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 get updates about rule making and other topics related to acupuncture or Eastern medicine practitioners, subscribe for updates at the bottom of the page.
Current rules in progress
- Current rules
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None at this time.
Rule Changes
The Department of Health occasionally makes changes to rules. The department determines rule changes are necessary for many reasons including: legislative law changes, request to change a rule, national standards change, and updating outdated rule language. 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 get updates about rule making and other topics related to acupuncture and Eastern medicine practitioners, please subscribe. After entering your email address, choose Health Systems Quality Assurance, Health Professions, Acupuncture List.
- Acupuncture and Eastern medicine laws and rules are on our Laws webpage.
- Acupuncture and Eastern medicine rules in progress (proposed rule modifications) are on our Rules in Progress webpage.
Recently completed rule changes
- Health equity continuing education training requirements
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The department opened chapter 246-803 WAC to amend the rules to implement the following legislation:
Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill (ESSB) 5229 (CHAPTER 276, Laws of 2021):
Adds two hours of health equity education, as required in the model rules, to be completed as part of the current continuing education requirements every four years.
The Department adopted the rules at a public rules hearing held on August 15, 2023, by webinar. The Department thanks everyone who participated in the rule-making process.
The Department adopted the language as published with the office of the Code Reviser under WSR 23-17-085 on August 15, 2023. The rule became effective September 15, 2023.
- Fee changes effective June 1, 2023
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The Department of Health filed a CR-103, permanent rule, for WAC 246-803-990. The permanent rule adjusts fee amounts for acupuncturists or acupuncture and Eastern medicine practitioners.
The adopted change will more closely align revenue with expenses for the profession, while enabling reserves to be maintained should unanticipated events occur. The new amounts will apply to credentials that are due on or after June 1, 2023.
Acupuncturist or Acupuncture and Eastern Medicine Practitioner Certification Fee Current Fee Fee effective June 1, 2023 License application $100 License application $60 License renewal $196 License renewal $90 Late renewal penalty $105 Late renewal penalty $50