WSR 15-16-119

PROPOSED RULES

[Filed August 4, 2015, 5:31 p.m.]

Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 14-06-100.

Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: WAC 246-851-545 Retired active credential, the board of optometry (board) is proposing adding a new rule creating a retired active status for licensed optometrists.

Hearing Location(s): Washington State Department of Health, Kent Regional Office, 20425 72nd Avenue South, Room 309, Kent, WA 98032, on September 21, 2015, at 11:30 a.m.

Date of Intended Adoption: September 21, 2015.

Submit Written Comments to: Loralei Walker, 111 Israel Road S.E., P.O. Box 47852, Olympia, WA 98504-7852, e-mail http://www3.doh.wa.gov/policyreview/, fax (360) 236-2901, by September 17, 2015.

Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Loralei Walker, program manager, by September 15, 2015, TTY (800) 833-6388 or 711.

Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: The proposed rule will create a retired active status and allow optometrists to maintain their credential and practice at a reduced renewal fee. An optometrist with a retired active license may not receive compensation for vision care services. An optometrist with a retired active credential must report fifty hours of continuing education every two years and must comply with chapter 246-12 WAC, Part 5. Separate rule making has been filed to establish a retired active fee.

Reasons Supporting Proposal: The board received a petition requesting a retired active status for licensed optometrists. The board determined that it would initiate rule making to consider implementation of a retired active status. Under RCW 18.130.250 and chapter 246-12 WAC, when authorized, a health care provider may apply for a retired active credential when he or she holds an active Washington state credential and is in good standing. The rule will allow an optometrist with a retired active license to provide vision care services on a limited basis at a reduced renewal fee.

Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 18.54.070(2).

Statute Being Implemented: RCW 18.130.250.

Name of Proponent: Department of health, board of optometry, governmental.

Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting, Implementation, and Enforcement: Loralei Walker, Program Manager, 111 Israel Road S.E., Tumwater, WA 98501, (360) 236-4947.

No small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW. The proposed rule would not impose more than minor costs on businesses in an industry.

A cost-benefit analysis is not required under RCW 34.05.328. A preliminary cost-benefit analysis may be obtained by contacting Judy Haenke, 111 Israel Road S.E., Tumwater, WA 98501, phone (360) 236-4947, fax (360) 236-2901, e-mail judy.haenke@doh.wa.gov. RCW 34.05.328 (5)(b)(v) exempts rules the content of which is explicitly and specifically dictated by statute.

July 31, 2015

Kathy Schmitt

Deputy Director

Office of Health

Professions and Facilities