WSR 15-18-117

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed September 2, 2015, 10:51 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapters of Title 170 WAC, including but not limited to chapter 170-03 WAC, the department of early learning (DEL) hearing rules chapter. More specifically, the department will makes changes related to the purpose and scope of the hearing rules chapter, clarify the definitions and authority of the administrative law judge, correct language to align with changes made to reflect and conform with current law and incorporate and ensure that the background check, the early childhood education and assistance program WAC chapters and other requirements mandated by the department or the 2015 legislative session align properly with the department's hearing rules chapter.

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: To revise the department's rules to update, streamline, and improve efficiencies to ensure proper correlation and alignment of the department's hearing process and procedures.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: Actions of DEL sometimes rely in part on actions taken by other agencies such as the Washington state department of social and health services or are taken in conjunction with the actions of other agencies such as the Washington state office of administrative hearings or certain federal agencies. DEL plans to coordinate rule development with 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, by fax (360) 725-4925, or by writing to the DEL Rules Coordinator, P.O. Box 40970, Olympia, WA 98504-0970.

September 2, 2015

Saul Olivarez

Rules Coordinator