Respiratory Care Practitioner - Rules in Progress

Rules in Progress

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 respiratory care practitioners (RCPs), subscribe for updates at the bottom of the page.

Current rules in progress

Respiratory Care Practitioner licensure and endorsement and temporary permits

CR-103P Effective July 1, 2025

The rule-making process for respiratory care practitioner licensure and endorsement and temporary permits is currently underway. A public hearing on proposed rules is scheduled for October 16. To attend please see the link below:
 
Register in advance for this webinar

The department is proposing amendments and adding a new section of rule to waive education, training, experience, and exam requirements for applicants who have been credentialed in another state or states with substantially equivalent standards for at least two years immediately preceding their application with no interruption in licensure for longer than 90 days, or for applicants who are certified by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). The amendments to licensure and endorsement requirements are being proposed to implement RCW 18.130.077. The department is also proposing changes to the temporary permit section to extend the length of time the permit can be active from 90 days to 180 days to implement RCW 18.340.020. The department is proposing changing the length of time for all applicants, not just military spouses. This proposed change will remove barriers to entering and remaining in the health care workforce and obtaining full licensure.

Health Equity Continuing Education Workshop

The Department of Health (department) proposes amending WAC 246-928-442 and creating new section WAC 246-928-445 to establish health equity continuing education requirements and implement Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill (ESSB) 5229 (chapter 276, Laws of 2021). Additionally, the department proposes making additional amendments to update and clarify WAC 246-928-442.

The public rules hearing will take place on September 13, 2023, at 12:30 pm. More information can be found in the attachments below. You may provide public comment on our website.

More agency rule resources