PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
LABOR AND INDUSTRIES
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Pursuant to HB 1722 (chapter 263, Laws of 2007), which made changes relating to the authority for physician's assistants to sign documents associated with workers' compensation coverage under Title 51 RCW, the department is reviewing its rules for possible changes.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: HB 1722 (chapter 263, Laws of 2007), RCW 51.04.020, 51.04.030.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: HB 1722 directs the department to accept the signature of a physician assistant on any certificate, card, form or other documentation required by the department. A physician assistant may not rate a worker's permanent partial disability under RCW 51.32.055. The department made changes via an emergency rule to immediately respond to the legislation. This rule making will be to make changes necessary to implement this legislation.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: This law and accompanying rules are specific to Washington workers' compensation benefits and is governed by Title 51 RCW, Washington's Industrial Insurance Act. There are no other state or federal agencies responsible for interpreting and enforcing the provisions of this act.
Process for Developing New Rule: Parties interested in participating in the development of these rules may contact the person listed below. The public may also participate by providing written comments during the comment period or giving oral testimony at public hearings. The rule will be developed in consultation with major stakeholders, including the workers' compensation advisory committee.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Jami Lifka, Department of Labor and Industries, Office of the Medical Director, P.O. Box 44321, Olympia, WA 98504-4321, phone (360) 902-4941, or fax (360) 902-6315.
August 21, 2007
Judy Schurke
Director