[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 23414]]



SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)                                   


  



_______________________________________________________________________

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Office of the Commissioner

20 CFR Ch. III

Semiannual Unified Regulatory Agenda

AGENCY: Social Security Administration.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: Executive Order (E.O.) 12866 (as amended by E.O. 13258) 
entitled Regulatory Planning and Review, issued September 30, 1993, and 
the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354) require each 
Federal agency to publish semiannually a brief description of all 
regulatory actions under development or review, expected to be under 
development or review for the next 12 months, or completed since the 
previous publication of the agenda. Our last agenda of regulations was 
published December 11, 2006.

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 Paul Kryglik, Acting Regulations Officer, Social 
Security Administration, 100 Altmeyer Building, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401; Telephone (410) 965-3735.

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 
toward the public and beneficiaries' rights and responsibilities under 
the programs we administer.

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

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

     Our regulatory agenda includes regulatory changes to reflect 
provisions of the Social Security Protection Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 
108-203).

     Also included in our agenda are items that will amend our 
Ticket to Work regulations originally published in December 2001. 
The proposed rules, published in September 2005, would expand 
beneficiary eligibility, increase beneficiary choice and 
flexibility of services available from both vocational 
rehabilitation agencies and employment networks, and modify the 
payment system to employment networks. Final regulations are 
anticipated in 2007.

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

     The spring 2007 regulatory agenda for the Social Security 
Administration follows.

Dated: March 7, 2007.

 Paul Kryglik,

Acting SSA Regulations Officer.

                               Social Security Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3270        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Mental Disorders (886P).......................    0960-AF69
3271        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hematological Disorders (974P)................    0960-AF88
3272        Elimination of Parent-to-Child Deeming From Stepparents (793P)........................    0960-AF96
3273        Exclusion of Military Pay for Combat Service From Deemed Income and Resources (978P)..    0960-AF97
3274        Technical Updates to Applicability of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Reduced      0960-AF99
            Benefit Rate for Individuals Residing in Medical Treatment Facilities (794P)..........
3275        Liability of Representative Payees for Overpayments to Deceased Recipients (796P).....    0960-AG02
3276        Recontacting Your Medical Source(s) (2241P)...........................................    0960-AG04
3277        Additional Insured Status Requirements for Certain Alien Workers (2882P)..............    0960-AG22
3278        Private Printing of Prescribed Applications, Other Forms, and Publications (530P).....    0960-AG36
3279        Work Performed by Certain Nonresident Aliens (3316P)..................................    0960-AG37
3280        Methods for Conducting Personal Conference When Waiver of Recovery of Title II or         0960-AG40
            Title XVI Overpayment Cannot Be Approved (3320P)......................................
3281        Consultative Examination--Annual Onsite Review of Medical Examiners (3338P)...........    0960-AG41
3282        Improvements to the Ticket To Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (3377P)...............    0960-AG44
3283        SSI Trusts and Transfers of Resources (791P)..........................................    0960-AG45
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[[Page 23415]]


