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


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Part XLIV





Social Security Administration





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 27798]]



SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)                                   


  



_______________________________________________________________________

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Office of the Commissioner

20 CFR Ch. III

Semiannual Unified Regulatory Agenda

AGENCY: Social Security Administration.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: Executive Order (E.O.) 12866 (as amended by E.O. 13258) 
entitled Regulatory Planning and Review, issued September 30, 1993, and 
the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354) require each 
Federal agency to publish semiannually a brief description of all 
regulatory actions under development or review, expected to be under 
development or review for the next 12 months, or completed since the 
previous publication of the agenda. Our last agenda of regulations was 
published December 13, 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 decision makers. Supporting regulations are 
often required. In some instances, Congress directs SSA to issue 
implementing regulations. For other legislative provisions, SSA 
regulations provide program information to applicants for benefits, 
current beneficiaries, and their legal counsels.

     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.

     The spring 2005 regulatory agenda for the Social Security 
Administration follows.

Dated: March 18, 2005.

 Martin J. Sussman,

SSA Regulations Officer.

                                  Social Security Administration--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3543        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Neurological Impairments (806A)...............    0960-AF35
3544        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Respiratory System Disorders (859A)...........    0960-AF58
3545        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hearing Impairments and Disturbance of            0960-AG20
            Labyrinthine-Vestibular Function (2862A)..............................................
3546        New Medical Criteria for Evaluating Language and Speech Disorders (2962A).............    0960-AG21
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Social Security Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3547        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information (711P).....................    0960-AE88
3548        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)..................
3549        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)..............................

[[Page 27799]]

 
3550        Medical Equivalence for Adults and Children (787P)....................................    0960-AF19
3551        SSI Trusts and Transfers of Resources (791P)..........................................    0960-AF22
3552        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Immune System Disorders (804P)................    0960-AF33
3553        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Visual Disorders (805P).......................    0960-AF34
3554        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Mental Disorders (886P).......................    0960-AF69
3555        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hematological Disorders (974P)................    0960-AF88
3556        Amendments to the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (967P)..................    0960-AF89
3557        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).........................
3558        $30 Private Insurance (794P)..........................................................    0960-AF99
3559        Rules for Helping Blind and Disabled Individuals Achieve Self-Support (506P)..........    0960-AG00
3560        Recontacting Your Medical Source(s) (2241P)...........................................    0960-AG04
3561        Optometrists as Acceptable Medical Sources To Establish a Medically Determinable          0960-AG05
            Impairment (2261P)....................................................................
3562        Work Activity and Income of Persons Working as Members of Advisory Committees             0960-AG07
            Established Under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) (2382P)...................
3563        Representative Payment; Policies and Administrative Procedure for Imposing Penalties      0960-AG09
            for False or Misleading Statements or Withholding of Information (2422P)..............
3564        Rules for the Issuance of Work Report Receipts, Payment of Benefits for TWP Service       0960-AG10
            Months After a Fraud Conviction, Changes to the SEIE and Expansion of the
            Reintitlement Period for Child's Benefits.............................................
3565        Income Related Medicare Part B Premium Subsidy Reduction (2101P)......................    0960-AG11
3566        Nonpayment of Benefits to Fugitive Felons and Probation or Parole Violators (2222P)...    0960-AG12
3567        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).............................
3568        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information; Availability of               0960-AG14
            Information and Records to the Public (2562P).........................................
3569        Representation of Parties; Recognition, Disqualification, and Reinstatement of            0960-AG15
            Representative (2602P)................................................................
3570        Continuing Disability Review Failure To Cooperate Process (2763P).....................    0960-AG19
3571        Additional Insured Status Requirements for Certain Noncitizen Workers (2882P).........    0960-AG22
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3572        Supplemental Standards for Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Social Security           0960-AE48
            Administration (601F).................................................................
3573        Dedicated Accounts and Installment Payments for Certain Past Due SSI Benefits (622F)..    0960-AE59
3574        Technical Changes to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Regulations (664F)............    0960-AE79
3575        Expedited Reinstatement of Disability Benefits (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives        0960-AF21
            Improvement Act) (790F)...............................................................
3576        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments of the Digestive System (800F)....    0960-AF28
3577        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Genitourinary Disorders (802F)................    0960-AF30
3578        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments Affecting Multiple Body Systems       0960-AF32
            (803F)................................................................................
3579        Revisions to the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (823F).................................    0960-AF47
3580        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cardiovascular Disorders (826F)...............    0960-AF48
3581        Amendments to Annual Earnings Test Regulations (866F).................................    0960-AF62
3582        Mandatory Exclusion of Health Care Providers, Representatives, and Representative         0960-AF85
            Payees From Participation in SSA Programs (954F)......................................
3583        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).......................................................................
3584        Elimination of Deemed Military Wages (968F)...........................................    0960-AF90
3585        Administrative Review Process; Incorporation by Reference of Oral Findings of Fact and    0960-AF92
            Rationale in Wholly Favorable Written Decisions (964F)................................
3586        Medicare Prescription Drug Premium and Cost-Sharing (1024P)...........................    0960-AG03
3587        Civil Monetary Penalties, Assessments, and Recommended Exclusions (2362P).............    0960-AG08
3588        Update to Divided State Retirement Systems Coverage Group List and Technical Coverage     0960-AG18
            Corrections Required by the Social Security Protection Act of 2004 (2523F)............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 27800]]


