Subject of Possible Rule Making: Define experience requirements for licensed mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and social workers.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapter 251, Laws of 2001.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The 2001 legislature (chapter 251, Laws of 2001) mandated the Department of Health establish experience requirements for licensed mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and social workers. This law was effective July 22, 2001. At that time certification was repealed and licensure became effective. The statute does not provide sufficient information and requires further definitions through rule making.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Collaborative rule making.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Shellie Pierce, Program Manager, Department of Health, Counselor Programs, 1300 S.E. Quince Street, Olympia, 98504, (360) 236-4907, fax (360) 236-4909.

October 29, 2001

Mary C. Selecky

Secretary

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