WSR 03-02-063

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

DEPARTMENT OF

SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES
(Aging and Disabilities Services Administration)

[ Filed December 27, 2002, 4:37 p.m. ]

     Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 388-820 WAC, Community residential services and supports, the purpose of this rule making is to adopt rules adding standards for Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) contracted crisis mental health diversion beds to this chapter. Additionally, rules are being revised to add safety features required of residential services and to correct errors in rules adopted as WSR 01-22-020.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapter 71A.12 RCW.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: To specify health and safety standards that service providers must meet to support clients in mental health diversionary beds. The rules also specify training requirements for staff working with clients in these facilities and administrative responsibilities of the contractor. The standards will ensure provision of supports to clients in DDD-contracted mental health diversion beds that are consistent with the division's philosophy of community supports and establish standards for monitoring these services. The addition of language regarding safety features is to also clarify requirements for providers regarding the health and safety of clients receiving community residential services and support services. DDD also proposes revisions to: Correct errors in rules adopted as WSR 01-22-020; clarify the language of the rules; and clarify requirements for providers.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

     Process for Developing New Rule: The department welcomes public participation in the development of these rules. At a later date, the department will publish proposed rules for public comment, and a public hearing will be held before the rules are adopted as permanent. Draft material and information about how to participate may be obtained from the department representative listed below.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Cheryl Strange, Division of Developmental Disabilities, P.O. Box 45310, Olympia, WA 98504-5310, phone (360) 902-0260, fax (360) 902-8484, e-mail strance@dshs.wa.gov.

December 27, 2002

Bonnie H. Jacques

for Brian H. Lindgren, Manager

Rules and Policies Assistance Unit

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