                                Social Security Administration--Final Rule Stage
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                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3284        Dedicated Accounts and Installment Payments for Certain Past Due SSI Benefits (622F)..    0960-AE59
3285        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information (711F).....................    0960-AE88
3286        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments of the Digestive System (800F)....    0960-AF28
3287        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Immune System Disorders (804F)................    0960-AF33
3288        Administrative Review Process; Incorporation-by-Reference of Oral Findings of Fact and    0960-AF92
            Rationale in Wholly Favorable Written Decisions (964F)................................
3289        Temp Ext of Atty Fee Payment System to Title XVI; 5-Year Demo Project Extending Fee       0960-AG35
            Withholding and Payment Procedures to Eligible Non-Attorney Reps; . . . (3246F).......
3290        Technical Changes to the Title II Regulations (3342F).................................    0960-AG43
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3291        Revised Medical Criteria for Endocrine Disorders (436P)...............................    0960-AD78
3292        Supplemental Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Social Security            0960-AE48
            Administration (601F).................................................................
3293        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)....................................................
3294        Enforcement of Nondiscrimination in Social Security Programs or Activities (661P).....    0960-AE78
3295        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Neurological Impairments (806P)...............    0960-AF35
3296        Revisions to the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (823F).................................    0960-AF47
3297        Determining Disability for an Individual With Drug Addiction or Alcoholism (851P).....    0960-AF57
3298        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Respiratory System Disorders (859P)...........    0960-AF58
3299        Stepchild Entitlement and Termination Requirements (934F).............................    0960-AF78
3300        Referral of Persons Eligible for Disability or Blindness Benefits to Other Agencies       0960-AF80
            for Vocational Rehabilitation Services (929F).........................................
3301        Mandatory Exclusion of Health Care Providers and Representatives From Participating in    0960-AF85
            Programs Administered by SSA, Including Representative Payment (954F).................
3302        Amendments to the Ticket To Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (967F)..................    0960-AF89
3303        Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information; Availability of               0960-AG14
            Information and Records to the Public (2562F).........................................
3304        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hearing Loss (2862P)..........................    0960-AG20
3305        New Medical Criteria for Evaluating Language and Speech Disorders (2962P).............    0960-AG21
3306        Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Growth Impairments (3163P)....................    0960-AG28
3307        Age as a Factor in Evaluating Disability (3183F)......................................    0960-AG29
3308        Revised Medical Criteria for Musculoskeletal Disorders (3318P)........................    0960-AG38
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Social Security Administration--Completed Actions
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                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3309        Optometrists as Acceptable Medical Sources To Establish a Medically Determinable          0960-AG05
            Impairment (2261F)....................................................................
3310        Title II Cost-of-Living Increases in Primary Insurance Amounts (3346F)................    0960-AG42
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[[Page 23416]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                Proposed Rule Stage


  



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3270. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MENTAL DISORDERS (886P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to update and revise the rules that we use to 
evaluate mental disorders of adults and children who apply for, or 
receive, disability benefits under title II and Supplemental Security 
Income (SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of the Social 
Security Act (the Act). The rules we plan on revising are sections 
12.00 and 112.00 in appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our 
regulations (the listings). These listings include such disorders as 
affective disorders, schizophrenic disorder, intellectual disabilities, 
and autistic disorders.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/17/03                    68 FR 12639
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/16/03
NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marva Franklin, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-1293

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-AF69
_______________________________________________________________________




3271. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING HEMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS 
(974P)

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 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                            12/00/07

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

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-AF88
_______________________________________________________________________




3272. ELIMINATION OF PARENT-TO-CHILD DEEMING FROM STEPPARENTS (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 would not be 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                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Eric Skidmore, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 597-1833

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3273. 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: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 1382 to 1382b; 
42 USC 1382c(f); 42 USC 1382j; 42 USC 1382 note; 42 USC 1383; 42 USC 
1383b

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

[[Page 23417]]

countable income and resources when we determine the eligibility of 
children and spouses of military personnel for Supplemental Security 
Income (SSI). The exclusions ensure that the SSI benefits of children 
and spouses of military personnel are not adversely affected by the 
deployment of their family members to a combat zone.
Under these rules, in determining an individual's eligibility for SSI, 
we would not count the following types of income of an ineligible 
parent or spouse:
Any additional increment in pay, other than any increase in basic pay, 
received while serving as a member of the uniformed services, if:
1. The spouse or parent received the pay as a result of deployment to 
or while serving in a combat zone; and
2. The spouse or parent was not receiving the additional pay 
immediately prior to deployment to or service in a combat zone.
Under these rules, we also would exclude from deemed resources for 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                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Eric Skidmore, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 597-1833

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-AF97
_______________________________________________________________________




3274. TECHNICAL UPDATES TO APPLICABILITY OF THE SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY 
INCOME (SSI) REDUCED BENEFIT RATE FOR INDIVIDUALS RESIDING IN MEDICAL 
TREATMENT FACILITIES (794P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 
1382 note; 42 USC 1382a to 1382c; 42 USC 1382f; 42 USC 1382h(a); 42 USC 
1382h note; 42 USC 1382j; 42 USC 1383; 42 USC 1383b; 42 USC 1383c; 48 
USC 1681 note

