[December 9, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 236)] [Unified Agenda] From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [frwais.access.gpo.gov] [Page 75451-75470] Social Security Administration [[Page 75451]] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Part XLV ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Semiannual Regulatory Agenda [[Page 75452]] SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA) _______________________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION Office of the Commissioner 20 CFR Ch. III Semiannual Unified Regulatory Agenda AGENCY: Social Security Administration. ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda. _______________________________________________________________________ SUMMARY: Executive Order (E.O.) 12866 (as amended by E.O. 13258) entitled Regulatory Planning and Review, issued September 30, 1993, and the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354) require each Federal agency to publish semiannually a brief description of all regulatory actions under development or review, expected to be under development or review for the next 12 months, or completed since the previous publication of the agenda. Our last agenda of regulations was published May 13, 2002. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information about a specific regulatory action, contact the person identified as the agency contact for that action. Comments or inquiries of a general nature should be directed to Georgia E. Myers, Regulations Officer, Social Security Administration, 2109 West Low Rise Building, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401; Telephone (410) 965-3632 or TTY (410) 966-5609. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers the retirement, survivors, and disability insurance programs under title II of the Social Security Act (the Act), the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program under title XVI of the Act, and Special Benefits to Certain World War II Veterans under title VIII of the Act. Our regulations generally do not impose burdens on the private sector or on State, local, or tribal governments. Our regulations document the rules under which we make eligibility determinations and set forth both the responsibilities of the Agency towards the public and beneficiaries' rights and responsibilities under the programs we administer. Our regulatory efforts can be placed into one of the following three categories: (1) legislative implementation; (2) program changes to improve SSA service to the public; and (3) improvements or clarifications to enhance effective stewardship of SSA programs. We continue to seek legislative improvements for the programs we administer. However, because of the complexity of our programs, statutory language is rarely detailed enough to govern the actions of agency adjudicative decision-makers. Supporting regulations are often required. In some instances, Congress directs SSA to issue implementing regulations. For other legislative provisions, SSA regulations provide program information to applicants for benefits, current beneficiaries and their legal counsels. Included in our agenda are items that will amend our regulations to include more provisions of ``The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999,'' (Pub. L. 106-170), which was signed on December 17, 1999. Among the provisions still requiring regulations are provisions that will suspend continuing disability reviews based on work activity and expedite reinstatement of disability benefits terminated due to work activity. We continue to work diligently to improve our program benefit regulations and to develop partnerships with large segments of the community of interest groups concerned about Social Security programs. The remainder of our Unified Agenda reflects such improvements and clarifications. For this edition of SSA's regulatory agenda, the most important significant regulatory actions are included in The Regulatory Plan, which appears in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. The Regulatory Plan entries are listed in the table of contents below and are denoted by a bracketed bold reference, which directs the reader to the appropriate sequence number in part II. The fall 2002 regulatory agenda for the Social Security Administration follows. Dated: October 3, 2002. Georgia E. Myers, SSA Regulations Officer. Social Security Administration--Prerule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3813 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Mental Disorders (886P)..................... 0960-AF69 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social Security Administration--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3814 Revised Medical Criteria for Endocrine Disorders (436P)............................. 0960-AD78 3815 Supplemental Standards for Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Social Security 0960-AE48 Administration (601P)............................................................... 3816 Deeming of Income From an Ineligible Spouse to an Eligible Individual and an 0960-AE50 Eligible Child (606P)............................................................... 3817 Title VI (Civil Rights Act (1964)), Title IX (Education Amend. (1972)), 0960-AE63 Rehabilitation Act (1973), and Age Discrimination Act (1975) in Programs/Activities Receiving Financial Assistance by SSA (617P)........................................ 3818 Enforcement of Nondiscrimination in Social Security Programs or Activities (661P)... 0960-AE78 3819 Federal Salary Offset (Withholding a Portion of a Federal Employee's Salary To 0960-AE89 Collect a Delinquent Debt Owed to the Social Security Administration) (721P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 157)................................................................... [[Page 75453]] 3820 Administrative Wage Garnishment (To Repay a Debt Owed to the Social Security 0960-AE92 Administration) (724P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 158)....................................... 3821 Work Activity Standard as a Basis for Review of an Individual's Disabled Status 0960-AE93 (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) (725P)................. 3822 Evidence Requirement for Assignment of Social Security Administration Numbers (SSNs) 0960-AF05 and Assignment of SSNs for Nonwork Purposes (751P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 159)........... 3823 Medical Equivalence for Adults and Children (787P).................................. 0960-AF19 3824 Expedited Reinstatement of Disability Benefits (Ticket to Work and Work Incentives 0960-AF21 Improvement Act) (790P)............................................................. 3825 SSI Trusts and Transfers of Resources (791P)........................................ 0960-AF22 3826 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Genitourinary Disorders (802P).............. 0960-AF30 3827 Revised Medical Criteria of Evaluating Impairments Affecting Multiple Body Systems 0960-AF32 (803P).............................................................................. 3828 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Immune System Disorders (804P).............. 0960-AF33 3829 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Special Senses and Speech Disorders (805P).. 0960-AF34 3830 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Neurological Disorders (806P)............... 0960-AF35 3831 Wage Reports and Pension Information (809P)......................................... 0960-AF38 3832 Filing Claims Under the Federal Tort Claims Act and the Military Personnel and 0960-AF39 Civilian Employees Claims Act (785P)................................................ 3833 Disability Insurance Program Demonstration Project Authority (Ticket to Work and 0960-AF41 Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) (789P)..................................... 3834 Revisions to the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (823P)............................... 0960-AF47 3835 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cardiovascular Disorders (826P)............. 0960-AF48 3836 Non-Payment of Monthly Social Security Benefits to Aliens Residing in the United 0960-AF56 States Who Are Not Lawfully Present (849P).......................................... 3837 Determining Disability for an Individual with Drug Addiction or Alcoholism (851P)... 0960-AF57 3838 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Respiratory System Disorders (859P)......... 0960-AF58 3839 Amendments to Annual Earnings Test Regulations (866P)............................... 0960-AF62 3840 Revising the Rules on Consideration of Work History in Determining Whether an 0960-AF64 Individual is Disabled (875P)....................................................... 3841 Revising the Rules on the Steps for Evaluating Disability (894P).................... 0960-AF65 3842 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Growth Disorders (444P)..................... 0960-AF67 3843 Clarification of the Disability Exclusion (915P).................................... 0960-AF71 3844 Special Benefits for Certain World War II Veterans; Reporting Requirements, 0960-AF72 Suspension and Termination Events, Overpayments, and Administrative Review Process (922P).............................................................................. 3845 Continued Payment of Benefits to Certain Individuals Who Medically Recover While 0960-AF75 Participating in Certain Vocational Rehabilitation Programs (926P).................. 3846 Stepchild Entitlement and Termination Requirements (934P)........................... 0960-AF78 3847 Claimant Identification Pilot Projects (937P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 160)................ 