WSR 24-03-028
AGENDA
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
STATE BOARD OF HEALTH
[Filed January 6, 2024, 4:54 p.m.]
January 2024
Rules Agenda
This report details current and anticipated rule-making activities for the department of health (DOH) and the state board of health (SBOH). If you have any questions regarding this report or DOH rule-making activities, please contact Tami Thompson at 360-628-0096. If you have any questions regarding SBOH rule-making activities, please contact Michelle Davis at 360-236-4105.
This agenda is for information purposes, and the anticipated rule-making actions are estimates. Any errors in this agenda do not affect the rules and rule-making notices filed with the office of the code reviser and published in the Washington State Register. There may be additional rule-making activities that cannot be forecasted as DOH and SBOH initiate rule making to implement new state laws, meet federal requirements, or meet unforeseen circumstances. See the "Key" below for explanations of terms and acronyms.
KEY:
Blank cells in tables mean the anticipated filing date is not known at the time this rules agenda is filed.
CR: "Code reviser" on the notice forms created by the office of the code reviser for use by all state agencies.
CR-101: Preproposal statement of inquiry filed under RCW 34.05.310.
CR-102: Proposed rule-making notice filed under RCW 34.05.320 or 34.05.340.
CR-103: Rule-making order permanently adopting a rule and filed under RCW 34.05.360 and 34.05.380.
CR-105: Expedited rule making filed under RCW 34.05.353.
RCW: Revised Code of Washington.
WAC: Washington Administrative Code.
WSR: Washington State Register official filing reference number given by the office of the code reviser when a notice is filed.
SBOH
Rule Making
Authority
WAC and Rule Title
CR-101
WSR #
CR-102
WSR #
CR-103
WSR#
CR-105
WSR #
Program Contact
SBOH
Chapter 246-282 WAC, Sanitary control of shellfish.
SBOH is considering revisions to the chapter to modify harvest control requirements by setting more proactive measures to prevent illnesses and protect public health. The rule revision may also include updating definitions, seed size, and other technical and editorial changes as needed.
22-06-034
 
 
 
Dani Toepelt
360-890-6054
Jocelyn Jones
360-236-3020
SBOH
Chapter 246-650 WAC, Newborn screening.
SBOH is considering adding ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency to the list of mandatory conditions for newborn screening conducted by DOH.
22-05-012
 
 
 
Molly Dinardo
564-669-3455
SBOH
Chapter 246-260 WAC, Water recreation facilities; and chapter 246-262 WAC, Recreational water contact facilities.
SBOH will consider adopting requirements from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Model Aquatics Health Code, modifying the rules to keep pace with changing water recreation technologies, and to improve clarity and usability including possible consolidation of all water recreation rules into a single chapter.
17-01-048
 
 
 
Andrew Kamali
360-584-6737
Ashlie Laydon
ashlie.laydon@doh.wa.gov
SBOH
Chapter 246-272A WAC, On-site sewage systems.
SBOH is considering revisions to the chapter. Priority issues include local management plans, property sale inspections, treatment levels, ultraviolet disinfection, and licensing of operations and maintenance providers. SBOH may consider other technical and editorial changes as needed.
18-06-082
23-22-062
Anticipate filing
 
Jeremy Simmons
360-236-3346
Peter Beaton
360-236-4031
SBOH
Chapter 246-760 WAC, Auditory screening standards in schools.
SBOH is considering amending the auditory screening sections of chapter 246-760 WAC to align with current national evidence-based practices and assess potential options regarding whether to include otoacoustic emission screening technology in SBOH's rules. SBOH may also consider other technical or editorial changes as needed.
23-22-004
Anticipate filing
 
 
Molly Dinardo
564-669-3455
SBOH
Chapter 246-650 WAC, Newborn screening.
SBOH is considering adding guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency and Arginase 1 deficiency to the list of mandatory conditions for newborn screening conducted by DOH.
23-24-016
 
 
 
Molly Dinardo
564-669-3455
DOH
Rule Making
Authority
WAC and Rule Title
CR-101
WSR #
CR-102
WSR #
CR-103
WSR #
CR-105
WSR #
Program Contact
Board of Massage
WAC 246-830-035 Licensing by endorsement for out-of-state applicants.
DOH, in coordination with the board of massage, is examining and may consider amending this section of the massage therapist rules related to licensing by endorsement for out-of-state applicants.
23-07-064
Anticipate filing
 
 
Megan Maxey
360-236-4945
Board of Massage
WAC 246-830-430 Education and training.
The board of massage, in coordination with DOH, is considering amendments to the education and training rules to include parameters on online and virtual education and adding health equity awareness training to initial licensure requirements for new massage licensees.
23-12-002
 
 
 
