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


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Part XLIV





Social Security Administration





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 65480]]



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 May 16, 2005.

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 Gregory Zwitch, Regulations Officer, Social 
Security Administration, 100 Altmeyer Building, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401; Telephone (410) 965-1887 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) and the Intelligence 
Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-458).

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

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

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

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

Dated: October 3, 2005

 Gregory Zwitch,

SSA Regulations Officer.

                                  Social Security Administration--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3667        Revised Medical Criteria for Endocrine Disorders (436A)...............................    0960-AD78
3668        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Growth Impairments (3163A)....................    0960-AG28
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Social Security Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3669        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information (711P).....................    0960-AE88
3670        Federal Salary Offset (Withholding a Portion of a Federal Employee's Salary To Collect    0960-AE89
            a Delinquent Debt Owed to the Social Security Administration) (721P) (Reg Plan Seq No.
            138)..................................................................................

[[Page 65481]]

 
3671        Exemption of Work Activity as a Basis for a Continuing Disability Review (Ticket to       0960-AE93
            Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) (725P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 139).......
3672        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Immune System Disorders (804P) (Reg Plan Seq      0960-AF33
            No. 140)..............................................................................
3673        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Visual Disorders (805P).......................    0960-AF34
3674        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Neurological Impairments (806P)...............    0960-AF35
3675        Determining Disability for An Individual With Drug Addiction or Alcoholism (851P).....    0960-AF57
3676        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Respiratory System Disorders (859P)...........    0960-AF58
3677        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Mental Disorders (886P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 141)    0960-AF69
3678        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hematological Disorders (974P)................    0960-AF88
3679        Amendments to the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (967P) (Reg Plan Seq No.    0960-AF89
            142)..................................................................................
3680        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).........................
3681        Liability of Representative Payees for Overpayments to Deceased Recipients (796P).....    0960-AG02
3682        Recontacting Your Medical Source(s) (2241P)...........................................    0960-AG04
3683        Optometrists as Acceptable Medical Sources To Establish a Medically Determinable          0960-AG05
            Impairment (2261P)....................................................................
3684        Representative Payment; Policies and Administrative Procedure for Imposing Penalties      0960-AG09
            for False or Misleading Statements or Withholding of Information (2422P) (Reg Plan Seq
            No. 143)..............................................................................
3685        Issuance of Work Report Receipts, Payment of TWP Months After a Fraud Conviction,         0960-AG10
            Changes to the SEIE, & Expansion of the Reentitlement Period for Childhood DIB
            Benefits (2502P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 144)...............................................
3686        Medicare Part B Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (2101P) (Reg Plan Seq No.        0960-AG11
            145)..................................................................................
3687        Nonpayment of Benefits to Fugitive Felons and Probation or Parole Violators (2222P)       0960-AG12
            (Reg Plan Seq No. 146)................................................................
3688        Changes to the Income and Resources Provisions for SSI Based on Sections 430, 435, and    0960-AG13
            436 of the Social Security Protection Act (SSPA) of 2004 (2482P) (Reg Plan Seq No.
            147)..................................................................................
3689        Continuing Disability Review Failure To Cooperate Process (2763P) (Reg Plan Seq No.       0960-AG19
            148)..................................................................................
3690        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hearing Impairments and Disturbance of            0960-AG20
            Labyrinthine-Vestibular Function (2862P)..............................................
3691        New Medical Criteria for Evaluating Language and Speech Disorders (2962P).............    0960-AG21
3692        Prohibition of Entitlement on Earnings Records for Certain Alien Workers (2882P) (Reg     0960-AG22
            Plan Seq No. 149).....................................................................
3693        Limiting Replacement of Social Security Number Cards (965P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 150)....    0960-AG25
3694        Priority of Collection of Overpayments from Underpayments Before Reimbursement to         0960-AG26
            Others (3063P)........................................................................
3695        Age as a Factor in Evaluating Disability (3183P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 151)...............    0960-AG29
3696        Administrative Review Process for Adjudicating Initial Disability Claims (3203F) (Reg     0960-AG31
            Plan Seq No. 152).....................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                                Social Security Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3697        Supplemental Standards for Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Social Security           0960-AE48
            Administration (601F).................................................................
3698        Dedicated Accounts and Installment Payments for Certain Past Due SSI Benefits (622F)..    0960-AE59
3699        Evidentiary Requirements for Making Findings About Medical Equivalence (787F) (Reg        0960-AF19
            Plan Seq No. 153).....................................................................
3700        Expedited Reinstatement of Disability Benefits (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives        0960-AF21
            Improvement Act) (790F)...............................................................
3701        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments of the Digestive System (800F)        0960-AF28
            (Reg Plan Seq No. 154)................................................................
3702        Revisions to the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (823F).................................    0960-AF47
3703        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cardiovascular Disorders (826F) (Reg Plan Seq     0960-AF48
            No. 155)..............................................................................
3704        Stepchild Entitlement and Termination Requirements (934F).............................    0960-AF78
3705        Administrative Review Process; Incorporation by Reference of Oral Findings of Fact and    0960-AF92
            Rationale in Wholly Favorable Written Decisions (964F)................................
3706        Rules for Helping Blind and Disabled Individuals Achieve Self-Support (506F) (Reg Plan    0960-AG00
            Seq No. 156)..........................................................................
3707        Medicare Part D Subsidies (1024F) (Reg Plan Seq No. 157)..............................    0960-AG03
3708        Work Activity and Income of Persons Working as Members of Advisory Committees             0960-AG07
            Established Under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) (2382F)...................
3709        Civil Monetary Penalties, Assessments, and Recommended Exclusions (2362F) (Reg Plan       0960-AG08
            Seq No. 158)..........................................................................
3710        Representation of Parties; Recognition, Disqualification, and Reinstatement of            0960-AG15
            Representative (2602F)................................................................
3711        Deemed Duration of Marriage for Widows/Widowers and Removal of Restriction on Benefits    0960-AG23
            to Children of Military Parents Overseas (2883F)......................................
3712        Filing of Applications (3223F)........................................................    0960-AG32