                                Social Security Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3589        Revised Medical Criteria for Endocrine Disorders (436P)...............................    0960-AD78
3590        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)....................................................
3591        Enforcement of Nondiscrimination in Social Security Programs or Activities (661P).....    0960-AE78
3592        Determining Disability for An Individual With Drug Addiction or Alcoholism (851P).....    0960-AF57
3593        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Growth Disorders (444P).......................    0960-AF67
3594        Stepchild Entitlement and Termination Requirements (934F).............................    0960-AF78
3595        Referral of Persons Eligible for Disability or Blindness Benefits to Other Agencies       0960-AF80
            for Vocational Rehabilitation Services (929F).........................................
3596        Exclusion of Military Pay for Combat Service from Deemed Income and Resources (978P)..    0960-AF97
3597        Liability of Representative Payees for Overpayments to Deceased Recipients (796P).....    0960-AG02
3598        Deemed Duration of Marriage for Widows/Widowers and Removal of Restriction on Benefits    0960-AG23
            to Children of Military Parents Overseas (2883F)......................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3599        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Malignant Neoplastic Diseases (399F)..........    0960-AD67
3600        Deeming of Income From an Ineligible Spouse to an Eligible Individual and an Eligible     0960-AE50
            Child (606P)..........................................................................
3601        Disability Insurance Program Demonstration Project Authority (Ticket to Work and Work     0960-AF41
            Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) (789P)............................................
3602        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).......................................................
3603        Expanded Authority for Cross-Program Recovery of Benefit Overpayments (2221F).........    0960-AG06
3604        Nonpayment of Benefits When the Social Security Administration Receives Notice that an    0960-AG16
            Insured Person is Deported or Removed from the United States (2662F)..................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                      Prerule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3543. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING NEUROLOGICAL IMPAIRMENTS 
(806A)

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 are planning to update and revise the rules we use to 
evaluate neurological impairments of adults and children who apply for, 
or receive, disability benefits under title II and Supplemental 
Security Income (SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of 
the Social Security Act (the Act). The rules we plan on revising are 
section 11.00 and 111.00 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                           04/13/05                    70 FR 19356
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/13/05

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3544. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING RESPIRATORY SYSTEM 
DISORDERS (859A)

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 are planning to update and revise the rules we use to 
evaluate respiratory disorders of adults and children who apply for, or 
receive, disabilty benefits under title II and Supplemental Security 
Income (SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of the Social 
Security Act. The rules we plan on revising are sections 3.00 and 
103.00 in the Listing of

[[Page 27801]]

Impairments in appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations 
(the listings).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           04/13/05                    70 FR 19358
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/13/05

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, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3545. [bull] REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING HEARING IMPAIRMENTS 
AND DISTURBANCE OF LABYRINTHINE-VESTIBULAR FUNCTION (2862A)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are planning to update and revise the rules we use to 
evaluate hearing impairments and disturbance of labyrinthine-vestibular 
function 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 section 2.00 and 102.00 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                           04/13/05                    70 FR 19353
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/13/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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-AG20
_______________________________________________________________________




3546. [bull] NEW MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING LANGUAGE AND SPEECH 
DISORDERS (2962A)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are considering whether to propose new rules for 
evaluating language and speech disorders by adding a new body system to 
the Listing of Impairments in appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of 
our regulations (the listings) for these disorders. The new rules would 
apply to adults and children who apply for, or receive, disability 
benefits under titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act (the Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           04/13/05                    70 FR 19351
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/13/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Janet Bendann, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9118

Rosemarie Greenwald, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-7813

RIN: 0960-AG21
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                Proposed Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3547. PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND INFORMATION (711P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our privacy and disclosure rules to:
1. More fully describe the role and function of the Privacy Officer;
2. Describe safeguards against inappropriate disclosure of personal 
information when individuals request information about themselves by 
electronic means (e.g., through the Internet);
3. Conform to special procedures on an individual's access to medical 
records; and
4. Add a new section to grant direct access to a minor's medical 
records by the minor's parent or legal guardian acting on the minor's 
behalf.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chris W. Johnson, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of the

[[Page 27802]]

General Counsel, Office of Public Disclosure, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-8563

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

RIN: 0960-AE88
_______________________________________________________________________




3548. FEDERAL SALARY OFFSET (WITHHOLDING A PORTION OF A FEDERAL 
EMPLOYEE'S SALARY TO COLLECT A DELINQUENT DEBT OWED TO THE SOCIAL 
SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (721P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 404; 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902; 42 USC 1383; 5 USC 
5514

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This initiative would enable the Social Security 
Administration (SSA) to collect from Federal salaries qualifying, 
delinquent title II and title XVI overpayment debts and administrative 
debts owed by individuals who are currently Federal employees. The debt 
collection would be accomplished by the partial reduction of the 
employee's disposable salary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

