WSR 97-22-090

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

[Filed November 5, 1997, 8:20 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Amendments to WAC 246-828-290 Purchaser recision rights.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 18.35.161 and 18.35.180(2).

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The recision amount required by statute is not currently indicated in WAC. The recision amount is the amount of money the hearing instrument fitter/dispenser is allowed to keep when a purchaser chooses to cancel the purchase agreement. The amendments will identify the recision amount determined by the board. The amendments will also simplify and clarify the required language and format of the required purchase agreement used by hearing instrument fitter/dispensers in the sale of hearing aids. The amendments will provide consumers with information regarding recision of the agreement that is presented in readable format and in understandable language.

Process for Developing New Rule: The board and program will work closely with the profession and consumer groups in developing rules. Three public work groups were held to provide an opportunity for public input. The meetings were held in Seattle, Yakima, and Spokane. The board promoted participation from state-wide school districts who employ audiologists; hospitals and clinics throughout the state and professional associations for audiologists and hearing instrument fitter/dispensers. Further input has been requested from members of the public who attended the public work groups. From these efforts draft language will be developed and shared for on-going direction from interested persons.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Diane Young, Program Manager, Board of Hearing and Speech, 1300 Quince Street S.E., P.O. Box 47869, Olympia, WA 98504-7869, (360) 753-1817, (360) 586-0205, FAX (360) 586-7774.

October 22, 1997

Delores E. Spice