Megan Maxey
360-236-4945
Board of Nursing Home Administrators
WAC 246-843-071 Application, 246-843-090 Administrator-in-training program, 246-843-130 Continuing education requirements, and 246-843-231 Temporary practice permits.
The board of nursing home administrators is considering amending licensure, licensure renewal, health equity continuing education (CE) and temporary practice permit rules.
23-03-119
23-20-116
Anticipate filing
 
Kendra Pitzler
360-236-4723
Board of Nursing Home Administrators
Chapter 246-843 WAC. The board of nursing home administrators is considering creating a new section to establish a retired active status for licensed nursing home administrators and amending existing requirements to renew an expired license under WAC 246-843-180.
22-19-058
23-20-116
Anticipate filing
 
Kendra Pitzler
360-236-4723
DOH
in collaboration with
Board of Nursing Home Administrators
WAC 246-843-990 Nursing home administrator fees and renewal cycle.
DOH is opening this rule to establish a retired active status fee if that licensure status is first adopted by the board of nursing home administrators in separate rule making.
22-13-184
23-22-094
Anticipate filing
 
Kendra Pitzler
360-236-4723
Board of Optometry
Chapter 246-851 WAC; the board of optometry is proposing to amend, establish new, and repeal sections in chapter 246-851 WAC to implement SSB 5389 (chapter 400, Laws of 2023) which expands the optometrist scope of practice to include certain advanced procedures and establishes requirements for license endorsement.
23-16-043
 
 
 
Kristina Bell
360-236-4841
Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery
Chapter 246-853 WAC, Osteopathic physicians and surgeons, five-year chapter review.
The board of osteopathic medicine and surgery is proposing amendments to multiple sections in chapter 246-853 WAC for a general chapter cleanup to clarify and update rule language in accordance with the five-year rule review requirement under expedited rule making.
 
 
 
Anticipate filing
Becky McElhiney
360-236-4766
Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery
WAC 246-853-020 Osteopathic medicine and surgery examinations.
The board of osteopathic medicine and surgery is considering amendments to update osteopathic physician examination requirements pursuant to 2SHB 1724.
24-01-084
Anticipate filing
 
 
Becky McElhiney
360-236-4766
Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery
WAC 246-853-080 Continuing education for osteopathic providers.
The board of osteopathic medicine and surgery is considering amending WAC 246-853-080 Continuing education, to update CE requirements for licensure renewal of osteopathic physicians.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Becky McElhiney
360-236-4766
Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery
Osteopathic physician opioid prescribing, WAC 246-853-661, 246-853-730, and 246-853-755.
The board of osteopathic medicine and surgery is considering amendments to osteopathic physician opioid prescribing rules to modernize the language, add clarity, bring the rules in line with current practice, and align with the Washington medical commission.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Becky McElhiney
360-236-4766
Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery
WAC 246-853-290, 246-853-300, 246-853-310, and 246-853-320.
Substance abuse monitoring program for osteopathic physicians.
The board of osteopathic medicine and surgery is proposing amendments to update rules regarding health profession monitoring programs to update language changes made by SSB 5496 (chapter 43, Laws of 2022).
 
 
 
Anticipate filing
Becky McElhiney
360-236-4766
Board of Physical Therapy
Chapter 246-915 WAC, Dry needling endorsement.
New section in chapter 246-915 WAC to clarify statutory requirements for education and training and define an intramuscular needling endorsement.
23-16-028
Anticipate filing
 
 
Allyson McIver
360-236-2878
Board of Physical Therapy
Initial license and endorsement requirements, WAC 246-915-030, 246-915-039¸ 246-915-040, and 246-915-085.
23-24-101
 
 
 
Allyson McIver
360-236-2878
Board of Physical Therapy
WAC 246-915A-010 Physical therapy license compact, update to match compact commission rules.
The board of physical therapy is proposing to update the effective date in WAC 246-915A-010 for the physical therapy compact per RCW 18.74.500, Article IX(2). 
 
 
 
Anticipate filing
Allyson McIver
360-236-2878
Chiropractic Quality Assurance Commission
WAC 246-808-201 and 246-808-215.
The chiropractic quality assurance commission is considering adopting health equity CE requirements for chiropractic X-ray technicians.
23-08-021
23-20-026
Anticipate filing
 
Betty Moe
360-236-2868
Chiropractic Quality Assurance Commission
WAC 246-808-010, 246-808-105 through 246-808-140, 246-808-180 through 246-808-190, 246-808-510, 246-808-535, and 246-808-801 through 246-808-830.
Amending the chiropractic credentialing requirements.
23-05-053
Anticipate filing
 
 
Betty Moe
360-236-2868
Dental Quality Assurance Commission
Dental school faculty member licenses.
The dental quality assurance commission is proposing to amend WAC 246-817-150 to remove specific references about granting licenses to University of Washington faculty and replacing with a reference to a faculty of any institution of higher education in Washington state accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
23-16-100
23-23-053
Anticipate filing
 
