(SS) Galvan v. Commissioner of Social Security

I. Introduction

12 Plaintiff Arnulfo Lamas Galvan appeals the decision of the Commissioner of Social 13 Security denying his applications for disability insurance benefits (DIB) and supplemental security 14 income under Titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act. Because substantial evidence and 15 applicable law do not support the ALJ’s decision, the appeal will be granted.

II. Factual and Procedural Background

17 On July 8, 2016, Plaintiff initially applied for DIB alleging disability beginning on January 18 1, 2015, based on left knee problems, vision problems and cardiac problems, among other 19 conditions. AR 255. The claim was denied initially on November 7, 2016, and upon 20 reconsideration on May 14, 2018. On March 4, 2020, the ALJ held a telephonic hearing. AR 39– 21 61. The ALJ issued an unfavorable decision on April 24, 2020. AR 17–38. The Appeals Council 22 denied review on March 9, 2021. AR 1–7. Plaintiff filed an appeal in this Court,2 after which the 23 parties stipulated to the remand the matter to the agency for further proceedings. AR 22–33; 1265. 24 On remand, the ALJ held two additional hearings, on March 1,…