0960-AF79 3848 Representative Payment Under Titles II, VIII, and XVI of the Social Security Act 0960-AF83 (949P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 161)....................................................... 3849 Removal of Clothing from the Definitions of Income and In-Kind Support and 0960-AF84 Maintenance, Exclusions of One Automobile and Household Goods and Personal Effects Under SSI from Resources (950P) (Reg Plan Seq No. 162).............................. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. Social Security Administration--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3850 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Hematologic Disorders and Malignant 0960-AD67 Neoplastic Diseases (399F).......................................................... 3851 Repeal of Facility of Payment Provision (508F)...................................... 0960-AE02 3852 Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements With Institutions of 0960-AE25 Higher Education, Hospitals, Other Nonprofit Organizations, and Commercial Organizations (547F)................................................................ 3853 Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State 0960-AE28 and Local Governments and Indian Tribal Governments (555F).......................... 3854 Restrictions on Lobbying in Connection with the Award of Grants, Contracts, and 0960-AE29 Cooperative Agreements (556F)....................................................... 3855 Technical Changes to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Regulations (664F).......... 0960-AE79 3856 OASDI and SSI; Administrative Review Process; Video Teleconferencing Appearances 0960-AE97 Before Administrative Law Judges of the Social Security Administration (737F) (Reg Plan Seq No. 163)................................................................... 3857 Cost of Living Increases in Primary Insurance Amounts (759F)........................ 0960-AF14 [[Page 75454]] 3858 Change in Retirement Age (775F)..................................................... 0960-AF16 3859 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Impairments of the Digestive System (800F) 0960-AF28 (Reg Plan Seq No. 164).............................................................. 3860 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Skin Disorders (801F)....................... 0960-AF29 3861 Clarification of Rules Involving RFC Assessments; Clarification of Use of Vocational 0960-AF37 Experts and Other Sources of the Sequential Evaluation Process; Incorporation of ``Special Profile'' Into Regs (808F)................................................ 3862 Access to Information Held by Financial Institutions (815F) (Reg Plan Seq No. 165).. 0960-AF43 3863 New Disability Claims Process--Roles of State Agency (816F) (Reg Plan Seq No. 166).. 0960-AF44 3864 Exclusion of Representatives and Health Care Providers Convicted of Violations from 0960-AF46 Participation in Social Security Disability Programs (820F)......................... 3865 Filing of Applications and Related Forms (797F)..................................... 0960-AF52 3866 Special Benefits for Certain World War II Veterans (880F)........................... 0960-AF61 3867 Referral of Persons Eligible for Disability or Blindness Benefits to Other Agencies 0960-AF80 for Vocational Rehabilitation Services (929F)....................................... 3868 Elimination of Sanctions for Refusal of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Without 0960-AF81 Cause (938F)........................................................................ 3869 Interrelationship of Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance Program with the 0960-AF82 Railroad Retirement Program (943I).................................................. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. Social Security Administration--Long-Term Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3870 Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide 0960-AE27 Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace (Grants) (554F)................................ 3871 Dedicated Accounts and Installment Payments for Certain Past Due SSI Benefits (622F) 0960-AE59 3872 Privacy and Disclosure of Official Records and Information (711P)................... 0960-AE88 3873 Payment of Benefits to Aliens Residing Outside the United States (909F)............. 0960-AF70 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social Security Administration--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identification Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3874 Collection of Supplemental Security Income Overpayments from Title VIII Benefits 0960-AF53 (819F).............................................................................. 3875 Extension of Expiration Date for the Respiratory System Listings (921F)............. 0960-AF76 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social Security Administration--Discontinued Entries -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Identification Title Date Comments Number -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0960-AD95 Definition of ``Largest Benefit Amount'' for Simultaneous Entitlement to Child's Benefits 09/05/2002 Withdrawn (481P) 0960-AE18 Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Benefits; Replacing Social Security Number 09/05/2002 Merged With 0960-AF05 Cards (543F) 0960-AF49 Representative Payment Under Title II and XVI of the Social Security Act (827P) 08/27/2002 Merged With 0960-AF83 0960-AF50 Removal of Clothing from the Definition of Income and From the Definition of In-Kind 08/29/2002 Merged With 0960-AF84 Support and Maintenance Under the Supplemental Security Income Program (834P) 0960-AF51 Exclusion of One Automobile From Resources (835P) 08/29/2002 Merged With 0960-AF84 0960-AF55 Exclusion of Household Goods and Personal Effects Under the Supplemental Security Income 08/29/2002 Merged With 0960-AF84 (SSI) Program (837P) 0960-AF66 Compensation for Qualified Organizations Serving as a Representative Payee (846P) 08/27/2002 Merged With 0960-AF83 [[Page 75455]] 0960-AF74 Elimination of Sanctions for Refusal of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Without Good 09/05/2002 Withdrawn Cause and Elimination of Referrals for Vocational Rehabilitation Services (925P) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Prerule Stage _______________________________________________________________________ 3813. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING MENTAL DISORDERS (886P) Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1; 20 CFR 404.1520; 20 CFR 404.1520a; 20 CFR 404.1528; 20 CFR 416.920a; 20 CFR 416.928 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments (the Listing) that we use to evaluate claims for disability benefits where the individual is alleging a mental impairment. The Listing describes, for each of the major body systems, impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity. Our proposed revisions will reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating mental impairments in both adults and children. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 11/00/02 NPRM 09/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Cathy Lively, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-1180 Maria D. Smith, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-3661 RIN: 0960-AF69 _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Proposed Rule Stage _______________________________________________________________________ 3814. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR ENDOCRINE DISORDERS (436P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Sections 9.00 and 109.00 of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (404.1501 through 404.1599) describe those endocrine impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or in the case of a child claiming SSA payments under title XVI, that cause marked and severe functional limitations. We are proposing to revise the criteria in these sections to reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating endocrine impairments. The Supplemental Security Income Program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance Program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Maria D. Smith, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-3661 RIN: 0960-AD78 _______________________________________________________________________ 3815. SUPPLEMENTAL STANDARDS FOR ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (601P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC APP (Ethics in Government Act of 1978); 5 USC 7301; 5 USC 7353 CFR Citation: 5 CFR ch LXXXI (New) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Social Security Administration (SSA), with the concurrence of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), proposes to issue regulations for officers and employees of SSA that supplement the OGE Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch, which became effective February 3, 1993. The proposed rule specifies procedural and substantive requirements that are necessary to address ethical issues unique to SSA. [[Page 75456]] Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Stuart M. Besser, Attorney, Social Security Administration, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-3194 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE48 _______________________________________________________________________ 3816. DEEMING OF INCOME FROM AN INELIGIBLE SPOUSE TO AN ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUAL AND AN ELIGIBLE CHILD (606P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1382a; 42 USC 1382b; 42 USC 1382c(f); 42 USC 1382j; 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1160; 20 CFR 416.1165; 20 CFR 416.1166 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule would revise the method used under the SSI program to determine income for a child who lives with both parents where one parent is ineligible for SSI because of income deemed from an ineligible spouse. Instead of deeming any excess income from the ineligible spouse to the child, referred to as ``pass-through deeming,'' we would deem income to the child using the method we use where neither parent files for SSI. Under current rules, ``pass- through'' deeming has had the unintended effect of deeming more income than would have been deemed if the regular rules for deeming from ineligible parents who do not file for SSI are used. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 05/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Patricia Hora, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-7183 RIN: 0960-AE50 _______________________________________________________________________ 3817. 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 12/00/02 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, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE63 _______________________________________________________________________ 3818. 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 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE78 _______________________________________________________________________ 3819. FEDERAL SALARY OFFSET (WITHHOLDING A PORTION OF A FEDERAL EMPLOYEE'S SALARY TO COLLECT A DELINQUENT DEBT OWED TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (721P) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 157 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AE89 [[Page 75457]] _______________________________________________________________________ 3820. ADMINISTRATIVE WAGE GARNISHMENT (TO REPAY A DEBT OWED TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION) (724P) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 158 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AE92 _______________________________________________________________________ 3821. WORK ACTIVITY STANDARD AS A BASIS FOR REVIEW OF AN INDIVIDUAL'S DISABLED STATUS (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) (725P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 421 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1590 Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, January 1, 2002, Section 111 of Public Law 106-170, effective January 1, 2002. Abstract: One of SSA's most important initiatives is to assure that Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work have the opportunity to do so. Individuals with disabilities face multiple barriers in attempting to return to work. Section 111 of Public Law 106-170 provides a new statutory work incentive by eliminating the scheduling of continuing disability medical reviews solely because of an SSDI beneficiary's work activity, once the beneficiary has received SSDI benefits for 24 months. (Such beneficiaries will continue to be subject to regularly scheduled continuing disability reviews, work investigations, and benefit termination due to earnings from work activity at the level of substantial gainful activity.) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jack Baumel, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9834 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE93 _______________________________________________________________________ 3822. EVIDENCE REQUIREMENT FOR ASSIGNMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION NUMBERS (SSNS) AND ASSIGNMENT OF SSNS FOR NONWORK PURPOSES (751P) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 159 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AF05 _______________________________________________________________________ 3823. MEDICAL EQUIVALENCE FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN (787P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1526; 20 CFR 404.1529; 20 CFR 416.926; 20 CFR 416.929 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This notice of proposed rulemaking will clarify that we will consider the medical severity of the individual's impairment, based on all relevant evidence in the case record when we make a finding regarding medical equivalence. These rules will clarify our medical equivalence policy in light of the decision in Hickman v. Apfel, 187 F.3d 683 (7th Cir. 1999). Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jane Deweib, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9878 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF19 _______________________________________________________________________ 3824. EXPEDITED REINSTATEMENT OF DISABILITY BENEFITS (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT) (790P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 423(i); 42 USC 1383(p) CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Individuals with disabilities face multiple barriers in attempting to return to work. Section 112 of Public Law 106-170 provides a new statutory work incentive by providing for expedited reinstatement of SSDI and SSI benefits terminated due to work activity, when the former beneficiary requests reinstatement within 60 months of termination because his or her disability prevents work activity. Section 112 also provides for payment of provisional benefits for up to six months until SSA makes a determination on the requester's entitlement to reinstated benefits. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jack Baumel, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9834 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF21 _______________________________________________________________________ 3825. SSI TRUSTS AND TRANSFERS OF RESOURCES (791P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1382a(a); 42 USC 1382b(c); 42 USC 1382b(e); PL 106-169, sec 205; PL 106-169, sec 206 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations to reflect sections 205 and 206 of Public Law 106-169, the Foster Care Independence Act of 1999. Section [[Page 75458]] 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 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Albert Fatur, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9855 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF22 _______________________________________________________________________ 3826. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GENITOURINARY DISORDERS (802P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments (the Listings) that we use to evaluate genitourinary impairments. We apply these criteria at step three of our sequential evaluation processes for adults and children who claim Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits based on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. The revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating genitourinary impairments. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cheryl A. Williams, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 966-4163 RIN: 0960-AF30 _______________________________________________________________________ 3827. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA OF EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS AFFECTING MULTIPLE BODY SYSTEMS (803P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving impairments affecting multiple body systems. We apply these criteria when you claim benefits based on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. The proposed revisions reflect current medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating impairments affecting multiple body systems. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cathy Lively, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-1180 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF32 _______________________________________________________________________ 3828. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS (804P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving impairments affecting the Immune System. We apply these criteria when you claim benefits based on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Victoria Dorf, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9245 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF33 _______________________________________________________________________ 3829. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING SPECIAL SENSES AND SPEECH DISORDERS (805P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving special senses and speech disorders. We apply these criteria when you claim benefits based on disability under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act. The proposed revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating special senses and speech disorders. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No [[Page 75459]] Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cheryl A. Williams, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 966-4163 RIN: 0960-AF34 _______________________________________________________________________ 3830. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS (806P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments (the listings) that we use to evaluate claims involving neurological disorders at the third step of our sequential evaluation processes for adults and children under title II and title XVI of the Social Security Act (the Act). The proposed revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating neurological disorders. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF35 _______________________________________________________________________ 3831. WAGE REPORTS AND PENSION INFORMATION (809P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 432; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 422.114 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Social Security Administration (SSA) proposes to amend its rules on processing reports of wages (paper Forms W-2, ``Wage and Tax Statement,'' and W-3 ``Transmittal of Income and Tax Statements,'' or equivalent W-2 and W-3 magnetic media or electronic reports) submitted annually by employers. We are proposing to eliminate the acceptance level for wage reports with unidentified or incorrectly identified wage items. We are proposing including electronic filing as a means of wage reporting. Also, we propose replacing references to obsolete technical instruction bulletins with Magnetic Media Reporting and Electronic Filing instructions. We have updated form names and updated the address for obtaining a publication. These rules are intended to ensure that wages are reported to SSA with accurate information so that earnings can be properly credited to employees' Social Security records. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF38 _______________________________________________________________________ 3832. FILING CLAIMS UNDER THE FEDERAL TORT CLAIMS ACT AND THE MILITARY PERSONNEL AND CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES CLAIMS ACT (785P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 28 USC 2672; 31 USC 3721; 42 USC 905(a)(2) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 429.101 to 429.110; 20 CFR 429.201 to 429.211; 28 CFR Part 14 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to establish a new subpart B in part 429 that would prescribe the procedures SSA follows when claims are filed by employees against SSA for personal property damage or loss incident to their service with SSA. We also propose to make corrections and clarifications to our current procedures and practices on claims against the government for damage to or loss of property or personal injury or death that is caused by the negligent or wrongful act or omission of an SSA employee. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Jonathan R. Cantor, General Attorney, Social Security Administration, General Law Division, Office of the General Counsel, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235 Phone: 410 965-3166 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF39 _______________________________________________________________________ 3833. DISABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM DEMONSTRATION PROJECT AUTHORITY (TICKET TO WORK AND WORK INCENTIVES IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999) (789P) Priority: Other Significant Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 434 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1599 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: One of SSA's most important initiatives is to assure that Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work have the opportunity to do so. Section 301 of Public Law 106-170 provides the Commissioner of Social Security the authority to develop and carry out experiments and demonstration projects designed to determine the relative advantages and disadvantages of various alternative methods of treating the work activity of individuals entitled to disability insurance benefits. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social [[Page 75460]] Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF41 _______________________________________________________________________ 3834. REVISIONS TO THE MEDICAL-VOCATIONAL GUIDELINES (823P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 2 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 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Elaine Tocco, Vocational Policy Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-6356 Cheryl A. Williams, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-4163 RIN: 0960-AF47 _______________________________________________________________________ 3835. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS (826P) Priority: Other Significant Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Listings 4.00 and 104.00 of appendix 1 to subpart P of our regulation (20 CFR 404.1501 through 404.1599) describe those cardiovascular impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or for a child claiming SSI payments under title XVI, that cause marked and severe functional limitations. We propose to revise the criteria that we use to evaluate cardiovascular impairments under the listings to reflect our program experience and advances in medical knowledge, treatment and methods of evaluating these disorders. The SSI program incorporates by reference and uses the same medical criteria as the old-age, survivors, and disability insurance program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Bonnie Davis, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-4172 Cynthia Pullen-Carroll, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-3691 RIN: 0960-AF48 _______________________________________________________________________ 3836. NON-PAYMENT OF MONTHLY SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS TO ALIENS RESIDING IN THE UNITED STATES WHO ARE NOT LAWFULLY PRESENT (849P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 8 USC 1611(b)(2); 8 USC 1641; 42 USC 402(y) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.401; 20 CFR 404.460; 20 CFR 404.481 (New) to 404.483 (New); 20 CFR 404.485 (New) to 404.490 (New) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to add rules to require evidence in our records of United States citizenship, status as a United States national or, in the case of an alien, lawful presence in the United States in order for an individual to receive benefits under title II of the Social Security Act while in the United States. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cynthia Pullen-Carroll, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-3691 RIN: 0960-AF56 _______________________________________________________________________ 3837. 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 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.315; 20 CFR 404.316; 20 CFR 404.321; 20 CFR 404.332; 20 CFR 404.335; 20 CFR 404.337; 20 CFR 404.350; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.402; 20 CFR 404.470; 20 CFR 404.480; 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.1535 to 404.1541; 20 CFR 1500, app 1; 20 CFR 416.202; 20 CFR 416.214; 20 CFR 416.262; 20 CFR 416.265; 20 CFR 416.535; 20 CFR 416.542; 20 CFR 416.544; 20 CFR 416.558; 20 CFR 416.601; 20 CFR 416.610; 20 CFR 416.925; 20 CFR 416.935; 20 CFR 416.1123; 20 CFR 416.1326; 20 CFR 416.1331; 20 CFR 416.1335; 20 CFR 416.1402; 20 CFR 416.1701; 20 CFR 416.1720; 20 CFR 416.1725 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise our regulations that address drug addiction and alcoholism (DAA) under title 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 75461]] Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cheryl Wrobel, Policy Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9108 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF57 _______________________________________________________________________ 3838. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING RESPIRATORY SYSTEM DISORDERS (859P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments that we use to evaluate claims involving respiratory system disorders. The proposed revisions reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating respiratory disorders. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Carolyn Kiefer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9104 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF58 _______________________________________________________________________ 3839. AMENDMENTS TO ANNUAL EARNINGS TEST REGULATIONS (866P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 416; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 902(a)(5); PL 106-182 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.415; 20 CFR 404.416 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Senior Citizen's Freedom to Work Act of 2000, enacted on April 7, 2000, eliminates the annual earnings test for beneficiaries, starting from the month in which they reach full retirement age. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF62 _______________________________________________________________________ 3840. REVISING THE RULES ON CONSIDERATION OF WORK HISTORY IN DETERMINING WHETHER AN INDIVIDUAL IS DISABLED (875P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 422(c); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 1382h; 42 USC 1383(a); 42 USC 1383(c); 42 USC 1383(d)(1); 42 USC 1383b CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1520; 20 CFR 404.1560; 20 CFR 404.1565; 20 CFR 404.1594(b)(4)(iii); 20 CFR 416.920; 20 CFR 416.960; 20 CFR 416.965; 20 CFR 416.994(b)(l)(iv)(c) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to change some of the rules we use to decide whether an individual is ``disabled.'' These rules govern how we look at an individual's past work history. Currently, we consider work performed in the last 15 years to be relevant when we decide whether an individual is ``disabled.'' We propose to change our rules so that we only look at work performed in the last five years. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cheryl A. Williams, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 966-4163 RIN: 0960-AF64 _______________________________________________________________________ 3841. REVISING THE RULES ON THE STEPS FOR EVALUATING DISABILITY (894P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 usc 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1520; 20 CFR 416.920 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to combine steps 4 and 5 of the current sequential evaluation process for evaluating disability into one step. Instead of having separate steps for determining whether a claimant can do any past relevant work and other work, we would have one step where we determine if a claimant can do any substantial gainful activity (SGA) at all. This would simplify the evaluation process and save time and resources. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cheryl A. Williams, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 966-4163 RIN: 0960-AF65 [[Page 75462]] _______________________________________________________________________ 3842. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING GROWTH DISORDERS (444P) Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1302; 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404 subpart P, app 1; 20 CFR 416 subpart I Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Section 100.00 of part B of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of the Disability Regulations describes growth impairments considered severe enough to cause marked and severe functional limitations in a child under age 18. We are proposing revisions to the growth impairment listings. The revisions contained in these regulations reflect advances in medical knowledge, treatment, and methods of evaluating growth impairments. The Supplemental Security Income program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Regina Connell, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1891 Patricia Hora, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-7183 Related RIN: Related To 0960-AD80 RIN: 0960-AF67 _______________________________________________________________________ 3843. CLARIFICATION OF THE DISABILITY EXCLUSION (915P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 402(a); 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 403(b); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 412 to 414; 42 USC 415 to 417; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.130(f); 20 CFR 404.211(b)(2); 20 CFR 404.211(e)(1); 20 CFR 404.320(a) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These proposed rules amend our regulations at sections 404.130, 404.211 and 404.320 to clarify that if we count a prior period of disability in determining a person's insured status or benefit amount, the period of disability must be counted for both purposes. Similarly, if we exclude a prior period of disability when either determining insured status or the benefit amount, we must exclude it for both purposes. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Ines Riley, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-4138 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF71 _______________________________________________________________________ 3844. SPECIAL BENEFITS FOR CERTAIN WORLD WAR II VETERANS; REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, SUSPENSION AND TERMINATION EVENTS, OVERPAYMENTS, AND ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS (922P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 405(k); 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1001 to 1013; 42 USC 1104; 42 USC 1106 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 408.601; 20 CFR 408.610; 20 CFR 408.615; 20 CFR 408.620 to 408.622; 20 CFR 408.624; 20 CFR 408.625; 20 CFR 408.635; 20 CFR 408.640; 20 CFR 408.641; 20 CFR 408.645; 20 CFR 408.650; 20 CFR 408.655; 20 CFR 408.660; 20 CFR 408.665; 20 CFR 408.701; 20 CFR 408.704; 20 CFR 408.708; 20 CFR 408.710; 20 CFR 408.712; 20 CFR 408.714; 20 CFR 408.801 to 408.805; 20 CFR 408.810; 20 CFR 408.812; 20 CFR 408.814; 20 CFR 408.816; 20 CFR 408.818; 20 CFR 408.820; 20 CFR 408.900 to 408.905; 20 CFR 408.910 to 408.915; 20 CFR 408.918; 20 CFR 408.920; 20 CFR 408.922; 20 CFR 408.923; 20 CFR 408.930 to 408.933; 20 CFR 408.940 to 408.946; 20 CFR 408.1000 to 408.1007; 20 CFR 408.1009; 20 CFR 408.1011; 20 CFR 408.1013 to 408.1016; 20 CFR 408.1020 to 408.1022 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to add six additional subchapters to part 408 (proposed) of our regulations. The title VIII program provides monthly benefits to certain World War II veterans who were previously eligible for supplemental security income payments under title XVI of the Act and reside outside the United States. These additional subparts would codify the title VIII requirements on reporting responsibilities, suspension and termination events, overpayment and underpayment policies, and the administrative review process. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF72 _______________________________________________________________________ 3845. CONTINUED PAYMENT OF BENEFITS TO CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS WHO MEDICALLY RECOVER WHILE PARTICIPATING IN CERTAIN VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAMS (926P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404; 20 CFR 416 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to amend our regulations relating to the continuation of benefit payments to certain individuals under section 225(b) and 1631(a)(6) of the Social Security Act [[Page 75463]] (the Act). These sections of the Act permit the continued payment of Social Security benefits based on disability or SSI benefits based on disability or blindness to certain individuals whose disability or blindness ceases while they are participating in an approved vocational rehabilitation (VR) program. For benefits to continue, we must determine that completion of the program, or its continuation for a specified period of time, will increase the likelihood that the individual will not have to return to the disability or blindness benefit rolls. (Section 101(b) of Public Law 106-170, the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency program under section 1148 of the Act.) The proposed rules will amend the existing regulations to carry out these amendments. They will expand the regulations to explain more fully the circumstances under which benefit payments may continue, including when an individual will be considered to be participating in an appropriate VR program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Melvin Winer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9175 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF75 _______________________________________________________________________ 3846. [bull] STEPCHILD ENTITLEMENT AND TERMINATION REQUIREMENTS (934P) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403(a); 42 USC 403(b); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 416; 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.339; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.363; 42 CFR 404.364 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: SSA proposes to amend its regulations to incorporate the changes to the entitlement and termination requirements for stepchild's benefits introduced by the Contract with America Advancement Act of 1996. The statutory changes require receipt of at least one-half support from the insured person (stepparent) for a child to become entitled to stepchild benefits, and benefit termination when the stepchild's natural parent and stepparent divorce. We propose to extend the termination requirement to include: (1) a divorce which ends the marriage between a stepchild's adoptive parent and stepparent; and (2) a prospective annulment which ends the marriage between a stepchild's natural or adoptive parent and stepparent. We also propose to include in the regulation our longstanding policy that a stepchild's benefits are terminated when the marriage between the stepchild's parent and the stepparent is annulled from the beginning (ab initio). These proposed rules also correct a cross-reference affecting entitlement to mother's or father's benefits, and reintroduce an inadvertently deleted definition concerning dependency determinations for grandchildren and stepgrandchildren born during the one-year support period. These rules will reflect enacted legislation and provide accurate and complete guidelines for determining entitlement to benefits. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Sherry Pollack, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-7915 Daniel T. Bridgewater, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-3298 RIN: 0960-AF78 _______________________________________________________________________ 3847. [bull] CLAIMANT IDENTIFICATION PILOT PROJECTS (937P) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 160 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AF79 _______________________________________________________________________ 3848. [bull] REPRESENTATIVE PAYMENT UNDER TITLES II, VIII, AND XVI OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT (949P) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 161 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AF83 _______________________________________________________________________ 3849. [bull] REMOVAL OF CLOTHING FROM THE DEFINITIONS OF INCOME AND IN- KIND SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE, EXCLUSIONS OF ONE AUTOMOBILE AND HOUSEHOLD GOODS AND PERSONAL EFFECTS UNDER SSI FROM RESOURCES (950P) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 162 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AF84 [[Page 75464]] _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Final Rule Stage _______________________________________________________________________ 3850. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING HEMATOLOGIC DISORDERS AND MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC DISEASES (399F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Sections 7.00 and 107.00 (hemic and lymphatic system), and 13.00 and 113.00 (malignant neoplastic diseases) of appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 of our regulations (404.1501 through 404.1599) describe those impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity, or for a child claiming SSI payments under title XVI, that causes marked and severe functional limitations. We are proposing revisions to these sections to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up-to-date and consistent with the latest advances in medical knowledge and treatment. The Supplemental Security Income program incorporates and uses the same medical criteria as the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 11/27/01 66 FR 59305 NPRM Comment Period End 01/28/02 NPRM Comment Period End Extended04/18/02 67 FR 19138 Final Action 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Michelle Hungerman, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-2289 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AD67 _______________________________________________________________________ 3851. REPEAL OF FACILITY OF PAYMENT PROVISION (508F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 403(a) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.402(b); 20 CFR 404.458 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These final rules amend our regulation to reflect section 309 of Public Law 103-296. That repeals the facility of payment provision under which Social Security benefits, subject to the family maximum, would not be redistributed in certain cases, and provides that the reduction for the family maximum will be made prior to a temporary suspension for work when the nonworking auxiliary resides in a separate household from the working auxiliary. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 11/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE02 _______________________________________________________________________ 3852. UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTS AND AGREEMENTS WITH INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, HOSPITALS, OTHER NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, AND COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATIONS (547F) Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 31 USC 7505; 41 USC 403(11); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 435.000 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule will create a new part in the Code of Federal Regulations. The new part will provide standards in the administration of grants and agreements with institutions of higher education, hospitals, other nonprofit organizations, and commercial organizations. The Social Security Independence and Program Improvements Act of 1994, enacted August 15, 1994, established SSA as an independent agency separate from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), effective March 31, 1995. To implement its own set of grants regulations, SSA proposes to codify almost verbatim the text of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular Number A-110 ``Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Nonprofit Organizations.'' These regulations will establish SSA grants regulations, separate from the HHS regulations. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/27/00 65 FR 24767 NPRM Comment Period End 06/26/00 Final Action 03/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE25 _______________________________________________________________________ 3853. UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTS AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS AND INDIAN TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS (555F) Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 41 USC 403(ii); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 437.000 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 45 CFR part 92 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 437 now that SSA is an independent agency. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 03/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 [[Page 75465]] Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE28 _______________________________________________________________________ 3854. RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING IN CONNECTION WITH THE AWARD OF GRANTS, CONTRACTS, AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS (556F) Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 31 USC 1352; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 438.000 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 45 CFR part 93 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 438 now that SSA is an independent agency. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 03/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE29 _______________________________________________________________________ 3855. TECHNICAL CHANGES TO SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI) REGULATIONS (664F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.1236; 20 CFR 416, app, subpart K Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are amending the SSI regulations by making technical changes to our rules on income and resources. These technical changes update lists of exclusions from income and resources under the SSI program that are based on statutes other than the Social Security Act and make additional technical changes. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 01/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Eric Ice, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-3233 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE79 _______________________________________________________________________ 3856. OASDI AND SSI; ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCESS; VIDEO TELECONFERENCING APPEARANCES BEFORE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGES OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (737F) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 163 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AE97 _______________________________________________________________________ 3857. COST OF LIVING INCREASES IN PRIMARY INSURANCE AMOUNTS (759F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(a); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 415; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.273 to 404.275 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule revises our rules dealing with automatic cost-of-living increases to primary insurance amounts under title II of the Social Security Act. The revisions eliminate the restriction that we could only grant cost-of-living increases based on rises in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or the Average Wage Index (AWI) if either the CPI or AWI increased by three percent or more during the prescribed measuring period. The three percent restriction was removed by legislation enacted in 1986. These regulations codify statutory provisions enacted in 1986. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jeff Kunkel, Actuary, Social Security Administration, Office of the Actuary, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-3013 Cheryl A. Williams, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-4163 RIN: 0960-AF14 _______________________________________________________________________ 3858. CHANGE IN RETIREMENT AGE (775F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 415; 42 USC 416; 42 USC 422(b); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 424a; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 428(a) to 428(e); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.201; 20 CFR 404.277; 20 CFR 404.304; 20 CFR 404.310 to 404.313; 20 CFR 404.317; 20 CFR 404.335 to 404.338; 20 CFR 404.352; 20 CFR 404.409 to 404.413; 20 CFR 404.421; 20 CFR 404.621; 20 CFR 404.623; 20 CFR 404.762 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These final rules amend our regulations to reflect section 201 of Public Law 98-21, the Social Security amendments of 1983. Section 201 increases the retirement age for unreduced old-age, wife or husband and widow or widower benefits from age 65 to 67. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 12/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Bill Hilton, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-2468 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF16 [[Page 75466]] _______________________________________________________________________ 3859. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING IMPAIRMENTS OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM (800F) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 164 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AF28 _______________________________________________________________________ 3860. REVISED MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING SKIN DISORDERS (801F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1383 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404, subpart P, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule will revise the criteria in the Listing of Impairments (the Listings) we use for evaluating skin disorders in adults and to introduce corresponding medical criteria for evaluating skin disorders in children. We will revise the skin listings to ensure that the medical evaluation criteria are up-to-date and consistent and that the latest advances in medical knowledge and treatment are included. