Pennsylvania Code & Bulletin
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA

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PA Bulletin, Doc. No. 06-1227a

[36 Pa.B. 3354]
[Saturday, July 1, 2006]

[Continued from previous Web Page]

Regulation Being
Considered
Proposed Date
of Promulgation
Need and Legal Basis for Action Agency Contact
GENERAL SERVICES
Methods of Awarding Contracts
4 Pa. Code
Chapter 69
Summer 2006, as final omitted These regulations should be repealed since they have been superseded by enactment of the Commonwealth Procurement Code. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Processing Subscriptions and Sales of Pennsylvania Code and Related Publications
4 Pa. Code
Chapter 81
Summer 2006, as final omitted These regulations should be repealed since the DGS' Bureau of Management Services no longer has responsibility for processing subscriptions and orders for the Pennsylvania Code. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Surplus State Property
4 Pa. Code
Chapters 41, 43, 45 & 47
Summer 2006, as final omitted. These regulations should be repealed because they do not reflect current law and practice. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Bookstore Operations.
Chapter 83
Summer 2006, as final omitted These regulations should be repealed since the bookstore operations were transferred to the Pa. Historical and Museum Commission by statute. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Distribution of Federally Donated Foods to Needy Households, 4 Pa. Code
Chapters 51, 53 & 55
Summer 2006, as final omitted These regulations should be repealed since the responsibility for this program was transferred to the Dept. of Agriculture. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Committee on Construction Contract Documents, 4 Pa. Code
Chapter 62
Summer 2006, as final omitted The Procurement Code repealed the legislation creating this committee, which no longer exists. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Commonwealth Parking Facilities
4 Pa. Code Chapter 71.
March, 2007, as proposed With construction the parking areas have changed significantly so the regulations need to be repealed or substantially revised. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Responsibility
4 Pa. Code
Chapter 60
July 2006, as proposed This chapter should be amended to be consistent with the Procurement Code and to provide for uniform debarment and suspension procedures. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Death Benefits For Survivors of Fireman and Law Enforcement Officers
4 Pa. Code
Chapter 89
September 2006, as proposed Amendments are needed to this regulation to make it consistent with the changes in the legislation. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Selections Committee,
4 Pa. Code
Chapter 64.
December 2006, as proposed These regulations will be reviewed to ensure that they accurately reflect present practice and are consistent with the Procurement Code. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Emergency Construction Repairs
4 Pa. Code
Chapter 67
February 2007, as proposed The regulation should be amended to more accurately reflect present practice and to delete antiquated contract pro-visions. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Exercise of First Amendment Rights on Commonwealth Property
4 Pa. Code
Chapter 85
March 2007, as proposed The regulation will be rewritten to reflect the current organizational structure and to conform to changes which will be made to the Statement of Policy in Chapter 86. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
Use of the Forum
4 Pa. Code
Chapter 87
November 2006, as proposed The regulations should be amended to reflect the Department's current use of a Rental Agreement instead of a permit and to reflect the current organizational structure. Mary Benefield Seiverling
(717) 772-2749
HEALTH
Health Facility Licensure--General Administrative Chapter & General and Special Hospitals
28 Pa. Code
§ 51.1 et seq.
28 Pa. Code
§ 101.1 et seq.
November 2006, as proposed. The amendments to existing regulations will update the licensure requirements for hospitals and other health care facilities. Pursuant to the Health Care Facilities Act, 35 P. S.§§ 448.101--448.904b. Barbara Holland
717-346-9692
James T. Steele, Jr.
717-783-2500
Communicable Diseases
28 Pa. Code
§ 27.1 et seq.
December 2006, as proposed. The amendments to existing regulations will clarify the Department's authority to perform disease surveillance and investigation. Pursuant to the Disease Prevention and Control Law of 1955, 35 P. S. §§ 521.1--521.21. Yvette M. Kostelac
717-783-2500
Head Injury Program
December 2006, as proposed The amendments to existing regulations will address client enrollment and provider issues. Pursuant to 35 P. S. § 6934(e). Crystal Fox
717-783-2500
Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infant's and Children (WIC)
28 Pa. Code
§ 1101.1 et seq.
