Title VIII, SEC. 8406. EFFECTIVE DATES. 
        Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, the amendments made by 
      this subtitle shall take effect on the earlier of 

        (1) January 1, 1998, or 

        (2) such date or dates as may be prescribed in regulations of the 
      National Health Board in connection with plans whose participants or 
      beneficiaries reside in any State which becomes a participating State 
      under the Health Security Act before January 1, 1998.