How can I participate in rulemaking?
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
The department has filed a Notice of Proposed rulemaking (WSR 23-16-037) (PDF) to begin the process of drafting the rules for peer specialists as required in 2SSB 5555. The new, optional credentials must be available by July 1, 2025.
The department has developed draft rules with input and opinions from all the previous workshops. Future workshops will be held to review the rules and discuss concerns or potential changes. You may also email us your questions or comments.
- WAC 246-929 – Draft Rule Language for Certified Peer Specialists (PDF)
- Draft Ethical Guidelines for Certified Peer Specialists (PDF)
Rules Workshop for Developing the Certified Peer Specialist Credential
The Department of Health is hosting a series of workshops to develop the regulations around the new certified peer specialist credential created in 2SSB 5555 (PDF). The department will provide an overview of the rulemaking process and timelines and ask for feedback about the draft rules of this profession. We are looking for information and opinions from peers, employers, behavioral health agencies, professional organizations, tribal partners, and any other interested parties who would like to participate.
The first workshops were in October and December 2023. See the October 23, 2023 Slide Deck Presentation (PDF).
A second round of workshops was conducted in April 2024. See the April 2024 Slide Deck Presentation (PDF).
The next phase of the workshops are in July and August 2024. These workshops will go through the draft rules to review and discuss the decisions made based on the feedback from previous workshops. These rules are not final yet, we still want to hear from everyone if they have concerns or suggestions.
You do not need to register in advance to participate in the workshop. You can join online using the meeting link by phone.
July
- Monday, July 15, 2024, from 2:30 – 4:30
- ]Wednesday, July 17, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00
- Tuesday, July 23, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00
- Friday, July 26, 2024, from 10:00 – 12:00
- Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 5:00 – 7:00
August
- Tuesday, August 13, 2024, from 10:00 – 12:00
- Friday, August 16, 2024, from 10:00 – 12:00
- Monday, August 26, 2024, from 2:30 – 4:30
- Wednesday, August 28, 2024, from 3:00 – 5:00 *tentative, if needed*
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Future Opportunities for Feedback
The department is continuing the rulemaking process for certified peer specialists. We anticipate finalizing the draft language in the fall and moving forward to implement the final rules after that.
You can monitor the progress of rulemaking through our Peer Specialist Rules In Progress webpage or sign up for our GovDelivery notification system.
You may also submit written ideas or recommendations by email.
*Peer specialist is a new program regulated by the Department of Health. Watch this space for information regarding upcoming rules workshops. Notification of workshops will also be announced via GovDelivery listserv.