[[Page 65482]]

 
3713        Administrative Review Process; Temporary Extension of Attorney Fee Payment System and     0960-AG35
            Demonstration Project on Extending Fee Withholding and Payment Procedures to Non-
            attorney Representatives (3246F)......................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                                Social Security Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3714        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)....................................................
3715        Enforcement of Nondiscrimination in Social Security Programs or Activities (661P).....    0960-AE78
3716        SSI Trusts and Transfers of Resources (791P)..........................................    0960-AF22
3717        Referral of Persons Eligible for Disability or Blindness Benefits to Other Agencies       0960-AF80
            for Vocational Rehabilitation Services (929F).........................................
3718        Mandatory Exclusion of Health Care Providers and Representatives From Participating in    0960-AF85
            Programs Administered by SSA, Including Representative Payment (954F).................
3719        Exclusion of Military Pay for Combat Service from Deemed Income and Resources (978P)..    0960-AF97
3720        $30 Private Insurance (794P)..........................................................    0960-AF99
3721        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information; Availability of               0960-AG14
            Information and Records to the Public (2562P).........................................
3722        Review of State Agency Determinations (3184P).........................................    0960-AG30
3723        Sixty-Month Period of Employment Requirement for Application of Government Pension        0960-AG33
            Offset Exemption (3022P)..............................................................
3724        Service of Process (2982F)............................................................    0960-AG34
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3725        Technical Revisions to the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Regulations on Income       0960-AE79
            and Resources (664F)..................................................................
3726        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Genitourinary Disorders (802F)................    0960-AF30
3727        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments Affecting Multiple Body Systems       0960-AF32
            (803F)................................................................................
3728        Amendments to Annual Earnings Test Regulations (866F).................................    0960-AF62
3729        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Growth Disorders (444P).......................    0960-AF67
3730        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).......................................................................
3731        Elimination of Deemed Military Wages (968F)...........................................    0960-AF90
3732        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)............
3733        Technical Amendments to Change a Cross-Reference and to Remove Reference to an            0960-AG24
            Obsolete Form (3042F).................................................................
3734        Extension of Expiration Date for Several Body Systems Listings (3103F)................    0960-AG27
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                      Prerule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3667. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR ENDOCRINE DISORDERS (436A)

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: 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

[[Page 65483]]

criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/11/05                    70 FR 46792
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/11/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3668. [bull] REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GROWTH IMPAIRMENTS 
(3163A)

Priority: Other Significant

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

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 growth impairments of individuals under age 18 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 100.00 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                           09/08/05                    70 FR 53323
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/07/05

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

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

RIN: 0960-AG28
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                Proposed Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3669. 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 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                            12/00/05

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 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3670. FEDERAL SALARY OFFSET (WITHHOLDING A PORTION OF A FEDERAL 
EMPLOYEE'S SALARY TO COLLECT A DELINQUENT DEBT OWED TO THE SOCIAL 
SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (721P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 138 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AE89
_______________________________________________________________________