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.201; 20 CFR 416.211 to 416.212; 20 CFR 
416.414; 20 CFR 416.571; 20 CFR 416.708; 20 CFR 416.1149; 20 CFR 
416.1165; 20 CFR 416.1167; 20 CFR 416.1202

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations to implement two 
provisions of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 that affect the payment 
of benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act (the Act). One 
of the provisions extended 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. The other provision replaced obsolete terminology 
in the Act that referred to particular kinds of medical facilities and 
substituted a broader yet more descriptive term.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/26/07                    72 FR 14053
NPRM Comment Period End         05/27/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Curt Dobbs, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7963

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3275. 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 1383(b)

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                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 0960-AG02
_______________________________________________________________________




3276. RECONTACTING YOUR MEDICAL SOURCE(S) (2241P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a) TO 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 
405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421; 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 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;

[[Page 23418]]

42 USC 1382h note; 42 USC 1383(a); 42 USC 1383b; 42 USC 1838(c) to 
1383(d)(1); PL 98-460; PL 104-193

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1512; 20 CFR 416.912

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: 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                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 0960-AG04
_______________________________________________________________________




3277. ADDITIONAL INSURED STATUS REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN ALIEN WORKERS 
(2882P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 414(c); 42 USC 423(a)(1)(C); PL 108-203, sec 
211

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.110; 20 CFR 404.120; 20 CFR 404.130; 20 CFR 
404.315; 20 CFR 404.1912; 20 CFR 404.1931

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule will revise our regulations on insured 
status to include an additional insured status requirement under 
section 211 of Public Law 108-203--the Social Security Protection Act 
of 2004 (SSPA)--for an alien worker who was originally assigned a 
Social Security number(SSN) on or after January 1, 2004. Under this 
law, an alien worker must meet either of the following additional 
requirements to be fully or currently insured and to establish 
entitlement to any title II benefits based on his/her earnings:
* At the time that SSA issues the SSN or later, the alien worker must 
be authorized by the Department of Homeland Security to work in the 
United States; or
* The alien worker must have been admitted to the United States at any 
time as a nonimmigrant visitor for business (immigration category ``B-
1'') or as an ``alien crewman'' (immigration category ``D-1'' or ``D-
2'').
If an alien worker whose SSN was originally assigned on or after 
January 1, 2004, does not meet either of these requirements, then he/
she is not fully or currently insured; thus entitlement is precluded. 
This is true even if the alien worker appears to have the required 
number of quarters of coverage (QCs) in accordance with the other 
insured status provisions. The additional insured status requirement 
affects the entitlement of certain alien workers, and any person 
seeking a benefit on the record of an alien who is subject to this law.
An alien worker who was properly assigned a SSN before January 1, 2004, 
is not subject to section 211 of the SSPA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07
Final Action                    04/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 0960-AG22
_______________________________________________________________________




3278. PRIVATE PRINTING OF PRESCRIBED APPLICATIONS, OTHER FORMS, AND 
PUBLICATIONS (530P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1320b-10(a)(2)(A)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.527

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The current regulation at 20 CFR 422.527 requires persons to 
obtain approval from the Social Security Administration (SSA) prior to 
reproducing, duplicating, or privately printing any application or 
other form prescribed by the Administration. Such approval is required 
whether or not the person intends to charge a fee. Section 
1140(a)(2)(A) of the Social Security Act (the Act) (42 U.S.C. 1320b-
10(a)(2)(A)) prohibits persons from charging a fee to reproduce, 
reprint, or distribute any SSA application, form, or publication unless 
authorized by the Commissioner of Social Security in accordance with 
such regulations as he may prescribe. This proposed rule would amend 
the current regulation to require SSA pre-approval to reproduce SSA's 
forms, applications, and publications only if the person intends to 
charge a fee and prescribe the procedures for obtaining such approval.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Renee Williams, Social Security Administration, Forms 
Management Team, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-4163

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

RIN: 0960-AG36

[[Page 23419]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3279. WORK PERFORMED BY CERTAIN NONRESIDENT ALIENS (3316P)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1036

