BILL REQ. #:  H-1537.1 

READ FIRST TIME 02/21/13.   

     AN ACT Relating to fingerprint-based background checks for state-registered appraiser trainee applicants and existing credential holders; amending RCW 18.140.060 and 18.140.120; and adding a new section to chapter 18.140 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

Sec. 1   RCW 18.140.060 and 2005 c 339 s 5 are each amended to read as follows:
     (1) Applications for examinations, original certification, licensure, or registration, and renewal certification, licensure, or registration shall be made in writing to the department on forms approved by the director. Applications for original and renewal certification, licensure, or registration shall include a statement confirming that the applicant shall comply with applicable rules and regulations and that the applicant understands the penalties for misconduct.
     (2) The appropriate fees shall accompany all applications for examination, reexamination, original certification, licensure, or registration, and renewal certification, licensure, or registration.
     (3) Each applicant for registration as a state-registered appraiser trainee and each applicant seeking to change the level of his or her credential must submit to a background investigation under section 3 of this act.
     (4) Qualified applicants for licensure or certification from another jurisdiction not requiring trainee registration shall submit to a background investigation under section 3 of this act.
     (5) At the discretion of the director, existing credential holders may by rule be required to submit to background investigations under section 3 of this act at renewal.

Sec. 2   RCW 18.140.120 and 2005 c 339 s 9 are each amended to read as follows:
     An applicant for certification or licensure who is currently certified or licensed and in good standing under the laws of another state may obtain a certificate or license as a Washington state-certified or state-licensed real estate appraiser without being required to satisfy the examination requirements of this chapter if((:)) the director determines that ((the certification or licensure requirements are substantially similar to those found in Washington state; and that the other state has a written reciprocal agreement to provide similar treatment to holders of Washington state certificates and/or licenses)): The appraiser licensing and certification program of the other state is in compliance with 12 U.S.C. 3351(b); and the other state's requirements for certification or licensing meet or exceed the licensure standards established in this chapter.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 3   A new section is added to chapter 18.140 RCW to read as follows:
     Effective January 1, 2015, background investigations under this chapter consist of fingerprint-based background checks through the Washington state patrol criminal identification system and through the federal bureau of investigation. The applicant is required to pay the current federal and state fees for fingerprint-based criminal history background checks. The applicant shall submit the fingerprint cards and required fees for background checks to the department for submission to the Washington state patrol.