Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 170-290 WAC, Working connections and seasonal child care subsidy programs.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapter 43.215 RCW.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department of early learning (DEL) seeks to streamline and improve efficiencies in the subsidy program for consumers. Implement legislation as required by the 2013 legislature.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The state department of social and health services jointly administers the working connections child care and seasonal child care subsidy programs. DEL must follow United States Administration for Children and Families - Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) regulations consistent with the state's CCDF plan, DEL plans to coordinate rule development with these state and federal agencies.

     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, fax (360) 586-0533, or writing to DEL Rules Coordinator, Department of Early Learning, P.O. Box 40972, Olympia, WA 98504-0972.

March 18, 2013

Robert McLellan

Senior Assistant Director