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.
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Current Rules in Progress
Extending the home care aide certification timeline - On May 17, 2025, Senate Bill SB5672 (chapter 341, Laws of 2025) was signed into law, allowing the department, in collaboration with the State Auditor’s Office, to extend the certification timeline for long-term care workers while the state audit is being conducted.
Standardizes basic training and certification requirements - On April 7, 2025, Substitute House Bill (SHB) 1142 (chapter 18, Laws of 2025), was signed into law, standardizing basic training and clarifying the role of long-term care workers providing in-home care for their family members, including spouses or domestic partners, which amends RCW 18-88B.041 and 74.39A.076.
The permanent rules will cover the time until December 31, 2027, when the emergency clause expires from SB 5672, under RCW 18.88B.022.
The CR-103P rulemaking order was filed with the Code Reviser as WSR 26-12-065 on June 2, 2026. The Home Care Aide rules will become effective 31 days after the filing and publication, taking effect on July 3, 2026.