June 2006, as final-omitted The amendments to existing regulations will bring the Commonwealth into compliance with the requirements of the federal Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 and allow participants to use WIC vouchers at any WIC authorized store. The amendments will also prohibit authorization of stores that get more than 50% of their annual food revenue from the sale of WIC foods and clarify the availability of minimum inventory during store reviews. Robert Datorre
717-783-2500
School Immunization Requirements
28 Pa. Code
§§ 23.83 and 23.86
July 2006, as proposed The amendments to existing regulations will revise immunization requirements for school entry and attendance, add a grace period for the provision of vaccinations in order for them to be considered valid, and change school reporting requirements to require reporting of doses of vaccine given. Pursuant to the Disease Prevention and Control Law of 1955 35 P. S. § 521.1 et seq.; the Administrative Code of 1921 (71 P. S. § 541(c.1)) and the Public School Code of 1949 (24 P. S. § 13-1303a). Yvette M. Kostelac
717-783-2500
HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY
No regulations being developed or considered at this date.
INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AUTHORITY
25 Pa. Code §§ 963.12(a)(6) and (7) 963.13(b) 2,
963.13(c),
963.14(a),
963.15(a), and 25 Pa. Code § 965.4((9).
Spring 2007 PENNVEST recommends the following revisions:
(1).  Delete 25 Pa. Code § 963.12(a) (6) in its entirety and the second sentence of 25 Pa. Code § 963.13(b)(2) thereby allowing PENNVEST to provide financial assistance (loan or grant) for costs associated with the development of an approvable official sewage plan under the Sewage Facilities Act, 35 P. S. § 750.1 et seq.
(2).  Delete 25 Pa. Code § 963.12(a)(7) thereby allowing PENNVEST to provide financial assistance (loan and grant) for costs associated with the extraction for profit of minerals or other resources from wastewater or sludge whether the project is sponsored by a public or private actor.
(3).  Amend 25 Pa. Code § 963.13 (c) by revising the section to provide for an amortization of advance funding loans with a term of 59 months of interest only and repayment on principal and interest on the 60th month.
(4).  Amend 25 Pa. Code § 963.14(a) by revising the section to clarify when the use of an affordability analysis for the award of grants is necessary.
(5).  Amend 25 Pa. Code § 963.15(a) by revising the first sentence to provide for a change in the normal loan term to allow 3 years of interest only preceding the 20 year term.
(6).  Amend 25 Pa. Code § 965.4 (9) to allow for eligible land costs under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970.
Shawn W. Weis
(717)-783-6776
INSURANCE
Producer Licensing, 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 37, §§ 37.1--37.84
Summer/Fall 2006, as proposed. Act 147 of 2002 sets new standards for Producers in the Commonwealth. This chapter will be repealed and replace with new regulation consistent with the statute. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law--Evidence of Financial Responsibility, 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 67, §§ 67.21-28
Summer 2006, as proposed Amend to make the regulation consistent with statutory requirements. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Credit Life Insurance & Credit Accident & Health Insurance, 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 73, §§ 73.103 & 73.138
Spring 2006, as final. Amend the regulation to meet NAIC standards. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Replace Life Insurance Annuities, 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 81, §§ 81.1--9
Fall/Winter 2006, as proposed. Amend pursuant to Executive Order 1996-1. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Minimum Reserve Standards for Individual and Group Health and Accident Insurance Contracts, 31 Pa. Code, §§ 84a.1--84a.8 Spring 2006, as final. Amend the regulation to new minimum standards adopted by the NAIC. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Life Insurance Illustrations
(New Chapter 87a)