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations on work performed by 
certain nonresident aliens. We want to clarify that for nonimmigrant 
aliens with certain types of visas, the critical factor in determining 
whether the work is covered for Social Security purposes is whether the 
work is authorized under Department of Homeland Security regulations, 
not the specific nature of the work. We also propose to add language to 
explain the difference between ``covered work'' and ``authorized 
work.'' Finally, we propose to substitute the word ``coverage'' for 
``employment'' because ``employment'' has a specific meaning under the 
Social Security Act and its use could be confusing in the context of 
the revisions we propose to make to this regulation section.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Love, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9034

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-AG37
_______________________________________________________________________




3280. METHODS FOR CONDUCTING PERSONAL CONFERENCE WHEN WAIVER OF RECOVERY 
OF TITLE II OR TITLE XVI OVERPAYMENT CANNOT BE APPROVED (3320P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 404; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 
1320b-17; 42 USC 1381; 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 1382(c) and (e); 42 USC 
1383(a) to 1383(d); 42 USC 1383(g); 31 USC 3720A

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.506; 20 CFR 416.557

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise our title II regulation and add a title 
XVI regulation regarding personal conferences when waiver of recovery 
of an overpayment cannot be approved to allow for the conferences to be 
conducted face-to-face, by telephone, or by video conference.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/05/07                     72 FR 9709
NPRM Comment Period End         05/04/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robin Strauss, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7944

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-AG40
_______________________________________________________________________




3281. CONSULTATIVE EXAMINATION--ANNUAL ONSITE REVIEW OF MEDICAL 
EXAMINERS (3338P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 421(a)(1)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1519s; 20 CFR 416.919s

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending our regulations to reflect the impact of 
inflation since 1991 when they were implemented. We propose to change 
the threshold amount to require the State disability determination 
services (DDSs) to perform an onsite review of consultative examination 
(CE) providers from $100,000 to $150,000.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/20/07                    72 FR 13053
NPRM Comment Period End         05/21/07
Final Action                    01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

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

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-AG41
_______________________________________________________________________




3282. [bull] IMPROVEMENTS TO THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY 
PROGRAM (3377P)

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

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 411.166; 20 CFR 411.171(b); 20 CFR 411.180; 20 CFR 
411.192 (new); 20 CFR 411.195; 20 CFR 411.200; 20 CFR 411.210; 20 CFR 
411.225; 20 CFR 411.226 (new)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to revise our regulations for the Ticket to 
Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (Ticket to Work program), authorized 
by the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. The 
Ticket to Work program provides beneficiaries with disabilities 
expanded options for access to employment, vocational rehabilitation, 
and other support services. The program is an important part of the 
comprehensive SSA work opportunity initiative which is focused on 
helping beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work do so.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 23420]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dan O'Brien, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 597-1632

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

RIN: 0960-AG44
_______________________________________________________________________




3283. [bull] SSI TRUSTS AND TRANSFERS OF RESOURCES (791P)

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

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Eric Skidmore, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 597-1833

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

Related RIN: Related to 0960-AF22
RIN: 0960-AG45
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                   Final Rule Stage


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3284. DEDICATED ACCOUNTS AND INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS FOR CERTAIN PAST DUE 
SSI BENEFITS (622F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 31 USC 3720A; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320b-17; 42 
USC 1381 to 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 to 416.546; 20 CFR 416.640

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, November 22, 1996, Interim Final 
Rules were published on December 20, 1996 (Personal Responsibility and 
Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA) only).
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 (PRWORA). 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 (IAR) 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.
These final rules will also reflect amendments made by section 302 of 
the Social Security Protection Act of 2004, effective May 2005, which 
provides for the payment of attorney fees by SSA from past due benefits 
that are payable to an individual. Section 7502 of the Deficit 
Reduction Act of 2005, enacted February 8, 2006, changed the formula 
for the payment of SSI installments. The new formula states that when 
an SSI individual is eligible for past due benefits in an amount which 
(after reimbursement for IAR and attorney/nonattorney fees) equals or 
exceeds 3 times the individual Federal Benefit Rate, plus any federally 
administered State supplement, installment payments must be paid.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/20/96                    61 FR 67203
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/18/97
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bryan J. Mueller, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9844