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

RIN: 0960-AE89
_______________________________________________________________________




3549. EXEMPTION OF WORK ACTIVITY AS A BASIS FOR A CONTINUING DISABILITY 
REVIEW (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) 
(725P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 421(m)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.903; 20 CFR 404.1574; 20 CFR 404.1575; 20 CFR 
404.1590; 20 CFR 404.1592a; 20 CFR 404.1594; 20 CFR 416.974; 20 CFR 
416.990; 20 CFR 416.994; 20 CFR 416.1403

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to amend our regulations to explain how we 
will implement section 221(m) of the Social Security Act (the Act). We 
are also proposing to amend our regulation to eliminate the use of the 
secondary substantial gainful activity amount for evaluating work done 
by an employee prior to January 2001. Section 221(m) affects our rules 
for when we will conduct a continuing disability review if a 
beneficiary works and receives benefits under title II of the Act based 
on disability. (We interpret this section to include beneficiaries who 
receive both title II disability benefits and Supplemental Security 
Income (SSI) payments based on disability.) It also affects the way we 
evaluate work activity when deciding if a beneficiary has engaged in 
substantial gainful activity, and affects the standards we use when we 
determine whether disability continues or ends.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kristine Erwin-Tribbitt, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Program Development and 
Research, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-3353

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

RIN: 0960-AE93
_______________________________________________________________________




3550. 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                            07/00/05

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3551. 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

[[Page 27803]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3552. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS 
(804P)

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 will update and revise the rules that we use to evaluate 
immune system disorders of adults and children who apply for, or 
receive, disability benefits under title II and Supplemental Security 
Income (SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of the Social 
Security Act (the Act). The rules we will revise are sections 14.00 and 
114.00 in the Listing of Impairments in appendix 1 to subpart P of part 
404 of our regulations (the listings). These listings include such 
disorders as HIV infection, other Immunoglobulin deficiency syndromes 
or deficiencies of cell-mediated immunity, System Lupus Erythematosus, 
Scleroderma, Polymyositis, Inflammatory Arthritis, and other connective 
tissue disorders.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/09/03                    68 FR 24896
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/08/03
NPRM                            12/00/05

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

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

RIN: 0960-AF33
_______________________________________________________________________




3553. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING VISUAL 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 visual 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 our program experience and advances in medical 
knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating visual disorders.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/05

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3554. 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 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

RIN: 0960-AF69

[[Page 27804]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3555. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3556. AMENDMENTS TO THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM 
(967P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 411.115; 20 CFR 411.125 to 411.140; 20 CFR 411.150 
to 411.155; 20 CFR 411.171; 20 CFR 411.350 to 411.375; 20 CFR 411.385 
to 411.395; 20 CFR 411.500 to 411.510; 20 CFR 411.525 to 411.565; 20 
CFR 411.575 to 411.585

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed rules are intended to amend the final rules 
implementing the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program under 
section 1148 of the Social Security Act: to expand beneficiary 
eligibility to receive tickets under this program; to clarify the rules 
for assignment of a beneficiary's ticket to a State vocational 
rehabilitation (VR) agency; to revise the rules for payment when a 
beneficiary receives services from both a State VR agency and an 
employment network (EN); and, consistent with the Commissioner's 
authority in section 1148(h) of the Act, to revise the rules for 
milestone and outcome payments to ENs, in order to increase the 
incentives for providers of employment and other support services to 
participate in this program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Barbara Leary, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7764

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

RIN: 0960-AF89
_______________________________________________________________________




3557. ELIMINATION OF PARENT-TO-CHILD DEEMING FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO NO 
LONGER MEET THE DEFINITION OF SPOUSE OF THE NATURAL OR ADOPTIVE PARENT 
(793P)

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

Legal Authority: Sec 1614(f)(2) of the Social Security Act

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1160; 20 CFR 416.1165; 20 CFR 416.1202; 20 CFR 
416.1851

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to change the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 
parent-to-child deeming rules to no longer consider the income and 
resources of a stepparent when an eligible child resides in the 
household with a stepparent, but not his or her natural or adoptive 
parent. We will clarify that a stepparent no longer meets the 
definition of a ``parent'' when his or her spouse dies or leaves the 
household. Thus, an eligible child is not subject to deeming from a 
stepparent unless the child lives with both his or her natural or 
adoptive parent and the stepparent. We also propose changing the age at 
which an individual is no longer considered an ineligible child for 
purposes of deeming from 21 to 22. We believe this change will simplify 
our rules for both the public and our public contact employees.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/05

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

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

Related RIN: Related to 0960-AF24
RIN: 0960-AF96
_______________________________________________________________________




3558. $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

[[Page 27805]]

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3559. RULES FOR HELPING BLIND AND DISABLED INDIVIDUALS ACHIEVE SELF-
SUPPORT (506P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1383b(d)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1180; 20 CFR 416.1181; 20 CFR 416.1226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to amend our regulations to explain how we 
implement section 203 of the Social Security Independence and Program 
Improvements Act of 1994 (Public Law 103-296). Section 203 of this law 
amended section 1633 of the Social Security Act to require us to 
establish by regulations criteria for time limits and other criteria 
related to plans to achieve self-support (PASS). The law requires that 
the time limits take into account the length of time that a person 
needs to achieve his or her occupational goal, within a reasonable 
period, and other factors as determined by the Commissioner to be 
appropriate.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/05