Fall/Winter 2006, as proposed. Act 154 of 1996 provides for life insurance illustration requirements for life insurance policies. The statute sunsets when a life insurance illustration regulation becomes effective. A life insurance illustration regulation will eliminate misleading illustrations, make illustrations more understandable, and standardize terms and illustration formats for the entire life insurance industry. Further, it is more appropriate that technical requirements, such as these, appear in a regulation rather than in statutory form. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Cash Advances to Insurance Companies 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 105, §§ 105.1--105.2
Spring 2006, as proposed. Review to determine whether to amend or repeal based on statutory amendments enacted in 2004 (Act No. 216 of 2004). Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Property and Casualty Actuarial Opinion, 31 Pa. Code, §§ 118a.1--118a.7 (NEW) Spring/Summer 2006, as proposed. New regulation to require property & casualty insurers to annually submit an Actuarial Opinion Summary of the Actuarial Report on loss and loss adjustment expense reserves, including information on the opining actuary's best estimate and/or range of reasonable estimates. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Preparation of Filing of Property and Casualty Forms for Approval, 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 133, §§ 133.1--133.12
Summer/Fall 2006, as proposed. Repeal pursuant to Executive Order 1996-1. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Description of Reserves--Prohibited Phrases, 31 Pa. Code, Chapter 139, §§ 139.1--139.3 Fall/Winter 2006, as proposed. Amend pursuant to Executive Order 1996-1. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Unfair Insurance Practices; Unfair Claims Settlement Practices, 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 146, §§ 146.1--146.10
Summer/Fall 2006, as proposed. Amend pursuant to Executive Order 1996-1. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Requirements for Qualified Reinsurers 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 161 §§ 161.1--161.9
Spring 2006, as proposed. Amend to update requirements for assets held in trust. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Medical Catastrophe Loss Fund, 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 242 §§ 242.1--242.18
Summer/Fall 2006, as proposed. Amend the regulation to be consistent with the statute. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Health Care Provider Retention Program, 31 Pa. Code,
Chapter 248, §§ 248.1--248.11
(NEW)
Summer/Fall 2006, as proposed. Adopt regulations per the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error (Mcare) Act (40 P. S. §§ 1303.1101 et seq.) Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
Viatical Regulations (NEW chapter) Summer/Fall 2006, as proposed. New regulation addressing issues pertaining to the Licensing of Viatical Brokers. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
UM/UIM Stacking Waiver Form
(NEW Chapter)
Fall/Winter 2006, as proposed. New regulation to address a statutory correction recommended by the State Supreme Court. Peter J. Salvatore,
Regulatory Coordinator
717-787-4429
LABOR AND INDUSTRY
Repeal of mine and excavation regulations, Title 34, Chap. 33, Bureau of Occupational and Industrial Safety. Submit final-omitted regulation in Summer 2006. Will revoke Labor and Industry's authority to regulate mines and excavations. The Department of Environmental Protection now has this authority. Edward Leister
717-787-3323
Liquefied Petroleum Gas, Title 34. Bureau of Occupational and Industrial Safety. Submit proposed rulemaking in Fall 2006. Will enact the Propane and Liquefied Petroleum Gas Act passed in June 2002. Will govern the design, installation and construction of containers and equipment for storage and handling of liquefied petroleum gas, specify the odorization of the gases and establish guidelines for the processing and technologies that are not covered by industry standards. Edward Leister
717-787-3323
Uniform Construction Code Amendments, Bureau of Occupational and Industrial Safety Submit final-omitted regulation in Summer 2006 Regulations will incorporate amendments to Construction Code Act and incorporate the 2006 International Code Council series of codes as legally-required. Edward Leister
717-787-3323
Business Enterprise Program, Title 34. Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services Submit proposed rulemaking in Summer 2006. Concerns operation of snack bars and similar operations in Commonwealth facilities under the Federal Randolph-Sheppard Act and related Pennsylvania laws. Lucy Shumaker
717-783-3784
Office of Vocational and Rehabilitation, Title 34.
