 
of a title II/title XVI overpayment to the representative payee on 
behalf of and individual after the individual's death.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Thelma Allen, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7966

Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-9822
Fax: 410 966-2830
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0960-AG02
_______________________________________________________________________




3713. MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG PREMIUM AND COST-SHARING (1024P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 157 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG03
_______________________________________________________________________




3714.  CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES, ASSESSMENTS, AND 
RECOMMENDED EXCLUSIONS (2362P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 158 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG08
_______________________________________________________________________




3715.  REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT; ADDITIONAL PROTECTIONS 
FOR PERSONS WITH REPRESENTATIVE PAYEES (2422P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 159 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG09
_______________________________________________________________________




3716.  ISSUANCE OF WORK REPORT RECEIPTS, PAYMENT OF 
TRIAL WORK PERIOD MONTHS AFTER A FRAUD CONVICTION AND CHANGES TO THE 
STUDENT EARNED INCOME EXCLUSION (2502P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 160 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG10
_______________________________________________________________________




3717.  INCOME RELATED MEDICARE PART B PREMIUM SUBSIDY 
REDUCTION (2101P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 161 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG11
_______________________________________________________________________




3718.  DENIAL OF TITLE II BENEFITS TO PERSONS FLEEING 
PROSECUTION, CUSTODY, OR CONFINEMENT, AND TO PERSONS VIOLATING PROBATION 
OR PAROLE (2222P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 162 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG12
_______________________________________________________________________




3719.  CHANGES TO SSI INCOME AND RESOURCES PROVISIONS 
BASED ON SECTIONS 430, 435, AND 436 OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY PROTECTION 
ACT (SSPA) OF 2004 (2482P)

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1111; 20 CFR 416.1112; 20 CFR 416.1123; 20 CFR 
416.1124; 20 CFR 416.1161; 20 CFR 416.1210; 20 CR 416.1267 (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations on how we determine an 
individual's income and resources under the SSI program based on the 
Social Security Protection Act (SSPA) of 2004. Provisions of the SSPA 
make a number of changes in the way we determine income and resources 
including: how we calculate infrequent and irregular income; what 
income we exclude from interest and dividend income; how we count cash 
military compensation; and when we exclude certain things received for 
tuition or educational fees from income or resources. We are also 
proposing to apply the exclusions required by the SSPA when determining 
the countable income and resources of an ineligible spouse or 
ineligible parent.

[[Page 74067]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Barbara E. Snyder, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5655

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

RIN: 0960-AG13
_______________________________________________________________________




3720.  PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND 
INFORMATION; AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION AND RECORDS TO THE PUBLIC 
(2562P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 163 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG14
_______________________________________________________________________




3721.  REPRESENTATION OF PARTIES; RECOGNITION, 
DISQUALIFICATION, AND REINSTATEMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE (2602P)

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 406; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 
1383(d)(1)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1705; 20 CFR 404.1750; 20 CFR 404.1770; 20 CFR 
404.1799; 20 CFR 416.1505; 20 CFR 416.1550; 20 CFR 416.1570; 20 CFR 
416.1599

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to explain how we plan to 
implement section 206(a)(1) of the Social Security Act (the Act), as 
amended by section 205 of the Social Security Protection Act of 2004 
(Pub. L. 108-203). As amended, section 206(a)(1) of the Act provides 
that the Commissioner of Social Security, after due notice and 
opportunity for hearing, may refuse to recognize as a representative, 
and may disqualify a representative already recognized, any attorney 
who has been disbarred or suspended from any court or bar to which he 
or she was previously admitted to practice or who has been disqualified 
from participating in our appearing before any Federal program or 
agency; that the Commissioner may also refuse to recognize, and may 
disqualify, as a non-attorney representative any attorney who has been 
disbarred or suspended from any court or bar to which he or she was 
previously admitted to practice; and that a representative who has been 
disqualified or suspended from appearing before SSA as a result of 
collecting or receiving a fee in excess of the amount authorized shall 
be barred from appearing before SSA as a representative until full 
restitution is made to the claimant and, thereby, may be considered for 
reinstatement only under such rules as the Commissioner may prescribe. 
We also propose to make our existing rules regarding the recognition on 
non-attorneys conform to the proposed new rules that relate to 
attorneys.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Storey, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Hearings and Appeals, One Skyline 
Tower, Falls Church, VA 22046
Phone: 703 605-8276