Amber Freeberg
360-236-4893
Dental Quality Assurance Commission
Dental graduates of nonaccredited schools,
WAC 246-817-160.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Amber Freeberg
360-236-4893
Dental Quality Assurance Commission
WAC 246-817-905 Exclusions.
The dental quality assurance commission is considering adding residential habilitation centers to the list of opioid prescribing exclusions.
Withdrawn
23-22-030
Anticipate filing
 
 
Amber Freeberg
360-236-4893
DOH
Title 246 WAC; crisis call center hubs.
DOH is considering creating a new chapter of rules to implement E2SHB 1477 (chapter 302, Laws of 2021). The rules will establish standards for designation of crisis call centers as crisis call center hubs within the 988 national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system.
22-15-084
Anticipate filing
 
 
Vanessa Saavedra
564-669-0609
Me'Kyel Bailey
360-764-9161
DOH
Title 246 WAC; establishing a new chapter relating to rapid health information network data reporting (RHINO).
17-21-075
Anticipate filing
 
 
Samantha Fuller
564-669-1964
DOH
Music therapists; Title 246 WAC.
DOH is considering creating a new chapter of rules to establish licensing regulations for music therapists, including fees. DOH will consider any necessary rules for an advisory committee.
23-22-034
Anticipate filing
 
 
Kendra Pitzler
360-236-4723
DOH
Behavioral health support specialist; Title 246 WAC.
DOH is considering rule making to establish the new behavioral health support specialist credential under SSB 5189 (chapter 270, Laws of 2023).
23-14-113
Anticipate filing
 
 
Nancy Delgado
360-236-4951
DOH
Certified peer specialist and trainee credential; Title 246 WAC.
DOH is considering rule making to establish the new certified peer specialist and trainee credentials under SSB [2SSB] 5555 (chapter 469, Laws of 2023).
23-16-037
 
 
 
Ted Dale
360-236-2991
DOH
Chapter 246-08 WAC, Practice and procedure, rules regarding DOH adjudicative proceedings for declaratory orders; public record requests; agency indexes; and general agency administrative processes.
DOH is reviewing existing rules within the chapter to identify amendments that may be necessary as a result of changes in statutes, changes in internal operations, opportunities to streamline processes to reduce regulatory burden without compromising public health and safety, and to provide clear, concise, and reasonable rules.
This rule making excludes: WAC 246-08-390 Acquisition, security, disclosure, and destruction of health information and 246-08-400 How much can a health care provider charge for searching and duplicating health care records.
19-16-114
 
 
 
Tami Thompson
360-628-0096
DOH
Chapter 246-12 WAC, advanced suicide education standards.
21-04-054
Anticipate filing
 
 
Stephanie Vaughn
360-819-0714
DOH
Chapter 246-70 WAC, Cannabis product compliance.
DOH is opening this chapter to consider updating the term "marijuana" to "cannabis," examine the definition of compliant product, review compliant product labeling, and align quality assurance standards with the Washington state liquor and cannabis board.
22-23-001
Anticipate filing
 
 
Loralei Walker
360-236-2820
DOH
Security screening systems.
DOH may adopt new chapter 246-230 WAC to establish radiation safety standards for the use of security screening systems capable of detecting contraband contained under clothing and within body cavities, meeting applicable federal and state radiation and safety standards.
Other sections of rule that may need to be amended include: Chapter 246-220 WAC, Radiation protection—General provisions; chapter 246-221 WAC, Radiation protection standards; chapter 246-222 WAC, Radiation protection—Worker rights; chapter 246-224 WAC, Radiation protection—Radiation machine assembly and registration; chapter 246-225 WAC, Radiation protection—X-rays in the healing arts; and chapter 246-227 WAC, Radiation protection—Industrial X-ray.
22-17-145
Anticipate filing
 
 
Ashlie Laydon
ashlie.laydon@doh.wa.gov
Richard Montemarano
360-236-3238
DOH
X-ray in healing arts, chapter 246-225 WAC.
DOH will consider amending existing rules and adopting new rules to address advancements in technology for radiation therapy and fluoroscopic X-ray and plan review shielding requirements.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Ashlie Laydon
ashlie.laydon@doh.wa.gov
DOH
Chapter 246-254 WAC, Radiation protection fees.
DOH is considering amending or creating new radioactive material license and licensee fees.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Earl Fordham
509-628-7628
Peter Beaton
360-236-4031
DOH
Chapter 246-275 WAC; establishing a new chapter for on-site nonpotable water systems.
21-17-04 [21-17-040]
 
 
 