Submit Proposed Rulemaking Spring 2006 Regulations will govern the registration process and implement the Sign Language Interpreter and Transliterator Registration Act which was enacted in 2004. (Act 57 of 2004). Catherine N. Wojciechowski
717-787-4186
Prevailing Wage Appeals Board (PWAB), Title 34, Chap 213. Submit proposed rulemaking in Fall 2006. PWAB will amend its regulations to reduce paperwork requirements and improve/streamline procedures. Richard C. Lengler
717-783-9288
Unemployment Compensation, Title 34, Bureau of Unemployment Compensation Tax Services Submit proposed rulemaking in Summer 2006. Update Unemployment Compensation tax and select benefit regulations. Scott Miedrich
717-787-2097
Unemployment Compensation, Title 34, Bureau of Unemployment Compensation Benefits Submit proposed rulemaking in Summer 2006. Update requirements and procedures for filing benefit and claim applications. Jeri Morris
717-787-3667
Unemployment Compensation, Title 34, Chapter 101, Unemployment Compensation Board of Review Submit proposed rulemaking in Fall 2006. Update appeal and hearing procedures to reflect evolving procedures and statutory changes. Edward Rawlings
717-787-1620
Bureau of Workers' Compensation
Title 34, Chapter 121
Submit final-form regulation Summer 2006. Updating regulations concerning processing of claims forms/petitions to reflect changes in law and technology. Thomas Dinsmore
717-772-0621
Bureau of Workers' Compensation, Title 34, Chapter 127, Medical Cost Containment Submit proposed rulemaking by Summer 2006. Update processes governing medical care and costs under the Workers' Compensation Act. Eileen Wunsch
717-772-1912
Bureau of Workers' Compensation, Title 34, Chapter 123 Submit final-form regulation in Summer 2006. Update procedures for qualifications of vocational experts to reflect passage of Act 88. Eileen Wunsch
717-772-1912
Bureau of Workers' Compensation, Title 34, Chapter 125A, Self-Insurance Submit proposed rulemaking in Fall 2006. Clarify standards and security requirements for individual self-insured employees. George Knehr
717-783-4476
Bureau of Mediation,
Title 34
Submit proposed rulemaking in Fall 2006 Specify procedures and process for Bureau mediators. William D. Gross
717-787-2803
MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS
State Veterans Home
43 Pa. Code Section 7.1 et. seq.
July 2006, as proposed. This regulation is necessary to update current regulations, make them more user-friendly. This regulation is a long-term project and would amend 43 Pa. Code Chapter 7. Dennis T. Guise
717-861-8503
MUNICIPAL POLICE OFFICERS' EDUCATION AND TRAINING COMMISSION
Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission.
37 Pa. Code
Chapter 203
Final regulations, August 2006. The Commission intends to update regulations promulgated pursuant to 53 Pa.C.S. § 2164(1),(8), and (14 (relating to Part III, Subpart C, of the Local Government Code). Syndi L. Guido
717-772-0905
Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission.
37 Pa. Code
Chapter 203
Proposed regulations, August 2006. The Commission intends to amend regulations to allow physicals to be performed by physicians' assistants and certified nurse practitioners. Syndi L. Guido
717-772-0905
Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission.
37 Pa. Code
Chapter 204.
Proposed regulations, January 2007. Act 79 of 2005 requires the Commission to promulgate regulations to implement the Retired Law Enforcement Identification Act. Syndi L. Guido
717-772-0905
PENNSYLVANIA MUNICIPAL RETIREMENT SYSTEM
No regulations being developed or considered at this time.
PROBATION AND PAROLE
The County Probation and Parole Officers Firearms Education and Training Law 61 P. S. § 332.5(13) requires the Commission to ''make rules and regulations and to perform other duties as may be reasonably necessary or appropriate to implement the training program for county probation and parole officers.'' The proposed regulation will be published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin in the fall of 2006. The County Probation and Parole Officers' Education and Training Commission is in the process of promulgating these regulations and anticipates the completion of proposed regulations by Fall 2006 for publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Henry L. Van Brederode
717-787-5699
x 389
The Domestic and Sexual Violence Victim Address Confidentiality Act 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 6712 requires the Office of the Victim Advocate to promulgate regulations to establish an address confidentiality program to protect victims of sexual and domestic violence. The proposed regulation will be published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin in the summer of 2006. 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 6712 (2) requires the Office of the Victim Advocate to promulgate the required regulations by July 1, 2006. Victoria Sostack
717-783-5157
PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM
No regulations being developed or considered at this time.