3671. EXEMPTION OF WORK ACTIVITY AS A BASIS FOR A CONTINUING DISABILITY 
REVIEW (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) 
(725P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 139 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AE93

[[Page 65484]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3672. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS 
(804P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 140 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF33
_______________________________________________________________________




3673. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING VISUAL DISORDERS (805P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of 
Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving 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                            08/17/05                    70 FR 48342
NPRM Comment Period End         10/17/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3674. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING NEUROLOGICAL IMPAIRMENTS 
(806P)

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
NPRM                            01/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3675. DETERMINING DISABILITY FOR AN INDIVIDUAL WITH DRUG ADDICTION OR 
ALCOHOLISM (851P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 104-121, sec 105; PL 105-33, sec 5525; PL 106-170, 
sec 401; 42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 422(e); 42 USC 423(d)(2)(c); 42 USC 425; 
42 USC 1382(e); 42 USC 1382c(a)(5)(J); 42 USC 1383(a)(2); 42 USC 1383c; 
42 USC 1383e

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                            09/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3676. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING RESPIRATORY SYSTEM 
DISORDERS (859P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We 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 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
NPRM                            09/00/06

[[Page 65485]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3677. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MENTAL DISORDERS (886P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 141 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF69
_______________________________________________________________________




3678. 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 (hematological disorders) of 
appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (404.1501 
through 404.1599) describe hematological disorders that are considered 
severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or 
for a child claiming SSI payments under title XVI, which causes marked 
and severe functional limitation. We are proposing to revise these 
sections to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up-to-date 
and consistent with the latest advances in medical knowledge and 
treatment. The Supplemental Security Income program incorporates and 
uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and 
Disability Insurance program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3679. AMENDMENTS TO THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM 
(967P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 142 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AF89
_______________________________________________________________________




3680. 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                            12/00/05
Final Action                    07/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sean Balser, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 966-8918

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

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




3681. 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                            05/00/06

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

[[Page 65486]]

Phone: 410 965-7966

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

RIN: 0960-AG02
_______________________________________________________________________




3682. 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                            01/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3683. OPTOMETRISTS AS ACCEPTABLE MEDICAL SOURCES TO ESTABLISH A 
MEDICALLY DETERMINABLE IMPAIRMENT (2261P)

Priority: Other Significant. 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 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                            11/00/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3684. REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT; POLICIES AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE FOR 
IMPOSING PENALTIES FOR FALSE OR MISLEADING STATEMENTS OR WITHHOLDING OF 
INFORMATION (2422P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 143 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG09
_______________________________________________________________________




3685. ISSUANCE OF WORK REPORT RECEIPTS, PAYMENT OF TWP MONTHS AFTER A 
FRAUD CONVICTION, CHANGES TO THE SEIE, & EXPANSION OF THE REENTITLEMENT 
PERIOD FOR CHILDHOOD DIB BENEFITS (2502P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 144 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG10
_______________________________________________________________________




3686. MEDICARE PART B INCOME-RELATED MONTHLY ADJUSTMENT AMOUNT (2101P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 145 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG11
_______________________________________________________________________




3687. NONPAYMENT OF BENEFITS TO FUGITIVE FELONS AND PROBATION OR PAROLE 
VIOLATORS (2222P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 146 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG12
_______________________________________________________________________




3688. CHANGES TO THE INCOME AND RESOURCES PROVISIONS FOR SSI BASED ON 
SECTIONS 430, 435, AND 436 OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY PROTECTION ACT (SSPA) 
OF 2004 (2482P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 147 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG13

[[Page 65487]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3689. CONTINUING DISABILITY REVIEW FAILURE TO COOPERATE PROCESS (2763P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 148 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG19
_______________________________________________________________________




3690. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING HEARING IMPAIRMENTS AND 
DISTURBANCE OF LABYRINTHINE-VESTIBULAR FUNCTION (2862P)

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
NPRM                            09/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3691. NEW MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING LANGUAGE AND SPEECH DISORDERS 
(2962P)

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
NPRM                            09/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3692. PROHIBITION OF ENTITLEMENT ON EARNINGS RECORDS FOR CERTAIN ALIEN 
WORKERS (2882P)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 149 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.