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

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

Related RIN: Previously reported as 0960-AE17
RIN: 0960-AG00
_______________________________________________________________________




3560. 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 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                            12/00/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3561. OPTOMETRISTS AS ACCEPTABLE MEDICAL SOURCES TO ESTABLISH A 
MEDICALLY DETERMINABLE IMPAIRMENT (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 404.1513; 20 CFR 416.913

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 expanding the role of optometrists as acceptable 
medical sources. The rules would provide that

[[Page 27806]]

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                            08/00/05

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

Rosemarie Greenwald, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-7813

RIN: 0960-AG05
_______________________________________________________________________




3562. WORK ACTIVITY AND INCOME OF PERSONS WORKING AS MEMBERS OF ADVISORY 
COMMITTEES ESTABLISHED UNDER THE FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ACT (FACA) 
(2382P)

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 title II 
of the Social Security Act to incorporate a special rule that affects 
individuals who are receiving payments or providing services as members 
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 or consultant of a FACA advisory 
committee when we determine if an individual is engaging in substantial 
gainful activity under title II. In addition, we will not evaluate any 
of the services the individual is providing as a member or consultant 
of the FACA advisory committee when determining if the individual has 
engaged in substantial gainful activity under title II.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3563. REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT; POLICIES AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE FOR 
IMPOSING PENALTIES FOR FALSE OR MISLEADING STATEMENTS OR WITHHOLDING OF 
INFORMATION (2422P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 1007; 42 USC 1383(a)(2)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.459; 20 CFR 404.2022; 20 CFR 404.2035; 20 CFR 
404.2040(a); 20 CFR 404.2045; 20 CFR 404.2065; 20 CFR 408.622; 20 CFR 
408.635; 20 CFR 408.645; 20 CFR 408.665; 20 CFR 416.622; 20 CFR 
416.635; 20 CFR 416.640(a); 20 CFR 416.645; 20 CFR 416.1340; PL 108-
203, sec 102; PL 108-203, sec 103; PL 108-203, sec 104; PL 108-203, sec 
105; PL 108-203, sec 106; PL 108-203, sec 201

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Effective stewardship of SSA programs requires mechanisms to 
assure that benefits are used to meet the needs of beneficiaries judged 
incapable of managing or directing someone else to manage their 
benefits. Congress determined that improvements to the representative 
payment procedures were needed to assure program integrity. These 
proposed regulations are required to further our program integrity 
efforts.
In order to help prevent and respond to fraud and abuse in SSA's 
programs and operations, we propose regulations for imposing penalties 
for false or misleading statements or withholding of information when 
the person knows or should know that the failure to provide the 
information is misleading.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/05
Final Action                    05/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Betsy Byrd, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7981

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

RIN: 0960-AG09
_______________________________________________________________________




3564. RULES FOR THE ISSUANCE OF WORK REPORT RECEIPTS, PAYMENT OF 
BENEFITS FOR TWP SERVICE MONTHS AFTER A FRAUD CONVICTION, CHANGES TO THE 
SEIE AND EXPANSION OF THE REINTITLEMENT PERIOD FOR CHILD'S BENEFITS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 
42 USC 405(a) to 405(d); 42 USC 405(h); 42 USC 405 note; 42 USC 416(1); 
42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 421 note ; 42 USC 422(c); 42 USC 
423(e); 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 902(a); 42 USC 
902(5); 42 USC 902 note; 42 USC 1320 a-8a; 42 USC 1320 b-17; 42 USC 
1381; 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1382 note; 42 USC 1383

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.351; 20 CFR 404.401a; 20 CFR 404.471; 20 CFR 
404.903; 20 CFR 404.1588; 20 CFR 404.1592; 20 CFR 416.708(c); 20 CFR 
416.1112(c)(3); 20 CFR 416.1403; 20 CFR 416.1861

[[Page 27807]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to amend our rules to reflect and implement 
sections 202, 208, 420A, and 432 of Public Law 108-203, the Social 
Security Protection Act of 2004 (SSPA). Section 202 of the SSPA 
requires us to issue a receipt each time you or your representative 
report a change in your work activity or give us documentation of a 
change in your earnings if you receive benefits based on disability 
under title II or title XVI of the Social Security Act (the Act). 
Section 208 changes the way we pay benefits during the trail work 
period if you are convicted by a Federal court of fraudulently 
concealing your work activity. Section 420A allows you to be reentitled 
to childhood disability benefits beyond the current 84-month period if 
your previous entitlement to childhood disability benefits terminated 
because of the performance of substantial gainful activity, and you are 
not entitled to a higher benefit on your own record. Section 432 
changes the way we decide if you are eligible for the student earned 
income exclusion. We also propose to change the SSI student policy to 
include home schooling as a form of regular school attendance when 
determining eligibility for the student earned income exclusion.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/05
Final Action                    07/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Cindy Duzan, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Development and Research, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-4203