PUBLIC WELFARE
Administration of County Children and Youth Programs
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 3130
February 2007, as proposed This regulation incorporates the amendments to the Juvenile Act as a result of Act 126 of 1998 and the federal regulations (effective March 27, 2000) for Title IV-B and Title IV-E funding for child welfare services for children in their own homes and for children receiving placement services. Major changes include permanency hearings and the matters to be determined, requirements related to reasonable efforts including aggravated circumstances contrary to the welfare and best interests and redefining permanency goals for children. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Administration and Operation of a Children and Youth Social Services Agency
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 3680
August 2007, as proposed This regulation incorporates the changes identified in the Child and Family Services Review, including requirements for visitation with fathers and non-custodial parents and between siblings; concurrent planning; improving permanency outcomes for children; and preserving connections with family and community for children placed out of the home. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Food Stamp Disqualification Penalties
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 501
October 2006, as proposed This regulation incorporates a revision to the Food Stamp disqualification penalties as required under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA). The revision increases the Food Stamp intentional program violation disqualification penalties from six months to one year for the first violation and from one year to two years for the second violation. This regulation will be reviewed by representatives of community legal service agencies, the welfare rights organization and other client advocacy groups. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Family Violence Option
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 187
February 2007, as proposed This regulation codifies the provision in the TANF State Plan to screen and identify victims of domestic violence, refer those individuals to counseling and supportive services, establish service plans, provide universal notification and make appropriate referrals to social service agencies. This regulation will be reviewed by representatives of community legal service agencies, the welfare rights organization and other client advocacy groups. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Program
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 140
September 2006, as final-form This regulation provides Medicaid benefits to individuals diagnosed with Breast and Cervical Cancer, effective January 1, 2002. The BCCPT Act of 2000 amended Title XIX of the Social Security Act by giving states the option of providing full Medicaid benefits to a new group of individuals. This regulation provides Medical Assistance for women who have breast and cervical cancer, including pre-cancerous conditions of the breast and cervix, in addition to full Medicaid benefits. Specifically, uninsured and underinsured women under the age of 65, screened and diagnosed with either breast or cervical cancer, including pre-cancerous conditions of the breast or cervix, by a provider or facility funded in full or part by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under its National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, will be eligible for Medicaid benefits. Pennsylvania has chosen the Department of Health Healthy Woman Project as the screening entity for this program. This regulation will be reviewed by representatives of community legal service agencies, the welfare rights organization, professional medical organizations and other client advocacy groups. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Medical Assistance Changes
(MAC)
55 Pa. Code
Chapters 133, 140, 141, 178 and 181
November 2006, as proposed This regulation incorporates eligibility requirements for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)-related, Supplemental Security Income (SSI)-related and General Assistance (GA)-related Medicaid. Some of the major changes include revisions to: 1) the application and redetermination process; 2) the qualification requirements and eligibility rules for Healthy Beginnings; 3) the income eligibility methodologies for TANF-related categories of Medicaid; 4) the income and resource requirements for the Medicaid Program; 5) Extended Medical Coverage to include provisions as set forth in the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1966 (PRWORA); 6) the GA-related Nonmoney Payment (NMP) and Medically Needy Only (MNO) eligibility criteria as set forth in Act 35; 7) the qualifying criteria for TANF-related categories to include a new eligibility group as set forth in § 1931 of the Social Security Act. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis Treatment (EPSDT)
55 Pa. Code
Chapters 1101, 1121, 1123, 1147, 1241
March 2007, as final-omitted This regulation relating to services provided as a follow-up to an EPSDT visit or encounter that are not currently recognized under the approved Medical Assistance State Plan. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Medical Assistance Case Management Services
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1239
March 2007, as proposed This regulation codifies payment for medically necessary case management services as mandated by Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act '89 to Medical Assistance recipients under the age of 21. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
OMNIBUS Pharmacy
55 Pa. Code
Chapters 1121, 1126, 1129, 1141, 1163, 1221, 1225, 1243