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/10/01 66 FR 63634 NPRM Comment Period End 02/08/02 Final Action 03/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Cheryl Wrobel, Policy Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9108 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF29 _______________________________________________________________________ 3861. CLARIFICATION OF RULES INVOLVING RFC ASSESSMENTS; CLARIFICATION OF USE OF VOCATIONAL EXPERTS AND OTHER SOURCES OF THE SEQUENTIAL EVALUATION PROCESS; INCORPORATION OF ``SPECIAL PROFILE'' INTO REGS (808F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 422(c); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 4215; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1382; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 1382h; 42 USC 1383(a); 42 USC 1383(c); 42 USC 1383(d)(l); 42 USC 1383b CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1501; 20 CFR 404.1505; 20 CFR 404.1512; 20 CFR 404.1520; 20 CFR 404.1545; 20 CFR 404.1546; 20 CFR 404.1560; 20 CFR 404.1561; 20 CFR 404.1563; 20 CFR 404.1569a; 20 CFR 404.1594 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose changing several sections of our rules to clarify how we make determinations and decisions at steps 4 and 5 of the sequential evaluation process. Among other things, the proposed rules would clarify (1) the responsibility that claimants have to provide evidence of their disability (including evidence related to their residual functional capacity), and (2) that SSA may use a vocational expert to help determine whether a claimant is able to do his or her past relevant work at step 4 of the sequential evaluation process. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/11/02 67 FR 39904 NPRM Comment Period End 08/12/02 Final Action 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AF37 _______________________________________________________________________ 3862. ACCESS TO INFORMATION HELD BY FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS (815F) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 165 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AF43 _______________________________________________________________________ 3863. NEW DISABILITY CLAIMS PROCESS--ROLES OF STATE AGENCY (816F) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 166 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0960-AF44 _______________________________________________________________________ 3864. EXCLUSION OF REPRESENTATIVES AND HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS CONVICTED OF VIOLATIONS FROM PARTICIPATION IN SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY PROGRAMS (820F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 106-169, sec 208; 42 USC 1320b-6 CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule would bar representatives and health care providers from participating in the Social Security disability programs if they are determined to have committed fraud. The bar would be 5 years, 10 years, and permanent exclusion for the first, second, and third offenses respectively. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 08/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF46 _______________________________________________________________________ 3865. FILING OF APPLICATIONS AND RELATED FORMS (797F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(i); 42 USC 402(j); 42 USC 402(o); 42 USC 402(p); [[Page 75467]] 42 USC 402(r); 42 USC 405; 42 USC 416(i)(2); 42 USC 423(b); 42 USC 428(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.610; 20 CFR 404.611; 20 CFR 422.505 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We will include language that explains the Internet applications completed on SSA's website and submitted to SSA are prescribed applications for filing for social security benefits. We plan to incorporate an explanation that once SSA has an approved electronic signature method in place, the signature method will be included as part of the Internet application process and will be required for the applications. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/17/01 66 FR 43136 NPRM Comment Period End 10/16/01 Final Action 11/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Saundra Robinson, Social Insurance Speecialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-640 Phone: 410 965-4327 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF52 _______________________________________________________________________ 3866. SPECIAL BENEFITS FOR CERTAIN WORLD WAR II VETERANS (880F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(j); 42 USC 405(k); 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1001 to 1013 CFR Citation: 20 CFR 408.101 (New); 20 CFR 408.105 (New); 20 CFR 408.110 (New); 20 CFR 408.120 (New); 20 CFR 408.201 (New); 20 CFR 408.202 (New); 20 CFR 408.204 (New); 20 CFR 408.206 (New); 20 CFR 408.208 (New); 20 CFR 408.210 (New); 20 CFR 408.212 (New); 20 CFR 408.214 (New); 20 CFR 408.216 (New); 20 CFR 408.218 (New); 20 CFR 408.220 (New); 20 CFR 408.222 (New); 20 CFR 408.224 (New); 20 CFR 408.226 (New); 20 CFR 408.228 (New); 20 CFR 408.230 (New); 20 CFR 408.232 (New); 20 CFR 408.234 (New); 20 CFR 408.301 (New); 20 CFR 408.305 (New); 20 CFR 408.310 (New); 20 CFR 408.315 (New); 20 CFR 408.320 (New); 20 CFR 408.325 (New); 20 CFR 408.330 (New); 20 CFR 408.340 (New); 20 CFR 408.345 (New); 20 CFR 408.351 (New); 20 CFR 408.355 (New); 20 CFR 408.360 (New); 20 CFR 408.401 (New) to 408.406 (New); 20 CFR 408.410 (New); 20 CFR 408.412 (New); 20 CFR 408.413 (New); 20 CFR 408.420 (New); 20 CFR 408.425 (New); 20 CFR 408.430 (New); 20 CFR 408.432 (New); 20 CFR 408.435 (New); 20 CFR 408.437 (New); 20 CFR 408.501 (New); 20 CFR 408.505 (New); 20 CFR 408.510 (New); 20 CFR 408.515 (New); 20 CFR 408.601 (New); 20 CFR 408.610 (New); 20 CFR 408.615 (New); 20 CFR 408.620 (New) to 408.622 (New); 20 CFR 408.624 (New); 20 CFR 408.625 (New); 20 CFR 408.635 (New); 20 CFR 408.640 (New); 20 CFR 408.641 (New); 20 CFR 408.645 (New); 20 CFR 408.650 (New); 20 CFR 408.655 (New); 20 CFR 408.660 (New); 20 CFR 408.665 (New) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to add to title 20 of the CFR 5 new subparts in a new part 408 that would set forth our rules applicable to claims for special veterans benefits (SVB) under title VIII of the Social Security Act. The title VIII program provides monthly benefits to certain WWII veterans who were previously eligible for supplemental security income payments under title XVI of the Act and reside outside the United States. These initial subparts would establish the legal basis for the title VIII program as well as codify the title VIII rules on qualification, filing applications, evaluating evidence, and computing and paying benefits. We will be proposing additional subparts dealing with other aspects of the title VIII at a later date. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/30/02 67 FR 55744 NPRM Comment Period End 10/29/02 Final Action 04/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF61 _______________________________________________________________________ 3867. [bull] REFERRAL OF PERSONS ELIGIBLE FOR DISABILITY OR BLINDNESS BENEFITS TO OTHER AGENCIES FOR VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES (929F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 421; 42 USC 422; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381 to 133d; 42 USC 1382 Note; 42 USC 1382d; 42 USC 1382c; 42 USC 1382(e)(3); 42 USC 1383; 42 USC 1383b; 42 USC 1383b(a); 42 USC 1383(d)(1); 42 USC 1383(e); 48 USC 1681 Note CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1630; 20 CFR 404.2104; 20 CFR 404.2106; 20 CFR 416.101; 20 CFR 416.110; 20 CFR 4116.1030; 20 CFR 416.1701; 20 CFR 416.1710; 20 CFR 416.2204; 20 CFR 416.2206 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are revising our regulations pertaining to the requirement to refer for vocational rehabilitation (VR) services those individuals who filed for disability benefits, thereby conforming them to provisions in the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, repealed the VR referral requirement effective with January 1, 2001. For States in which we have implemented the Ticket to Work program, we are no longer referring beneficiaries eligible for disability benefits to State vocational rehabilitation agencies. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Melvin Winer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 [[Page 75468]] Phone: 410 965-9175 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 Related RIN: Split From 0960-AF74 RIN: 0960-AF80 _______________________________________________________________________ 3868. [bull] ELIMINATION OF SANCTIONS FOR REFUSAL OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES WITHOUT CAUSE (938F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 403; 42 USC 404(a); 42 USC 404(e); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(c); 42 USC 422(b); 42 USC 423(e); 42 USC 424a; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1320a-8a CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.401; 20 CFR 404.402; 20 CFR 404.421 to 404.425; 20 CFR 404.435 to 404.437; 20 CFR 404.458; 20 CFR 404.902; 20 CFR 404.1596; 20 CFR 404.2101 to 2103; 20 CFR 404.2109; 20 CFR 404.2113; 20 CFR 404.2116; 20 CFR 404.2117; 20 CFR 416.213; 20 CFR 416.708; 20 CFR 416.1701; 20 CFR 416.1715; 20 CFR 416.2040; 20 CFR 416.2201 to 416.2203; 20 CFR 416.2209; 20 CFR 416.2213; 20 CFR 416.2216; 20 CFR 416.2217 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are revising our regulations to eliminate the sanctions for refusal of vocational rehabilitation (VR) services without good cause, thereby conforming them to the amendments made by the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, which established the Ticket to Work program, repealed the VR refusal sanctions (i.e., deductions from social security disability or suspension of Supplemental Security Income benefits) effective with January 1, 2001. Under the obsolete sanctions, we were required to suspend disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for any disability beneficiary or disabled or blind SSI recipient who refused rehabilitation services without good cause. Since January 1, 2001, refusal of rehabilitation services is no longer a reason for us to sanction disability benefits. Accordingly, we are eliminating the rules regarding the sanctions for refusal of vocational rehabilitation services without good cause. