PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: To adopt new regulations clarifying provisions of SHB 3077, which provides for the payment of additional unemployment benefits to qualified dislocated workers enrolled in approved training.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 50.12.010, 50.20.010, and chapter 2, section 8, Laws of 2000.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The rules will define terms, clarify eligibility requirements, and establish policies and procedures related to the approval and funding of training plans. The rules will also clarify requalification requirements for individuals who have been disqualified from benefits.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The United States Department of Labor reviews the state's administration of the unemployment insurance program to ensure conformity to federal statutes and regulations. The state has broad flexibility in the implementation of unemployment insurance laws as long as conformity is maintained. The proposed regulations will be shared with USDOL Region X staff prior to adoption.
Process for Developing New Rule: The department will conduct informal public meetings with interested individuals and stakeholders to gather their input and comments during the development of these regulations.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Persons interested in attending public meetings to discuss the proposed regulations should contact Juanita Myers, Rules Coordinator, Unemployment Insurance Division, P.O. Box 9046, phone (360) 902-9665, fax (360) 902-9799, e-mail jmyers@esd.wa.gov.
March 13, 2000
Carver Gayton
Commissioner