February 2007, as final-omitted This final regulation codifies Act 1994-49 provisions that discontinue payment for all drugs, devices, products, services and procedures that are used or related to treating infertility, including surrogacy services, effective September 1, 1994. This regulation also provides that the medical assistance program provides drug coverage to medically needy only recipients receiving nursing facility services. This includes medically needy only recipients who reside in nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities/mental retardation (ICF/MR). This regulation was reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Physician Assistant/Midwife
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1141
June 2007, as final-omitted This final regulation codifies revised supervision requirements for physician assistants and midwives. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Discontinuance of the Mandatory Second Opinion Program
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1150
February 2007, as final-omitted This final regulation removes the mandatory second opinion program requirement for certain surgical procedures. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Capital Component Payment for Replacement Beds
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1187
July 2008, as proposed This regulation codifies the policy as set forth in the Statement of Policy published at 27 Pa.B. 6238 (November 29, 1997). This regulation will specify the conditions under which the Department will recognize nursing facility beds as replacement beds for purposes of making capital component payments for those beds. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
New Definition of ''Emergency Medical Condition''
55 Pa. Code
Chapters 1101, 1141, 1150, 1221
March 2007, as proposed This regulation codifies the revised definition of ''emergency medical condition'' contained in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, effective July 1, 1998. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Definition of Medically Necessary
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1101
February 2007, as proposed This proposed regulation replaces the current definition of ''medically necessary'' with the definition found in the HealthChoices Request for Proposal. This regulation was reviewed on 9/21/01 by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Tobacco Cessation and Nutritional Supplements
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1121
February 2007, as final-omitted This final regulation will provide coverage under the Medical Assistance Program for tobacco cessation products and counseling services and will extend coverage for nutritional supplements to eligible Medical Assistance recipients 21 years of age and older. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Dental Services
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1149
March 2007, as final-omitted This final regulation will provide coverage for crown core build-up and will revise the Medical Assistance Orthodontia Program. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Preadmission Requirements for Nursing Facility Services
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1187
July 2007, as final This regulation will require nursing facilities to have all individuals applying for nursing facility services, evaluated by the Department or an independent assessor if it is likely that the applicant will use Medical Assistance as a payer source within 12 months of admission. The purpose of this regulation is to allow an individual to remain in the community by delaying or eliminating the need for admission to a nursing facility. This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Penile Prosthesis
55 Pa. Code
Chapters 1141, 1163,
February 2007, as proposed This regulation revises the current § 1141.59(8) noncompensable services and § 1163.59(a)(4) noncompensable services, items and outliers days. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Extension of County Transition Payments and Double Disproportionate Share 55 Pa. Code Chapter 1187 July 2007, as final-omitted This regulation will extend the county nursing facility transition rates for the period July 1, 2003, through June 30, 2009, and will increase the disproportionate share incentive payments to qualified nursing facilities for the period July 1, 2003 through June 30, 2008. The disproportionate share incentive payment shall be increased to equal two times the disproportionate share per diem incentive calculated in accordance with 55 Pa. Code § 1187.111(c). This regulation will be reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. These changes are made in accordance with the Intergovernmental Transfer Agreements. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Home Health Regulation
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1249
July 2006, as final-form The proposed regulation: 1. removes the State requirement that clients be homebound to receive home health agency services. Requiring a client to be homebound is in violation of ''Olmstead Update No. 3'' codified at 42 CFR 440.230(c) and 440.240(b); 2. moves service limitations from the regulations to the fee schedule which will permit program exceptions to the limitations when appropriate. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Changes to Nursing Facility Rate Setting System
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 1187
June 2006, as final-omitted This regulation will support the balancing of long term care by encouraging the continued trend of having nursing facilities serve higher acuity MA recipients, encouraging right sized facilities and decreased reliance on MA payments. Further objectives of this regulation will be to provide greater predictability in rate setting, reduce the number of appeals and incorporate performance standards/incentives to encourage cost effective and high quality care in the most appropriate setting. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Medical Assistance Provider Appeal Procedures
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 41
October 2006, as final-form This regulation implements 67 Pa.C.S. 1106 and establishes rules of procedure governing Medical Assistance Provider appeals. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Third Party Liability Programs
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 259
