83 FR 30849 - Rules of Conduct and Standards of Responsibility for Appointed Representatives
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 127 (July 2, 2018)
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 127 (July 2, 2018)
| Page Range | 30849-30860 | |
| FR Document | 2018-13989 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 127 (Monday, July 2, 2018)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 30849-30860] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-13989] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION 20 CFR Parts 404 and 416 [Docket No. SSA-2013-0044] RIN 0960-AH63 Rules of Conduct and Standards of Responsibility for Appointed Representatives AGENCY: Social Security Administration. ACTION: Final rules. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are revising our rules of conduct and standards of responsibility for representatives. We are also updating and clarifying the procedures we use when we bring charges against a representative for violating these rules and standards. These changes are necessary to better protect the integrity of our administrative process and to further clarify representatives' existing responsibilities in their conduct with us. The revisions should not be interpreted to suggest that any specific conduct was permissible under our rules prior to these changes; instead, we seek to ensure that our rules of conduct and standards of responsibility are clearer as a whole and directly address a broader range of inappropriate conduct. DATES: These final rules will be effective August 1, 2018. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sarah Taheri, Office of Appellate Operations, Social Security Administration, 5107 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041, (703) 605-7100. For information on eligibility or filing for benefits, call our national toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 or TTY 1-800-325-0778, or visit our internet site, Social Security Online, at http://www.socialsecurity.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background Although the vast majority of representatives conducting business before us on behalf of Social Security beneficiaries and claimants ethically and conscientiously assist their clients, we are concerned that some representatives are using our processes in a way that undermines the integrity of our programs and harms claimants. Accordingly, we are clarifying that certain actions are prohibited, and we are providing additional means to address representative actions that do not serve the best interests of claimants. On August 16, 2016,\1\ we published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register in which we proposed clarifications and revisions to our rules of conduct for representatives. To the extent that we adopt a proposed change as final without revision, and we already discussed at length the reason for and details of the proposal, we will not repeat that information here. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ 81 FR 54520. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/08/16/2016-19384/revisions-to-rules-of-conduct-and-standards-of-responsibility-for-appointed-representatives. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- In response to the NPRM, we received 154 timely submitted comments that addressed issues within the scope of our proposed rules. Based on those comments, we are modifying some of our proposed changes to address concerns that commenters raised. We have also made editorial changes consistent with plain language writing requirements. We made conforming changes in other sections not originally edited in the NPRM. Finally, we made changes to ensure correct paragraph punctuation in Sec. Sec. 404.1740 and 416.1540; a nomenclature change to reflect the organization of our agency in Sec. Sec. 404.1765(b)(1) and 416.1565(b)(1); and updated a cross-reference in Sec. Sec. 404.1755 and 416.1555 that refers to Sec. Sec. 404.1745 and 416.1545, sections reorganized and rewritten in the NPRM and codified in the final rule. Public Comments and Discussion Comment: Some commenters suggested that our proposed rules would deter potential representatives from representing claimants in Social Security matters. Response: These rules reflect our interest in protecting claimants and ensuring the integrity of our administrative process, and they do not impose unreasonable standards of conduct. These additional rules of conduct should not deter competent, knowledgeable, and principled representatives. Comment: Some commenters objected to the provision in proposed Sec. 404.1705(b)(4) and 416.1505(b)(4), which includes ``persons convicted of a [[Page 30850]] felony (as defined by Sec. 404.1506(c)), or any crime involving moral turpitude, dishonesty, false statements, misrepresentation, deceit, or theft'' as examples of persons who lack ``good character and reputation.'' The commenters sometimes referred to this provision as involving a ``lifetime ban'' on representation. Commenters noted that a ``lifetime ban'' fails to consider multiple situations, such as overturned convictions. Some commenters suggested that we place the ban only on representatives with prior felony convictions but exempt those with past misdemeanor convictions, because claimants may have family members with misdemeanor convictions who are otherwise well-qualified to be representatives. Commenters opined that there is nothing inherent about a felony conviction that would prohibit a person from providing competent representation. Finally, commenters suggested that this proposed regulation would decrease the pool of representatives, particularly for minorities, because, according to these commenters, some statistics show higher conviction rates in minority populations. Response: We have broad rulemaking authority to decide who can serve as a non-attorney representative. We believe we can achieve our goal of protecting claimants from potentially fraudulent representatives by limiting the prohibition to individuals convicted of certain offenses that are more severe in nature or involve behavior that reflects poorly on an individual's ability to represent claimants. There is no evidence that this approach will decrease the pool of available, high quality representatives for any particular population. Accordingly, we determined that individuals are not qualified to practice before us if they have a felony conviction (as defined in our rules) or a conviction involving moral turpitude, dishonesty, false statements, misrepresentation, deceit, or theft. These criminal convictions reflect crimes that, by their nature, are more serious based on their categorization as felonies, or involve behavior that reflects poorly on an individual's honesty and moral judgment and, therefore, also reflects poorly on the individual's ability to represent claimants. This disqualification would not apply to convictions that have been overturned or other similar situations, which we have clarified in the final rules. The regulation does not specifically bar individuals with misdemeanor convictions from serving as representatives, unless the misdemeanor involved moral turpitude, dishonesty, false statements, misrepresentation, deceit, or theft, which are the misdemeanors that we believe reflect a lack of honesty and moral judgment, characteristics that we consider necessary in representatives. Further, even if individuals are unable to serve as appointed representatives due to these rules, they may still assist their family members with claims in an unofficial capacity. Comment: Some commenters stated that claimants should be held harmless if they appoint a representative whom they later learn was not qualified (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1705(b)(4) and 416.1505(b)(4)). Response: These rules do not suggest that we would impose any penalty on a claimant who appoints or attempts to appoint an unqualified representative. This regulatory section only identifies whom we will recognize as a representative. Comment: Some commenters stated that proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(3)(iii) and 416.1540(b)(3)(iii) should clarify that a list of potential dates and times that a representative will be available for a hearing is only required to be accurate at the time it is submitted. The comments explained that many representatives schedule hearings in multiple locations, and availability may change once they have other obligations scheduled. Response: We understand that schedules change, and we do not expect representatives to hold open their schedules for all of the dates and times that they identify. We did not change the proposed regulatory text. Comment: Commenters stated that the term ``scheduled'' is too vague (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(3)(iv) and 416.1540(b)(3)(iv)). Response: A hearing has been ``scheduled'' when a date and time have been set and we have notified all parties. We clarified the language in these sections. Comment: Some commenters asserted that restricting a representative's right to withdraw after a hearing is scheduled, except under ``extraordinary circumstances,'' is an overly broad restriction that inhibits a representative's right to withdraw in circumstances where the representative knows that the client no longer has a viable case. Many commenters also argued that forcing representatives to divulge their reasons for withdrawal to justify extraordinary circumstances may violate the attorney-client privilege, if the withdrawal is based on the representative's knowledge that a client may be engaging in fraud. Other commenters stated that if a claimant does not want to attend a hearing but will not release the representative, and the representative cannot withdraw, the administrative law judge (ALJ) will not be able to dismiss the case and will have to hold a hearing, which wastes administrative time and resources. Finally, commenters noted that hearings are sometimes already scheduled by the time representatives are hired. Because representatives cannot view claimants' files until they are appointed, representatives may have to withdraw after reviewing the file even though a hearing has already been scheduled. Response: The American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct Rule (Model Rule) 1.16 includes requirements for withdrawal similar to this regulation. Some examples of ``extraordinary circumstances'' under which we may allow a withdrawal include (1) serious illness; (2) death or serious illness in the representative's immediate family; or (3) failure to locate a claimant despite active and diligent attempts to contact the claimant. We are not seeking privileged communications between an attorney and client. If the representative cannot describe why he or she must withdraw without revealing privileged or confidential communications (and if no exceptions to the attorney-client privilege exist, such as the crime-fraud exception), the representative should state this fact, not disclose the privileged or confidential communication, and allow the ALJ to evaluate the request under these circumstances. Comment: Commenters raised the issue of providing ``prompt and timely communication'' with claimants, stating that this is often difficult with homeless or indigent claimants (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(3)(v) and 416.1540(b)(3)(v)). Some commenters suggested changing this language to ``keep the client reasonably informed of the status of the case'' in accordance with Model Rule 1.4. One commenter requested that we define ``incompetent representation'' and ``reasonable and adequate representation.'' Response: Representatives are responsible for maintaining timely contact with their clients. We expect representatives to have working contact information for all of their clients, but we recognize that it may be difficult to locate homeless or indigent clients in some circumstances. We have changed the language of Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(3)(v) and 416.1540(b)(3)(v) to take into account the difficulty in locating certain claimants despite a representative's best [[Page 30851]] efforts. We did not provide any definition of ``incompetent representation'' or ``reasonable and adequate representation,'' because these terms do not appear in the rule. Comment: A number of commenters were concerned with proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(5) and 416.1540(b)(5), which require a representative to disclose certain things in writing when the representative submits a medical or vocational opinion to us. The commenters specifically raised concerns about the disclosure of physician referrals and the disclosure requirement when the medical or vocational opinion was ``drafted, prepared, or issued'' by an employee of the representative or an individual contracting with the representative for services. Commenters also stated that the term ``prepared'' is vague, and it is unclear whether disclosure would be required if a representative discusses the sequential evaluation process with a provider of an opinion or supplies a questionnaire for a provider to complete. Some commenters further maintained that requiring disclosure of physician referrals would violate the attorney-client privilege and that such referrals are irrelevant to the representation of the case. Commenters also requested that the regulation clarify that opinions are entitled to the same weight regardless of whether the representative requested them. Finally, commenters argued that requiring disclosure will ``chill'' referrals for those claimants who need them most. Response: When a representative submits a medical or vocational opinion to us, he or she has an affirmative duty to disclose to us in writing if the representative or one of the representative's employees or contractors participated in drafting, preparing, or issuing the opinion. For clarity, we consider providing guidance or providing a questionnaire, template or format to fall within the parameters of this rule when the guidance, questionnaire, template or format is used to draft a medical or vocational opinion submitted to us. In response to the concern that the term ``prepared'' is vague, unless the context indicates otherwise, we intend the ordinary meaning of words used in our regulations. We intend the word ``prepared'' here to have its ordinary meaning. Representatives also have an affirmative duty to disclose to us in writing if the representative referred or suggested that the claimant be examined, treated, or assisted by the individual who provided the opinion evidence. However, we are not seeking privileged or confidential communications concerning legal advice between an attorney and client, nor are we requiring disclosure of detailed communications. We are only requiring that representatives disclose the fact that they made a referral or participated in drafting, preparing, or issuing an opinion. See Fed. R. of Civ. P. 26(b)(5)(A) (``When a party withholds information otherwise discoverable by claiming that the information is privileged or subject to protection as trial-preparation material, the party must . . . describe the nature of the documents, communications, or tangible things not produced or disclosed--and do so in a manner that, without revealing information itself privileged or protected, will enable other parties to assess the claim.'') We explain what we mean by the attorney-client and attorney work product privileges more fully in Sec. Sec. 404.1513(b)(2) and 416.913(b)(2) of our rules. We will interpret the affirmative duty in final Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(5) and 416.1540(b)(5) in light of our interpretation of those privileges in Sec. Sec. 404.1513(b)(2) and 416.913(b)(2). In response to the request that the regulation clarify that opinions are entitled to the same weight regardless of whether the representative requested them, we have other regulations that govern how we evaluate medical opinion evidence. See 20 CFR 404.1520c, 404.1527, 416.920c, and 416.927. Comment: Some commenters stated that notifying us if a claimant is committing fraud (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(6) and 416.1540(b)(6)) violates the attorney-client privilege and Model Rule 1.6. Commenters also suggested a more direct adoption of the provisions of Model Rule 3.3, Candor Toward the Tribunal. Response: We do not believe that our final rule violates either the attorney-client privilege or Model Rule 1.6. Our final rule requires a representative to ``[d]isclose to us immediately if the representative discovers that his or her services are or were used by the claimant to commit fraud against us.'' Model Rule 1.6(b)(2) \2\ includes an exception to confidentiality ``to prevent the client from committing a crime or fraud that is reasonably certain to result in substantial injury to the financial interests or property of another and in furtherance of which the client has used or is using the lawyer's services.'' Furthermore, the crime-fraud exception to the attorney- client privilege allows a lawyer to disclose otherwise privileged communications when they are in furtherance of a crime or fraudulent act. When a claimant uses a representative's services in furtherance of the claimant's fraud, there is a reasonable certainty that the fraud will cause substantial injury to the Social Security trust funds. Such fraud also undermines public confidence in our programs. Our proposed and final rules are fully consistent with the exception to confidentiality found in Model Rule 1.6(b)(2). The final rules also address the aim of Model Rule 3.3 to limit false or misleading statements, but within the unique context of the legal and procedural structure of the Social Security programs. Therefore, we are not changing the originally proposed language. