Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 296-17 WAC, General reporting rules, audit and recordkeeping, rates and rating system for workers compensation insurance and chapter 296-17A WAC, Classifications.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 51.06.035 and 51.06.100.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Labor and industries is required by law to establish and maintain a workers compensation classification plan that classifies all occupations or industries within the state and sets basic rates of premium for these classifications that are distributed fairly (RCW 51.16.035). The department determined that certain rules are in need of revision.

     We intend to make minor housekeeping changes to the following rules: WAC 296-17-31018, 296-17-35202, 296-17-35203 (6)(b), 296-17A-0308, 296-17A-0516, 296-17A-1109, and 296-17A-3603.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Labor and industries will solicit input from the business community by way of direct mailings, the internet, and/or informal public meetings. Labor and industries will use this input to formulate proposed changes to the existing rules and advise customers of future rule making by direct mailing and/or the internet.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Labor and industries will mail letters with ideas on possible rule changes to affected stakeholders. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the process and can obtain information on our process at the employer services web site, www.lni.wa.gov/insuranceservices/employerservices. Comments can be submitted electronically to moom235@lni.wa.gov or by calling (360) 902-4774 or by fax (360) 902-4729.

March 18, 2009

Judy Schurke

Director

© Washington State Code Reviser's Office