Richard M. Bresnick, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AG15
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                   Final Rule Stage






_______________________________________________________________________




3722. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC 
DISEASES (399F)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 164 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AD67
_______________________________________________________________________




3723. TECHNICAL CHANGES TO SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI) 
REGULATIONS (664F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1236; 20 CFR 416, subpart K, app

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending the SSI regulations by making technical 
changes to our rules on income and resources. These technical changes 
update lists of exclusions from income and resources under the SSI 
program that are based on statutes other than the Social Security Act 
and make additional technical changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Eric Ice, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-3233


[[Page 74068]]


Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AE79
_______________________________________________________________________




3724. EXPEDITED REINSTATEMENT OF DISABILITY BENEFITS (TICKET TO WORK AND 
WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT) (790F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 423(i); 42 USC 1383(p)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1592b to 404.1592f; 20 CFR 416.999 to 416.999d

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Individuals with disabilities face multiple barriers in 
attempting to return to work. Section 112 of Public Law 106-170 
provides a new statutory work incentive by providing for expedited 
reinstatement of SSDI and SSI benefits terminated due to work activity, 
when the former beneficiary requests reinstatement within 60 months of 
termination because his or her disability prevents work activity. 
Section 112 also provides for payment of provisional benefits for up to 
six months until SSA makes a determination on the requester's 
entitlement to reinstated benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/27/03                    68 FR 61162
NPRM Comment Period End         12/26/03
Comment Period Extended         01/05/04                      69 FR 307
Comment Period End              01/16/04
Final Action                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Nelson, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Development and Research, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 966-5114

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

RIN: 0960-AF21
_______________________________________________________________________




3725. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS OF THE 
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM (800F)

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Listings 5.00 and 105.00 of appendix 1 to the disability 
regulation at 20 CFR part 404, subpart P describe those digestive 
impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from 
doing any gainful activity or, for a child claiming SSI payments under 
title XVI, that are considered severe enough to result in marked and 
severe functional limitations. Comprehensive revisions to these 
listings are being made to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria 
are up-to-date and consistent with the latest advances in medicine. The 
SSI program incorporates by reference and uses the same medical 
criteria as the old-age, survivors, and disability insurance program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/14/01                    66 FR 57009
NPRM Comment Period End         01/14/02
Final Action                    03/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Regina Connell, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-1891

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

RIN: 0960-AF28
_______________________________________________________________________




3726. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS AFFECTING 
MULTIPLE BODY SYSTEMS (803F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final rules revise the criteria in the Listing of 
Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving impairments 
affecting multiple body systems. We apply these criteria when you claim 
benefits based on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social 
Security Act. The proposed revisions reflect current medical knowledge, 
treatment, and methods of evaluating impairments affecting multiple 
body systems.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/23/02                    67 FR 78196
NPRM Comment Period End         02/21/03
Final Action                    03/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Arden, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9098

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

RIN: 0960-AF32
_______________________________________________________________________




3727. REVISIONS TO THE MEDICAL-VOCATIONAL GUIDELINES (823F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 
902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 2; 20 CFR 404.1564; 20 CFR 
416.964

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 74069]]

Abstract: This rule will make several clarifications to our medical-
vocational guidelines. First, for individuals whose previous 
semiskilled or skilled work does not allow him or her to transfer 
skills to other semiskilled or skilled work within his or her residual 
functional capacity (RFC), we will treat the past work experience as if 
it were unskilled. It will also clarify which medical-vocational rules 
apply to individuals who are illiterate or unable to communicate in 
English.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/07/03                    68 FR 40213
NPRM Comment Period End         09/05/03
Final Action                    12/00/04

