Subject of Possible Rule Making: Pursuant to HB 1666 (chapter 275, Laws of 2007), repealing the sunset of the expansion of duties of advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNP) under Title 51 RCW, the department is reviewing its rules for possible changes.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: HB 1666 (chapter 275, Laws of 2007), RCW 51.04.020, 51.04.030.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: HB 1666 repealed the sunset of SHB 1691 (Laws of 2004) allowing ARNPs to permanently be attending providers. The department deleted this expiration via an emergency rule in WAC 296-23-241. This rule making will be to permanently adopt this change and review of the rules for other necessary changes.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: This law makes permanent the status of an ARNP that is specific to Washington workers' compensation benefits and is governed by Title 51 RCW, Washington's Industrial Insurance Act. There are not other state or federal agencies responsible for interpreting and enforcing the provisions of this act.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Parties interested in participating in the development of these rules may contact the person listed below. The public may also participate by providing written comment during the comment period or giving oral testimony at public hearings. The rule will be developed in consultation with major stakeholders, including the workers' compensation advisory committee.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Jami Lifka, Department of Labor and Industries, Office of the Medical Director, P.O. Box 44321, Olympia, WA 98504-4321, phone (360) 902-4941, or fax (360) 902-6315.

August 21, 2007

Judy Schurke

Director

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