RCW 31.04.015 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 04 / Section 015
RCW 31.04.015: Definitions.
Status: in_force

The definitions set forth in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires a different meaning. (1) "Add-on method" means the method of precomputing interest payable on a loan whereby the interest to be earned is added to the principal balance and the total plus any charges allowed under this chapter is stated as the loan amount, without further provision for the payment of interest except for failure to pay according to loan terms. The director may adopt by rule a more detailed explanation of the meaning and use of this method. (2) "Affiliate" means any person who, directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, or is controlled by, or is under common control with another person. (3) "Applicant" means a person applying for a license under this chapter. (4) "Borrower" means any person who consults with or retains a licensee or person subject to this chapter in an effort to obtain, or who seeks information about obtaining a loan, regardless of whether that person actually obtains such a loan. "Borrower" includes a person who consults with or retains a licensee or person subject to this chapter in an effort to obtain, or who seeks information about obtaining a residential mortgage loan modification, regardless of whether that person actually obtains a residential mortgage loan modification. (5) "Department" means the state department of financial institutions. (6) "Depository institution" has the same meaning as in section 3 of the federal deposit insurance act on July 26, 2009, and includes credit unions. (7) "Director" means the director of financial institutions. (8) "Educational institution" means any entity that is a degree-granting institution as defined in RCW 28B.85.010 , a private vocational school as defined in RCW 28C.10.020 , or school as defined in RCW 18.16.020 . (9) "Federal banking agencies" means the board of governors of the federal reserve system, comptroller of the currency, director of the office of thrift supervision, national credit union administration, and federal deposit insurance corporation. (10) "Individual servicing a mortgage loan" means a person on behalf of a lender or servicer licensed by this state, who collects or receives payments including payments of principal, interest, escrow amounts, and other amounts due, on existing obligations due and owing to the licensed lender or servicer for a residential mortgage loan when the borrower is in default, or in reasonably foreseeable likelihood of default, working with the borrower and the licensed lender or servicer, collects data and makes decisions necessary to modify either temporarily or permanently certain terms of those obligations, or otherwise finalizing collection through the foreclosure process. (11) "Insurance" means life insurance, disability insurance, property insurance, involuntary unemployment insurance, and such other insurance as may be authorized by the insurance commissioner. (12) "License" means a single license issued under the authority of this chapter. (13) "Licensee" means a person to whom one or more licenses have been issued. "Licensee" also means any person, whether located within or outside of this state, who fails to obtain a license required by this chapter. (14) "Loan" means a sum of money lent at interest or for a fee or other charge and includes both open-end and closed-end loan transactions. (15) "Loan processor or underwriter" means an individual who performs clerical or support duties as an employee at the direction of and subject to the supervision and instruction of a person licensed, or exempt from licensing, under this chapter. (16) "Making a loan" means advancing, offering to advance, or making a commitment to advance funds to a borrower for a loanIt is the policy of this state and the purpose of this chapter: (1) To promote the dependability of information which is used for guidance in financial transactions or for accounting for or assessing the status or performance of commercial and noncommercial enterprises, whether public, private or governmental; and (2) To protect the public interest by requiring that: (a) Persons who hold themselves out as licensees conduct themselves in a competent, ethical, and professional manner; (b) A public authority be established that is competent to prescribe and assess the qualifications of certified public accountants; (c) Persons other than licensees refrain from using the words "audit," "review," and "compilation" when designating a report customarily prepared by someone knowledgeable in accounting; (d) A public authority be established to provide for consumer alerts and public protection information to be published regarding persons or firms who violate the provisions of chapter 294, Laws of 2001 or board rule and to provide general consumer protection information to the public; and (e) The use of accounting titles likely to confuse the public be prohibited. However as of June 30, 2024, an individual holding a CPA-inactive certificate must be designated as a licensee with an inactive status.The term "labeling" means all labels and other written, printed, or graphic matter (1) upon any article or any of its containers or wrappers, or (2) accompanying such article.closed-end loan transactions. (15) "Loan processor or underwriter" means