On July 8, 2011, HHS published an interim final rule with comment period implementing certain administrative simplification provisions of the ACA. Specifically, the regulation adopts operating rules for two HIPAA transactions: eligibility for a health plan and health care claim status. The rule also defines the term “operating rules” and explains the role of operating rules in relation to the adopted transaction standards. The regulations are effective June 30, 2011, and the compliance date for this regulation is January 1, 2013. HHS will accept comments on the rule until September 6, 2011.