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

RIN: 0960-AG10
_______________________________________________________________________




3565. INCOME RELATED MEDICARE PART B PREMIUM SUBSIDY REDUCTION (2101P)

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

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; PL 108-173

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 418 (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to add to our regulations a new part 418 that 
would include our rules applicable to reduction of premium subsidies 
for beneficiaries who have income above the statutorily specified 
level. Section 811 of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and 
Modernization Act of 2003 amends section 1839 of the Act. Starting in 
2007, the new subsection 1839(i) requires that Medicare part B 
enrollees with the specified income receive a reduced part B premium 
subsidy. The statute establishes four income range ``notches'' above a 
threshold, and prescribes a percentage adjustment of premiums for each 
notch. As income increases, the premium subsidy decreases; in effect, 
the higher the income, the higher the part B premium. All beneficiaries 
will continue to receive some part B premium subsidy. The income 
threshold in 2007 is $80,000 ($160,000 for an individual who files a 
joint income tax return). The premium adjustments will be phased in 
over a five year period from 2007 through 2010. After 2007, the 
threshold amount and all of the notch amounts will be annually adjusted 
for inflation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Craig Streett, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9793

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-AG11
_______________________________________________________________________




3566. NONPAYMENT OF BENEFITS TO FUGITIVE FELONS AND PROBATION OR PAROLE 
VIOLATORS (2222P)

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

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(x)

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These regulations will propose rules for prohibiting title II 
benefits to persons fleeing prosecution or custody, or confinement 
after conviction and to persons violating probation or parole. We will 
also propose rules for establishing that good cause exists for 
continuing to pay such benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

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

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

RIN: 0960-AG12
_______________________________________________________________________




3567. 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

[[Page 27808]]

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: 1) how we calculate infrequent and irregular income; 2) what 
income we exclude from interest and dividend income; 3) how we count 
cash military compensation; and 4) 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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3568. PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND INFORMATION; 
AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION AND RECORDS TO THE PUBLIC (2562P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 401 app A(c)(4); 20 CFR 402.45(e)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our privacy and disclosure rules to:
1. Add a new section to set out detailed procedures to further preserve 
the anonymity and protect the physical well-being of employees in 
abusive relationships or who fear for their physical well-being because 
of threats from others;
2. Conform SSA's Freedom of Information Act regulations in this respect 
more closely to Office of Personnel Management (OPM) regulations; and
3. Develop procedures for the protection in the electronic environment 
of personally identifiable information for at-risk employees.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Edie McCracken, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of the General Counsel, Office of 
Public Disclosure, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-6117

RIN: 0960-AG14
_______________________________________________________________________




3569. REPRESENTATION OF PARTIES; RECOGNITION, DISQUALIFICATION, AND 
REINSTATEMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE (2602P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1705; 20 CFR 404.1745; 20 CFR 404.1750; 20 CFR 
404.1755; 20 CFR 404.1765; 20 CFR 404.1770; 20 CFR 404.1790; 20 CFR 
404.1799; 20 CFR 416.1505; 20 CFR 416.1545; 20 CFR 416.1550; 20 CFR 
416.1555; 20 CFR 416.1565; 20 CFR 416.1570; 20 CFR 416.1590; 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 
(Public Law 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 or 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 of 
non-attorneys conform to the proposed new rules that relate to 
attorneys.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/13/05                    70 FR 19361
NPRM Comment Period End         06/13/05

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

[[Page 27809]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3570. [bull] CONTINUING DISABILITY REVIEW FAILURE TO COOPERATE PROCESS 
(2763P)

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

Unfunded Mandates: 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 
422(c); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 
1382c; 42 USC 1382h; 42 USC 1383(a); 42 USC 1383(c); 42 USC 1383(d)(1)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1594; 20 CFR 404.1596; 20 CFR 416.994

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to provide that we will 
suspend your disability benefits before we make a determination during 
a continuing disability review (CDR) under title II of the Social 
Security Act (the Act) when you fail to comply with our request for 
necessary information. And, should you remain noncompliant for a period 
of one year following your suspension, we will then terminate your 
disability benefits. We are proposing these revisions to conform our 
title II procedures for determining whether you continue to meet the 
disability requirements to our current title XVI procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Rosemarie Greenwald, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Regulations, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-7813

RIN: 0960-AG19
_______________________________________________________________________




3571. [bull] ADDITIONAL INSURED STATUS REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN 
NONCITIZEN WORKERS (2882P)

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

Legal Authority: 42 USC 414.423(a)(l)

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To implement section 211 of the Social Security Protection 
Act of 2004, we propose to revise our regulations on determining fully 
insured and currently insured status, and related disability 
entitlement rules, for certain alien workers under title II of the 
Social Security Act (the Act). An alien worker who was originally 
assigned a Social Security number on or after January 1, 2004, must 
meet one of two additional requirements as a prerequisite for 
establishing insured status, or satisfying related disability 
entitlement requirements. Implementation of these proposed regulatory 
revisions will yield significant program savings because title II 
entitlement will be precluded based on the earnings of noncitizen 
workers who do not meet the new statutory requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Jessica Burns, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-8481

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

RIN: 0960-AG22
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                   Final Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3572. SUPPLEMENTAL STANDARDS FOR ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE 
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (601F)

