Subject of Possible Rule Making: This is the sixth round of rule changes in conjunction with the WAC overhaul project. Updates, technical changes, and structural improvements to WACs will be proposed. The agency will clarify language where needed, in tandem with other amendments to WACs within this rule making. This rule making will also handle changes to titles to clarify the rule's subject matter and in preparation for reorganization and renumbering of Washington department of fish and wildlife's (WDFW) code in 2013.

     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Might Accomplish: Changes to these rules are needed because many of the rules are disorganized and contain conflicting, outdated language. WDFW will consider consolidating and splitting up rules. The project will also repeal outdated and inapplicable rules, if applicable.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The United States Fish and Wildlife Service also regulates fish and wildlife. State regulations may be more restrictive than federal regulations, but not less so. WDFW will coordinate the regulatory landscape of these rule changes, where and if applicable. As these changes are largely structural and technical, it is unlikely that coordination will be necessary.

     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 November 7, 2012. Expected proposal filing on or after November 21, 2012.

October 3, 2012

Joanna M. Eide

Administrative Regulations Analyst