WSR 02-02-043

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH


(Board of Hearing and Speech)

[ Filed December 27, 2001, 11:30 a.m. ]

     Subject of Possible Rule Making: WAC 246-828-xxx Fitter/dispenser program approval.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 18.35.040.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: In 1999, legislation passed requiring a two-year degree for all candidates for licensure as a fitter/dispenser. This two-year degree replaces the current requirement of a six-month apprenticeship program. Washington is the first state to require the two-year degree.

     RCW 18.35.040 states an applicant for licensure as a hearing instrument fitter/dispenser must complete a two-year degree program in hearing instrument fitter/dispenser instruction approved by the board. Rules need to be established to outline approval processes the board will complete.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Collaborative.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Traci Troutman, Program Manager, Board of Hearing and Speech, P.O. Box 47869, Olympia, WA 98504-7869, (360) 236-4917, fax (360) 236-4918, e-mail traci.troutman@doh.wa.gov. Interested persons can participate through meetings and by submitting written comments.

December 11, 2001

Robert Nicoloff

Executive Director

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