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 Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 966-6356

Sean Balser, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security 
Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-7908
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0960-AF47
_______________________________________________________________________




3728. AMENDMENTS TO ANNUAL EARNINGS TEST REGULATIONS (866F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 405(a); 
42 USC 416; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 
902(a)(5); PL 106-182

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.415; 20 CFR 404.416

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Senior Citizen's Freedom to Work Act of 2000, Public Law 
106-182, enacted on April 7, 2000, eliminates the annual earnings test 
for retirement beneficiaries, starting from the month in which they 
reach full retirement age.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/25/03                    68 FR 50985
NPRM Comment Period End         10/24/03
Final Action                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dorothy Skipwith, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-4231

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

RIN: 0960-AF62
_______________________________________________________________________




3729. STEPCHILD ENTITLEMENT AND TERMINATION REQUIREMENTS (934F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.339; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.363; 42 CFR 
404.364

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: SSA plans to amend its regulations to incorporate the changes 
to the entitlement and termination requirements for stepchild's 
benefits introduced by the Contract with America Advancement Act of 
1996. The statutory changes allow a stepchild to be considered 
dependent upon an insured stepparent for purposes of entitlement to 
benefits as a stepchild, only if he or she is receiving at least one-
half support from the insured person (stepparent). The changes also 
require benefit termination when the stepchild's natural parent and the 
insured stepparent divorce. We propose to extend the termination 
requirement to include: (1) a divorce that ends the marriage between a 
stepchild's adoptive parent and the insured stepparent; and (2) a 
prospective annulment that ends the marriage between a stepchild's 
natural or adoptive parent and the stepparent. We also propose to 
include in the regulations our longstanding policy that a stepchild's 
benefits are terminated when the marriage between the stepchild's 
parent and the stepparent is annulled from the beginning (ab initio). 
These proposed rules also correct a cross-reference affecting 
entitlement to mother's or father's benefits, and reintroduce an 
inadvertently deleted definition concerning dependency determinations 
for grandchildren and stepgrandchildren born during the one-year 
support period relevant to a child's entitlement on the basis of those 
relationships to insured persons. These rules will reflect enacted 
legislation and provide accurate and complete guidelines for 
determining entitlement to benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/12/03                    68 FR 47877
NPRM Comment Period End         10/14/03
Final Action                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sherry Pollack, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7915

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF78
_______________________________________________________________________




3730. REFERRAL OF PERSONS ELIGIBLE FOR DISABILITY OR BLINDNESS BENEFITS 
TO OTHER AGENCIES FOR VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES (929F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1320b-19 note

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1630; 20 CFR 404.2101 to 404.2109; 20 CFR 
404.2111; 20 CFR 404.2127; 20 CFR 416.101; 20 CFR 416.1030; 20 CFR 
416.1701; 20 CFR 416.1710; 20 CFR 416.2201; 20

[[Page 74070]]

CFR 416.110; 20 CFR 416.2209; 20 CFR 416.2211 to 416.2227

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final rules remove regulatory provisions relating to 
the requirement to refer for vocational rehabilitation (VR) services 
those individuals who become entitled to or eligible for disability or 
blindness benefits under titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act 
(the Act). These changes are being made to reflect the repeal of 
section 222(a) and amendment of section 1615(a) of the Act. Prior to 
their repeal and amendment, these sections of the Act required the 
Commissioner of Social Security to refer disabled or blind 
beneficiaries to a State VR agency or for necessary rehabilitation 
services. The final rules also remove regulatory provisions for 
referral of disabled or blind beneficiaries to alternate participants 
for VR services that have become absolete.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Melvin Winer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9175

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

RIN: 0960-AF80
_______________________________________________________________________




3731. ELIMINATION OF CLOTHING FROM THE DEFINITIONS OF INCOME AND IN-KIND 
SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE, EXCLUSIONS OF ONE AUTOMOBILE, AND HOUSEHOLD 
GOODS AND PERSONAL EFFECTS UNDER SSI FROM RESOURCES (950F)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 165 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF84
_______________________________________________________________________