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), will 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. This final rule specifies 
procedural and substantive requirements that are necessary to address 
ethical issues unique to SSA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/11/05                     70 FR 7192
NPRM Comment Period End         03/14/05
Final Action                    11/00/05

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 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AE48
_______________________________________________________________________




3573. 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)

[[Page 27810]]

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 six 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3574. 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                    08/00/05

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3575. EXPEDITED REINSTATEMENT OF DISABILITY BENEFITS (TICKET TO WORK AND 
WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT) (790F)

Priority: Other Significant

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 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                    07/00/05

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 21235-6401
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
_______________________________________________________________________




3576. 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
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    11/08/04                    69 FR 64702

[[Page 27811]]

Comment Period End              01/07/05
Final Action                    10/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Torkas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1744

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

RIN: 0960-AF28
_______________________________________________________________________




3577. 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: These final rules will revise the criteria in the Listing of 
Impairments (the Listings) that we use to evaluate genitourinary 
impairments. We apply these criteria at step three of our sequential 
evaluation processes for adults and children who claim Social Security 
or Supplemental Security Income benefits based on disability under 
title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. The revisions 
reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of 
evaluating genitourinary impairments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/23/04                    69 FR 51777
NPRM Comment Period End         10/22/04
Final Action                    09/00/05

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

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

RIN: 0960-AF30
_______________________________________________________________________




3578. 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 will 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                    09/00/05

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, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3579. 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

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                    06/00/05

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

RIN: 0960-AF47
_______________________________________________________________________




3580. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS 
(826F)

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

[[Page 27812]]

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 will 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
Final Action                    09/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 0960-AF48
_______________________________________________________________________




3581. 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                    05/00/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3582. 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 final rule will 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         08/31/04
Final Action                    09/00/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3583. CONTINUATION OF BENEFIT PAYMENTS TO CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE 
PARTICIPATING IN A PROGRAM OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES, 
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES, OR OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES (925F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 425(b); 42 USC 1383(a)(6)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.316; 20 CFR 404.327 (New); 20 CFR 404.328 
(New); 20 CFR 404.337; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.1586; 
20 CFR 404.1596; 20 CFR 404.1597; 20 CFR 416.1320; 20 CFR 416.1331; 20 
CFR 416.1338; 20 CFR 416.1402

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final rules revise the regulations that provide for the 
continuation of benefit payments to certain individuals who recover 
medically while participating in a vocational rehabilitation program 
with a State vocational rehabilitation agency. We are revising these 
regulations because of statutory amendments, which extend eligibility 
for these continued benefit payments to certain individuals who recover 
medically while participating in another appropriate program of 
vocational rehabilitation services. These include individuals 
participating in the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program or 
another program of vocational rehabilitation services, employment 
services, or other support services approved by the Commissioner of 
Social Security.
Prior to November 1991, the Social Security Act provided for the

[[Page 27813]]

continuation of payment of Social Security Disability Insurance and 
Supplemental Security Income disability and blindness benefits to 
individuals whose disability or blindness ended for medical reasons 
while they were participating in an approved State vocational 
rehabilitation program under title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 
if the Commissioner of Social Security determined that completion or 
continuation of the program would increase the likelihood of the 
individual's permanent removal from the disability benefit rolls. The 
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 extended eligibility for 
continued benefits to individuals who receive Supplemental Security 
Income benefits based on blindness. (We implemented this change by 
issuing operating instructions effective April 1, 1988, the effective 
date of the amendment.) The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 
extended eligibility for continued benefits to individuals 
participating in an approved non-State vocational rehabilitation 
program at the time their disability ended. (We implemented this change 
by issuing operating instructions effective November 1991, the 
effective date of the amendments.) The Personal Responsibility and Work 
Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 requires the redetermination of 
eligibility based on disability of individuals who attain age 18, based 
on the rules for determining initial eligibility for adults. These 
redeterminations are not continuing disability reviews, however, we are 
revising our regulations to provide that an individual whose disability 
has ended as a result of an age-18 redetermination may qualify for 
continued benefits based on participation in an approved program and 
increased likelihood of permanent removal from the disability rolls, if 
the individual meets all other requirements for continued benefits. The 
Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 authorizes 
continued benefits for a person who medically recovers while 
participating in a program consisting of the Ticket to Work program or 
another program of vocational rehabilitation services, employment 
services, or other support services approved by the Commissioner of 
Social Security, provided that the other requirements for benefit 
continuation are met.
These final rules will also explain what we mean by ``an appropriate 
program of vocational rehabilitation services, employment services, or 
other support services.'' They will explain when an individual will be 
considered to be ``participating'' in the program. They will explain 
how we will determine whether an individual's completion of or 
continuation in an appropriate program of vocational rehabilitation 
services, employment services, or other support services will increase 
the likelihood that the individual will not have to return to the 
disability rolls. They will also explain that, for students age 18 
through 21, ``an appropriate program of vocational rehabilitation 
services, employment services, or other support services'' includes an 
individualized education plan developed under policies and procedures 
approved by the Secretary of Education for assistance to States for the 
education of children under the Individuals with Disabilities Education 
Act, as amended.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/01/03                    68 FR 45180
NPRM Comment Period End         09/30/03
Final Action                    05/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

