Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 296-17A WAC, Classifications for Washington workers' compensation insurance.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 51.16.035 and 51.16.100.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Labor and industries is required by law to establish and maintain a workers' compensation classification plan that classifies all occupations or industries within the state and to set basic rates of premium for these classifications (RCW 51.16.035). Initial research indicates a need for a more thorough review of certain classifications associated with the construction trades. The goal of the study is to further clarify the rules and perhaps amend their scopes as well.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: No other state, local or federal agency regulates this issue.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Parties interested in these rules may contact the individual listed below. The public may also participate by commenting after amendments are proposed by providing written comments and/or testimony during the public hearing and comment process. Public hearings will be held after the proposal is filed.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Comments can be submitted to Richard Bredeson, P.O. Box 44140, Olympia, WA 98504-4140, e-mail bred235@lni.wa.gov, phone (360) 902-4985, fax (360) 902-4988.

February 2, 2010

Judy Schurke

Director

© Washington State Code Reviser's Office