Subject of Possible Rule Making: Early support for infants and toddlers (ESIT), adopting a new chapter of TITLE 170 WAC.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 43.215.020, 43.215.060, chapter 43.215 RCW.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department is creating regulations which would regulate Washington state early intervention programs.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: As appropriate, the department of early learning (DEL) will coordinate development of these rules with the state department of health, the office of superintendent of public instruction, and the Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs.

     Process for Developing New Rule: To the extent practicable, DEL intends to seek public input during the rule drafting and development process. At a later date, DEL will file proposed rules (more than one proposed rule-making notice may be filed), hold a public hearing or hearings, and accept written comments before adopting permanent rules.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Individuals and organizations wishing to receive draft and proposed materials may join a DEL rules mailing list by contacting the DEL rules coordinator at Rules@del.wa.gov, phone (360) 407-1971, fax (360) 586-0533, or writing DEL Rules Coordinator, Department of Early Learning, P.O. Box 40972, Olympia, WA 98504-0972.

February 4, 2013

Elizabeth M. Hyde

Director