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \2\ Rule 1.6, Confidentiality of information. (2013). In American Bar Association, Center for Professional Responsibility, Model Rules of Professional Conduct. Retrieved from https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_6_confidentiality_of_information.html. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Comment: A few commenters asked us to clarify whether disbarment or disqualification will be an automatic bar to representation, or whether we will address each situation individually (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(7)-(9) and 416.1540(b)(7)-(9)). Response: We will address any disclosure made pursuant to Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(7)-(9) and 416.1540(b)(7)-(9) on an individual basis. Comment: Some commenters stated that proposed Sec. 416.1540(b)(10) is too broad, because representatives often refer Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claimants to special needs trust attorneys, and the proposed language suggests that the representatives would be responsible for the conduct of the trust attorneys. Other commenters recommend that the regulation encompass only those people over whom representatives have supervisory authority. Response: In response to these comments, we have revised the language in final Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(10) and 416.1540(b)(10) to clarify that the affirmative duty applies ``when the representative has managerial or supervisory authority over these individuals or otherwise has responsibility to oversee their work.'' Further, because this requirement is an affirmative duty, we moved language from proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(c)(14) and 416.1540(c)(14) to Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(10) and 416.1540(b)(10), which outlines the affirmative duty to take remedial action when: (i) The representative's employees, assistants, partners, contractors, or other individuals' conduct violates these rules of conduct [[Page 30852]] and standards of responsibility, and (ii) the representative has reason to believe a violation of these rules of conduct and standards of responsibility will occur. We revised the language of final Sec. Sec. 404.1740(c)(14) and 415.1540(c)(14) to prohibit representatives from failing to oversee other individuals working on the claims on which the representative is appointed when the representative has managerial or supervisory authority over these individuals or otherwise has responsibility to oversee their work. Comment: Some commenters objected to proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(c)(1) and 416.1540(c)(1), which prohibit ``misleading a claimant, or prospective claimant or beneficiary, about the representative's services and qualifications.'' Commenters asked whether it would be misleading if a claimant refers to a non-attorney representative as an attorney, and the representative does not correct them. Response: Not correcting a known misconception about the representative's status as a non-attorney is ``misleading a claimant,'' as contemplated under this prohibition. Comment: A few commenters objected to the language of proposed Sec. 404.1740(c)(7)(ii)(B), which prohibits ``[p]roviding misleading information or misrepresenting facts . . . where the representative has or should have reason to believe the information was misleading and the facts would constitute a misrepresentation.'' These commenters stated that many claimants are mentally ill, and it is difficult to ascertain whether a client is providing accurate facts. The commenters also objected to the term ``should,'' stating that it is overly vague. A few commenters believe the standard ``knowingly'' should be added. Commenters also stated that this regulation conflicted with our rule on the submission of evidence, which requires representatives to submit all available evidence. Response: Based on the comments, we have changed the ``has or should have reason to believe'' language of the proposed rule to ``knows or should have known'' in the final rule. Whether or not a claimant is mentally ill, a representative will violate the standard in the final rule if he or she presents information that he or she knows to be false or circumstances demonstrate that the representative should have known it to be false. This rule does not conflict with our rule requiring representatives to submit all evidence, because a false document is not evidence as contemplated under Sec. Sec. 404.1513 and 416.913. Further, ``should'' is not an overly broad standard and is a commonly used term in Federal laws and regulations. See, e.g., 42 U.S.C. 1320a-8a(a)(1). Comment: A few commenters stated that proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(c)(7)(ii)(C) and 416.1540(c)(7)(ii)(C) should clarify that representatives may contact SSA staff regarding matters such as case status, requests for critical case flags, Congressional inquiries, or when SSA staff ask the representative to contact them. Response: We did not make any changes in response to these comments. The proposed and final rules specifically states that representatives should not communicate with agency staff ``outside the normal course of business or other prescribed procedures in an attempt to inappropriately influence the processing or outcome of a claim(s).'' Matters such as case status inquiries, requests for critical case flags, and Congressional inquiries are not outside the normal course of business, nor would they be attempts to inappropriately influence the processing or outcome of a claim. Comment: Some commenters asked whether a representative would be guilty of misleading an ALJ if an ALJ finds that a claimant's statements are ``not fully credible.'' These commenters also recommend adding ``knowingly'' to proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1740(c)(3) and 416.1540(c)(3). Other commenters stated that requiring representatives to disclose matters of which they do not have actual knowledge would ``chill'' advocacy. Response: On March 16, 2016, we published Social Security Ruling (SSR) 16-3p, ``Titles II and XVI: Evaluation of Symptoms in Disability Claims'' in the Federal Register.\3\ In this SSR, we eliminated the use of the term ``credibility'' from our sub-regulatory policy, because our regulations do not use this term. In doing so, we clarified that subjective symptom evaluation is not an examination of an individual's character. Instead, we will more closely follow our regulatory language regarding symptom evaluation. With respect to the commenters' concerns, the regulations include a number of factors that must be considered when evaluating symptoms, but a representative will not be found to be misleading an ALJ based solely on the results of this evaluation. Acknowledging the concern about the standard we will use in evaluating this type of situation, we are changing the ``has or should have reason to believe'' language in the proposed rule to ``knows or should have known'' in the final rule. This provision addresses only situations where the representative knows or should have known that specific statements, evidence, assertions, or representations are false or misleading. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \3\ 81 FR 14166 (March 16, 2016). https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/03/16/2016-05916/social-security-ruling-16-3p-titles-ii-and-xvi-evaluation-of-symptoms-in-disability-claims. Corrected at 81 FR 15776 (March 24, 2016). https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/03/24/2016-06598/social-security-ruling-16-3p-titles-ii-and-xvi-evaluation-of-symptoms-in-disability-claims. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Comment: Commenters objected to the 14-day limit to respond to charges and proposed that the 30-day limit in the current rules should be maintained (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1750 and 416.1550). Response: We did not adopt this suggestion, because we believe that 14 days allows for a more timely resolution of misconduct matters. The 14-day timeframe provides the representative with sufficient time to respond to charges, which typically consists only of affirming or denying various factual allegations. However, in response to the commenters' concerns that the proposed rule did not give representatives adequate time to respond to the charges, we added the term ``business'' to clarify that the time limit is 14 business days. Comment: One commenter suggested that representatives be suspended from representing clients until the sanction process is complete. Response: The Social Security Act requires that we give a representative notice and opportunity for a hearing before we suspend or disqualify him or her from practicing before us. We have long allowed representatives to continue to practice before us until there is a final decision on the case. We will continue to impose sanctions only after the administrative sanctions process is completed. Comment: Some commenters suggested that a representative should not have to show good cause for objecting to the manner of hearing (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1765(d) and 416.1565(d)). One commenter stated that a hearing should always be in person unless a party can demonstrate that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact. Response: The hearing officer is in the best position to decide how to conduct a particular hearing in the most effective and efficient manner. A ``good cause'' standard for objecting to the manner of the hearing ensures that any objection to this issue is well-founded. Comment: A few commenters stated that 14 days is insufficient time to request review of a hearing officer's decision (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1775 and 416.1575). The commenters requested that the rule clarify whether it refers to business or calendar days. [[Page 30853]] Response: In response to these and other related comments, we adopted this suggestion and added the word ``business'' to clarify that the 14-day period means 14 business days. Comment: Some commenters stated that proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1785 and 416.1585 shift the burden from the Appeals Council to representatives to obtain evidence. They stated that by changing the language from the Appeals Council ``shall require that the evidence be obtained'' to ``the Appeals Council will allow the party with the information to submit the additional evidence,'' the regulation relieves the Appeals Council of the responsibility for obtaining evidence and allows the Appeals Council to ignore evidence submitted by another party. Response: We changed the language in Sec. Sec. 404.1785 and 416.1585 for clarity. In the adversarial proceedings to sanction representatives, the obligation to provide evidence to the Appeals Council is, and has always been, on the party with the information. Accordingly, we are not changing the language proposed in the NPRM. Comment: Some commenters asked that we clarify which decisions we will publish and when we will publish them (proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1790(f) and 416.1590(f)). They also inquired as to whether the public will have access to the published decisions, and they expressed concern that the decisions might contain personally identifiable information. Response: On June 16, 2017, the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS) adopted Recommendation 2017-1, ``Adjudication Materials on Agency Websites.'' \4\ ACUS recommended that ``[a]gencies should consider providing access on their websites to decisions and supporting materials (e.g., pleadings, motions, briefs) issued and filed in adjudicative proceedings.'' ACUS also recommended that ``[a]gencies that adjudicate large volumes of cases that do not vary considerably in terms of their factual contexts or the legal analyses employed in their dispositions should consider disclosing on their websites a representative sampling of actual cases and associated adjudication materials.'' We will work with ACUS with respect to this recommendation, and we will provide details in sub-regulatory guidance of how we will publish decisions after these final rules become effective. In response to the commenters' concerns about privacy, we take concerns regarding personally identifiable information seriously, and the final rule makes clear that we will remove or redact any personally identifiable information from the decisions. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \4\ Administrative Conference of the United States, Recommendation 2017-1, Adjudication Materials on Agency Websites, 82 FR 31039 (July 5, 2017). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Comment: One commenter stated that proposed Sec. 404.1790 should use a ``preponderance of the evidence'' standard rather than the ``substantial evidence standard.'' Response: The Appeals Council is an appellate body that generally reviews decisions using the substantial evidence standard.\5\ Therefore, we are not changing this language. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \5\ 20 CFR 404.970(a)(3), 416.1470(a)(3). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Comment: Some commenters stated that the word ``may'' should be changed to ``will'' in proposed Sec. Sec. 404.1790(f) and 416.1590(f), which state, ``Prior to making a decision public, we may remove or redact information from the decision.'' Response: We adopted this comment and changed ``may'' to ``will.'' We will redact any personally identifiable information from the decisions. Comment: One commenter stated that the 3-year ban on reinstatement after suspension is too harsh. Response: The 3-year prohibition is actually a 3-year wait to reapply for reinstatement and we believe it is appropriate, because our experience shows that when the Appeals Council denies a request for reinstatement, the representative typically has not taken appropriate action to remedy the violation or does not understand its severity. We are implementing this change to ensure more thoroughly supported requests for reinstatement. Regulatory Procedures Executive Order 12866 as Supplemented by Executive Order 13563 We consulted with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and determined that these final rules meet the criteria for a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866, as supplemented by Executive Order 13563 and are subject to OMB review. Executive Order 13771 This rule is not subject to the requirements of Executive Order 13771 because it is administrative in nature and results in no more than de minimis costs. Regulatory Flexibility Act We certify that these final rules will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities because they affect individuals only. Therefore, a regulatory flexibility analysis is not required under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended. Paperwork Reduction Act These final rules contain information collection burdens in Sec. Sec. 404.1740(b)(5) through (9) and 416.1540(b)(5) through (b)(9) that require OMB clearance under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA). As the PRA requires, we submitted a clearance request to OMB for approval of these sections. We will publish the OMB number and expiration date upon approval. Further, these final rules contain information collection activities at 20 CFR 404.1750(c) and (e)(2), 404.1765(g)(1), 404.1775(b), 404.1799(d)(2), 416.1550(c) and (e)(2), 416.1565(g)(1), 416.1575(b), and 416.1599(d)(2). However, 44 U.S.C. 3518(c)(1)(B)(ii) exempts these activities from the OMB clearance requirements under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. We published an NPRM on August 16, 2016 at 81 FR 54520. In that NPRM, we solicited comments under the PRA on the burden estimate; the need for the information; its practical utility; ways to enhance its quality, utility and clarity; and on ways to minimize the burden on respondents, including the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. We received no public comments relating to any of these issues. We will not collect the information referenced in these burden sections until we receive OMB approval. (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 96.001, Social Security--Disability Insurance; 96.002, Social Security--Retirement Insurance; 96.004, Social Security--Survivors Insurance; and 96.006, Supplemental Security Income) List of Subjects 20 CFR Part 404 Administrative practice and procedure, Blind, Disability benefits, Old-age, survivors, and disability insurance, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Social Security. 20 CFR Part 416 Administrative practice and procedure, Aged, Blind, Disability benefits, Public assistance programs, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Nancy A. Berryhill, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. For the reasons set out in the preamble, we amend 20 CFR chapter III, [[Page 30854]] parts 404 and part 416, as set forth below: PART 404--FEDERAL OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS AND DISABILITY INSURANCE (1950- ) Subpart R--[Amended] 0 1. The authority citation for subpart R of part 404 continues to read as follows: Authority: Secs. 205(a), 206, 702(a)(5), and 1127 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 405(a), 406, 902(a)(5), and 1320a-6). 0 2. Revise Sec. 404.1705(b) to read as follows: Sec. 404.1705 Who may be your representative. * * * * * (b) You may appoint any person who is not an attorney to be your representative in dealings with us if the person-- (1) Is capable of giving valuable help to you in connection with your claim; (2) Is not disqualified or suspended from acting as a representative in dealings with us; (3) Is not prohibited by any law from acting as a representative; and (4) Is generally known to have a good character and reputation. Persons lacking good character and reputation, include, but are not limited to, persons who have a final conviction of a felony (as defined by Sec. 404.1506(c)) or any crime involving moral turpitude, dishonesty, false statements, misrepresentation, deceit, or theft. * * * * * 0 3. Amend Sec. 404.1740 as follows: 0 a. Revise paragraphs (b)(2)(vii) and (b)(3); 0 b. Add paragraphs (b)(5) through (10); 0 c. Revise paragraphs (c)(1) through (6) and (c)(7)(ii); 0 d. Remove paragraph (c)(7)(iii); 0 e. Revise paragraphs (c)(8) through (13); and 0 f. Add paragraph (c)(14). The revisions and additions read as follows: Sec. 404.1740 Rules of conduct and standards of responsibility for representatives. * * * * * (b) * * * (2) * * * (vii) Any other factors showing how the claimant's impairment(s) affects his or her ability to work. In Sec. Sec. 404.1560 through 404.1569a, we discuss in more detail the evidence we need when we consider vocational factors. (3) Conduct his or her dealings in a manner that furthers the efficient, fair, and orderly conduct of the administrative decision- making process, including duties to: (i) Provide competent representation to a claimant. Competent representation requires the knowledge, skill, thoroughness, and preparation reasonably necessary for the representation. A representative must know the significant issue(s) in a claim, have reasonable and adequate familiarity with the evidence in the case, and have a working knowledge of the applicable provisions of the Social Security Act, as amended, the regulations, the Social Security Rulings, and any other applicable provisions of law. (ii) Act with reasonable diligence and promptness in representing a claimant. This includes providing prompt and responsive answers to our requests for information pertinent to processing of the claim. (iii) When requested, provide us, in a manner we specify, potential dates and times that the representative will be available for a hearing. We will inform the representative how many potential dates and times we require to coordinate the hearing schedule. (iv) Only withdraw representation at a time and in a manner that does not disrupt the processing or adjudication of a claim and that provides the claimant adequate time to find new representation, if desired. A representative should not withdraw after we set the time and place for the hearing (see Sec. 404.936) unless the representative can show that a withdrawal is necessary due to extraordinary circumstances, as we determine on a case-by-case basis. (v) Maintain prompt and timely communication with the claimant, which includes, but is not limited to, reasonably informing the claimant of all matters concerning the representation, consulting with the claimant on an ongoing basis during the entire representational period, and promptly responding to a claimant's reasonable requests for information. When we evaluate whether a representative has maintained prompt and timely communication with the claimant, we will consider the difficulty the representative has in locating a particular claimant (e.g., because the claimant is homeless) and the representative's efforts to keep that claimant informed. * * * * * (5) Disclose in writing, at the time a medical or vocational opinion is submitted to us or as soon as the representative is aware of the submission to us, if: (i) The representative's employee or any individual contracting with the representative drafted, prepared, or issued the medical or vocational opinion; or (ii) The representative referred or suggested that the claimant seek an examination from, treatment by, or the assistance of, the individual providing opinion evidence. (6) Disclose to us immediately if the representative discovers that his or her services are or were used by the claimant to commit fraud against us. (7) Disclose to us whether the representative is or has been disbarred or suspended from any bar or court to which he or she was previously admitted to practice, including instances in which a bar or court took administrative action to disbar or suspend the representative in lieu of disciplinary proceedings (e.g. acceptance of voluntary resignation pending disciplinary action). If the disbarment or suspension occurs after the appointment of the representative, the representative will immediately disclose the disbarment or suspension to us. (8) Disclose to us whether the representative is or has been disqualified from participating in or appearing before any Federal program or agency, including instances in which a Federal program or agency took administrative action to disqualify the representative in lieu of disciplinary proceedings (e.g. acceptance of voluntary resignation pending disciplinary action). If the disqualification occurs after the appointment of the representative, the representative will immediately disclose the disqualification to us. (9) Disclose to us whether the representative has been removed from practice or suspended by a professional licensing authority for reasons that reflect on the person's character, integrity, judgment, reliability, or fitness to serve as a fiduciary. If the removal or suspension occurs after the appointment of the representative, the representative will immediately disclose the removal or suspension to us. (10) Ensure that all of the representative's employees, assistants, partners, contractors, or any person assisting the representative on claims for which the representative has been appointed, comply with these rules of conduct and standards of responsibility for representatives, when the representative has managerial or supervisory authority over these individuals or otherwise has responsibility to oversee their work. [[Page 30855]] This includes a duty to take remedial action when: (i) The representative's employees, assistants, partners, contractors or other individuals' conduct violates these rules of conduct and standards of responsibility; and (ii) The representative has reason to believe a violation of these rules of conduct and standards of responsibility occurred or will occur. (c) * * * (1) In any manner or by any means threaten, coerce, intimidate, deceive or knowingly mislead a claimant, or prospective claimant or beneficiary, regarding benefits or other rights under the Act. This prohibition includes misleading a claimant, or prospective claimant or beneficiary, about the representative's services and qualifications. (2) Knowingly charge, collect or retain, or make any arrangement to charge, collect or retain, from any source, directly or indirectly, any fee for representational services in violation of applicable law or regulation. This prohibition includes soliciting any gift or any other item of value, other than what is authorized by law. (3) Make or present, or participate in the making or presentation of, false or misleading oral or written statements, evidence, assertions, or representations about a material fact or law concerning a matter within our jurisdiction, in matters where the representative knows or should have known that those statements, evidence, assertions, or representations are false or misleading. (4) Through his or her own actions or omissions, unreasonably delay or cause to be delayed, without good cause (see Sec. 404.911(b)), the processing of a claim at any stage of the administrative decision- making process. (5) Divulge, without the claimant's consent, except as may be authorized by regulations prescribed by us or as otherwise provided by Federal law, any information we furnish or disclose about a claim or prospective claim. (6) Attempt to influence, directly or indirectly, the outcome of a decision, determination, or other administrative action by any means prohibited by law, or by offering or granting a loan, gift, entertainment, or anything of value to a presiding official, agency employee, or witness who is or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the administrative decision-making process, except as reimbursement for legitimately incurred expenses or lawful compensation for the services of an expert witness retained on a non-contingency basis to provide evidence. (7) * * * (ii) Behavior that has the effect of improperly disrupting proceedings or obstructing the adjudicative process, including but not limited to: (A) Directing threatening or intimidating language, gestures, or actions at a presiding official, witness, contractor, or agency employee; (B) Providing misleading information or misrepresenting facts that affect how we process a claim, including, but not limited to, information relating to the claimant's work activity or the claimant's place of residence or mailing address in matters where the representative knows or should have known that the information was misleading and the facts would constitute a misrepresentation; and (C) Communicating with agency staff or adjudicators outside the normal course of business or other prescribed procedures in an attempt to inappropriately influence the processing or outcome of a claim(s). (8) Violate any section of the Act for which a criminal or civil monetary penalty is prescribed. (9) Refuse to comply with any of our rules or regulations. (10) Suggest, assist, or direct another person to violate our rules or regulations. (11) Advise any claimant or beneficiary not to comply with any of our rules or regulations. (12) Knowingly assist a person whom we suspended or disqualified to provide representational services in a proceeding under title II of the Act, or to exercise the authority of a representative described in Sec. 404.1710. (13) Fail to comply with our sanction(s) decision. (14) Fail to oversee the representative's employees, assistants, partners, contractors, or any other person assisting the representative on claims for which the representative has been appointed when the representative has managerial or supervisory authority over these individuals or otherwise has responsibility to oversee their work. 0 4. Amend Sec. 404.1745 by revising paragraphs (d) and (e) and adding paragraph (f) to read as follows: Sec. 404.1745 Violations of our requirements, rules, or standards. * * * * * (d) Has been, by reason of misconduct, disbarred or suspended from any bar or court to which he or she was previously admitted to practice (see Sec. 404.1770(a)); (e) Has been, by reason of misconduct, disqualified from participating in or appearing before any Federal program or agency (see Sec. 404.1770(a)); or (f) Who, as a non-attorney, has been removed from practice or suspended by a professional licensing authority for reasons that reflect on the person's character, integrity, judgment, reliability, or fitness to serve as a fiduciary. 0 5. Amend Sec. 404.1750 by revising paragraphs (c), (d), (e)(2), and (f) to read as follows: Sec. 404.1750 Notice of charges against a representative. * * * * * (c) We will advise the representative to file an answer, within 14 business days from the date of the notice, or from the date the notice was delivered personally, stating why he or she should not be suspended or disqualified from acting as a representative in dealings with us. (d) The General Counsel or other delegated official may extend the 14-day period specified in paragraph (c) of this section for good cause, in accordance with Sec. 404.911. (e) * * * (2) File the answer with the Social Security Administration, at the address specified on the notice, within the 14-day time period specified in paragraph (c) of this section. (f) If the representative does not file an answer within the 14-day time period specified in paragraph (c) of this section (or the period extended in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section), he or she does not have the right to present evidence, except as may be provided in Sec. 404.1765(g). 