RIN: 0960-AG22
_______________________________________________________________________




3693. [bull] LIMITING REPLACEMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER CARDS (965P)

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

RIN: 0960-AG25
_______________________________________________________________________




3694. [bull] PRIORITY OF COLLECTION OF OVERPAYMENTS FROM UNDERPAYMENTS 
BEFORE REIMBURSEMENT TO OTHERS (3063P)

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

Legal Authority: 42 USC 404; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 406; 42 USC 
902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320b-17; 42 USC 1381; 42 USC 1382(e); 42 USC 1383(b) 
and (d); 42 USC 1383(g)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.503a (new); 20 CFR 416.543

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations to clarify that 
overpayment collection will have priority over the payment of 
underpayments. We state that the Social Security Administration (SSA) 
will collect an overpayment from an underpayment otherwise payable to 
an individual or survivor before SSA makes payment to the individual or 
others. Implementation of these proposed regulatory revisions will 
yield program savings.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Cheryl Rosensteel, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9781

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-AG26

[[Page 65488]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3695. [bull] AGE AS A FACTOR IN EVALUATING DISABILITY (3183P)

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

RIN: 0960-AG29
_______________________________________________________________________




3696. [bull] ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS FOR ADJUDICATING INITIAL 
DISABILITY CLAIMS (3203F)

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

RIN: 0960-AG31
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                   Final Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3697. 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
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    05/04/05
Comment Period End              06/03/05
Final Action                    02/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3698. DEDICATED ACCOUNTS AND INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS FOR CERTAIN PAST DUE 
SSI BENEFITS (622F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

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

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/20/96                    61 FR 67203
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/18/97
Final Action                    06/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3699. EVIDENTIARY REQUIREMENTS FOR MAKING FINDINGS ABOUT MEDICAL 
EQUIVALENCE (787F)

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

RIN: 0960-AF19
_______________________________________________________________________




3700. 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

[[Page 65489]]

termination because his or her disability prevents work activity. 
Section 112 also provides for payment of provisional benefits for up to 
6 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                    09/30/05                    70 FR 57132
Final Action Effective          10/31/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3701. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS OF THE 
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM (800F)

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

RIN: 0960-AF28
_______________________________________________________________________




3702. 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                    10/00/05

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3703. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS 
(826F)

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

RIN: 0960-AF48
_______________________________________________________________________




3704. STEPCHILD ENTITLEMENT AND TERMINATION REQUIREMENTS (934F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/12/03                    68 FR 47877
NPRM Comment Period End         10/14/03
Final Action                    01/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 0960-AF78

[[Page 65490]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3705. 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.

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                    03/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3706. RULES FOR HELPING BLIND AND DISABLED INDIVIDUALS ACHIEVE SELF-
SUPPORT (506F)

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

RIN: 0960-AG00
_______________________________________________________________________




3707. MEDICARE PART D SUBSIDIES (1024F)

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

RIN: 0960-AG03
_______________________________________________________________________




3708. WORK ACTIVITY AND INCOME OF PERSONS WORKING AS MEMBERS OF ADVISORY 
COMMITTEES ESTABLISHED UNDER THE FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ACT (FACA) 
(2382F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 423

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1574; 20 CFR 416.974

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We plan to revise our disability regulations under titles II 
and XVI of the Social Security Act to incorporate a special rule that 
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 or title XVI. 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 or title XVI.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/03/05                    70 FR 32550
NPRM Comment Period End         08/02/05
Final Action                    04/00/06

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3709. CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES, ASSESSMENTS, AND RECOMMENDED EXCLUSIONS 
(2362F)

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

RIN: 0960-AG08
_______________________________________________________________________




3710. REPRESENTATION OF PARTIES; RECOGNITION, DISQUALIFICATION, AND 
REINSTATEMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE (2602F)

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 will amend our regulations to explain how we will 
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

[[Page 65491]]

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 will 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
Final Action                    04/00/06

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 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AG15
_______________________________________________________________________




3711. DEEMED DURATION OF MARRIAGE FOR WIDOWS/WIDOWERS AND REMOVAL OF 
RESTRICTION ON BENEFITS TO CHILDREN OF MILITARY PARENTS OVERSEAS (2883F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 108-203, sec 414; PL 108-203, sec 434; 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)- (e); 42 USC 902 (a) (5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.335; 20 CFR 404.357; 20 CFR 416.216

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                    10/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3712. [bull] FILING OF APPLICATIONS (3223F)