3732. MANDATORY EXCLUSION OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS, REPRESENTATIVES, AND 
REPRESENTATIVE PAYEES FROM PARTICIPATION IN SSA PROGRAMS (954F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-169, sec 208; 42 USC 1320b-6

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1503b; 20 CFR 416.903b

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would exclude representatives and health 
care providers who are convicted of violating certain criminal statutes 
involving fraud and other matters in the title II or title XVI programs 
administered by SSA, or who are assessed a civil monetary penalty for 
making false or misleading statements related to such programs, from 
participation in those programs. The minimum exclusion period is five 
years, but exclusions can be permanent.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/02/04                    69 FR 40338
NPRM Comment Period End         09/02/04
Final Action                    04/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chuck Urban, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9029

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

RIN: 0960-AF85
_______________________________________________________________________




3733. CONTINUATION OF BENEFIT PAYMENTS TO CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE 
PARTICIPATING IN A PROGRAM OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES, 
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES, OR OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES (925F)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 166 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF86
_______________________________________________________________________




3734. ELIMINATION OF DEEMED MILITARY WAGES (968F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 107-117; PL 108-203

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We plan to revise our regulations to reflect a provision in 
Public Laws 107-117 and 108-203 that eliminates deemed military service 
wage credits for members of the uniformed services for all years after 
calendar year 2001.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gareth N. Dence, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9872

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF90

[[Page 74071]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3735. ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS; INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF ORAL 
FINDINGS OF FACT AND RATIONALE IN WHOLLY FAVORABLE WRITTEN DECISIONS 
(964I)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 167 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF92
_______________________________________________________________________




3736.  EXPANDED AUTHORITY FOR CROSS-PROGRAM RECOVERY 
OF BENEFIT OVERPAYMENTS (2221F)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 168 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG06
_______________________________________________________________________




3737.  WORK ACTIVITY AND INCOME OF PERSONS WORKING AS 
MEMBERS OF ADVISORY COMMITTEES ESTABLISHED UNDER THE FEDERAL ADVISORY 
COMMITTEE ACT (FACA) (2382I)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 423

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1574; 20 CFR 416.974

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We plan to revise our disability regulations under titles II 
and XVI of the Social Security Act to incorporate a special rule that 
effects individuals who are receiving payments or providing services as 
members, staff, or consultants of a committee, board, commission, 
council or similar group established under the Federal Advisory 
Committee Act (FACA). Under the revisions, we will not count any 
earnings an individual is receiving from serving as a member, staff, or 
consultant of a FACA advisory committee when we determine if an 
individual is engaging in substantial gainful activity under titles II 
and XVI. In addition, we will not evaluate any of the services the 
individual is providing as a member, staff consultant of the FACA 
advisory committee when determining if the individual has engaged in 
substantial gainful activity under titles II and XVI.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary Hoover, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Development and Research, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5651

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AG07
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                  Long-Term Actions






_______________________________________________________________________




3738. DEDICATED ACCOUNTS AND INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS FOR CERTAIN PAST DUE 
SSI BENEFITS (622F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.545; 20 CFR 416.546; 20 CFR 416.640; 20 CFR 
416.1210; 20 CFR 416.1247

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, November 22, 1996, Interim Final 
Rules were published on December 20, 1996.
Interim Final Rules were published on December 20, 1996.

