§ 1383b. Administration
(a)
Authority of Commissioner
Subject to subsection (b) of this section, the Commissioner of Social Security may make such administrative and other arrangements (including arrangements for the determination of blindness and disability under section
1382c
(a)(2) and (3) of this title in the same manner and subject to the same conditions as provided with respect to disability determinations under section
421 of this title) as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out the Commissioner’s functions under this subchapter.
(b)
Examination to determine blindness
In determining, for purposes of this subchapter, whether an individual is blind, there shall be an examination of such individual by a physician skilled in the diseases of the eye or by an optometrist, whichever the individual may select.
(c)
Notification of review
(1)
In any case in which the Commissioner of Social Security initiates a review under this subchapter, similar to the continuing disability reviews authorized for purposes of subchapter II of this chapter under section
421
(i) of this title, the Commissioner of Social Security shall notify the individual whose case is to be reviewed in the same manner as required under section
421
(i)(4) of this title.
(d)
Regulations regarding completion of plans for achieving self-support
The Commissioner of Social Security shall establish by regulation criteria for time limits and other criteria related to individuals’ plans for achieving self-support, that take into account—
(e)
Review of State agency blindness and disability determinations
(1)
The Commissioner of Social Security shall review determinations, made by State agencies pursuant to subsection (a) in connection with applications for benefits under this subchapter on the basis of blindness or disability, that individuals who have attained 18 years of age are blind or disabled as of a specified onset date. The Commissioner of Social Security shall review such a determination before any action is taken to implement the determination.