(1) The department recognizes that multiple colleges, universities, and technical colleges began implementing behavioral health support specialist educational programs prior to the establishment of chapter 18.227 RCW in 2023. In recognition of the educational programs and the achievements of their students, the department may approve BHSS educational programs for academic years prior to January 1, 2025. To apply for legacy status and to permit a program's pre-2025 graduates to apply for certification, the educational program must apply for program approval using the process established under WAC 246-821-810.

(2) If the program did not require 240-hour practicums during the pre-2025 time period, an individual BHSS applicant may supplement their application with documentation of additional supervised experience to make up the deficit.