PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Adopt rules to implement the changes contained in chapter 4, Laws of 2003 2nd sp.s. (2ESB 6097) to the unemployment compensation program. Interpretive rules will clarify requirements related to job separations due to voluntary quits and discharges, penalties for gross misconduct, part-time workers, job search requirements, and the calculation of maximum benefits payable. Rules will be adopted to define terms. Existing rules related to job separations, job search requirements, and suitable work will be amended.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 50.12.010, 50.12.040, and section 34, chapter 4, Laws of 2003 2nd sp.s.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The legislation substantively revises the state laws that govern an individual's eligibility for unemployment benefits. These changes represent significant changes to the decision-making process. Interpretive rules will be needed to clarify how eligibility will be determined under the new laws. Existing rules apply only to claims filed prior to January 4, 2004, and must be amended to reflect the new statutes. The calculation of maximum benefits payable needs to be clarified in terms of how it is calculated and the effective date of any change. The rules will clarify for claimants and employers how the department will implement those sections of the legislation that pertain to job separations, job search requirements, suitable work, and the calculation of maximum benefits payable.
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.
Process for Developing New Rule: The department intends to hold informal meetings with stakeholders and interested parties to obtain input on the proposed rules.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Persons interested in attending meetings to discuss the proposed rules should contact 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.
June 30, 2003
Dr. Sylvia P. Mundy
Commissioner