The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

(1) "Community residential service business" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 74.39A.009.

(2) "Date of hire" means the first day the long-term care worker is employed by any employer.

(3) "Department" means the department of health.

(4) "Home care aide" means a person certified under this chapter.

(5) "Individual provider" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 74.39A.009.

(6) "Long-term care worker" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 74.39A.009.

(7) "Personal care services" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 74.39A.009.

(8) "Secretary" means the secretary of the department of health.

Finding—Intent—2012 c 164: "The legislature finds that numerous enactments and amendments to long-term care services statutes over many years have resulted in duplicated provisions, ambiguities, and other technical errors. The legislature intends to make corrections and clarify provisions governing services by long-term care workers." [ 2012 c 164 § 101.]

Rules—2012 c 164: "By September 1, 2012, the department of social and health services shall adopt rules that reflect all statutory and regulatory training requirements for long-term care workers, as defined in RCW 74.39A.009, to provide the services identified in RCW 74.39A.009(5)(a)." [ 2012 c 164 § 408.]

Effective date—2012 c 164: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 29, 2012]." [ 2012 c 164 § 711.]

Intent—Findings—Construction—Short title—2009 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1029): See notes following RCW 18.88B.050.