PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Adopting rules to implement SSB 6751, which establishes good cause for individuals who quit work to enter an approved apprenticeship training program. In addition, the department will adopt and update rules on the general subject of unemployment insurance benefits consistent with existing policy, including rules related to job separations, job search requirements, reporting requirements, training, educational employees, powers of attorney for claimants, and the definition of terms.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 50.12.010, 50.12.040, and 50.20.010.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Rules are needed to implement 2008 legislation related to individuals who quit work to enter apprenticeship training. In order to make rules clearer and more comprehensive and to provide more consistent, predictable, and transparent standards, the department intends to review and update current rules which relate to eligibility for and payment of unemployment benefits, and to adopt rules in place of existing policies related to unemployment 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 (USDOL) 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 prior to adoption. Proposed regulations on apprenticeship training will be shared with the state department of labor and industries.
Process for Developing New Rule: The department will hold public meetings to obtain and consider public and stakeholder input prior to filing the proposed rules. In addition, there will be a mailing to stakeholders identified in the rule-making process and written comments from stakeholders will be considered.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Juanita Myers, Unemployment Insurance Rules Coordinator, Employment Security Department, P.O. Box 9046, Olympia, WA 98507-9046, phone (360) 902-9665, fax (360) 902-9799, e-mail jmyers@esd.wa.gov. Please include your name, organization (if any), mailing address, e-mail address, and telephone number.
April 10, 2008
Karen T. Lee
Commissioner