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

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(a); 42 USC 402(b); 42 USC 402(c); 42 USC 
402(d); 42 USC 402(e); 42 USC 402(f); 42 USC 402(g); 42 USC 402(h)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule will clarify our regulation on protective 
filing to state that we will protect a claimant's filing date as of the 
date the claimant or proper applicant on the claimant's behalf 
completes and transmits to SSA the Personal Information Identification 
page of the Internet Social Security Benefit Application. This 
clarification recognizes the new way that we do business over the 
Internet and is comparable with the way we establish a protective 
filing date telephonically.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lola Doyle, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, Office of Income 
Support Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-5899

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

RIN: 0960-AG32
_______________________________________________________________________




3713. [bull] ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS; TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF 
ATTORNEY FEE PAYMENT SYSTEM AND DEMONSTRATION PROJECT ON EXTENDING FEE 
WITHHOLDING AND PAYMENT PROCEDURES TO NON-ATTORNEY REPRESENTATIVES 
(3246F)

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

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 406(b); 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 
1383(d); PL 108-203, sec 302; PL 108-203, sec 303

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1720; 20 CFR 404.1730; 20 CFR 416.1520; 20 CFR 
416.1528; 20 CFR 416.1531 (new)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending our regulations as required to conform the 
regulations to the provisions of sections 302 and 303 of the Social 
Security

[[Page 65492]]

Protection Act of 2004 (SSPA, Public Law 108-203). The regulations 
currently indicate that we apply procedures for fee withholding and 
direct payment of representatives' fees only under title II of the 
Social Security Act (the Act), and that those procedures apply only if 
the representative is an attorney. Section 302 of the SSPA amended the 
Act to provide for the temporary extension of attorney fee withholding 
and payment procedures to claims under title XVI of the Act. Section 
303 authorizes a five-year nationwide demonstration project providing 
for the extension of fee withholding and payment procedures to eligible 
non-attorney representatives in claims under titles II and XVI of the 
Act. We are amending our regulations to reflect these statutory changes 
-- i.e., the temporary extension of attorney fee payment procedures to 
title XVI claims and the payment of fees under the five-year 
demonstration project to non-attorney representatives in title II and 
title XVI claims.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/06

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 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AG35
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                  Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3714. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3715. ENFORCEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION IN SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAMS OR 
ACTIVITIES (661P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 29 USC 794; 42 USC 902

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 432

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0960-AE78
_______________________________________________________________________




3716. SSI TRUSTS AND TRANSFERS OF RESOURCES (791P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to reflect sections 205 
and 206 of Public Law 106-169, the Foster Care Independence Act of 
1999. Section 205 generally provides for counting

[[Page 65493]]

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                             To Be                       Determined

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3717. 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 to 404.2127; 20 CFR 416.101; 20 CFR 416.110; 20 CFR 416.1030; 
20 CFR 416.1701; 20 CFR 416.1710; 20 CFR 416.2201 to 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: Dan O'Brien, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1632

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

RIN: 0960-AF80
_______________________________________________________________________




3718. MANDATORY EXCLUSION OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS AND REPRESENTATIVES 
FROM PARTICIPATING IN PROGRAMS ADMINISTERED BY SSA, INCLUDING 
REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT (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                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3719. 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

[[Page 65494]]

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 9 
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
_______________________________________________________________________




3720. $30 PRIVATE INSURANCE (794P)

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

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1382(e)

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

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3721. 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                             To Be                       Determined

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3722. [bull] REVIEW OF STATE AGENCY DETERMINATIONS (3184P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. 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 revising the rules that govern our relationship with 
the State agencies that make disability determinations at the initial 
and reconsideration levels of the administrative review process. We are 
revising our rules to provide that we will review at least 50 percent 
of all State agency disability determinations in initial claims that 
individuals are under a disability. We are also revising the rules to 
provide that we will review at least 50 percent of all State agency 
disability determinations in continuing disability reviews that 
individuals continue to be under a disability. These rules implement 
the provisions of section 221(c)(2) and (c)(3) of the Social Security 
Act (the Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

[[Page 65495]]

Agency Contact: Nancy Schoenberg, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-9408

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-AG30
_______________________________________________________________________




3723. [bull] SIXTY-MONTH PERIOD OF EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENT FOR 
APPLICATION OF GOVERNMENT PENSION OFFSET EXEMPTION (3022P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-203, sec 418

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.408a

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To implement section 418 of the Social Security Protection 
Act of 2004 (SSPA), we propose to revise our regulations to explain the 
new 60-month covered employment requirements for Federal, State and 
local government workers to be exempt from application of the 
government pension offset (GPO) provision under title II of the Social 
Security Act (the Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Barbara Jackson, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-3580