Jocelyn Jones
360-236-3020
DOH
WAC 246-282-990 Sanitary control of shellfish—Fees.
DOH is proposing changes to existing fees and creating new fees for operator licenses, export certificates, biotoxin testing, and paralytic shellfish poisoning testing related to the commercial shellfish program.
23-04-061
23-23-186
Anticipate filing
 
Dani Toepelt
360-890-6054
Peter Beaton
360-236-4031
DOH
Chapter 246-296 WAC, Drinking water state revolving fund.
DOH is considering amendments to implement requirements of the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
23-11-003
Anticipate filing
 
 
Nina Helpling
360-236-3065
DOH
Certificate of need, adult elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) program.
DOH is considering amendments to WAC 246-310-700 to 246-310-755, in response to a rule-making petition to amend the adult elective PCI certificate of need requirements.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Ross Valore
360-236-2955
DOH
WAC 246-310-800 through 246-310-833, certificate of need, kidney disease treatment centers temporary emergency rule exemptions.
DOH is considering creating a new section to implement SSB 5659 (chapter 48, Laws of 2023) that creates exemptions from the certificate of need requirements for kidney disease treatment center rules. DOH will also consider amendments to the kidney disease center rules based upon the effects of implementing rules pursuant to SSB 5569.
23-16-038
Anticipate filing
 
 
Ross Valore
360-236-2955
DOH
WAC 246-320-010, 246-320-500, 246-320-505, 246-320-600, and other sections of chapter 246-320 WAC relevant to construction standards.
DOH is considering amending the hospital licensing regulations to align with the current national construction standards.
23-15-082
 
 
 
Susan Upton
360-236-2948
DOH
Acute care and private psychiatric hospital fees, WAC 246-320-199 Acute care hospital and 246-322-990 Private psychiatric hospitals.
DOH is considering updates to rules regarding acute care and private psychiatric hospital fees to address funding needs.
23-22-096
Anticipate filing
 
 
Heather Cantrell
360-236-4637
DOH
Chapter 246-320 WAC, Hospital licensing regulations.
DOH is considering amending the acute care hospital regulations in chapter 246-320 WAC in order to implement 2SSB 5120 (chapter 433, Laws of 2023), an act concerning the establishment of 23-hour crisis relief centers in Washington state.
23-13-016
Anticipate filing
 
 
Julie Tomaro
360-236-2937
DOH
Chapter 246-329 WAC, Childbirth centers.
DOH is considering updates to clarify, consolidate, and modernize the chapter.
22-06-058
Anticipate filing
 
 
John Hilger
360-236-2929
DOH
WAC 246-337-040 Construction review services requirements.
DOH is considering updating residential treatment facility rules to reflect upcoming changes to the Washington state building code.
20-07-124
 
 
 
John Hilger
360-236-2929
DOH
WAC 246-338-010 and 246-338-020, medical test site licenses.
DOH is removing the profession of naturopath and changing midwife to nurse midwife in WAC 246-338-020 to maintain Washington's clinical laboratory improvement amendments exempt status.
N/A
Anticipate filing
 
 
Jessica Holloway
360-236-2927
DOH
Chapter 246-341 WAC, Behavioral health agency (BHA) licensing and certification requirements.
DOH is considering amending the BHA regulations in chapter 246-341 WAC in order to implement 2SSB 5120 (chapter 433, Laws of 2023). DOH may also amend sections of chapter 246-341 WAC to address statutory changes as a result of the 2023 legislative session. 
23-13-017
Anticipate filing
 
 
Dan Overton
360-236-2953
DOH
BHA regulations in chapter 246-341 WAC related to opioid treatment programs (OTPs).
DOH is considering amending the BHA regulations related to OTPs to address general cleanup, remove duplicate requirements, align with C.F.R. and implement 2E2SSB 5536 (chapter 1, Laws of 2023, 1st sp. sess.). DOH is also fixing two internal citations from a previous rules project.
23-17-078
Anticipate filing
 
 
Michelle Weatherly
360-236-2992
DOH
WAC 246-358-990 Temporary worker housing fees.
DOH is considering updating or creating new fees to cover operating costs for the temporary worker housing program.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Juan Gamez
360-628-6620
Peter Beaton
360-236-4031
DOH
Private detention facilities.
DOH is considering creating a new chapter 246-385 WAC to set operational health and safety standards for private detention facilities.
23-23-079
 
 
 
Nina Helpling
360-236-3065
DOH
Chapter 246-453 WAC, Hospital charity care.
DOH is considering amendments to implement new requirements in SSB 6273 (chapter 623 [263], Laws of 2018) and SHB 1616 (chapter 197, Laws of 2022). Updates may be needed to ensure that the rules are current and align with best practices. DOH will also consider adding a new section to address requirements for clarity and conciseness.
22-20-069
 
 
 