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

[[Page 23421]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3285. PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND INFORMATION (711F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 552 to 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 will 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                            09/13/06                    71 FR 53994
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/06
Final Action                    05/00/07

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3286. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS OF THE 
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM (800F)

Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Sections 5.00 and 105.00, Digestive Disorders, of appendix 1 
subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (404.1501 through 404.1599) 
describe those digestive impairments that are considered severe enough 
to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or for a child 
claiming SSI payments under title XVI, that causes marked and severe 
functional limitations. We are revising 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 SSI program 
incorporates by reference and uses the same medical criteria as the 
old-age, survivors, and disability insurance program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/14/01                    66 FR 57009
NPRM Comment Period End         01/14/02
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    11/08/04                    69 FR 64702
Comment Period End              01/07/05
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tony Guirreri, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9980

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

RIN: 0960-AF28
_______________________________________________________________________




3287. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS 
(804F)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We will update and revise the rules that we use to evaluate 
immune system disorders of adults and children who apply for, or 
receive, disability benefits under title II and Supplemental Security 
Income (SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of the Social 
Security Act (the Act). The rules we will revise are sections 14.00 and 
114.00 in the Listing of Impairments in appendix 1 to subpart P of part 
404 of our regulations (the listings). These listings include such 
disorders as HIV/AIDS, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory 
arthritis.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/09/03                    68 FR 24896
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/08/03
NPRM                            08/04/06                    71 FR 44431
NPRM Comment Period End         10/03/06
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

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

RIN: 0960-AF33
_______________________________________________________________________




3288. 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) to 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 rules will make final, interim final rules that allow 
an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) to enter a wholly favorable, oral 
decision into the record of a hearing, and may

[[Page 23422]]

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                    02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brent Hillman, ODAR, Social Security Administration, 
5107 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041
Phone: 703 605-8280

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-AF92
_______________________________________________________________________




3289. TEMP EXT OF ATTY FEE PAYMENT SYSTEM TO TITLE XVI; 5-YEAR DEMO 
PROJECT EXTENDING FEE WITHHOLDING AND PAYMENT PROCEDURES TO ELIGIBLE 
NON-ATTORNEY REPS; . . . (3246F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 406(b); 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 
1383(d); PL 101-508, sec 5106; PL 103-296, sec 321(f); PL 106-170, sec 
406; PL 108-203, sec 301; PL 108-203, sec 302; PL 108-203, sec 303

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1703; 20 CFR 404.1717 (new); 20 CFR 404.1720; 
20 CFR 404.1730; 20 CFR 416.1503; 20 CFR 416.1517 (new); 20 CFR 
416.1520; 20 CFR 416.1528; 20 CFR 416.1530 (new)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending our regulations to conform the regulations to 
the provisions of sections 301, 302 and 303 of the Social Security 
Protection Act of 2004 (SSPA, Public Law 108-203); section 406 of the 
Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvements Act of 1999 (TWWIIA, 
Public Law 106-170); section 321(f) of the Social Security Independence 
and Program Improvements Act of 1994 (SSIPIA, Public Law 103-296); and 
section 5106 of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 (OBRA 
1990, Public Law 101-508). Section 5106 of OBRA 1990 and section 301(f) 
of the SSIPIA affected the way we define past-due benefits for the 
purpose of calculating the fees we pay directly for representation of 
claimants before the Social Security Administration (SSA). Section 406 
of the TWWIIA established an assessment for the services required to 
determine and certify payments to attorneys from the benefits due 
claimants under title II of the Social Security Act (the Act). Section 
301 of the SSPA amended the Act to cap the assessment and to adjust the 
cap annually based on the cost-of-living computation in section 
215(i)(2)(A)(ii) of the Act. Section 302 of the SSPA amended the Act to 
temporarily extend the attorney fee withholding, payment and assessment 
procedures to claims under title XVI of the Act. Section 303 of the 
SSPA authorizes a 5-year, nationwide demonstration project, under both 
title II and title XVI of the Act, that extends fee withholding, direct 
payment and assessment procedures to non-attorney representatives who 
the Commissioner of Social Security determines have met prerequisites 
for participating in the project. We are amending our regulations to 
reflect these statutory changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/05/07                    72 FR 16720
Interim Final Rule Effective    04/05/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/04/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marg Handel, Team Supervisor, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-4639