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-AG33
_______________________________________________________________________




3724. [bull] SERVICE OF PROCESS (2982F)

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

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending our rules regarding service of legal process 
in lawsuits involving judicial review of Agency final decisions on 
individual claims for benefits under titles II, VIII, and/or XVI of the 
Social Security Act (Act). Under the current rules, summonses and 
complaints in these types of cases are required to be sent to the 
Social Security Administration (SSA), Office of the General Counsel 
(OGC) in Baltimore, Maryland. These final rules provide that summonses 
and complaints in these types of cases shall be mailed directly to the 
OGC office that is responsible for the processing and handling of 
litigation in the particular jurisdiction in which the complaint has 
been filed. Current procedures for service of summonses and complaints 
in all other types of cases filed against SSA, i.e., those that do not 
involve judicial review of Agency final decisions on individual claims 
for benefits under titles II, VIII, and/or XVI of the Act, are not 
affected by this change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Larry Levey, Social Security Administration, Office of 
the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-3460

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-AG34
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                  Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3725. TECHNICAL REVISIONS TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI) 
REGULATIONS ON INCOME AND RESOURCES (664F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416, subpart K, app; 20 CFR 416.1124; 20 CFR 
416.1142; 20 CFR 416.1203; 20 CFR 416.1204; 20 CFR 416.1210; 20 CFR 
416.1233; 20 CFR 416.1235; 20 CFR 416.1236; 20 CFR 416.1248; 20 CFR 
416.1249

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/18/05                    70 FR 41135
Final Action Effective          07/18/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Eric Ice
Phone: 410 966-3233

Robert J. Augustine
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AE79
_______________________________________________________________________




3726. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GENITOURINARY DISORDERS 
(802F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/05/05                    70 FR 38582
Final Action Effective          09/06/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul J. Scott

[[Page 65496]]

Phone: 410 966-1192

Richard M. Bresnick
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AF30
_______________________________________________________________________




3727. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS AFFECTING 
MULTIPLE BODY SYSTEMS (803F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/30/05                    70 FR 51252
Final Action Effective          10/31/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Arden
Phone: 410 965-9098

Suzanne DiMarino
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AF32
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.415; 20 CFR 404.416

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/19/05                    70 FR 28809
Final Action Effective          06/20/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dorothy Skipwith
Phone: 410 965-4231

Suzanne DiMarino
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AF62
_______________________________________________________________________




3729. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GROWTH DISORDERS (444P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/11/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Regina Connell
Phone: 410 965-1891

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




3730. 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

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/24/05                    70 FR 36494
Final Action Effective          07/25/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Mary Hoover
Phone: 410 965-5651

Suzanne DiMarino
Phone: 410 965-1769

RIN: 0960-AF86
_______________________________________________________________________




3731. ELIMINATION OF DEEMED MILITARY WAGES (968F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1301

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/10/05                    70 FR 11863
Final Action Effective          03/10/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gareth N. Dence
Phone: 410 965-9872

Robert J. Augustine
Phone: 410 965-0020

RIN: 0960-AF90
_______________________________________________________________________




3732. 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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1055; 20 CFR 404.1056; 20 CFR 404.1086; 20 CFR 
404.1091; 20 CFR 404.1207

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/21/05                    70 FR 41954
Final Action Effective          07/21/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Cynthia Johnson
Phone: 410 965-7959

Richard M. Bresnick
Phone: 410 965-1758

RIN: 0960-AG18
_______________________________________________________________________




3733. [bull] TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO CHANGE A CROSS-REFERENCE AND TO 
REMOVE REFERENCE TO AN OBSOLETE FORM (3042F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 412 to 414; 42 USC 
416; 42 USC 417; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 902(a)(5)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.141; 20 CFR 422.505

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This document contains two technical corrections to our 
regulations. The first correction changes a cross-reference in our 
regulations regarding how we credit quarters of coverage for calendar 
years before 1978. The second correction removes reference to a form 
that has been obsolete since November 2002.

[[Page 65497]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/24/05                    70 FR 14977
Final Action Effective          03/24/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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-AG24
_______________________________________________________________________




3734. [bull] EXTENSION OF EXPIRATION DATE FOR SEVERAL BODY SYSTEMS 
LISTINGS (3103F)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule extends the expiration date for the listings 
in several body systems in the Listing of Impairments (the listings).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/16/05                    70 FR 35028
Final Action Effective          06/16/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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-AG27
[FR Doc. 05-21047 Filed 10-28-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4191-02-S