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/20/96                    61 FR 67203
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/18/97
Final Action                    12/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0960-AE59
_______________________________________________________________________




3739. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GENITOURINARY DISORDERS 
(802F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of 
Impairments (the Listings) that we use to evaluate genitourinary 
impairments. We apply these criteria at step three of our sequential 
evaluation processes for adults and children who claim Social Security 
or Supplemental Security Income benefits based on disability under 
title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. The revisions 
reflect advances in medical knowledge,

[[Page 74072]]

treatment, and methods of evaluating genitourinary impairments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/23/04                    69 FR 51777
NPRM Comment Period End         10/22/04
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul J. Scott, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, Office of 
Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-1192

RIN: 0960-AF30
_______________________________________________________________________




3740. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING SPECIAL SENSES AND SPEECH 
DISORDERS (805P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of 
Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving special senses and 
speech disorders. We apply these criteria when you claim benefits based 
on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. 
The proposed revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, 
treatment, and methods of evaluating special senses and speech 
disorders.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF34
_______________________________________________________________________




3741. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS 
(806P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of 
Impairments (the listings) that we use to evaluate claims involving 
neurological disorders at the third step of our sequential evaluation 
processes for adults and children under title II and title XVI of the 
Social Security Act (the Act). The proposed revisions reflect advances 
in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating neurological 
disorders.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 0960-AF35
_______________________________________________________________________




3742. DETERMINING DISABILITY FOR AN INDIVIDUAL WITH DRUG ADDICTION OR 
ALCOHOLISM (851P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations that address drug 
addiction and alcoholism (DAA) under titles II and XVI of the Social 
Security Act. The proposed rules reflect provisions of section 105 of 
the Contract with America Advancement Act of 1996, Public Law 104-121; 
section 5525 of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, Public Law 105-33; and 
section 401 of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act 
of 1999, Public Law 106-170.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry P. Spain, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, Office of 
Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9139

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

RIN: 0960-AF57
_______________________________________________________________________




3743. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING RESPIRATORY SYSTEM 
DISORDERS (859P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of 
Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving respiratory system 
disorders. The proposed revisions reflect advances in medical 
knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating respiratory disorders.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 74073]]

Agency Contact: Sharon Arden, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9098

Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF58
_______________________________________________________________________




3744. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GROWTH DISORDERS (444P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1302; 42 USC 1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1; 20 CFR 416, subpart I

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 100.00 of part B of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 
404 of the Disability Regulations describes growth impairments 
considered severe enough to cause marked and severe functional 
limitations in a child under age 18. We are proposing revisions to the 
growth impairment listings. The revisions contained in these 
regulations reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and 
methods of evaluating growth impairments. The Supplemental Security 
Income program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the 
Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Regina Connell, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-1891

Related RIN: Related to 0960-AD80
RIN: 0960-AF67
_______________________________________________________________________




3745. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MENTAL DISORDERS (886P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are planning to update and revise the rules that we use to 
evaluate mental disorders of adults and children who apply for, or 
receive, disability benefits under title II and Supplemental Security 
Income (SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of the Social 
Security Act (the Act). The rules we plan on revising are in sections 
404.1520a and 416.920a of our regulations, and sections 12.00 and 
112.00 in the Listing of Impairments in appendix 1 to subpart P of part 
404 of our regulations (the listings).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/17/03                    68 FR 12639
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/16/03
NPRM                            12/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Cathy Lively, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-1180

Sean Balser, Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security 
Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-7908
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0960-AF69
_______________________________________________________________________




3746. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING HEMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS 
(974P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0960-AF88
_______________________________________________________________________




3747. RECONTACTING YOUR MEDICAL SOURCE(S) (2241P)

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

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 
421; 42 USC 422(c); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 423 note; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 
902(a)(5); 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 1382h; 42 USC 1382h note; 
42 USC 1383(a); 42 USC 1383(c); 42 USC 1383(d)(1); 42 USC 1383b; PL 98-
460; PL 104-193

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1512; 20 CFR 416.912

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Some courts have interpreted our regulations to require that 
we recontact a treating source when we do

[[Page 74074]]

not adopt the treating source's medical opinion, even though we 
considered the opinion but found that the overall evidence was adequate 
to decide whether the individual was disabled. Accordingly, we propose 
to revise our regulations to clarify when we will and will not 
recontact the individual's treating source(s) or other medical 
source(s) for additional evidence or clarification when evidence from 
such source(s) is insufficient or inconsistent, as discussed in 
sections 404.1527(c) and 416.927(c). We also propose to revise our 
regulations to explain that we will not recontact the individual's 
treating source(s) or other medical source(s) if there is sufficient 
evidence for us to decide whether the individual is disabled.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mike O'Connor, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1952