0 6. Revise Sec. 404.1755 to read as follows: Sec. 404.1755 Withdrawing charges against a representative. The General Counsel or other delegated official may withdraw charges against a representative. We will withdraw charges if the representative files an answer, or we obtain evidence, that satisfies us that we should not suspend or disqualify the representative from acting as a representative. When we consider withdrawing charges brought under Sec. 404.1745(d) through (f) based on the representative's assertion that, before or after our filing of charges, the representative has been reinstated to practice by the court, bar, or Federal program or Federal agency that suspended, disbarred, or disqualified the representative, the General Counsel or other delegated official will determine whether such reinstatement occurred, whether it remains in effect, and whether he or she is reasonably satisfied that the representative will in the future act in accordance with the [[Page 30856]] provisions of section 206(a) of the Act and our rules and regulations. If the representative proves that reinstatement occurred and remains in effect and the General Counsel or other delegated official is so satisfied, the General Counsel or other delegated official will withdraw those charges. The action of the General Counsel or other delegated official regarding withdrawal of charges is solely that of the General Counsel or other delegated official and is not reviewable, or subject to consideration in decisions made under Sec. Sec. 404.1770 and 404.1790. If we withdraw the charges, we will notify the representative by mail at the representative's last known address. 0 7. Amend Sec. 404.1765 by revising paragraphs (b)(1), (c), (d)(1) and (3), and (g)(1) and (3) to read as follows: Sec. 404.1765 Hearing on charges. * * * * * (b) Hearing officer. (1) The Deputy Commissioner for the Office of Hearings Operations or other delegated official will assign an administrative law judge, designated to act as a hearing officer, to hold a hearing on the charges. * * * * * (c) Time and place of hearing. The hearing officer will mail the parties a written notice of the hearing at their last known addresses, at least 14 calendar days before the date set for the hearing. The notice will inform the parties whether the appearance of the parties or any witnesses will be in person, by video teleconferencing, or by telephone. The notice will also include requirements and instructions for filing motions, requesting witnesses, and entering exhibits. (d) Change of time and place for hearing. (1) The hearing officer may change the time and place for the hearing, either on his or her own initiative, or at the request of the representative or the other party to the hearing. The hearing officer will not consider objections to the manner of appearance of parties or witnesses, unless the party shows good cause not to appear in the prescribed manner. To determine whether good cause exists for extending the deadline, we use the standards explained in Sec. 404.911. * * * * * (3) Subject to the limitations in paragraph (g)(2) of this section, the hearing officer may reopen the hearing for the receipt of additional evidence at any time before mailing notice of the decision. * * * * * (g) Conduct of the hearing. (1) The representative or the other party may file a motion for decision on the basis of the record prior to the hearing. The hearing officer will give the representative and the other party a reasonable amount of time to submit any evidence and to file briefs or other written statements as to fact and law prior to deciding the motion. If the hearing officer concludes that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and the movant is entitled to a decision as a matter of law, the hearing officer may grant the motion and issue a decision in accordance with the provisions of Sec. 404.1770. * * * * * (3) The hearing officer will make the hearing open to the representative, to the other party, and to any persons the hearing officer or the parties consider necessary or proper. The hearing officer will inquire fully into the matters being considered, hear the testimony of witnesses, and accept any documents that are material. * * * * * 0 8. Revise Sec. 404.1775(b) to read as follows: Sec. 404.1775 Requesting review of the hearing officer's decision. * * * * * (b) Time and place of filing request for review. The party requesting review will file the request for review in writing with the Appeals Council within 14 business days from the date the hearing officer mailed the notice. The party requesting review will certify that a copy of the request for review and of any documents that are submitted have been mailed to the opposing party. 0 9. Revise Sec. 404.1780(a) to read as follows: Sec. 404.1780 Appeals Council's review of hearing officer's decision. (a) Upon request, the Appeals Council will give the parties a reasonable time to file briefs or other written statements as to fact and law, and to request to appear before the Appeals Council to present oral argument. When oral argument is requested within the time designated by the Appeals Council, the Appeals Council will grant the request for oral argument and determine whether the parties will appear at the oral argument in person, by video teleconferencing, or by telephone. If oral argument is not requested within the time designated by the Appeals Council, the Appeals Council may deny the request. * * * * * 0 10. Revise Sec. 404.1785 to read as follows: Sec. 404.1785 Evidence permitted on review. (a) General. Generally, the Appeals Council will not consider evidence in addition to that introduced at the hearing. However, if the Appeals Council finds the evidence offered is material to an issue it is considering, it may consider that evidence, as described in paragraph (b) of this section. (b) Individual charged filed an answer. (1) When the Appeals Council finds that additional evidence material to the charges is available, and the individual charged filed an answer to the charges, the Appeals Council will allow the party with the information to submit the additional evidence. (2) Before the Appeals Council admits additional evidence into the record, it will mail a notice to the parties, informing them that evidence about certain issues was submitted. The Appeals Council will give each party a reasonable opportunity to comment on the evidence and to present other evidence that is material to an issue it is considering. (3) The Appeals Council will determine whether the additional evidence warrants a new review by a hearing officer or whether the Appeals Council will consider the additional evidence as part of its review of the case. (c) Individual charged did not file an answer. If the representative did not file an answer to the charges, the representative may not introduce evidence that was not considered at the hearing. 0 11. Amend Sec. 404.1790 by revising paragraph (a) and adding paragraph (f) to read as follows: Sec. 404.1790 Appeals Council's decision. (a) The Appeals Council will base its decision upon the evidence in the hearing record and any other evidence it may permit on review. The Appeals Council will affirm the hearing officer's decision if the action, findings, and conclusions are supported by substantial evidence. If the hearing officer's decision is not supported by substantial evidence, the Appeals Council will either: (1) Reverse or modify the hearing officer's decision; or (2) Return the case to the hearing officer for further proceedings. * * * * * (f) The Appeals Council may designate and publish certain final decisions as precedent for other actions brought under its representative conduct provisions. Prior to making a decision public, we will remove or [[Page 30857]] redact personally identifiable information from the decision. 0 12. Amend Sec. 404.1799 by revising paragraphs (a), (d)(2), and (f) to read as follows: Sec. 404.1799 Reinstatement after suspension or disqualification-- period of suspension not expired. (a) After more than one year has passed, a person who has been suspended or disqualified may ask the Appeals Council for permission to serve as a representative again. The Appeals Council will assign and process a request for reinstatement using the same general procedures described in Sec. 404.1776. * * * * * (d) * * * (2) If a person was disqualified because he or she had been disbarred, suspended, or removed from practice for the reasons described in Sec. 404.1745(d) through (f), the Appeals Council will grant a request for reinstatement as a representative only if the criterion in paragraph (d)(1) of this section is met and the disqualified person shows that he or she has been admitted (or readmitted) to and is in good standing with the court, bar, Federal program or agency, or other governmental or professional licensing authority from which he or she had been disbarred, suspended, or removed from practice. * * * * * (f) If the Appeals Council decides not to grant the request, it will not consider another request before the end of 3 years from the date of the notice of the previous denial. PART 416--SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME FOR THE AGED, BLIND, AND DISABLED Subpart O--[Amended] 0 13. The authority citation for subpart O of part 416 continues to read as follows: Authority: Secs. 702(a)(5), 1127, and 1631(d) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 902(a)(5), 1320a-6, and 1383(d)). 0 14. Revise Sec. 416.1505(b) to read as follows: Sec. 416.1505 Who may be your representative. * * * * * (b) You may appoint any person who is not an attorney to be your representative in dealings with us if the person-- (1) Is capable of giving valuable help to you in connection with your claim; (2) Is not disqualified or suspended from acting as a representative in dealings with us; (3) Is not prohibited by any law from acting as a representative; and (4) Is generally known to have a good character and reputation. Persons lacking good character and reputation, include, but are not limited to, persons who have a final conviction of a felony (as defined by Sec. 404.1506(c) of this chapter), or any crime involving moral turpitude, dishonesty, false statement, misrepresentations, deceit, or theft. * * * * * 0 15. Amend Sec. 416.1540 follows: 0 a. Revise paragraphs (b)(2)(vii) and (b)(3); 0 b. Add paragraphs (b)(5) through (10); 0 c. Revise paragraphs (c)(1) through (6) and (c)(7)(ii); 0 d. Remove paragraph (c)(7)(iii); 0 e. Revise paragraphs (c)(8) through (13); and 0 f. Add paragraph (c)(14). The revisions and additions read as follows: Sec. 416.1540 Rules of conduct and standards of responsibility for representatives. * * * * * (b) * * * (2) * * * (vii) Any other factors showing how the claimant's impairment(s) affects his or her ability to work. In Sec. Sec. 416.960 through 416.969a, we discuss in more detail the evidence we need when we consider vocational factors. (3) Conduct his or her dealings in a manner that furthers the efficient, fair, and orderly conduct of the administrative decision- making process, including duties to: (i) Provide competent representation to a claimant. Competent representation requires the knowledge, skill, thoroughness, and preparation reasonably necessary for the representation. A representative must know the significant issue(s) in a claim, have reasonable and adequate familiarity with the evidence in the case, and have a working knowledge of the applicable provisions of the Social Security Act, as amended, the regulations, the Social Security Rulings, and any other applicable provisions of law. (ii) Act with reasonable diligence and promptness in representing a claimant. This includes providing prompt and responsive answers to our requests for information pertinent to processing of the claim. (iii) When requested, provide us, in a manner we specify, potential dates and times that the representative will be available for a hearing. We will inform the representative how many potential dates and times we require to coordinate the hearing schedule. (iv) Only withdraw representation at a time and in a manner that does not disrupt the processing or adjudication of a claim and that provides the claimant adequate time to find new representation, if desired. A representative should not withdraw after we set the time and place for the hearing (see Sec. 416.1436) unless the representative can show that a withdrawal is necessary due to extraordinary circumstances, as we determine on a case-by-case basis. (v) Maintain prompt and timely communication with the claimant, which includes, but is not limited to, reasonably informing the claimant of all matters concerning the representation, consulting with the claimant on an ongoing basis during the entire representational period, and promptly responding to a claimant's reasonable requests for information. When we evaluate whether a representative has maintained prompt and timely communication with the claimant, we will consider the difficulty the representative has in locating a particular claimant (e.g., because the claimant is homeless) and the representative's efforts to keep that claimant informed. * * * * * (5) Disclose in writing, at the time a medical or vocational opinion is submitted to us or as soon as the representative is aware of the submission to us, if: (i) The representative's employee or any individual contracting with the representative drafted, prepared, or issued the medical or vocational opinion; or (ii) The representative referred or suggested that the claimant seek an examination from, treatment by, or the assistance of, the individual providing opinion evidence. (6) Disclose to us immediately if the representative discovers that his or her services are or were used by the claimant to commit fraud against us. (7) Disclose to us whether the representative is or has been disbarred or suspended from any bar or court to which he or she was previously admitted to practice, including instances in which a bar or court took administrative action to disbar or suspend the representative in lieu of disciplinary proceedings (e.g. acceptance of voluntary resignation pending disciplinary action). If the disbarment or suspension occurs after the appointment of the representative, the representative will immediately disclose the disbarment or suspension to us. [[Page 30858]] (8) Disclose to us whether the representative is or has been disqualified from participating in or appearing before any Federal program or agency, including instances in which a Federal program or agency took administrative action to disqualify the representative in lieu of disciplinary proceedings (e.g. acceptance of voluntary resignation pending disciplinary action). If the disqualification occurs after the appointment of the representative, the representative will immediately disclose the disqualification to us. (9) Disclose to us whether the representative has been removed from practice or suspended by a professional licensing authority for reasons that reflect on the person's character, integrity, judgment, reliability, or fitness to serve as a fiduciary. If the removal or suspension occurs after the appointment of the representative, the representative will immediately disclose the removal or suspension to us. (10) Ensure that all of the representative's employees, assistants, partners, contractors, or any person assisting the representative on claims for which the representative has been appointed, comply with these rules of conduct and standards of responsibility for representatives, when the representative has managerial or supervisory authority over these individuals or otherwise has responsibility to oversee their work. This includes a duty to take remedial action when: (i) The representative's employees, assistants, partners, contractors or other individuals' conduct violates these rules of conduct and standards of responsibility; and (ii) The representative has reason to believe a violation of these rules of conduct and standards of responsibility occurred or will occur. (c) * * * (1) In any manner or by any means threaten, coerce, intimidate, deceive or knowingly mislead a claimant, or prospective claimant or beneficiary, regarding benefits or other rights under the Act. This prohibition includes misleading a claimant, or prospective claimant or beneficiary, about the representative's services and qualifications. (2) Knowingly charge, collect or retain, or make any arrangement to charge, collect or retain, from any source, directly or indirectly, any fee for representational services in violation of applicable law or regulation. This prohibition includes soliciting any gift or any other item of value, other than what is authorized by law. (3) Make or present, or participate in the making or presentation of, false or misleading oral or written statements, evidence, assertions, or representations about a material fact or law concerning a matter within our jurisdiction, in