WSR 15-12-120

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed June 3, 2015, 11:31 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Revisions to chapter 170-290 WAC, including but not limited to, revisions to WAC 170-290-0140, to prohibit child care subsidy program payments to in-home/relative providers who have previously had their child care licenses revoked, or whose child care licenses are currently suspended.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 43.215.060, 43.215.070, chapter 43.215 RCW.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Current rules state that DSHS will not pay for the cost of child care provided by an in-home/relative provider if the provider does not meet certain requirements, has been convicted, or is charged with certain crimes, has not completed a background check, and if DSHS determines the provider is not of suitable character and competence to meet the needs of children in care. Inclusion of language stating that DSHS will not pay if the provider previously had a child care license revoked, or if the provider's license is currently suspended, will promote the health and safety of children in care and promote program integrity.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: DSHS jointly administers the working connections child care subsidy program. 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. 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.

June 3, 2015

Matt Judge

Rules Coordinator