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

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

RIN: 0960-AF86
_______________________________________________________________________




3584. ELIMINATION OF DEEMED MILITARY WAGES (968F)

Priority: Other Significant

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                    05/00/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3585. ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS; INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF ORAL 
FINDINGS OF FACT AND RATIONALE IN WHOLLY FAVORABLE WRITTEN DECISIONS 
(964F)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.953; 20 CFR 416.1453

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final rules will revise our regulations to provide that 
if an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) enters a wholly favorable, oral 
decision into the record of a hearing, the ALJ may subsequently issue a 
written decision that gives the findings and reasons for the decision 
by incorporating by reference the findings and reasons stated orally at 
the hearing, provided that the ALJ does not determine subsequent to the 
hearing that the oral findings and reasons should be changed.

[[Page 27814]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/20/04                    69 FR 61594
Interim Final Rule Effective    10/20/04
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/20/04
Final Action                    05/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0960-AF92
_______________________________________________________________________




3586. MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG PREMIUM AND COST-SHARING (1024P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 108-173; 42 USC 405

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to add to our regulations a new part 418 to 
contain rules that we will apply when we evaluate applications for 
premium and cost-sharing subsidies under the Medicare program. We 
propose to include a new subpart D, Medicare part D Subsidies, to this 
part. This new subpart would contain the rules that we use to determine 
eligibility for premium and cost-sharing subsidies under the Medicare 
part D program, which was added by the Medicare Prescription Drug, 
Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003. (Medicare part D is a 
program for voluntary prescription drug coverage effective January 1, 
2006.) These proposed rules would describe: what the new subpart is 
about; how we determine whether you are eligible for premium and cost-
sharing subsidies; how we redetermine your eligibility for a subsidy; 
how you apply for a subsidy; how we evaluate your income and resources; 
when your eligibility for premium and cost-sharing subsidies 
terminates; how you may report changes in your circumstances; and how 
you can appeal a determination we make under the part D subsidy 
program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/04/05                    70 FR 10558
NPRM Comment Period End         05/03/05
Final Action                    02/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Craig Streett, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9793

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-AG03
_______________________________________________________________________




3587. CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES, ASSESSMENTS, AND RECOMMENDED EXCLUSIONS 
(2362P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320a-8; 42 USC 1320b-10

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 498.100 TO 498.104; 20 CFR 498.106; 20 CFR 
498.109; 20 CFR 498.114; 20 CFR 498.128

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed regulations would amend the existing 
regulations for the implementation of section 1129 of the Social 
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1320a-8) to:
(1) reflect the expanded authority under section 1129 to impose a civil 
monetary penalty and assessment, as applicable, for fraud involved in 
the receipt of benefits under title VIII of the Social Security Act; 
and (2) add as new categories for civil monetary penalty and assessment 
under section 1129 (i) representative payees with respect to wrongful 
conversion, and (ii) individuals who withhold the disclosure of 
material facts to the SSA.
These proposed regulations would also amend the existing regulations 
for the implementation of section 1140 of the Social Security Act (42 
USC 1320b-10) to: (1) require an advertiser or direct marketer who 
offers to assist an individual in obtaining products or services for a 
fee, that SSA otherwise provides free of charge, to include a written 
notice on the solicitation/mailing that the product or service is 
available from SSA free of charge; and (2) expand the list of terms in 
section 1140 that encompass the scope of words or phrases that the 
statute prohibits from being used in a misleading manner.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/23/05                    70 FR 14603
NPRM Comment Period End         05/23/05
Final Action                    02/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kathy Buller, Chief Counsel to the Inspector General, 
Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-2827

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-AG08
_______________________________________________________________________




3588. [bull] UPDATE TO DIVIDED STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS COVERAGE GROUP 
LIST AND TECHNICAL COVERAGE CORRECTIONS REQUIRED BY THE SOCIAL SECURITY 
PROTECTION ACT OF 2004 (2523F)

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are issuing these final rules to conform our regulations 
to four self-implementing provisions in the Social Security Protection 
Act of 2004 (SSPA). One provision adds two States to a list of States 
that are permitted to divide its retirement systems based on whether 
the employees in positions

[[Page 27815]]

under that system want Social Security coverage or not. The other three 
provisions make technical corrections to the Social Security Act (the 
Act) and the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) regarding various coverage 
issues under the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Cynthia Johnson, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7959

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

RIN: 0960-AG18
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                  Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3589. 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                             To Be                       Determined

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3590. TITLE VI (CIVIL RIGHTS ACT (1964)), TITLE IX (EDUCATION AMEND. 
(1972)), REHABILITATION ACT (1973), AND AGE DISCRIMINATION ACT (1975) IN 
PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES RECEIVING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE BY SSA (617P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 431

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 0960-AE63
_______________________________________________________________________




3591. 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

[[Page 27816]]

the basis of disability, race, color, national origin, sex, age, or 
religion in any program or activity conducted by SSA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0960-AE78
_______________________________________________________________________




3592. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3593. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3594. 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                     To Be                       Determined

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


[[Page 27817]]