Carrie Baranowski
360-236-4210
DOH
WAC 246-454-010, 246-454-020, 246-454-090, and 246-454-110, Hospitals—System of accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, cost allocation.
DOH is considering amendments to existing rules to implement new requirements in E2SHB 1272. Updates may be needed to ensure that the rules are current and align with best practices. DOH will also consider adding a new section to address requirements for clarity and conciseness.
21-23-082
 
 
 
Carrie Baranowski
360-236-4210
DOH
Prescription monitoring program (PMP); clarifying terms and information about prescription history for PMP.
Amending WAC 246-470-010, 246-470-030, and 246-470-050.
DOH is considering clarifying that prescribers can request the history of prescriptions they have written.
23-22-092
Anticipate filing
 
 
Jennifer Kang
360-688-6644
DOH
WAC 246-480-010, 246-480-070, 246-480-080, and 246-480-990 within chapter 246-480 WAC, Drug take-back program.
DOH is considering rule making to align existing rules with 2SHB 1161 (chapter 155, Laws of 2021) and adopt other amendments necessary to regulate the state drug take-back program, also known as the "safe medication return" program. Amendments may include clarifying how multiple program operators participate in the drug take-back program, setting fees, and other changes as appropriate.
22-01-170
23-15-102
Anticipate filing
 
Mary Kellington
360-236-2988
DOH
Chapter 246-490 WAC, Vital statistics; and chapter 246-491 WAC, Vital statistics—Certificates.
DOH is considering amending and repealing existing rules, and creating new rules related to vital records. The rules may establish registration and amendment requirements for vital records; update or add program processes to align with statutory changes; adopt fees associated with amendment and delayed birth applications; add or adjust fees associated with the issuance of certifications and informational copies; add or remove data items collected in a vital record; expand use of electronic registration of a vital event; make editorial and technical changes to align with statutory changes; and repeal obsolete sections of rule.
23-04-062
Anticipate filing
 
 
Kelly Thomson
360-236-2274
DOH
Physician Visa waivers in chapter 246-562 WAC.
DOH is considering a chapter review to reorganize sections and amend rules regarding J-1 Physician Visa waivers. DOH is considering changing these rules to help meet the greatest needs across Washington state. DOH is considering amending the organizational structure, application criteria, and requirements for letters of support.
Anticipate filing new CR-101 and withdrawing WSR 23-12-089
 
 
 
Sarah Gambrill
564-669-1697
Kelly Shaw
360-480-8690
DOH
Chapter 246-780 WAC; electronic benefit payments for farmers' market nutrition program, also to be known as e-FMNP.
DOH is considering updating the chapter to allow for electronic benefit payments for the farmers' market nutrition program.
23-07-101
Anticipate
filing
 
 
Katherine Flores
360-742-4543
Steve Strong
360-742-2930
DOH
Chapter 246-790 WAC, Special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC).
DOH is considering changes to the rule which would allow for more variety in WIC vendor types.
23-22-061
 
 
 
Karen Mullen
360-515-8279
DOH
WAC 246-803-040, virtual training for point injection therapy for acupuncture and Eastern medicine.
DOH is considering amending education and training for point injection therapy to allow the 16 hours of didactic education to be done virtually.
23-17-077
Anticipate filing
 
 
Vicki Brown
360-236-4865
DOH
Chapter 246-805 WAC,
Applied behavior analysis. Chapter review.
20-18-067
Anticipate filing
 
 
Kendra Pitzler
360-236-4723
DOH
Chapter 246-809 WAC;
supervisor directory and stipend program for mental health counselor, marriage and family therapist, and social worker associates.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Brandon Williams
360-913-4643
DOH
Chapter 246-809 WAC; DOH is considering rule making to implement recommendations developed under 2SHB 1724 (chapter 425, Laws of 2023) to support the behavioral health workforce and lower barriers to licensure. Professions potentially impacted by this rule making include mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, social workers, and associates.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Lana Crawford
564-669-1455
DOH
Chapter 246-810 WAC; DOH is considering rule making to: (1) Implement 2SHB 1724 (chapter 425, Laws of 2023), which created two new agency-affiliated counselor credential types; (2) implement E2SHB 1504 (chapter 170, Laws of 2021), which allowed student interns to become agency-affiliated counselors; and to update the chapter as appropriate.
23-16-044
Anticipate filing
 
 
Carmen Leso
360-742-1463
DOH
WAC 246-811-070, 246-811-076, and 246-811-300, substance use disorder professionals and substance use disorder professional trainees.
DOH is considering updating the chapter to amend national certification requirements, include pharmacists as a profession eligible for the alternative training program, remove AIDS training from the probationary licensure requirements, and make other housekeeping updates as appropriate.
22-03-052
23-20-120
Anticipate filing
 