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3290. [bull] TECHNICAL CHANGES TO THE TITLE II REGULATIONS (3342F)

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

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.336; 20 CFR 404.339 to 404.340; 20 CFR 
404.349; 20 CFR 404.364; 20 CFR 404.438; 20 CFR 404.762

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These rules would amend our regulations on the definition of 
child-in-care to include husbands and surviving divorced mothers and 
fathers as categories of beneficiaries who can be entitled to benefits 
based on having an entitled child of the worker in-care. We are 
including in the audience those who are filing for benefits as a 
husband or divorced widower (father). The child-in-care evidentiary 
regulation will be updated to refer to the age at which unreduced 
benefits are payable as ``full retirement age`` as defined in 20 CFR 
404.409. These final 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 step grandchildren born during the one-year 
support period relevant to a child's entitlement on the basis of those 
relationships to insured persons.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary Jayne Neubauer, Social Insurance Specialist, 
Social Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 
6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-7303


[[Page 23423]]


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

RIN: 0960-AG43
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                  Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3291. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR ENDOCRINE DISORDERS (436P)

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 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
NPRM                            06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judy Hicks, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9119

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-AD78
_______________________________________________________________________




3292. SUPPLEMENTAL STANDARDS OF 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                    70 FR 23065
Comment Period End              06/03/05
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Angela R White, Attorney, Social Security 
Administration, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-0807

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3293. 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

[[Page 23424]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3294. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3295. 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 
sections 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                            06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judy Hicks, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-9119

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3296. REVISIONS TO THE MEDICAL-VOCATIONAL GUIDELINES (823F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC405(a) to 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 
405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 
425; 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                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Art Spencer, Office Director, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7693

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

RIN: 0960-AF47
_______________________________________________________________________




3297. 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)(3)(J); 42 USC 1383(a)(2); 42 USC 1383c; 
42 USC 1383e

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

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.

[[Page 23425]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry P. Spain, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




3298. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING RESPIRATORY SYSTEM 
DISORDERS (859P)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to update and revise the rules we use to evaluate 
respiratory disorders of adults and children who apply for, or receive, 
disability benefits under title II and Supplemental Security Income 
(SSI) payments based on disability under title XVI of the Social 
Security Act. The rules we plan on revising are 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                            06/00/08

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

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

RIN: 0960-AF58
_______________________________________________________________________




3299. STEPCHILD ENTITLEMENT AND TERMINATION REQUIREMENTS (934F)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403(a) to 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 404.352; 20 CFR 404.363

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We will amend our 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 will 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 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                    10/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter White, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 594-2041

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

RIN: 0960-AF78
_______________________________________________________________________




3300. 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 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

[[Page 23426]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3301. MANDATORY EXCLUSION OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS AND REPRESENTATIVES 
FROM PARTICIPATING IN PROGRAMS ADMINISTERED BY SSA, INCLUDING 
REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT (954F)

Priority: Other Significant

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 5 
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                    06/00/09

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3302. AMENDMENTS TO THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM 
(967F)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 411.110; 20 CFR 411.120 to 411.155; 20 CFR 411.165 
to 411.166; 20 CFR 411.170 to 411.171; 20 CFR 411.175; 20 CFR 411.180; 
20 CFR 411.190; 20 CFR 411.191; 20 CFR 411.210; 20 CFR 411.325; 20 CFR 
411.350 to 411.370; 20 CFR 411.385 to 411.390; 20 CFR 411.500 to 
411.515; 20 CFR 411.525 to 411.566; 20 CFR 411.575 to 411.590

