Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 170-297 WAC, Licensed school age child care standards, revising rules related to safe food handling to be consistent with the new food handler guide, released by the department of health (DOH).

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapter 43.215 RCW.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: A new food handler's guide has been released by DOH. The changes will ensure safe food handling rules in chapter 170-297 WAC do not contradict the requirements in the food handler's guide.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: As appropriate, the department of early learning (DEL) plans to coordinate rule making with or seek input on the draft rules with DOH.

     Process for Developing New Rule: As resources permit, DEL plans to circulate draft materials for informal input. At a future date, DEL will file proposed rules, schedule a public hearing or hearings, and accept written comments before adopting final rules.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Anyone interested in these rules may send comments or join a mailing list to receive notices, draft and proposed materials by contacting the DEL rules coordinator by e-mail Rules@del.wa.gov, fax (360) 586-0533, or mail P.O. Box 40970, Olympia, WA 98504-0970.

April 26, 2013

Robert McLellan

Senior Assistant Director