(1) In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the governor suspended the requirement for the department to conduct full licensing inspections of assisted living facilities required by RCW 18.20.110.

(2) During the suspension of the full licensing inspection requirements, the department continued to conduct complaint investigations in assisted living facilities when it became aware of information that indicated an immediate threat to resident health and safety may exist.

(3) The department must prioritize and resume full licensing inspections of assisted living facilities affected by the suspension of the inspection requirements by applying the following criteria collectively:

(a) The department has identified an ongoing threat to the health and safety of residents through one or more reported complaints, previous inspections, or previous investigations;

(b) Whether the assisted living facility has had a remedy imposed in the last 24 months; and

(c) The length of time since the last full licensing inspection of the assisted living facility.

(4) The department must conduct a full licensing inspection for assisted living facilities licensed after the reinstatement of RCW 18.20.110 in accordance with the schedule set by that section.