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/30/05                    70 FR 57222
NPRM Comment Period End         12/29/05
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: 410 597-1632

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

RIN: 0960-AF89
_______________________________________________________________________




3303. PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND INFORMATION; 
AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION AND RECORDS TO THE PUBLIC (2562F)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 401 app A(b)(3)(c)(4); 20 CFR 402.45(e)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We plan 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                            06/06/06                    71 FR 32494
NPRM Comment Period End         08/07/06
Final Action                     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

[[Page 23427]]

Disclosure, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-6117

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

RIN: 0960-AG14
_______________________________________________________________________




3304. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING HEARING LOSS (2862P)

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 hearing loss in 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                            06/00/08

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

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

RIN: 0960-AG20
_______________________________________________________________________




3305. NEW MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING LANGUAGE AND SPEECH DISORDERS 
(2962P)

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 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                            06/00/08

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3306. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GROWTH IMPAIRMENTS (3163P)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a) to 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
NPRM                            06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Judy Hicks, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone: 410 965-9119

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
_______________________________________________________________________




3307. AGE AS A FACTOR IN EVALUATING DISABILITY (3183F)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 221(a); 42 USC 221(i); 42 USC 222(c); 42 USC 
402; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 
416i; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1382(h); 42 USC 
1382b(a); 42 USC 1382b(c); 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 1383(a); 42 USC 1383(c)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1562 to 404.1563; 20 CFR 404.1568; 20 CFR 404, 
subpart P, app 2; 20 CFR 416.962; 20 CFR 416.963; 20 CFR 416.968

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These final rules will revise the definitions of the age 
categories we use as one of the criteria in determining disability 
under titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act (the Act). The 
changes reflect our adjudicative experience, advances in medical

[[Page 23428]]

treatment and healthcare, changes in the workforce since we originally 
published our rules for considering age in 1978, and current and future 
increases in the full retirement age under Social Security law. The 
changes will not affect the rules under part 404 of our regulations for 
individuals age 55 or older who have statutory blindness. They also 
will not affect our other rules that are dependent on age, such as the 
age at which you can qualify for early retirement benefits or for 
Medicare as a retired individual.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/04/05                    70 FR 67101
NPRM Comment Period End         01/03/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Art Spencer, Office Director, Social Security 
Administration, Office of Disability Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, 
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 966-5766

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-AG29
_______________________________________________________________________




3308. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS (3318P)

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 1.00 and 101.00 of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 
404 of our regulations (404.1501 through 404.1599) describe those 
musculoskeletal 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 musculoskeletal impairments. The Supplemental 
Security Income Program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria 
as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/08

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, 6401 Security 
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-9139

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-AG38
_______________________________________________________________________


Social Security Administration (SSA)                  Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




3309. OPTOMETRISTS AS ACCEPTABLE MEDICAL SOURCES TO ESTABLISH A 
MEDICALLY DETERMINABLE IMPAIRMENT (2261F)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1513; 20 CFR 416.913

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rules                     03/01/07                     72 FR 9239
Final Action Effective          04/02/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Victoria Dorf
Phone: 410 965-9245

Rosemarie Greenwald
Phone: 410 966-7813

RIN: 0960-AG05
_______________________________________________________________________




3310. [bull] TITLE II COST-OF-LIVING INCREASES IN PRIMARY INSURANCE 
AMOUNTS (3346F)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.275(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are revising section 404.275(a) that deal with automatic 
cost-of-living increases to primary insurance amounts under title II of 
the Social Security Act (the Act). The revision is necessary because, 
beginning with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for January 2007, the 
Bureau of Labor Statistics will publish the CPI to three decimal 
places. The CPI is currently published to one decimal place as is now 
shown in our regulations. With this revision, section 404.275(a) will 
reflect the change in the reporting of the CPI.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/18/07                     72 FR 2185
Final Action Effective          01/18/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jerry Strauss, Social Insurance Specialist, Social 
Security Administration, Office of Income Security Programs, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone: 410 965-7930

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

RIN: 0960-AG42
[FR Doc. 07-01296 Filed 04-27-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4191-02-S
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