matters where the representative knows or should have known that those statements, evidence, assertions or representations are false or misleading. (4) Through his or her own actions or omissions, unreasonably delay or cause to be delayed, without good cause (see Sec. 416.1411(b)), the processing of a claim at any stage of the administrative decision- making process. (5) Divulge, without the claimant's consent, except as may be authorized by regulations prescribed by us or as otherwise provided by Federal law, any information we furnish or disclose about a claim or prospective claim. (6) Attempt to influence, directly or indirectly, the outcome of a decision, determination, or other administrative action by any means prohibited by law, or offering or granting a loan, gift, entertainment, or anything of value to a presiding official, agency employee, or witness who is or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the administrative decision-making process, except as reimbursement for legitimately incurred expenses or lawful compensation for the services of an expert witness retained on a non-contingency basis to provide evidence. (7) * * * (ii) Behavior that has the effect of improperly disrupting proceedings or obstructing the adjudicative process, including but not limited to: (A) Directing threatening or intimidating language, gestures, or actions at a presiding official, witness, contractor, or agency employee; (B) Providing misleading information or misrepresenting facts that affect how we process a claim, including, but not limited to, information relating to the claimant's work activity or the claimant's place of residence or mailing address in matters where the representative knows or should have known that the information was misleading and the facts would constitute a misrepresentation; and (C) Communicating with agency staff or adjudicators outside the normal course of business or other prescribed procedures in an attempt to inappropriately influence the processing or outcome of a claim(s). (8) Violate any section of the Act for which a criminal or civil monetary penalty is prescribed. (9) Refuse to comply with any of our rules or regulations. (10) Suggest, assist, or direct another person to violate our rules or regulations. (11) Advise any claimant or beneficiary not to comply with any of our rules or regulations. (12) Knowingly assist a person whom we suspended or disqualified to provide representational services in a proceeding under title XVI of the Act, or to exercise the authority of a representative described in Sec. 416.1510. (13) Fail to comply with our sanction(s) decision. (14) Fail to oversee the representative's employees, assistants, partners, contractors, or any other person assisting the representative on claims for which the representative has been appointed when the representative has managerial or supervisory authority over these individuals or otherwise has responsibility to oversee their work. 0 16. Amend Sec. 416.1545 by revising paragraphs (d) and (e) and adding paragraph (f) to read as follows: Sec. 416.1545 Violations of our requirements, rules, or standards. * * * * * (d) Has been, by reason of misconduct, disbarred or suspended from any bar or court to which he or she was previously admitted to practice (see Sec. 416.1570(a)); (e) Has been, by reason of misconduct, disqualified from participating in or appearing before any Federal program or agency (see Sec. 416.1570(a)); or (f) Who, as a non-attorney, has been removed from practice or suspended by a professional licensing authority for reasons that reflect on the person's character, integrity, judgment, reliability, or fitness to serve as a fiduciary. 0 17. Amend Sec. 416.1550 by revising paragraphs (c), (d), (e)(2), and (f) to read as follows: Sec. 416.1550 Notice of charges against a representative. * * * * * (c) We will advise the representative to file an answer, within 14 business days from the date of the notice, or from the date the notice was delivered personally, stating why he or she should not be suspended or disqualified from acting as a representative in dealings with us. (d) The General Counsel or other delegated official may extend the 14-day period specified in paragraph (c) of this section for good cause in accordance with Sec. 416.1411. (e) * * * (2) File the answer with the Social Security Administration, at the address [[Page 30859]] specified on the notice, within the 14-day time period specified in paragraph (c) of this section. (f) If the representative does not file an answer within the 14-day time period specified in paragraph (c) of this section (or the period extended in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section), he or she does not have the right to present evidence, except as may be provided in Sec. 416.1565(g). 0 18. Revise Sec. 416.1555 to read as follows: Sec. 416.1555 Withdrawing charges against a representative. The General Counsel or other delegated official may withdraw charges against a representative. We will withdraw charges if the representative files an answer, or we obtain evidence, that satisfies us that we should not suspend or disqualify the representative from acting as a representative. When we consider withdrawing charges brought under Sec. 416.1545(d) through (f) based on the representative's assertion that, before or after our filing of charges, the representative has been reinstated to practice by the court, bar, or Federal program or Federal agency that suspended, disbarred, or disqualified the representative, the General Counsel or other delegated official will determine whether such reinstatement occurred, whether it remains in effect, and whether he or she is reasonably satisfied that the representative will in the future act in accordance with the provisions of section 206(a) of the Act and our rules and regulations. If the representative proves that reinstatement occurred and remains in effect and the General Counsel or other delegated official is so satisfied, the General Counsel or other delegated official will withdraw those charges. The action of the General Counsel or other delegated official regarding withdrawal of charges is solely that of the General Counsel or other delegated official and is not reviewable, or subject to consideration in decisions made under Sec. Sec. 416.1570 and 416.1590. If we withdraw the charges, we will notify the representative by mail at the representative's last known address. 0 19. Amend Sec. 416.1565 by revising paragraphs (b)(1), (c), (d)(1) and (3), and (g)(1) and (3) as follows: Sec. 416.1565 Hearing on charges. * * * * * (b) Hearing officer. (1) The Deputy Commissioner for the Office of Hearings Operations or other delegated official will assign an administrative law judge, designated to act as a hearing officer, to hold a hearing on the charges. * * * * * (c) Time and place of hearing. The hearing officer shall mail the parties a written notice of the hearing at their last known addresses, at least 14 calendar days before the date set for the hearing. The notice will inform the parties whether the appearance of the parties or any witnesses will be in person, by video teleconferencing, or by telephone. The notice will also include requirements and instructions for filing motions, requesting witnesses, and entering exhibits. (d) Change of time and place for hearing. (1) The hearing officer may change the time and place for the hearing, either on his or her own initiative, or at the request of the representative or the other party to the hearing. The hearing officer will not consider objections to the manner of appearance of parties or witnesses, unless the party shows good cause not to appear in the prescribed manner. To determine whether good cause exists for extending the deadline, we use the standards explained in Sec. 416.1411. * * * * * (3) Subject to the limitations in paragraph (g)(2) of this section, the hearing officer may reopen the hearing for the receipt of additional evidence at any time before mailing notice of the decision. * * * * * (g) Conduct of the hearing. (1) The representative or the other party may file a motion for decision on the basis of the record prior to the hearing. The hearing officer will give the representative and the other party a reasonable amount of time to submit any evidence and to file briefs or other written statements as to fact and law prior to deciding the motion. If the hearing officer concludes that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and the movant is entitled to a decision as a matter of law, the hearing officer may grant the motion and issue a decision in accordance with the provisions of Sec. 416.1570. * * * * * (3) The hearing officer will make the hearing open to the representative, to the other party, and to any persons the hearing officer or the parties consider necessary or proper. The hearing officer will inquire fully into the matters being considered, hear the testimony of witnesses, and accept any documents that are material. * * * * * 0 20. Revise Sec. 416.1575(b) to read as follows: Sec. 416.1575 Requesting review of the hearing officer's decision. * * * * * (b) Time and place of filing request for review. The party requesting review will file the request for review in writing with the Appeals Council within 14 business days from the date the hearing officer mailed the notice. The party requesting review will certify that a copy of the request for review and of any documents that are submitted have been mailed to the opposing party. 0 21. Revise Sec. 416.1580(a) to read as follows: Sec. 416.1580 Appeals Council's review of hearing officer's decision. (a) Upon request, the Appeals Council will give the parties a reasonable time to file briefs or other written statements as to fact and law, and to request to appear before the Appeals Council to present oral argument. When oral argument is requested within the time designated by the Appeals Council, the Appeals Council will grant the request for oral argument and determine whether the parties will appear at the oral argument in person, by video teleconferencing, or by telephone. If oral argument is not requested within the time designated by the Appeals Council, the Appeals Council may deny the request. * * * * * 0 22. Revise Sec. 416.1585 to read as follows: Sec. 416.1585 Evidence permitted on review. (a) General. Generally, the Appeals Council will not consider evidence in addition to that introduced at the hearing. However, if the Appeals Council finds the evidence offered is material to an issue it is considering, it may consider that evidence, as described in paragraph (b) of this section. (b) Individual charged filed an answer. (1) When the Appeals Council finds that additional evidence material to the charges is available, and the individual charged filed an answer to the charges, the Appeals Council will allow the party with the information to submit the additional evidence. (2) Before the Appeals Council admits additional evidence into the record, it will mail a notice to the parties, informing them that evidence about certain issues was submitted. The Appeals Council will give each party a reasonable opportunity to comment on the evidence and to present other evidence that is material to an issue it is considering. (3) The Appeals Council will determine whether the additional [[Page 30860]] evidence warrants a new review by a hearing officer or whether the Appeals Council will consider the additional evidence as part of its review of the case. (c) Individual charged did not file an answer. If the representative did not file an answer to the charges, the representative may not introduce evidence that was not considered at the hearing. 0 23. Amend Sec. 416.1590 by revising paragraph (a) and adding paragraph (f) to read as follows: Sec. 416.1590 Appeals Council's decision. (a) The Appeals Council will base its decision upon the evidence in the hearing record and any other evidence it may permit on review. The Appeals Council will affirm the hearing officer's decision if the action, findings, and conclusions are supported by substantial evidence. If the hearing officer's decision is not supported by substantial evidence, the Appeals Council will either: (1) Reverse or modify the hearing officer's decision; or (2) Return a case to the hearing officer for further proceedings. * * * * * (f) The Appeals Council may designate and publish certain final decisions as precedent for other actions brought under its representative conduct provisions. Prior to making a decision public, we will remove or redact personally identifiable information from the decision. 0 24. Amend Sec. 416.1599 by revising paragraphs (a), (d)(2), and (f) to read as follows: Sec. 416.1599 Reinstatement after suspension or disqualification-- period of suspension not expired. (a) After more than one year has passed, a person who has been suspended or disqualified may ask the Appeals Council for permission to serve as a representative again. The Appeals Council will assign and process a request for reinstatement using the same general procedures described in Sec. 416.1576. * * * * * (d) * * * (2) If a person was disqualified because he or she had been disbarred, suspended, or removed from practice for the reasons described in Sec. 416.1545(d) through (f), the Appeals Council will grant a request for reinstatement as a representative only if the criterion in paragraph (d)(1) of this section is met and the disqualified person shows that he or she has been admitted (or readmitted) to and is in good standing with the court, bar, Federal program or agency, or other governmental or professional licensing authority from which he or she had been disbarred, suspended, or removed from practice. * * * * * (f) If the Appeals Council decides not to grant the request, it will not consider another request before the end of 3 years from the date of the notice of the previous denial. [FR Doc. 2018-13989 Filed 6-29-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4191-02-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 127 / Monday, July 2, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 30849
List of Subjects Consumer Product Safety Commission, before us on behalf of Social Security
Room 820, 4330 East-West Highway, beneficiaries and claimants ethically
16 CFR Part 1112
Bethesda, MD 20814, telephone: 301– and conscientiously assist their clients,
Administrative practice and 504–7923, or at the National Archives we are concerned that some
procedure, Audit, Consumer protection, and Records Administration (NARA). representatives are using our processes
Reporting and recordkeeping For information on the availability of in a way that undermines the integrity
requirements, Third party conformity this material at NARA, call 202–741– of our programs and harms claimants.
assessment body. 6030, or go to: www.archives.gov/ Accordingly, we are clarifying that
16 CFR Part 1237 federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. certain actions are prohibited, and we
are providing additional means to
Consumer protection, Imports, Alberta E. Mills,
address representative actions that do
Incorporation by reference, Infants and Secretary, Consumer Product Safety not serve the best interests of claimants.
children, Labeling, Law enforcement, Commission.
On August 16, 2016,1 we published a
and Toys. [FR Doc. 2018–14133 Filed 6–29–18; 8:45 am]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
For the reasons discussed in the BILLING CODE 6355–01–P in the Federal Register in which we
preamble, the Commission amends 16 proposed clarifications and revisions to
CFR parts 1112 and 1237 as follows: our rules of conduct for representatives.
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION To the extent that we adopt a proposed
PART 1112—REQUIREMENTS change as final without revision, and we
PERTAINING TO THIRD PARTY 20 CFR Parts 404 and 416 already discussed at length the reason
CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT BODIES [Docket No. SSA–2013–0044] for and details of the proposal, we will
■ 1. The authority citation for part 1112 not repeat that information here.
