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.
Current rules in progress
1. Hearing and Speech – implementing legislation 2SHB 1724 and amending WAC 246-828-617
The Board of Hearing and Speech adopted amendments to implement section 8 of Second Substitute House Bill (2SHB) 1724 (chapter 425, Laws of 2023), codified as RCW 18.130.077, to reduce barriers to entering and remaining in the hearing and speech workforce and to shorten the credentialing process. The board amended WAC 246-828-020, 246-828-510, with a new section of 246-828-035, Licensure by endorsement. Additionally, the board adopted amendments to WAC 246-828-617 to clarify the requirements for speech-language pathology assistant certification.
- CR-103 filed April 11, 2025, as WSR# 25-09-055 (PDF)
- CR-102 filed December 18, 2024, as WSR# 25-02-001 (PDF)
- CR-101 filled March 29, 2024, as WSR# 24-08-058 (PDF)
2. Health equity continuing education for audiologists, hearing aid specialists, speech-language pathologists and speech-language pathologist assistants
The Board of Hearing and Speech adopted a new rule (WAC 246-828-505) and updates to existing ones (WAC 246-828-510) to include health equity education. This is because of Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5229 (ESSB 5229 chapter 276, Laws 2021).
Important Dates:
- CR-103 filed December 19, 2023, as WSR #24-01-120 (PDF)
- CR-102 filed September 12, 2023, as WSR #23-19-030 (PDF)
- CR-101 filed January 23, 2023, as WSR #23-04-022 (PDF)
3. Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
The Board of Hearing and Speech is making changes to WAC 246-828-100, which sets the minimum standards for how hearing aids are fitted and dispensed. These changes are being made to align our rules with the latest federal regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA, in 2022, established specific rules (21 C.F.R. Parts 800, 801, 808, and 874) about how over-the-counter hearing aids can be sold.
Important Dates:
- CR-103 filed December 18, 2023, as WSR #24-01-120 (PDF)
- CR-102 filed September 20, 2023, as WSR #23-19-102 (PDF)
- CR-101 filed January 23, 2023, as WSR #23-04-023 (PDF)