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
Birth doula clarifying “culturally congruent care” from rules petition
The Department of Health has filed a CR-103 rules package adopting amendments to WAC 246-835-010 and 246-835-025 to update the definition of "culturally congruent care" and to clarify education and training requirements related to "culturally congruent care." This filed CR-103 on December 18, 2024, with WSR# 25-02-003 (PDF) includes a Concise Explanatory Statement (PDF) attached to the rules language. These rules will be effective January 20,2025, which is 31 days after the filing of the CR-103.
The Department of Health filed a CR-102 proposed rule language for WAC 246-835-010 and 246-835-025 (PDF) as WSR# 24-20-088 on September 19, 2024 (PDF). The department is considering amendments to update the definition of “culturally congruent care” and clarify rule expectations regarding competencies for those seeking certification.
- CR-103P filed August 30, 2023, as WSR 23-18-083 (PDF)
- CR-102 filed June 06, 2023, as WSR 23-12-090 (PDF)
- CR-101 filed July 06, 2022, as WSR 22-14-105 (PDF)
Engrossed Substitute House Bill (ESHB) 1881 (chapter 217, Laws of 2022), codified under chapter 18.47 RCW, created birth doulas (doulas) as a new health profession in the State of Washington. The adopted rules establish the profession’s education, training, and certification requirements. This is a voluntary credential, meaning that an individual does not need to be credentialed in Washington state to provide doulas services however, the title “state-certified birth doula” cannot be used unless the person is certified as a birth doula.
The adopted rules incorporate education requirements that include congruent ancestral practices, training, and education. Training may be completed through educational programs or completing ancestral pathway competencies. In addition to the education and training requirements, the adopted rules establish certification requirements which include an application process, fees, and any other requirements necessary to comply with the Uniform Disciplinary Act, chapter 18.130 RCW, which is required for all credential holders.