RIN 0960–AH63
continues to read as follows: In response to the NPRM, we received
Rules of Conduct and Standards of 154 timely submitted comments that
Authority: 15 U.S.C. 2063; Pub. L. 110– addressed issues within the scope of our
314, section 3, 122 Stat. 3016, 3017 (2008). Responsibility for Appointed
Representatives proposed rules. Based on those
■ 2. Amend § 1112.15 by adding comments, we are modifying some of
paragraph (b)(47) to read as follows: AGENCY: Social Security Administration. our proposed changes to address
§ 1112.15 When can a third party ACTION: Final rules. concerns that commenters raised. We
conformity assessment body apply for have also made editorial changes
SUMMARY: We are revising our rules of consistent with plain language writing
CPSC acceptance for a particular CPSC rule
and/or test method?
conduct and standards of responsibility requirements. We made conforming
for representatives. We are also changes in other sections not originally
* * * * * updating and clarifying the procedures
(b) * * * edited in the NPRM. Finally, we made
we use when we bring charges against changes to ensure correct paragraph
(47) 16 CFR part 1237, Safety
a representative for violating these rules punctuation in §§ 404.1740 and
Standard for Booster Seats.
and standards. These changes are 416.1540; a nomenclature change to
* * * * * necessary to better protect the integrity
■ 3. Add part 1237 to read as follows:
reflect the organization of our agency in
of our administrative process and to §§ 404.1765(b)(1) and 416.1565(b)(1);
further clarify representatives’ existing and updated a cross-reference in
PART 1237—SAFETY STANDARD FOR responsibilities in their conduct with
BOOSTER SEATS §§ 404.1755 and 416.1555 that refers to
us. The revisions should not be §§ 404.1745 and 416.1545, sections
Sec. interpreted to suggest that any specific reorganized and rewritten in the NPRM
1237.1 Scope. conduct was permissible under our and codified in the final rule.
1237.2 Requirements for booster seats. rules prior to these changes; instead, we
Authority: Sec. 104, Pub. L. 110–314, 122 seek to ensure that our rules of conduct Public Comments and Discussion
Stat. 3016 (August 14, 2008); Sec. 3, Pub. L. and standards of responsibility are Comment: Some commenters
112–28, 125 Stat. 273 (August 12, 2011). clearer as a whole and directly address suggested that our proposed rules would
a broader range of inappropriate deter potential representatives from
§ 1237.1 Scope. conduct. representing claimants in Social
This part establishes a consumer DATES: These final rules will be effective Security matters.
product safety standard for booster August 1, 2018. Response: These rules reflect our
seats. interest in protecting claimants and
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
§ 1237.2 Requirements for booster seats. Sarah Taheri, Office of Appellate ensuring the integrity of our
Each booster seat must comply with Operations, Social Security administrative process, and they do not
all applicable provisions of ASTM Administration, 5107 Leesburg Pike, impose unreasonable standards of
F2640–18, Standard Consumer Safety Falls Church, VA 22041, (703) 605– conduct. These additional rules of
Specification for Booster Seats 7100. For information on eligibility or conduct should not deter competent,
(approved on April 1, 2018). The filing for benefits, call our national toll- knowledgeable, and principled
Director of the Federal Register free number, 1–800–772–1213 or TTY representatives.
approves this incorporation by reference 1–800–325–0778, or visit our internet Comment: Some commenters objected
in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and site, Social Security Online, at http:// to the provision in proposed
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1 CFR part 51. You may obtain a copy www.socialsecurity.gov. § 404.1705(b)(4) and 416.1505(b)(4),
from ASTM International, 100 Bar which includes ‘‘persons convicted of a
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box 0700, West
Conshohocken, PA 19428; http:// Background 1 81 FR 54520. https://www.federalregister.gov/
documents/2016/08/16/2016-19384/revisions-to-
www.astm.org. You may inspect a copy Although the vast majority of rules-of-conduct-and-standards-of-responsibility-
at the Office of the Secretary, U.S. representatives conducting business for-appointed-representatives.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 127 / Monday, July 2, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 30851
efforts. We did not provide any communications concerning legal furtherance of which the client has used
definition of ‘‘incompetent advice between an attorney and client, or is using the lawyer’s services.’’
representation’’ or ‘‘reasonable and nor are we requiring disclosure of Furthermore, the crime-fraud exception
adequate representation,’’ because these detailed communications. We are only to the attorney-client privilege allows a
terms do not appear in the rule. requiring that representatives disclose lawyer to disclose otherwise privileged
Comment: A number of commenters the fact that they made a referral or communications when they are in
were concerned with proposed participated in drafting, preparing, or furtherance of a crime or fraudulent act.
§§ 404.1740(b)(5) and 416.1540(b)(5), issuing an opinion. See Fed. R. of Civ. When a claimant uses a representative’s
which require a representative to P. 26(b)(5)(A) (‘‘When a party withholds services in furtherance of the claimant’s
disclose certain things in writing when information otherwise discoverable by fraud, there is a reasonable certainty
the representative submits a medical or claiming that the information is that the fraud will cause substantial
vocational opinion to us. The privileged or subject to protection as injury to the Social Security trust funds.
commenters specifically raised concerns trial-preparation material, the party Such fraud also undermines public
about the disclosure of physician must . . . describe the nature of the confidence in our programs. Our
referrals and the disclosure requirement documents, communications, or proposed and final rules are fully
when the medical or vocational opinion tangible things not produced or consistent with the exception to
was ‘‘drafted, prepared, or issued’’ by an disclosed—and do so in a manner that, confidentiality found in Model Rule
employee of the representative or an without revealing information itself 1.6(b)(2). The final rules also address
individual contracting with the privileged or protected, will enable the aim of Model Rule 3.3 to limit false
representative for services. Commenters other parties to assess the claim.’’) We or misleading statements, but within the
also stated that the term ‘‘prepared’’ is explain what we mean by the attorney- unique context of the legal and
vague, and it is unclear whether client and attorney work product procedural structure of the Social
disclosure would be required if a privileges more fully in Security programs. Therefore, we are
representative discusses the sequential §§ 404.1513(b)(2) and 416.913(b)(2) of not changing the originally proposed
evaluation process with a provider of an our rules. We will interpret the language.
opinion or supplies a questionnaire for affirmative duty in final Comment: A few commenters asked
a provider to complete. Some §§ 404.1740(b)(5) and 416.1540(b)(5) in us to clarify whether disbarment or
commenters further maintained that light of our interpretation of those disqualification will be an automatic bar
requiring disclosure of physician privileges in §§ 404.1513(b)(2) and to representation, or whether we will
referrals would violate the attorney- 416.913(b)(2). In response to the request address each situation individually
client privilege and that such referrals that the regulation clarify that opinions (proposed §§ 404.1740(b)(7)–(9) and
are irrelevant to the representation of are entitled to the same weight 416.1540(b)(7)–(9)).
the case. Commenters also requested regardless of whether the representative Response: We will address any
that the regulation clarify that opinions requested them, we have other disclosure made pursuant to
are entitled to the same weight regulations that govern how we evaluate §§ 404.1740(b)(7)–(9) and
regardless of whether the representative medical opinion evidence. See 20 CFR 416.1540(b)(7)–(9) on an individual
requested them. Finally, commenters 404.1520c, 404.1527, 416.920c, and basis.
argued that requiring disclosure will 416.927. Comment: Some commenters stated
‘‘chill’’ referrals for those claimants who Comment: Some commenters stated that proposed § 416.1540(b)(10) is too
need them most. that notifying us if a claimant is broad, because representatives often
Response: When a representative committing fraud (proposed refer Supplemental Security Income
submits a medical or vocational opinion §§ 404.1740(b)(6) and 416.1540(b)(6)) (SSI) claimants to special needs trust
to us, he or she has an affirmative duty violates the attorney-client privilege and attorneys, and the proposed language
to disclose to us in writing if the Model Rule 1.6. Commenters also suggests that the representatives would
representative or one of the suggested a more direct adoption of the be responsible for the conduct of the
representative’s employees or provisions of Model Rule 3.3, Candor trust attorneys. Other commenters
contractors participated in drafting, Toward the Tribunal. recommend that the regulation
preparing, or issuing the opinion. For Response: We do not believe that our encompass only those people over
clarity, we consider providing guidance final rule violates either the attorney- whom representatives have supervisory
or providing a questionnaire, template client privilege or Model Rule 1.6. Our authority.
or format to fall within the parameters final rule requires a representative to Response: In response to these
of this rule when the guidance, ‘‘[d]isclose to us immediately if the comments, we have revised the
questionnaire, template or format is representative discovers that his or her language in final §§ 404.1740(b)(10) and
used to draft a medical or vocational services are or were used by the 416.1540(b)(10) to clarify that the
opinion submitted to us. In response to claimant to commit fraud against us.’’ affirmative duty applies ‘‘when the
the concern that the term ‘‘prepared’’ is Model Rule 1.6(b)(2) 2 includes an representative has managerial or
vague, unless the context indicates supervisory authority over these
exception to confidentiality ‘‘to prevent
otherwise, we intend the ordinary individuals or otherwise has
the client from committing a crime or
meaning of words used in our responsibility to oversee their work.’’
fraud that is reasonably certain to result
regulations. We intend the word Further, because this requirement is an
in substantial injury to the financial
‘‘prepared’’ here to have its ordinary affirmative duty, we moved language
interests or property of another and in
meaning. Representatives also have an from proposed §§ 404.1740(c)(14) and
416.1540(c)(14) to §§ 404.1740(b)(10)
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affirmative duty to disclose to us in 2 Rule 1.6, Confidentiality of information. (2013).
writing if the representative referred or In American Bar Association, Center for and 416.1540(b)(10), which outlines the
suggested that the claimant be Professional Responsibility, Model Rules of affirmative duty to take remedial action
examined, treated, or assisted by the Professional Conduct. Retrieved from https:// when: (i) The representative’s
www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_
individual who provided the opinion responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_
employees, assistants, partners,
evidence. However, we are not seeking professional_conduct/rule_1_6_confidentiality_of_ contractors, or other individuals’
privileged or confidential information.html. conduct violates these rules of conduct
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![30852 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 127 / Monday, July 2, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
and standards of responsibility, and (ii) commonly used term in Federal laws Acknowledging the concern about the
the representative has reason to believe and regulations. See, e.g., 42 U.S.C. standard we will use in evaluating this
a violation of these rules of conduct and 1320a–8a(a)(1). type of situation, we are changing the
standards of responsibility will occur. Comment: A few commenters stated ‘‘has or should have reason to believe’’
We revised the language of final that proposed §§ 404.1740(c)(7)(ii)(C) language in the proposed rule to ‘‘knows
§§ 404.1740(c)(14) and 415.1540(c)(14) and 416.1540(c)(7)(ii)(C) should clarify or should have known’’ in the final rule.
to prohibit representatives from failing that representatives may contact SSA This provision addresses only situations
to oversee other individuals working on staff regarding matters such as case where the representative knows or
the claims on which the representative status, requests for critical case flags, should have known that specific
is appointed when the representative Congressional inquiries, or when SSA statements, evidence, assertions, or
has managerial or supervisory authority staff ask the representative to contact representations are false or misleading.
over these individuals or otherwise has them. Comment: Commenters objected to
responsibility to oversee their work. Response: We did not make any the 14-day limit to respond to charges
Comment: Some commenters objected changes in response to these comments. and proposed that the 30-day limit in
to proposed §§ 404.1740(c)(1) and The proposed and final rules the current rules should be maintained
416.1540(c)(1), which prohibit specifically states that representatives (proposed §§ 404.1750 and 416.1550).
‘‘misleading a claimant, or prospective should not communicate with agency Response: We did not adopt this
claimant or beneficiary, about the staff ‘‘outside the normal course of suggestion, because we believe that 14
representative’s services and business or other prescribed procedures days allows for a more timely resolution
qualifications.’’ Commenters asked in an attempt to inappropriately of misconduct matters. The 14-day
whether it would be misleading if a influence the processing or outcome of timeframe provides the representative
claimant refers to a non-attorney a claim(s).’’ Matters such as case status with sufficient time to respond to
representative as an attorney, and the inquiries, requests for critical case flags, charges, which typically consists only of
representative does not correct them. and Congressional inquiries are not affirming or denying various factual
Response: Not correcting a known outside the normal course of business, allegations. However, in response to the
misconception about the nor would they be attempts to commenters’ concerns that the proposed
representative’s status as a non-attorney inappropriately influence the processing rule did not give representatives
is ‘‘misleading a claimant,’’ as or outcome of a claim. adequate time to respond to the charges,
contemplated under this prohibition. Comment: Some commenters asked we added the term ‘‘business’’ to clarify
Comment: A few commenters whether a representative would be that the time limit is 14 business days.
objected to the language of proposed guilty of misleading an ALJ if an ALJ Comment: One commenter suggested
§ 404.1740(c)(7)(ii)(B), which prohibits finds that a claimant’s statements are that representatives be suspended from
‘‘[p]roviding misleading information or ‘‘not fully credible.’’ These commenters representing clients until the sanction
misrepresenting facts . . . where the also recommend adding ‘‘knowingly’’ to process is complete.
representative has or should have proposed §§ 404.1740(c)(3) and Response: The Social Security Act
reason to believe the information was 416.1540(c)(3). Other commenters stated requires that we give a representative
misleading and the facts would that requiring representatives to disclose notice and opportunity for a hearing
constitute a misrepresentation.’’ These before we suspend or disqualify him or
matters of which they do not have
commenters stated that many claimants her from practicing before us. We have
actual knowledge would ‘‘chill’’
are mentally ill, and it is difficult to long allowed representatives to continue
advocacy.
ascertain whether a client is providing to practice before us until there is a final
Response: On March 16, 2016, we
accurate facts. The commenters also decision on the case. We will continue
published Social Security Ruling (SSR)
objected to the term ‘‘should,’’ stating to impose sanctions only after the
16–3p, ‘‘Titles II and XVI: Evaluation of
that it is overly vague. A few administrative sanctions process is
Symptoms in Disability Claims’’ in the
commenters believe the standard completed.
