Subject of Possible Rule Making: This rule making updates and makes structural improvements to WAC 232-12-275. Specifically, the project splits the rule into smaller sections and better organizes the subject matter of the provisions contained in WAC 232-12-275. The project will also make some clarifications and amendments to include more detail and guidance for people practicing wildlife rehabilitation.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 77.04.012, 77.04.013, 77.04.055, 77.12.045, and 77.12.047.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Changes to WAC 232-12-275 are needed because the rule contains a large amount of information, which is difficult to navigate and requires better organization. Additionally, the rule needs clarification of expectations and requirements to promote better, more uniform practices and smoother relations with wildlife rehabilitators. The changes will promote increased user-group compliance because wildlife rehabilitators will better understand their requirements.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: States can be more restrictive than federal regulations, but not less restrictive. Given these parameters, Washington department of fish and wildlife (WDFW) will coordinate the regulatory landscape of these rule changes, where applicable.

     Process for Developing New Rule:      Agency study.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Joanna Eide, Administrative Regulations Analyst, WDFW Enforcement Program, 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091, phone (360) 902-2403, fax (360) 902-2156, e-mail Joanna.Eide@dfw.wa.gov. Contact by October 17, 2012. Expected proposal filing on or after October 24, 2012.

August 14, 2012

Joanna Eide

Administrative Regulations Analyst