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
_______________________________________________________________________




3595. 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 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 obsolete.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3596. 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                             To Be                       Determined

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3597. 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 an individual after the individual's death.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

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


[[Page 27818]]


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-AG02
_______________________________________________________________________




3598. [bull] DEEMED DURATION OF MARRIAGE FOR WIDOWS/WIDOWERS AND REMOVAL 
OF RESTRICTION ON BENEFITS TO CHILDREN OF MILITARY PARENTS OVERSEAS 
(2883F)

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: PL 108-203, sec 414; PL 108-203, sec 434

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are issuing these final rules to reflect changes in the 
Social Security Act (the Act) made by section 414 and 434 of the Social 
Security Protection Act of 2004 (SSPA), enacted on March 2, 2004. 
Section 414 added a new situation in which the nine-month duration-of-
marriage requirement for surviving spouses is deemed to be met. The 
duration-of-marriage requirement will be deemed to be met if SSA 
determines that the surviving spouse claimant and the deceased number 
holder would have been married for at least nine months, except that it 
was unlawful for the number holder to divorce the prior spouse by 
reason of the prior spouse's institutionalization because of mental 
incompetence or a similar incapacity.
Section 434 removed a restriction that existed for payment of title XVI 
benefits to children living outside the United States. As a result of 
section 434, payment of title XVI benefits is extended to children who 
are born blind or disabled and/or become blind or disabled after their 
military parents are stationed outside the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Linda Baer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1853

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

RIN: 0960-AG23
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                  Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3599. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC 
DISEASES (399F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      11/15/04                    69 FR 67017
Final Rule Effective            12/15/04
Final Rule; Correcting 
Amendments                      03/25/05                    70 FR 15227

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michelle Hungerman
Phone: 410 965-2289

Suzanne DiMarino
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AD67
_______________________________________________________________________




3600. DEEMING OF INCOME FROM AN INELIGIBLE SPOUSE TO AN ELIGIBLE 
INDIVIDUAL AND AN ELIGIBLE CHILD (606P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       03/08/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sean Balser
Phone: 410 965-7908

Richard M. Bresnick
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AE50
_______________________________________________________________________




3601. DISABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM DEMONSTRATION PROJECT AUTHORITY 
(TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) (789P)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1599

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/24/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ed Beane
Phone: 410 965-9866

Suzanne DiMarino
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AF41
_______________________________________________________________________




3602. 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)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1102 to 416.1104; 20 CFR 416.1121; 20 CFR 
416.1124; 20 CFR 416.1130; 20 CFR 416.1133; 20 CFR 416.1140; 20 CFR 
416.1142; 20 CFR 416.1144 to 416.1145; 20 CFR 416.1147 to 416.1149; 20 
CFR

[[Page 27819]]

416.1157; 20 CFR 416.1210; 20 CFR 416.1216; 20 CFR 416.1218

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/07/05                     70 FR 6340
Final Action Effective          03/09/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Albert Fatur
Phone: 410 965-9855

Robert J. Augustine
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF84
_______________________________________________________________________




3603. EXPANDED AUTHORITY FOR CROSS-PROGRAM RECOVERY OF BENEFIT 
OVERPAYMENTS (2221F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.530; 20 CFR 404.535; 20 CFR 404.540; 20 CFR 
404.545; 20 CFR 408.930; 20 CFR 408.931; 20 CFR 408.932; 20 CFR 
408.933; 20 CFR 416.570; 20 CFR 416.572; 20 CFR 416.573; 20 CFR 
416.574; 20 CFR 416.575

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/03/05                       70 FR 11
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/02/05
Final Action                    03/30/05                    70 FR 16111
Final Action Effective          03/30/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robin Weber
Phone: 410 965-7944

Richard M. Bresnick
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AG06
_______________________________________________________________________




3604. [bull] NONPAYMENT OF BENEFITS WHEN THE SOCIAL SECURITY 
ADMINISTRATION RECEIVES NOTICE THAT AN INSURED PERSON IS DEPORTED OR 
REMOVED FROM THE UNITED STATES (2662F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 
42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 416(l); 42 USC 423(e); 42 USC 
424a; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320a-8a; 48 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.464

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are issuing this final rule to conform our regulations to 
a legislative change, section 412 of the Social Security Protection Act 
of 2004 (SSPA), Public Law 108-203, which modifies the provisions of 
section 202(n) of the Social Security Act (the Act). Those provisions 
prohibit the payment of title II benefits to the insured person on a 
record (and, in some cases, to dependents or survivors otherwise 
entitled on that record) when SSA receives notice of the insured 
person's deportation or removal from the United States under provisions 
of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Section 412 was enacted, 
in part, to conform the Act to amendments to the INA enacted April 1, 
1997, under the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigration 
Responsibility Act of 1996 (the Immigration Reform Act), Public Law 
104-208. The Immigration Reform Act changed the terminology, section 
references and function of many provisions of the INA that, in turn, 
affect section 202(n) of the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/31/05                    70 FR 16409
Final Action Effective          03/31/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Terry Fahey, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of International Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-3566

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

RIN: 0960-AG16
[FR Doc. 05-6006 Filed 05-13-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4191-02-S