Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department of licensing (DOL) is beginning the process to develop rules to allow for increased access to driver training education while ensuring the efficacy of these access strategies, reasonable standards for schools and instructors, and compliance with state law. DOL is committed to increasing access to driver training education in partnership with industry stakeholders. Industry stakeholders will be invited to collaborate on the development of these rules. DOL recognizes that driver training education supports public safety and the general welfare of novice drivers who require transportation to obtain food, housing, employment, and education. Over the past two years during the COVID-19 pandemic, DOL has seen the benefit of remote learning opportunities provided by public schools. The office of superintendent of public instruction (OSPI)'s approach to remote learning has made the virtual classroom a standard accommodation and accessibility feature for not only reducing the spread of COVID-19, but for supporting students without reliable transportation, students with learning disabilities, students with language access needs, rural students, etc. Remote learning, among other strategies to increase access to learning, will be explored during the rule development process.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: OSPI and the Washington traffic safety commission both share a vested interest in traffic safety education and public safety on Washington roadways. Therefore, DOL will invite these entities to participate in the rule-making process. Although their participation is not required, it is welcomed.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Ellis Starrett, 1125 Washington Street S.E., Olympia, WA 98504, phone 360-902-3846, email rulescoordinator@dol.wa.gov, website dol.wa.gov/about/driversrules.html.