Ted Dale
360-236-2991
DOH
Chapter 246-811 WAC; DOH is considering rule making to implement recommendations developed under 2SHB 1724 (chapter 425, Laws of 2023) to support the behavioral health workforce and lower barriers to licensure. Professions potentially impacted by this rule making include substance use disorder professionals and trainees.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Ted Dale
360-236-2991
DOH
Amend WAC 246-815-140 Dental hygienists CE.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Bruce Bronoske
360-236-4843
DOH
Dental hygiene health equity CE; create WAC 246-815-145.
Establish health equity CE; DOH is considering creating a new rule in chapter 246-815 WAC, Dental hygiene equity training requirements. Health equity rules, WAC 246-12-830 [246-12-800] through 246-12-830, to comply with RCW 43.70.613.
23-21-070
24-02-006
Anticipate filing
 
Bruce Bronoske
360-236-4843
DOH
Dental hygienists, infection control, chapter 246-815 WAC.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Bruce Bronoske
360-236-4843
DOH
Chapter 246-819 WAC, Dental therapist.
DOH is considering establishing new chapter 246-819 WAC for the dental therapist profession in order to implement ESHB 1678 (chapter 460, Laws of 2023).
23-22-058
Anticipate filing
 
 
Bruce Bronoske
360-236-4843
DOH
Chapter 246-822 WAC, Dietitians or nutritionists.
DOH is considering rule making to amend or repeal several sections of the dietitian and nutritionist chapter. Specific sections focus on mandatory reporting, examinations, and curriculum. Updating rules about dieticians and nutritionists to modernize the chapter.
18-10-059
23-22-131
Anticipate filing
 
Kim-Boi Shadduck
360-236-2912
DOH
WAC 246-828-991 Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) fees and renewal cycle.
DOH is considering establishing new WAC 246-828-991 to implement HB 1001 (chapter 53, Laws of 2023), which establishes the ASLP-IC and gives member states the discretion to charge a fee for compact privileges.
23-17-072
Anticipate filing
 
 
Kim-Boi Shadduck
360-236-2912
DOH
Medical assistants—Various provisions.
DOH will consider rule amendments to medical assistant rules, WAC 243-827-0010, 246-827-0200, and 246-827-0240, to align with statutes updated by ESHB 1073 (chapter 134, Laws of 2023) and ensure that the rules are current and align with best practices.
23-20-118
Anticipate filing
 
 
Becky McElhiney
360-236-4766
DOH
Chapter 246-834 WAC, Midwives. Limited prescriptive license.
DOH is considering creating new rule sections and amending existing sections to implement SSB 5765 (chapter 289, Laws of 2022). This bill creates two levels of limited prescriptive license extension for midwives to prescribe, obtain, and administer medications and therapies for the prevention and treatment of common prenatal and postpartum conditions, family planning methods, medical devices and implants. The bill also gives the secretary the authority to establish education requirements. DOH will also replace gendered terms with gender-neutral terms throughout the chapter. DOH intends to open the complete chapter for these potential revisions.
22-15-083
Anticipate filing
 
 
Kathy Weed
360-236-4883
DOH
Chapter 246-916 WAC, Athletic trainers.
DOH and the athletic training advisory committee are proposing to create a new section in the athletic trainer rules in response to SHB 1274.
23-17-091
Anticipate filing
 
 
Allyson McIver
360-236-2878
DOH
Chapter 246-930 WAC, Sex offender treatment providers (SOTP).
Chapter rewrite based on recommendations from newly established SOTP advisory committee.
22-04-057
 
 
 
Lana Crawford
564-669-1455
DOH
WAC 246-976-010 through 246-976-310, 246-976-330 through 246-976-400, 246-976-890, 246-976-920, 246-976-960, and 246-976-970, EMS and trauma care systems.
DOH is considering amending the rules to align with current national standards and make rules more clear, concise, and organized; proposing changes to address barriers to initial and renewal application processes; and responding to new legislative requirements. New sections may be added as required.
17-24-013 Withdrawn
22-11-065 New
Anticipate filing
 
 
Catie Holstein
360-236-2841
DOH
Chapter 246-976 WAC, EMS and trauma care systems.
DOH is considering updating sections of this chapter relating to EMS data to respond to legislative requirements required by SSB 5380, section 19, chapter 314, Laws of 2019. New sections may be added as required.
20-17-011
Anticipate filing
 
 
Jim Jansen
360-236-2821
DOH
Chapter 246-976 WAC, EMS, organ transport.
DOH is considering creating licenses for organ transport vehicles.
23-17-070
 
 
 
Jason Norris
360-236-2851
DOH
WAC 246-980-100 Examination and reexamination for home care aide certification.
DOH is considering amending WAC 246-980-100 to: (1) Update the home care aide examination process; (2) consider whether the examination must be completed within a certain time period after completing training; and (3) address any other issues identified by DOH or interested parties. DOH also may consider changes to streamline or clarify the rules as appropriate.
23-04-064
 