Federal Register.3 In this SSR, we
‘‘knowingly’’ should be added. Comment: Some commenters
eliminated the use of the term
Commenters also stated that this suggested that a representative should
‘‘credibility’’ from our sub-regulatory
regulation conflicted with our rule on not have to show good cause for
policy, because our regulations do not
the submission of evidence, which objecting to the manner of hearing
requires representatives to submit all use this term. In doing so, we clarified
(proposed §§ 404.1765(d) and
available evidence. that subjective symptom evaluation is
416.1565(d)). One commenter stated
Response: Based on the comments, we not an examination of an individual’s
that a hearing should always be in
have changed the ‘‘has or should have character. Instead, we will more closely
person unless a party can demonstrate
reason to believe’’ language of the follow our regulatory language regarding
that there is no genuine dispute as to
proposed rule to ‘‘knows or should have symptom evaluation. With respect to the
any material fact.
known’’ in the final rule. Whether or not commenters’ concerns, the regulations Response: The hearing officer is in the
a claimant is mentally ill, a include a number of factors that must be best position to decide how to conduct
representative will violate the standard considered when evaluating symptoms, a particular hearing in the most effective
in the final rule if he or she presents but a representative will not be found to and efficient manner. A ‘‘good cause’’
information that he or she knows to be be misleading an ALJ based solely on standard for objecting to the manner of
false or circumstances demonstrate that the results of this evaluation. the hearing ensures that any objection to
the representative should have known it 3 81 FR 14166 (March 16, 2016). https://
this issue is well-founded.
to be false. This rule does not conflict Comment: A few commenters stated
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www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/03/16/
with our rule requiring representatives 2016-05916/social-security-ruling-16-3p-titles-ii- that 14 days is insufficient time to
to submit all evidence, because a false and-xvi-evaluation-of-symptoms-in-disability- request review of a hearing officer’s
document is not evidence as claims. Corrected at 81 FR 15776 (March 24, 2016). decision (proposed §§ 404.1775 and
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/
contemplated under §§ 404.1513 and 03/24/2016-06598/social-security-ruling-16-3p-
416.1575). The commenters requested
416.913. Further, ‘‘should’’ is not an titles-ii-and-xvi-evaluation-of-symptoms-in- that the rule clarify whether it refers to
overly broad standard and is a disability-claims. business or calendar days.
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Response: In response to these and commenters’ concerns about privacy, because they affect individuals only.
other related comments, we adopted we take concerns regarding personally Therefore, a regulatory flexibility
this suggestion and added the word identifiable information seriously, and analysis is not required under the
‘‘business’’ to clarify that the 14-day the final rule makes clear that we will Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended.
period means 14 business days. remove or redact any personally
Comment: Some commenters stated Paperwork Reduction Act
identifiable information from the
that proposed §§ 404.1785 and 416.1585 decisions. These final rules contain information
shift the burden from the Appeals Comment: One commenter stated that collection burdens in §§ 404.1740(b)(5)
Council to representatives to obtain proposed § 404.1790 should use a through (9) and 416.1540(b)(5) through
evidence. They stated that by changing ‘‘preponderance of the evidence’’ (b)(9) that require OMB clearance under
the language from the Appeals Council standard rather than the ‘‘substantial the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
‘‘shall require that the evidence be evidence standard.’’ (PRA). As the PRA requires, we
obtained’’ to ‘‘the Appeals Council will Response: The Appeals Council is an submitted a clearance request to OMB
allow the party with the information to appellate body that generally reviews for approval of these sections. We will
submit the additional evidence,’’ the decisions using the substantial evidence publish the OMB number and
regulation relieves the Appeals Council standard.5 Therefore, we are not expiration date upon approval.
of the responsibility for obtaining changing this language. Further, these final rules contain
evidence and allows the Appeals Comment: Some commenters stated information collection activities at 20
Council to ignore evidence submitted by that the word ‘‘may’’ should be changed CFR 404.1750(c) and (e)(2),
another party. to ‘‘will’’ in proposed §§ 404.1790(f) and 404.1765(g)(1), 404.1775(b),
Response: We changed the language 416.1590(f), which state, ‘‘Prior to 404.1799(d)(2), 416.1550(c) and (e)(2),
in §§ 404.1785 and 416.1585 for clarity. making a decision public, we may 416.1565(g)(1), 416.1575(b), and
In the adversarial proceedings to remove or redact information from the 416.1599(d)(2). However, 44 U.S.C.
sanction representatives, the obligation decision.’’ 3518(c)(1)(B)(ii) exempts these activities
to provide evidence to the Appeals Response: We adopted this comment from the OMB clearance requirements
Council is, and has always been, on the and changed ‘‘may’’ to ‘‘will.’’ We will under the Paperwork Reduction Act of
party with the information. redact any personally identifiable 1995.
Accordingly, we are not changing the information from the decisions. We published an NPRM on August
language proposed in the NPRM. Comment: One commenter stated that 16, 2016 at 81 FR 54520. In that NPRM,
Comment: Some commenters asked the 3-year ban on reinstatement after we solicited comments under the PRA
that we clarify which decisions we will suspension is too harsh. on the burden estimate; the need for the
publish and when we will publish them Response: The 3-year prohibition is information; its practical utility; ways to
(proposed §§ 404.1790(f) and actually a 3-year wait to reapply for enhance its quality, utility and clarity;
416.1590(f)). They also inquired as to reinstatement and we believe it is and on ways to minimize the burden on
whether the public will have access to appropriate, because our experience respondents, including the use of
the published decisions, and they shows that when the Appeals Council automated collection techniques or
expressed concern that the decisions denies a request for reinstatement, the other forms of information technology.
might contain personally identifiable representative typically has not taken We received no public comments
information. appropriate action to remedy the relating to any of these issues. We will
Response: On June 16, 2017, the violation or does not understand its not collect the information referenced in
Administrative Conference of the severity. We are implementing this these burden sections until we receive
United States (ACUS) adopted change to ensure more thoroughly OMB approval.
Recommendation 2017–1, supported requests for reinstatement.
(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
‘‘Adjudication Materials on Agency Regulatory Procedures Program Nos. 96.001, Social Security—
Websites.’’ 4 ACUS recommended that Disability Insurance; 96.002, Social
‘‘[a]gencies should consider providing Executive Order 12866 as Security—Retirement Insurance; 96.004,
access on their websites to decisions Supplemented by Executive Order Social Security—Survivors Insurance; and
and supporting materials (e.g., 13563 96.006, Supplemental Security Income)
pleadings, motions, briefs) issued and We consulted with the Office of List of Subjects
filed in adjudicative proceedings.’’ Management and Budget (OMB) and
ACUS also recommended that determined that these final rules meet 20 CFR Part 404
‘‘[a]gencies that adjudicate large the criteria for a significant regulatory Administrative practice and
volumes of cases that do not vary action under Executive Order 12866, as procedure, Blind, Disability benefits,
considerably in terms of their factual supplemented by Executive Order Old-age, survivors, and disability
contexts or the legal analyses employed 13563 and are subject to OMB review. insurance, Reporting and recordkeeping
in their dispositions should consider requirements, Social Security.
Executive Order 13771
disclosing on their websites a 20 CFR Part 416
representative sampling of actual cases This rule is not subject to the
and associated adjudication materials.’’ requirements of Executive Order 13771 Administrative practice and
We will work with ACUS with respect because it is administrative in nature procedure, Aged, Blind, Disability
to this recommendation, and we will and results in no more than de minimis benefits, Public assistance programs,
provide details in sub-regulatory costs. Reporting and recordkeeping
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
guidance of how we will publish requirements, Supplemental Security
Regulatory Flexibility Act
decisions after these final rules become Income (SSI).
effective. In response to the We certify that these final rules will
not have a significant economic impact Nancy A. Berryhill,
on a substantial number of small entities Acting Commissioner of Social Security.
4 Administrative Conference of the United States,
Recommendation 2017–1, Adjudication Materials For the reasons set out in the
on Agency Websites, 82 FR 31039 (July 5, 2017). 5 20 CFR 404.970(a)(3), 416.1470(a)(3). preamble, we amend 20 CFR chapter III,
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![30854 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 127 / Monday, July 2, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
parts 404 and part 416, as set forth administrative decision-making process, (i) The representative’s employee or
below: including duties to: any individual contracting with the
(i) Provide competent representation representative drafted, prepared, or
PART 404—FEDERAL OLD-AGE, to a claimant. Competent representation issued the medical or vocational
SURVIVORS AND DISABILITY requires the knowledge, skill, opinion; or
INSURANCE (1950– ) thoroughness, and preparation (ii) The representative referred or
reasonably necessary for the suggested that the claimant seek an
Subpart R—[Amended] representation. A representative must examination from, treatment by, or the
■ 1. The authority citation for subpart R know the significant issue(s) in a claim, assistance of, the individual providing
of part 404 continues to read as follows: have reasonable and adequate opinion evidence.
familiarity with the evidence in the (6) Disclose to us immediately if the
Authority: Secs. 205(a), 206, 702(a)(5), and case, and have a working knowledge of representative discovers that his or her
1127 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
the applicable provisions of the Social services are or were used by the
405(a), 406, 902(a)(5), and 1320a–6).
Security Act, as amended, the claimant to commit fraud against us.
■ 2. Revise § 404.1705(b) to read as regulations, the Social Security Rulings, (7) Disclose to us whether the
follows: and any other applicable provisions of representative is or has been disbarred
§ 404.1705 Who may be your
law. or suspended from any bar or court to
representative. (ii) Act with reasonable diligence and which he or she was previously
promptness in representing a claimant. admitted to practice, including
* * * * *
This includes providing prompt and instances in which a bar or court took
(b) You may appoint any person who
responsive answers to our requests for administrative action to disbar or
is not an attorney to be your
information pertinent to processing of suspend the representative in lieu of
representative in dealings with us if the
the claim. disciplinary proceedings (e.g.
person—
(iii) When requested, provide us, in a acceptance of voluntary resignation
(1) Is capable of giving valuable help
manner we specify, potential dates and pending disciplinary action). If the
to you in connection with your claim;
times that the representative will be disbarment or suspension occurs after
(2) Is not disqualified or suspended
available for a hearing. We will inform the appointment of the representative,
from acting as a representative in
the representative how many potential the representative will immediately
dealings with us;
dates and times we require to coordinate disclose the disbarment or suspension
(3) Is not prohibited by any law from
the hearing schedule. to us.
acting as a representative; and
(4) Is generally known to have a good (iv) Only withdraw representation at (8) Disclose to us whether the
character and reputation. Persons a time and in a manner that does not representative is or has been
lacking good character and reputation, disrupt the processing or adjudication of disqualified from participating in or
include, but are not limited to, persons a claim and that provides the claimant appearing before any Federal program or
who have a final conviction of a felony adequate time to find new agency, including instances in which a
(as defined by § 404.1506(c)) or any representation, if desired. A Federal program or agency took
crime involving moral turpitude, representative should not withdraw administrative action to disqualify the
dishonesty, false statements, after we set the time and place for the representative in lieu of disciplinary
misrepresentation, deceit, or theft. hearing (see § 404.936) unless the proceedings (e.g. acceptance of
representative can show that a voluntary resignation pending
* * * * * withdrawal is necessary due to disciplinary action). If the
■ 3. Amend § 404.1740 as follows: extraordinary circumstances, as we disqualification occurs after the
■ a. Revise paragraphs (b)(2)(vii) and determine on a case-by-case basis. appointment of the representative, the
(b)(3); (v) Maintain prompt and timely representative will immediately disclose
■ b. Add paragraphs (b)(5) through (10); communication with the claimant, the disqualification to us.
■ c. Revise paragraphs (c)(1) through (6) which includes, but is not limited to, (9) Disclose to us whether the
and (c)(7)(ii); reasonably informing the claimant of all representative has been removed from
■ d. Remove paragraph (c)(7)(iii); matters concerning the representation, practice or suspended by a professional
■ e. Revise paragraphs (c)(8) through consulting with the claimant on an licensing authority for reasons that
(13); and ongoing basis during the entire reflect on the person’s character,
■ f. Add paragraph (c)(14). representational period, and promptly integrity, judgment, reliability, or fitness
The revisions and additions read as responding to a claimant’s reasonable to serve as a fiduciary. If the removal or
follows: requests for information. When we suspension occurs after the appointment
§ 404.1740 Rules of conduct and evaluate whether a representative has of the representative, the representative
standards of responsibility for maintained prompt and timely will immediately disclose the removal
representatives. communication with the claimant, we or suspension to us.
