Subject of Possible Rule Making: WAC 246-817-XXX Sexual misconduct, the dental quality assurance commission (DQAC) is considering developing rules that will define sexual misconduct standards for dentists regulated by the commission. The commission will also consider standardizing sanctions for practitioners who engage in sexual misconduct.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 18.32.0365.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Currently the profession does not have rules defining sexual misconduct. Without rules, practitioners do not know the standards to which they are held and any disciplinary action may be inconsistent. Rules on this subject will help assure clear and consistent definitions of sexual misconduct and appropriate sanctions for individuals who engage in sexual misconduct. Developing rules will ensure public safety and may help providers avoid sexual misconduct.

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

     Process for Developing New Rule: Collaborative rule making.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. This topic will be discussed on DQAC meeting agendas and notice will be distributed to interested persons via List-Serv. Written comments may be sent to Lisa Anderson, Program Manager, Dental Quality Assurance Commission, P.O. Box 47867, Olympia, WA 98504-7867, phone (360) 236-4863, fax (360) 664-9077, e-mail lisa.anderson@doh.wa.gov.

June 7, 2006

Joy N. King

Executive Director

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