February 2007, as proposed Section 1902(a)(25) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. § 1396a(a)(25)) requires the Department to develop and implement a TPL program to ensure that Medicaid is the payor of last resort. Section 1906 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. § 1396(e)) authorizes the Department to have a special program to enroll certain MA recipients into group health insurance. Both the general TPL program and the special group health insurance program have been in operation in Pennsylvania for a number of years. During this period of operation, questions have arisen as to interpretation and procedures under the Federal and state's statutes. This proposed regulation is needed to supply guidance with respect to issues not directly addressed by the Federal and state statutes, to resolve ambiguities and to fill gaps in the state statutory language. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Licensure and Approval Appeal Procedures
55 Pa. Code Various Chapters
February 2006, as proposed This regulation replaces the uncodified regulation at 7 Pa.B. 3266 with the General Rules of Administrative Practice and Procedure (1 Pa. Code Chs. 31-35) for all facilities and agencies certified by the Department. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Psychiatric Outpatient Clinics
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 5200
February 2007, as proposed This proposed regulation revises the current regulations pertaining to organization, staffing, and supervision for licensed psychiatric outpatient services. This regulation will be reviewed by the Mental Health Advisory Council and the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Family-Based Mental Health Service Providers
Draft Regulation,
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 5260
June 2007, as proposed This proposed regulation would establish requirements for the delivery of services, and payment of family-based mental health services for children and adolescents. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Residential Treatment Facilities (RTF) for Mental Health Services
55 Pa. Code
Chapters 31, 1157, 1165
November 2006, as proposed This regulation codifies coverage for mental health services to children under 21 years of age that are provided in a residential treatment facility. This regulation was reviewed by the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) on 3/28/02 and again to the MAAC as well as other interested stakeholders on 4/20/06. The comments and revised regulations are under review by the Department. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Intermediate Care Facilities for the Mentally Retarded
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 6650
October 2006 as proposed This regulation applies to private and public residential facilities receiving monies for intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded (ICFs/MR) or intermediate care facilities for persons with other related conditions (ICFs/ORC). This regulation will include facility capacity, facility expansion, new ICF/MR development, conversion of state funded programs to ICF/MR, conversion of existing ICF/MR to the Medicaid Consolidated Waiver program, medication administration, medication administration training, self-administration of medications and medication log. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Child Care Facilities
55 Pa. Code
Chapters 3270, 3280, 3290, 3300
February 2007 as final-form The purpose of the proposed rulemaking is to update the minimum standards for child care facilities. The regulations need to be updated to reference the current laws that directly impact on the operation of child care facilities, to incorporate the Department's statements of policy issued since 1992, to implement changes in recommended health and safety practices, to clarify regulations and to reflect best practice in the field of child care. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Child Care
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 168
July 2006 as proposed The purpose of the proposed rulemaking is to align the Office of Income Maintenance and Office of Child Development policies regarding subsidized child care and increase child care services to families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, General Assistance, and Food Stamp benefits. The proposed amendments will simplify policies and create a more user-friendly system for families. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Payment for Burial and Cremation
55 Pa. Code
Chapters 283, 285
September 2006 The proposed rulemaking increases the maximum payment to funeral directors for burial or cremation services to a standard $750 for all eligible individuals. This rulemaking also increases maximum level of contributions that may be made by another agency or individual towards burial expenses without reducing the Department payment. This amount is increased from $180 to $750. Additionally, this proposed rulemaking eliminates several restrictive requirements for burial, thus allowing families and funeral directors more flexibility and choice in planning and selecting burial goods and services. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Revisions to Special Allowances for Supportive Services
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 165
March 2007 as proposed The purpose of this proposed regulation is to ensure adequate and consistent availability and distribution of special allowances. These special allowances are for supportive services to recipients of cash assistance who are engaged or intend to engage in employment and training activities approved by the Department. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800
Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (TANF Reauthorization)
55 Pa. Code
Chapter 165
February 2007 as proposed The purpose of this proposed regulation is to incorporate revised policies for work participation according to Federal statutes and regulations. Ruth O'Brien
(717) 783-2800

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