Hearing and Speech Services

Rules in Progress

The rules writing process is open to the public. These rules are created through a public process involving open public meetings and hearings. Each of these rules is in various stages of rule writing.

You are always welcome to take part in helping the Board for Hearing and Speech 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.

Department of Health Rules Page

Current rules in progress

1. Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) Fees and Renewal Cycle

We’re considering adding a new section called WAC 246-828-991. This is because of House Bill 101 (chapter 53, Laws of 2023), which allows states to charge fees for certain privileges. 

Important Dates:

2. Health equity continuing education for audiologists, hearing aid specialists, speech-language pathologists and speech-language pathologist assistants

The Board of Hearing and Speech adopted a new rule (WAC 246-828-505) and updates to existing ones (WAC 246-828-510) to include health equity education. This is because of Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5229 (ESSB 5229 chapter 276, Laws 2021).

Important Dates: 

3. Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

The Board of Hearing and Speech is making changes to WAC 246-828-100, which sets the minimum standards for how hearing aids are fitted and dispensed. These changes are being made to align our rules with the latest federal regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA, in 2022, established specific rules (21 C.F.R. Parts 800, 801, 808, and 874) about how over-the-counter hearing aids can be sold.

Important Dates:

More agency rule resources