(1) The department has the authority to:
(a) Establish forms, procedures, and examinations necessary to certify home care aides pursuant to this chapter;
(b) Hire clerical, administrative, and investigative staff as needed to implement this section;
(c) Issue certification as a home care aide to any applicant who has successfully completed the home care aide examination, and renew such certificates;
(d) Maintain the official record of all applicants and persons with certificates;
(e) Exercise disciplinary authority as authorized in chapter
18.130 RCW; and
(f) Deny certification to applicants who do not meet training, competency examination, and conduct requirements, including background checks, for certification.
(2) The department shall adopt rules that establish the procedures, including criteria for reviewing an applicant's state and federal background checks, and examinations necessary to implement this section.