 
 
Jennifer Osbun
360-236-2737
DOH
Home care aide reducing barriers, chapter 246-980 WAC.
DOH is considering amending WAC 246-980-010, 246-980-025, 246-980-040, 246-980-100, 246-980-110, 246-980-115, and 246-980-140, and possibly creating new rule sections in chapter 246-980 WAC.
23-15-019
 
 
 
Jennifer Osbun
360-236-2737
Examining Board of Psychology
Chapter 246-924 WAC; the examining board of psychology (board) is considering rule making to implement recommendations developed under 2SHB 1724 (chapter 425, Laws of 2023) to support the behavioral health workforce and lower barriers to licensure. Additionally, the board will consider updating licensure requirements for psychologists.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Zach Patnode
360-490-2587
Occupational Therapy Practice Board
Chapter 246-847 WAC; streamlining occupational therapy licensure and endorsement.
24-01-099
 
 
 
Kathy Weed
360-236-4883
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Chapter 246-945 WAC; the pharmacy quality assurance commission (commission) is considering a new section of rule to implement SSB 6086, an act relating to increasing access to medications for people with opioid use disorder.
20-17-123
23-16-071
Anticipate filing
 
Joshua Munroe
360-502-5058
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Chapter 246-945 WAC; adding new section pertaining to medication assistance and the settings in which medication assistance occurs.
The commission and DOH are filing jointly to reinstate rules on medication assistance as permitted under chapter 69.41 RCW.
22-02-015
Anticipate filing
 
 
Joshua Munroe
360-502-5058
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Pharmacy mobile opioid treatment program units.
The commission is considering amending WAC 246-945-060 and 246-945-250 and adding new sections in chapter 246-945 WAC to exempt mobile OTP units from having to obtain separate registrations, as long as they are covered under the OTP site's controlled substance registration, and to develop more comprehensive facility requirements for analytical laboratories and dog handlers among other facilities that are licensed under the other controlled substance registration.
23-18-046
 
 
 
Haleigh Mauldin
360-890-0720
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Chapter 246-945 WAC; transfer practices for a dispensed prescription drug for the purpose of redispensing or subsequent administration to a patient.
23-20-115
 
 
 
Joshua Munroe
360-502-5058
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Chapter 246-945 WAC; the commission is considering amending WAC 246-945-055 to remove fenfluramine from the list of Schedule IV substances and adding a new section to chapter 246-945 WAC to establish a list of Schedule IV exemptions.
23-20-119
 
 
 
Julia Katz
360-791-1167
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Pharmacy home dialysis programs; chapter 246-945 WAC.
23-21-010
 
 
 
Julia Katz
360-791-1167
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Pharmacy wildlife capture drug classification, WAC 246-945-507.
23-21-011
 
 
 
Julia Katz
360-791-1167
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Prescription transfers, WAC 246-945-345.
23-23-051
 
 
 
Julia Katz
360-791-1167
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Chapter 246-945 WAC, Prescription drug label accessibility standards; WAC 246-945-016 and 246-945-417.
The pharmacy quality assurance commission is opening these rules to consider including prescription label accessibility standards and is also considering new sections to chapter 246-945 WAC on the subject of prescription drug label accessibility.
22-09-065
Anticipate filing
 
 
Joshua Munroe
360-502-5058
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
WAC 246-945-455.
The commission is reviewing existing rules (WAC 246-945-455) limiting access to drugs stored outside of the pharmacy in a health care facility to licensed health care professionals. The commission will consider adopting new requirements allowing access to drugs outside the pharmacy by unlicensed staff. The commission will also consider if other disruptions within the health care facilities, resulting from requirements within WAC 246-945-455, are necessary.
23-01-111
Anticipate filing
 
 
Joshua Munroe
360-502-5058
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Chapter 246-945 WAC; the commission is considering amending WAC 246-945-585 and creating a new section of rule in the chapter to clarify expectations for wholesalers submitting suspicious order and zero order reports to the commission.
23-10-012
 
 
 
Haleigh Mauldin
360-890-0720
Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Chapter 246-945 WAC, technical updates.
The commission initiated rule making to update rule section references and conduct additional technical updates in chapter 246-945 WAC.
 
