WSR 98-06-088

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

DEPARTMENT OF

SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES

(Economic Services Administration)

[Filed March 4, 1998, 11:07 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 388-31 WAC, Washington telephone assistance program and related rules.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 80.36.440 and 74.08.090.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: These rules identify client eligibility, benefits and how WTAP funds are disbursed. The current rules are being reviewed and revised to provide updated information and conform to regulatory reform criteria.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The program is jointly administered by the Department of Social and Health Services and the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. The draft rules will be sent to the commission by mail or FAX, and any return comments considered.

Process for Developing New Rule: Review current rules using clear writing guidelines and appropriate audiences. Copies will be provided to coordinating agencies and interested persons. All comments will be considered. The Economic Services Administration Regulatory Improvement Team (RIT) will also review these rules before adoption.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Interested parties can contact Grace Moy, Program Manager. Meetings will be arranged, if needed. If you would like to participate in the review, contact Grace Moy, Program Manager, Division of Assistance Programs, Adult Programs and Support Services, P.O. Box 45470, Olympia, WA 98504-5470, phone (360) 413-3107, FAX (360) 413-3495, e-mail moygc@dshs.wa.gov.

March 3, 1998

Edith M. Rice, Chief