Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: SSSB [2SSB] 5268, chapter 395, Laws of 2023.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: SSSB [2SSB] 5268 updates small works procurement rules to enhance administrative efficiency, promote the utilization and growth of small business, and maintain protections to the labor work force.

The department of enterprise services (DES) rules under chapter 200-330 WAC, Small works roster, address small public works procurement by state agencies and will need to be updated to meet DES's rule-making requirements and to align with the intent and direction of SSSB [2SSB] 5268.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: There are no federal agencies that regulate this subject. The office of minority and women's business enterprises (OMWBE) will be developing rules related to SSSB [2SSB] 5268. DES will consult with OMWBE through the development of the DES rules.

Process for Developing New Rule: DES staff will include anyone interested in participating with DES in developing a proposed rule. An opportunity will also be provided for anyone to submit written comments on the proposed rules during the public comment period and present oral testimony at the public hearings. The public is encouraged to participate in all agency rule making. Specific opportunities to participate in agency rule-making activities are provided on the DES rule-making website https://des.wa.gov/policies-legal/rulemaking.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Jack Zeigler, email jack.zeigler@des.wa.gov, website https://des.wa.gov/about/policies-laws-rules/rulemaking.