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 receive information about rule making and other topics related to substance use disorder professionals, subscribe for updates at the bottom of the page.
Opportunities to connect with Department staff: Office Hours
The Department of Health is hosts SUDP Office Hours each month to answer questions related to SUDP/T applications, credentialing, education, and other topics related to the SUDP profession. Beginning April 15, 2025, office hours occur monthly on the third Tuesday of the month from noon to 1 p.m. Information to join the meeting is available below. If you would like the department to include you in the recurring invitation, email the program manager.
Microsoft Teams (need help?)
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Meeting ID: 231 747 153 075
Passcode: XG3CG9St
Dial in by Phone
+1 564-999-2000,,960850755# United States, Olympia
(833) 322-1218,,960850755# United States (Toll-free)
Find a local number
Phone conference ID: 960 850 755#
New! SUDP Supervisor Office Hours
As requested by members of the profession, the department is also hosting SUDP Supervisor Office Hours to create a dedicated space for SUDP supervisors to ask questions related to their role supervising SUDPTs. Beginning in November 2025, Supervisor Office Hours will take place every other month on the first Thursday from noon to 12:30 p.m.
Information to join the virtual meeting is located below. If you would like a direct invitation to this recurring meeting, email the program manager.
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Join the meeting now
Meeting ID: 271 249 670 509 9
Passcode: wZ9in2xF
Dial in by phone
+1 564-999-2000,,782831204# United States, Olympia
(833) 322-1218,,782831204# United States (Toll-free)
Find a local number
Phone conference ID: 782 831 204#
For organizers: Meeting options | Reset dial-in PIN
Current Rules in Progress
On August 18, 2026, the department filed a CR-101 to initiate rulemaking for Substance Use Disorder Professionals, in WSR 26-17-091 (PDF). This rulemaking will consider topics including, but not limited to, adding trauma-informed care to the continuing education and professional competency requirements, updates to education standards, documentation requirements, and how applicants with foreign education and experience become certified. The department may also consider other topics raised by the Substance Use Disorder Certification Advisory Committee, the department, or members of the public.
The department will begin conducting research about these topics immediately and will schedule listening sessions to hear from members of the profession, educators, behavioral health agencies, and other interested parties in the next year. Public workshops to begin drafting rule changes will be scheduled in 2027, and information to join will be posted and shared to subscribers of SUDP Profession updates. The department welcomes suggestions and contributions from all interested parties.
If you have any questions about this rulemaking process, please contact the program manager.
For more information about the Rulemaking process, please view the resources available on our website.
2025 Rulemaking Documents
The department adopted final rule language for chapter 246-811 WAC for Substance Use Disorder Professionals, which went into effect on May 30, 2025. Final rule changes are available on the legislative website, and detailed rulemaking documents are linked below.
- CR-103 Form and rules – Combined (WSR 25-07-024) (PDF)
- Concise Explanatory Statement (PDF)
- Significant Analysis for SUDP changes (PDF)
If you have questions, contact the program manager or attend SUDP Office Hours, available monthly.