RIN: 0960-AG04
_______________________________________________________________________




3748. MEDICAL AND OTHER EVIDENCE OF YOUR IMPAIRMENT(S) (2261P)

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

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 
421 note; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 423 note; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 
USC 1382; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 1382h; 42 USC 1382h note; 42 USC 
1383(a); 42 USC 1383(c); 42 USC 1383(d)(1); 42 USC 1383b; PL 104-193; 
PL 98-460

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P; 20 CFR 416, subpart I

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our rules that affect the Social 
Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income 
(SSI) programs by clarifying the role of optometrists as acceptable 
medical sources. The rules would clarify that we may establish a 
medically determinable impairment with medical evidence of record from 
optometrists instead of having to purchase consultative examinations 
from ophthalmologists.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tessa Albright, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7789

RIN: 0960-AG05
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                  Completed Actions






_______________________________________________________________________




3749. FILING CLAIMS UNDER THE FEDERAL TORT CLAIMS ACT AND THE MILITARY 
PERSONNEL AND CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES CLAIMS ACT (785F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 429.101 to 429.110; 20 CFR 429.201 to 429.211; 28 
CFR 14

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/11/04                    69 FR 48767
Final Action Effective          09/10/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Doug Cohen
Phone: 410 966-6583

Robert J. Augustine
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF39
_______________________________________________________________________




3750. REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT UNDER TITLES II, VIII, AND XVI OF THE 
SOCIAL SECURITY ACT (949F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.2011; 20 CFR 404.2021; 20 CFR 
404.2022; 20 CFR 404.2024; 20 CFR 404.2025; 20 CFR 404.2030; 20 CFR 
404.2040a; 20 CFR 404.2041; 20 CFR 404.2050; 20 CFR 404.2065; 20 CFR 
416.611; 20 CFR 416.621; 20 CFR 416.622; 20 CFR 416.624; 20 CFR 
416.625; 20 CFR 416.630; 20 CFR 416.640a; 20 CFR 416.641; 20 CFR 
416.650; 20 CFR 416.665; 20 CFR 416.1402; 20 CFR 408.601; 20 CFR 
408.610; 20 CFR 408.611; 20 CFR 408.615; 20 CFR 408.620; 20 CFR 
408.621; 20 CFR 408.622; 20 CFR 408.624; 20 CFR 408.625; 20 CFR 
408.630; 20 CFR 408.635; 20 CFR 408.640; 20 CFR 408.641; 20 CFR 
408.645; 20 CFR 408.650; 20 CFR 408.655; 20 CFR 408.660; 20 CFR 408.665

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/07/04                    69 FR 60223
Final Action Effective          11/08/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Betsy Byrd
Phone: 410 965-7981

Robert J. Augustine
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF83
_______________________________________________________________________




3751. EVIDENCE REQUIREMENT FOR ASSIGNMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS 
(SSNS); ASSIGNMENT OF SSNS TO FOREIGN STUDENTS (960F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.105; 20 CFR 422.107

[[Page 74075]]

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/13/04                    69 FR 55065
Final Action Effective          10/13/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF87
_______________________________________________________________________




3752. COVERAGE OF RESIDENTS IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA 
ISLANDS (CNMI); COVERAGE OF MINISTERS, MEMBERS OF THE CLERGY, AND 
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE PRACTITIONERS (792F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.2; 20 CFR 404.460; 20 CFR 404.1004; 20 CFR 
404.1020; 20 CFR 404.1022; 20 CFR 404.1071; 20 CFR 404.1093; 20 CFR 
404.1096; 20 CFR 404.1200; 20 CFR 404.1202(b)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/07/04                    69 FR 18310
Final Action                    08/20/04                    69 FR 51553
Final Action Effective          09/20/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AG01
[FR Doc. 04-23636 Filed 12-10-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4191-02-S