 
 
23-23-153
Joshua Munroe
360-502-5058
Veterinary Board of Governors
WAC 246-933-010 Definitions and 246-933-200 Veterinary-client-patient relationship.
The veterinary board of governors is considering rule making to amend existing rules and potentially adding a new section of rules to establish additional standards for veterinary telemedicine services.
22-17-101
Anticipate filing
 
 
Poppy Budrow
564-669-0026
Veterinary Board of Governors
WAC 246-935-060 Eligibility for examination as veterinary technician.
The veterinary board of governors is considering amending WAC 246-935-060 to clarify that a board-approved apprenticeship program is a pathway for veterinary technician licensure.
23-07-007
23-21-094
Anticipate filing
 
Poppy Budrow
564-669-0026
Veterinary Board of Governors
Animal health care tasks for and supervision of veterinary technicians and veterinary medication clerks.
The veterinary board of governors is considering updates and revisions to WAC 246-935-050 Animal health care tasks, 246-935-040 Responsibilities of a veterinarian supervising a licensed veterinary technician or unregistered assistant, 246-935-010 Definitions (veterinary technicians), and 246-937-010 Definitions (registered veterinary medication clerks).
23-18-060
 
 
 
Poppy Budrow
564-669-0026
Board of Nursing
Initial licensure via an out-of-state traditional nursing education program approved by another United States nursing board, applicants applying via interstate endorsement, and other related licensure requirements.
The Washington state board of nursing is considering amending WAC 246-840-030, 246-840-090, and other rule sections related to licensure requirements for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses.
23-11-143
 
 
 
Jessilyn Dagum
360-236-3538
Board of Nursing
WAC 246-840-095 Temporary practice permits.
22-06-057
23-21-071
Anticipate filing
 
Jessilyn Dagum
360-236-3538
Board of Nursing
WAC 246-840-010, 246-840-700, and 246-840-910 through 246-840-970.
The Washington state board of nursing is considering amending the blood glucose testing and monitoring rules.
23-02-037
 
 
 
Jessilyn Dagum
360-236-3538
Board of Nursing
Nursing education rules, WAC 246-840-517 and 246-840-534.
The Washington state board of nursing is considering amendments to nursing education rules in response to E2SSB 5582 (chapter 126, Laws of 2023).
23-17-011
 
 
 
Jessilyn Dagum
360-236-3538
Board of Nursing
Substance abuse monitoring program for nursing professions, amending WAC 246-840-750 through 246-840-780, and potential new rules in chapter 246-840 WAC.
The Washington state board of nursing is considering amendments to current rule sections relating to the nursing board's substance use disorder monitoring program in response to SHB 1255 Nursing—Substance use disorder monitoring program participation (chapter 141, Laws of 2023). The board of nursing is also considering creating new rule sections to establish a stipend program as directed by SHB 1255.
23-17-074
 
 
 
Jessilyn Dagum
360-236-3538
Board of Nursing
ARNP education requirements for licensure, updating definition of graduate-level education.
WAC 246-840-010, 246-840-340, 246-840-342, and other related sections.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Jessilyn Dagum
360-236-3538
Washington Medical Commission
New sections in chapters 246-918 and 246-919 WAC regarding collaborative drug therapy agreements.
20-16-008
 
 
 
Amelia Boyd
360-918-6336
Washington Medical Commission
Physicians and physician assistants general provision for opioid prescribing and tapering rules.
The Washington medical commission (commission) is considering amending the following rules to modernize the language, add clarity, and bring the rules more in line with current practice: WAC 246-918-801 (physician assistants) Exclusions, 246-918-845 (physician assistants) Patient evaluation and patient record—Subacute pain, 246-918-855 (physician assistants) Patient evaluation and patient record—Chronic pain, 246-918-870 (physician assistants) Periodic review—Chronic pain, 246-918-900 (physician assistants) Tapering considerations—Chronic pain, 246-919-851 (physicians) Exclusions, 246-919-895 (physicians) Patient evaluation and patient record—Subacute pain, 246-919-905 (physicians) Patient evaluation and patient record—Chronic pain, 246-919-920 (physicians) Periodic review—Chronic pain, and 246-919-950 (physicians) Tapering considerations—Chronic pain. The commission is considering amending these WAC to modernize the language, add clarity, and bring the rules more in line with current practice.
23-17-094
Anticipate filing
 
 
Amelia Boyd
360-918-6336
Washington Medical Commission
WAC 246-919-330 Postgraduate medical training.
The commission is considering removing two requirements that have become barriers to licensure.
23-18-005
Anticipate filing
 
 
Amelia Boyd
360-918-6336
Washington Medical Commission
Military spouse temporary practice permits; WAC 246-918-076 (physician assistants) and 246-919-397 (physicians) How to obtain a temporary practice permit—Military spouse.
The commission will consider amending these WAC in response to 2SHB 1009 (chapter 165, Laws of 2023), Military Spouse Employment Act.
23-19-029
Anticipate filing
 
 
Amelia Boyd
360-918-6336
Washington Medical Commission
Establishing the use of nitrous oxide in office-based settings under WAC 246-919-601.
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Amelia Boyd
360-918-6336
Washington Medical Commission
ESSB 5389 defining "qualified physician."
Anticipate filing
 
 
 
Amelia Boyd
360-918-6336