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 11/00/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Melvin Winer, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Employment Support Programs, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9175 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 Related RIN: Split From 0960-AF74 RIN: 0960-AF81 _______________________________________________________________________ 3869. [bull] INTERRELATIONSHIP OF OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS AND DISABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM WITH THE RAILROAD RETIREMENT PROGRAM (943I) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: PL 107-90, sec 103; Sec 205(i) of the Social Security Act CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1401; 20 CFR 404.1402; 20 CFR 404.1404; 20 CFR 404.1405; 20 CFR 404.1413 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: These interim final rules implement section 103 of the Railroad Retirement and Survivors' Improvement Act of 2001, that established an alternative vesting requirement for railroad workers. Under the alternative provision, railroad workers with 5 or more years of service (but less than 10) become vested under the Railroad Retirement Act provided all the years of service accrued after December 31, 1995. The provision was effective on January 1, 2001. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 02/00/03 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Marylin Buster, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Program Benefits, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235 Phone: 410 965-5555 Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF82 [[Page 75469]] _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Long-Term Actions _______________________________________________________________________ 3870. GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT) AND GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (GRANTS) (554F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 41 USC 403(11); 41 USC 701 et seq; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 436.000 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final regulation migrates the HHS grants regulation at 45 CFR part 76 into a new SSA regulation at 20 CFR part 436 now that SSA is an independent agency. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/23/02 67 FR 3266 NPRM Comment Period End 03/25/02 Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AE27 _______________________________________________________________________ 3871. DEDICATED ACCOUNTS AND INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS FOR CERTAIN PAST DUE SSI BENEFITS (622F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 902(a)(5); 42 USC 1381; 42 USC 1381a; 42 USC 1382(c); 42 USC 1382(e); 42 USC 1383(a) to 1383(d); 42 USC 1383(g) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.545; 20 CFR 416.546; 20 CFR 416.640; 20 CFR 416.1210; 20 CFR 416.1247 Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, November 22, 1996. Interim Final Rules were published on 12/20/1996. Abstract: These regulations reflect amendments to the Social Security Act made by sections 213 and 221 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. Section 213 requires the establishment of accounts in financial institutions for the payment of past due SSI benefits after reimbursement to a State for Interim Assistance Reimbursement exceeding 6 months' benefits to representative payees on behalf of children under age 18. These accounts will be dedicated for certain purposes by restrictions on the use of such past due benefits. Section 221 requires past due SSI benefits after reimbursement to a State for Interim Assistance Reimbursement which equals or exceeds 12 months' benefits to be paid in installments, with certain exceptions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 12/20/96 61 FR 67203 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 02/18/97 Final Action To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235- 6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE59 _______________________________________________________________________ 3872. PRIVACY AND DISCLOSURE OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND INFORMATION (711P) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; 42 USC 1306(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 401.30; 20 CFR 401.45; 20 CFR 401.55; 20 CFR 401.150; 20 CFR 401.180 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We propose to revise our privacy and disclosure rules to: 1. Describe safeguards against inappropriate disclosure of personal information when individuals request information about themselves by electronic means (e.g., through the Internet); 2. Revise our special procedures on an individual's access to medical records; 3. Add a new section to grant direct access to a minor's medical records by the minor's parent or legal guardian acting on the minor's behalf; and 4. Fully describe the role and function of the Privacy Officer. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined 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, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-8563 Suzanne DiMarino, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-1769 RIN: 0960-AE88 _______________________________________________________________________ 3873. PAYMENT OF BENEFITS TO ALIENS RESIDING OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES (909F) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402(k); 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.460 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We are revising our rules to remove Democratic Kampuchea (now Cambodia) and Vietnam from the list of countries to which social security benefits may not be sent to aliens in those countries under Department of the Treasury (Treasury) restrictions. The removal of the Treasury restrictions on these countries permits benefit payments to accrue for aliens who are entitled to benefits for title II months in which they reside in either Cambodia or Vietnam provided they are not subject to other non-payment provisions for those months. These benefits may be paid to them if they go to the United States or to a country to which SSA can send benefits or if we receive assurance of free access to beneficiaries and vital records from appropriate officials in the country in which they reside. The revisions are necessary to reflect that Treasury has published regulations that have removed their restriction on sending Federal payments to any payees living in these countries. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action To Be Determined [[Page 75470]] Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-0020 RIN: 0960-AF70 _______________________________________________________________________ Social Security Administration (SSA) Completed Actions _______________________________________________________________________ 3874. COLLECTION OF SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME OVERPAYMENTS FROM TITLE VIII BENEFITS (819F) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 20 CFR 416.570; 20 CFR 416.572 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/04/02 67 FR 38381 Final Action Effective 07/05/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert J. Augustine Phone: 410 965-0020 Patricia Hora Phone: 410 965-7183 RIN: 0960-AF53 _______________________________________________________________________ 3875. [bull] EXTENSION OF EXPIRATION DATE FOR THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM LISTINGS (921F) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 402; 42 USC 405(a); 42 USC 405(b); 42 USC 405(d) to 405(h); 42 USC 416(i); 42 USC 421(a); 42 USC 421(i); 42 USC 422(c); 42 USC 423; 42 USC 425; 42 USC 902(a)(5) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 404.1500, app 1 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: We adjudicate claims at the third step of our sequential evaluation process for evaluating disability using the Listing of Impairments (the Listings) under the Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. This final rule extends until July 2, 2003, the date on which the respiratory system listings will no longer be effective. We have made no revisions to the medical criteria in these listings; they remain the same as they now appear in the Code of Federal Regulations. This extension will ensure that we continue to have medical evaluation criteria in the listings to adjudicate claims for disability based on respiratory impairments at step three of our sequential evaluation process. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/28/02 67 FR 43537 Final Action Effective 06/28/02 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jane Deweib, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, Office of Disability, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 965-9878 Fran O. Thomas, Social Insurance Specialist, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401 Phone: 410 966-9822 RIN: 0960-AF76 [FR Doc. 02-26340 Filed 12-06-02; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4191-02-S