WSR 14-05-020

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed February 10, 2014, 8:24 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 170-297 WAC, Licensed school age child care standards, regarding and relating to the definition of the terms "preschool age child" and "school-age child."

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: Updates to the definitions of "preschool age child" and "school-age child," including, but not limited to, the age ranges within these categories, are needed in order to allow flexibility for child care programs.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

Process for Developing New Rule: To the extent practicable, the department of early learning (DEL) intends to seek public input during the rule drafting and development process. At a later date, DEL will file proposed rules (more than one proposed rule-making notice may be filed), hold a public hearing or hearings, and accept written comments before adopting permanent rules.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Individuals and organizations wishing to receive draft and proposed materials may join a DEL rules mailing list by contacting the DEL rules coordinator at Rules@del.wa.gov, fax (360) 586-0533, or by writing to the DEL Rules Coordinator, Department of Early Learning, P.O. Box 40970, Olympia, WA 98504-0970.

February 10, 2014

Matt Judge

Rules Coordinator