* * * * * will consider the difficulty the (10) Ensure that all of the
(b) * * * representative has in locating a representative’s employees, assistants,
(2) * * * particular claimant (e.g., because the partners, contractors, or any person
(vii) Any other factors showing how claimant is homeless) and the assisting the representative on claims
the claimant’s impairment(s) affects his representative’s efforts to keep that for which the representative has been
or her ability to work. In §§ 404.1560 claimant informed. appointed, comply with these rules of
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
through 404.1569a, we discuss in more * * * * * conduct and standards of responsibility
detail the evidence we need when we (5) Disclose in writing, at the time a for representatives, when the
consider vocational factors. medical or vocational opinion is representative has managerial or
(3) Conduct his or her dealings in a submitted to us or as soon as the supervisory authority over these
manner that furthers the efficient, fair, representative is aware of the individuals or otherwise has
and orderly conduct of the submission to us, if: responsibility to oversee their work.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 127 / Monday, July 2, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 30857
redact personally identifiable (3) Is not prohibited by any law from (iv) Only withdraw representation at
information from the decision. acting as a representative; and a time and in a manner that does not
■ 12. Amend § 404.1799 by revising (4) Is generally known to have a good disrupt the processing or adjudication of
paragraphs (a), (d)(2), and (f) to read as character and reputation. Persons a claim and that provides the claimant
follows: lacking good character and reputation, adequate time to find new
include, but are not limited to, persons representation, if desired. A
§ 404.1799 Reinstatement after who have a final conviction of a felony representative should not withdraw
suspension or disqualification—period of (as defined by § 404.1506(c) of this after we set the time and place for the
suspension not expired. chapter), or any crime involving moral hearing (see § 416.1436) unless the
(a) After more than one year has turpitude, dishonesty, false statement, representative can show that a
passed, a person who has been misrepresentations, deceit, or theft. withdrawal is necessary due to
suspended or disqualified may ask the extraordinary circumstances, as we
* * * * *
Appeals Council for permission to serve
■ 15. Amend § 416.1540 follows: determine on a case-by-case basis.
as a representative again. The Appeals
■ a. Revise paragraphs (b)(2)(vii) and (v) Maintain prompt and timely
Council will assign and process a
(b)(3); communication with the claimant,
request for reinstatement using the same ■ b. Add paragraphs (b)(5) through (10); which includes, but is not limited to,
general procedures described in ■ c. Revise paragraphs (c)(1) through (6) reasonably informing the claimant of all
§ 404.1776. and (c)(7)(ii); matters concerning the representation,
* * * * * ■ d. Remove paragraph (c)(7)(iii); consulting with the claimant on an
(d) * * * ■ e. Revise paragraphs (c)(8) through ongoing basis during the entire
(2) If a person was disqualified (13); and representational period, and promptly
because he or she had been disbarred, ■ f. Add paragraph (c)(14).
responding to a claimant’s reasonable
suspended, or removed from practice for The revisions and additions read as
requests for information. When we
the reasons described in § 404.1745(d) follows:
evaluate whether a representative has
through (f), the Appeals Council will
§ 416.1540 Rules of conduct and maintained prompt and timely
grant a request for reinstatement as a
standards of responsibility for communication with the claimant, we
representative only if the criterion in representatives.
paragraph (d)(1) of this section is met will consider the difficulty the
and the disqualified person shows that * * * * * representative has in locating a
he or she has been admitted (or (b) * * * particular claimant (e.g., because the
(2) * * * claimant is homeless) and the
readmitted) to and is in good standing (vii) Any other factors showing how
with the court, bar, Federal program or representative’s efforts to keep that
the claimant’s impairment(s) affects his claimant informed.
agency, or other governmental or or her ability to work. In §§ 416.960
professional licensing authority from * * * * *
through 416.969a, we discuss in more (5) Disclose in writing, at the time a
which he or she had been disbarred, detail the evidence we need when we
suspended, or removed from practice. medical or vocational opinion is
consider vocational factors. submitted to us or as soon as the
* * * * * (3) Conduct his or her dealings in a
(f) If the Appeals Council decides not representative is aware of the
manner that furthers the efficient, fair,
to grant the request, it will not consider submission to us, if:
and orderly conduct of the
another request before the end of 3 years (i) The representative’s employee or
administrative decision-making process,
from the date of the notice of the any individual contracting with the
including duties to:
previous denial. (i) Provide competent representation representative drafted, prepared, or
to a claimant. Competent representation issued the medical or vocational
PART 416—SUPPLEMENTAL requires the knowledge, skill, opinion; or
SECURITY INCOME FOR THE AGED, thoroughness, and preparation (ii) The representative referred or
BLIND, AND DISABLED reasonably necessary for the suggested that the claimant seek an
representation. A representative must examination from, treatment by, or the
Subpart O—[Amended] assistance of, the individual providing
know the significant issue(s) in a claim,
have reasonable and adequate opinion evidence.
■ 13. The authority citation for subpart
familiarity with the evidence in the (6) Disclose to us immediately if the
O of part 416 continues to read as
case, and have a working knowledge of representative discovers that his or her
follows:
the applicable provisions of the Social services are or were used by the
Authority: Secs. 702(a)(5), 1127, and claimant to commit fraud against us.
1631(d) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Security Act, as amended, the
regulations, the Social Security Rulings, (7) Disclose to us whether the
902(a)(5), 1320a–6, and 1383(d)).
and any other applicable provisions of representative is or has been disbarred
■ 14. Revise § 416.1505(b) to read as or suspended from any bar or court to
follows: law.
(ii) Act with reasonable diligence and which he or she was previously
§ 416.1505 Who may be your promptness in representing a claimant. admitted to practice, including
representative. This includes providing prompt and instances in which a bar or court took
* * * * * responsive answers to our requests for administrative action to disbar or
(b) You may appoint any person who information pertinent to processing of suspend the representative in lieu of
is not an attorney to be your the claim. disciplinary proceedings (e.g.
acceptance of voluntary resignation
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
representative in dealings with us if the (iii) When requested, provide us, in a
person— manner we specify, potential dates and pending disciplinary action). If the
(1) Is capable of giving valuable help times that the representative will be disbarment or suspension occurs after
to you in connection with your claim; available for a hearing. We will inform the appointment of the representative,
(2) Is not disqualified or suspended the representative how many potential the representative will immediately
from acting as a representative in dates and times we require to coordinate disclose the disbarment or suspension
dealings with us; the hearing schedule. to us.
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![30860 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 127 / Monday, July 2, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
evidence warrants a new review by a readmitted) to and is in good standing II. Background Information and
hearing officer or whether the Appeals with the court, bar, Federal program or Regulatory History
Council will consider the additional agency, or other governmental or The Coast Guard is issuing this
evidence as part of its review of the professional licensing authority from temporary rule without prior notice and
case. which he or she had been disbarred, opportunity to comment pursuant to
(c) Individual charged did not file an suspended, or removed from practice. authority under section 4(a) of the
answer. If the representative did not file * * * * * Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5
an answer to the charges, the (f) If the Appeals Council decides not U.S.C. 553(b)). This provision
representative may not introduce to grant the request, it will not consider authorizes an agency to issue a rule
evidence that was not considered at the another request before the end of 3 years without prior notice and opportunity to
hearing. from the date of the notice of the comment when the agency for good
■ 23. Amend § 416.1590 by revising previous denial. cause finds that those procedures are
paragraph (a) and adding paragraph (f) [FR Doc. 2018–13989 Filed 6–29–18; 8:45 am] ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary
to read as follows: BILLING CODE 4191–02–P to the public interest.’’ Under 5 U.S.C.
§ 416.1590 Appeals Council’s decision.
553(b)(B), the Coast Guard finds that
good cause exists for not publishing a
(a) The Appeals Council will base its DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
decision upon the evidence in the SECURITY with respect to this rule because doing
hearing record and any other evidence so would be impracticable. The Coast
it may permit on review. The Appeals Coast Guard Guard just recently received the final
Council will affirm the hearing officer’s details of this rowing event, Wyandotte
decision if the action, findings, and 33 CFR Part 100 Invites, which does not provide
conclusions are supported by sufficient time to publish an NPRM
[Docket No. USCG–2018–0626]
substantial evidence. If the hearing prior to the event. Thus, delaying the
officer’s decision is not supported by RIN 1625–AA08
effective date of this rule to wait for a
substantial evidence, the Appeals comment period to run would be
Council will either: Special Local Regulation; Wyandotte
Invites, Detroit River, Trenton Channel, contrary to public interest because it
(1) Reverse or modify the hearing would inhibit the Coast Guard’s ability
officer’s decision; or Wyandotte, MI
to protect participants, mariners and
(2) Return a case to the hearing officer AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. vessels from the hazards associated with
for further proceedings. this event. It is impracticable to publish
ACTION: Temporary final rule.
* * * * * an NPRM because we lack sufficient
(f) The Appeals Council may SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is time to provide a reasonable comment
designate and publish certain final establishing a special local regulation period and then consider those
decisions as precedent for other actions for certain navigable waters of the comments before issuing this rule.
brought under its representative Detroit River, Trenton Channel, Under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), the Coast
conduct provisions. Prior to making a Wyandotte, MI. This action is necessary Guard finds that good cause exists for
decision public, we will remove or and is intended to ensure safety of life making this rule effective less than 30
redact personally identifiable on navigable waters immediately prior days after publication in the Federal
information from the decision. to, during, and immediately after the Register. Delaying the effective date of
■ 24. Amend § 416.1599 by revising Wyandotte Invites event. this rule would inhibit the Coast
paragraphs (a), (d)(2), and (f) to read as DATES: This temporary final rule is Guard’s ability to protect participants,
follows: effective from 8 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on mariners and vessels from the hazards
July 15, 2018. associated with this event.
§ 416.1599 Reinstatement after
suspension or disqualification—period of ADDRESSES: To view documents III. Legal Authority and Need for Rule
suspension not expired. mentioned in this preamble as being
available in the docket, go to http:// The Coast Guard is issuing this rule
(a) After more than one year has under authority in 33 U.S.C. 1233. The
www.regulations.gov, type USCG–2018–
passed, a person who has been Captain of the Port Detroit (COTP) has
0626 in the ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click
suspended or disqualified may ask the determined that the likely combination
‘‘SEARCH.’’ Click on Open Docket
Appeals Council for permission to serve of recreation vessels, commercial
Folder on the line associated with this
as a representative again. The Appeals vessels, and an unknown number of
rule.
Council will assign and process a spectators in close proximity to a youth
request for reinstatement using the same FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If
you have questions on this temporary rowing regatta along the water pose
general procedures described in extra and unusual hazards to public
§ 416.1576. rule, call or email Tracy Girard,
Prevention Department, Sector Detroit, safety and property. Therefore, the
* * * * * COTP is establishing a special local
Coast Guard; telephone 313–568–9564,
(d) * * * regulation around the event location to
or email Tracy.M.Girard@uscg.mil.
(2) If a person was disqualified help minimize risks to safety of life and
because he or she had been disbarred, SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
property during this event.
suspended, or removed from practice for I. Table of Abbreviations
the reasons described in § 416.1545(d) IV. Discussion of the Rule
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
through (f), the Appeals Council will CFR Code of Federal Regulations This rule establishes a temporary
DHS Department of Homeland Security
grant a request for reinstatement as a FR Federal Register
special local regulation from 8 a.m. until
representative only if the criterion in NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 12:30 p.m. on July 15, 2018. In light of
paragraph (d)(1) of this section is met § Section the aforementioned hazards, the COTP
and the disqualified person shows that COTP Captain of the Port has determined that a special local
he or she has been admitted (or U.S.C. United States Code regulation is necessary to protect
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Document Created: 2018-06-30 00:18:28
Document Modified: 2018-06-30 00:18:28
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rules. | |
| Dates | These final rules will be effective August 1, 2018. | |
| Contact | Sarah Taheri, Office of Appellate Operations, Social Security Administration, 5107 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041, (703) 605-7100. For information on eligibility or filing for benefits, call our national toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 or TTY 1-800-325-0778, or visit our internet site, Social Security Online, at http://www.socialsecurity.gov. | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 30849 | |
| RIN Number | 0960-AH63 | |
| CFR Citation | 20
CFR
404 20 CFR 416 | |
| CFR Associated | Administrative Practice and Procedure; Blind; Disability Benefits; Old-Age; Survivors; Disability Insurance; Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements; Social Security; Aged; Public Assistance Programs and Supplemental Security Income (ssi) |
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