WSR 14-16-107

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed August 6, 2014, 9:58 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Revisions to chapter 170-290 WAC expanding approved activities and gap periods, and streamlining verification requirements for the working connections and seasonal child care subsidy programs.

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: Rules on this subject are needed in order to promote continuity of care in the affected programs. By expanding approved activities and gap periods, and making it easier for families to verify eligibility, families who would otherwise exit these programs during their eligibility period might continue to be eligible.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The state department of social and health services jointly administers the working connections child care and seasonal child care subsidy programs. The department of early learning (DEL) must follow United States Administration for Children and Families - Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) regulations consistent with the state's CCDF plan. DEL plans to coordinate rule development with these state and federal agencies.

Process for Developing New Rule: To the extent practicable, 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. 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) 725-4925, or by writing to the DEL Rules Coordinator, DEL, P.O. Box 40970, Olympia, WA 98504-0970.

August 6, 2014

Matt Judge

Rules Coordinator