Rules in Progress
The rules writing process is open to the public. The public is welcome to take part in helping us write rules. Rules are also known as regulations, Washington Administrative Code, or WAC. The rule-making process includes public notices and workshops, and usually a public hearing before a rule becomes final.
To receive information about rule making and other topics related to substance use disorder professionals, subscribe for updates at the bottom of the page.
Current rules in progress
The Department of Health (department) has filed a CR-101 with the Office of the Code Reviser to continue the work to increase the behavioral health workforce by reducing barriers to licensure and streamlining the credentialing process, as required in HB 1724.
WSR 24-10-011 (PDF), filed on April 18, 2024, for chapter 246-811 WAC, considers amending chapter 246-811 WAC, and possibly repealing or creating new sections.
The Department of Health (department) is considering rule amendments to implement legislation, including Second Substitute House Bill (2SHB) 1724 (chapter 425, Laws of 2023), Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill (E2SHB) 2247 (chapter 371, Laws of 2024), and Second Substitute Senate Bill (2SSB) 6228 (chapter 366, Laws of 2024). To implement this legislation, the department will consider reducing barriers to entering and remaining in the behavioral health care workforce, measures to streamline and shorten the credentialing process, and other amendments to the chapter as appropriate. This may include: (1) Amending continuing education requirements; (2) Amending requirements for approved supervisors; (3) Amending education requirements that necessitate department review; (4) Amending requirements for out-of-state applicants, and (5) Limiting the credential application and renewal fees to $100 per year.
Additionally, pursuant to a 2022 petition, the department may consider requiring an associate degree for certification and other possible changes to how coursework is verified.
As part of the rulemaking process, the department welcomes your participation in a series of rulemaking workshops. During the workshops we welcome ideas, concerns, and general comments on how to best develop regulations pertaining to the proposed amendments. You will be notified through GovDelivery of these workshops as they are scheduled.