an individual who performs clerical or support duties as an employee at the direction of and subject to the supervision and instruction of a person licensed, or exempt from licensing, under this chapter. (16) "Making a loan" means advancing, offering to advance, or making a commitment to advance funds to a borrower for a loan. (17) "Mortgage broker" means the same as defined in RCW 19.146.010 , except that for purposes of this chapter, a licensee or person subject to this chapter cannot receive compensation as both a consumer loan licensee making the loan and as a consumer loan licensee acting as the mortgage broker in the same loan transaction. (18)(a) "Mortgage loan originator" means an individual who for compensation or gain (i) takes a residential mortgage loan application, or (ii) offers or negotiates terms of a residential mortgage loan. "Mortgage loan originator" also includes individuals who hold themselves out to the public as able to perform any of these activities. "Mortgage loan originator" does not include any individual who performs purely administrative or clerical tasks; and does not include a person or entity solely involved in extensions of credit relating to timeshare plans, as that term is defined in section 101(53D) of Title 11, United States Code. For the purposes of this definition, administrative or clerical tasks means the receipt, collection, and distribution of information common for the processing of a loan in the mortgage industry and communication with a consumer to obtain information necessary for the processing of a residential mortgage loan. (b) "Mortgage loan originator" also includes an individual who for direct or indirect compensation or gain performs residential mortgage loan modification services or holds himself or herself out as being able to perform residential mortgage loan modification services. (c) "Mortgage loan originator" does not include a person or entity that only performs real estate brokerage activities and is licensed or registered in accordance with applicable state law, unless the person or entity is compensated by a lender, a mortgage broker, or other mortgage loan originator or by any agent of such a lender, mortgage broker, or other mortgage loan originator. For the purposes of chapter 120, Laws of 2009, the term "real estate brokerage activity" means any activity that involves offering or providing real estate brokerage services to the public, including: (i) Acting as a real estate agent or real estate broker for a buyer, seller, lessor, or lessee of real property; (ii) Bringing together parties interested in the sale, purchase, lease, rental, or exchange of real property; (iii) Negotiating, on behalf of any party, any portion of a contract relating to the sale, purchase, lease, rental, or exchange of real property, other than in connection with providing financing with respect to such a transaction; (iv) Engaging in any activity for which a person engaged in the activity is required to be registered or licensed as a real estate agent or real estate broker under any applicable law; and (v) Offering to engage in any activity, or act in any capacity, described in (c)(i) through (iv) of this subsection. (d) This subsection does not apply to employees of a housing counseling agency approved by the United States department of housing and urban development unless the employees of a housing counseling agency are required under federal law to be individually licensed as mortgage loan originators. (19) "Nationwide mortgage licensing system" means a licensing system developed and maintained by the conference of state bank supervisors for licensing and registration. (20) "Officer" means an official appointed by the company for the purpose of making business decisions or corporate decisions. (21) "Person" includes individuals, partnerships, associations, limited liability companies, limited liability partnerships, trusts, corporations, and all other legal entities. (22) "Principal" means any person who controls, directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, alone or in concert with others, a ten percent or greater interest in a partnership; company; association or corporation; or a limited liability company, and the owner of a sole proprietorship. (23) "Registered mortgage loan originator" means any individual who meets the definition of mortgage loan originator and is an employee of a depository institution; a subsidiary that is owned and controlled by a depository institution and regulated by a federal banking agency; or an institution regulated by the farm credit administration and is registered with, and maintains a unique identifier through, the nationwide mortgage licensing system. (24) "Residential mortgage loan" means any loan primarily for personal, family, or household use that is secured by a mortgage, deed of trust, or other consensual security interest on a dwelling, as defined in the truth in lending act, or residential real estate upon which is constructed or intended to be constructed a dwelling. (25) "Residential mortgage loan modification" means a change in one or more of a residential mortgage loan's terms or conditions. Changes to a residential mortgage loan's terms or conditions include but are not limited to forbearances; repayment plans; changes in interest rates, loan terms, or loan types; capitalizations of arrearages; or principal reductions. (26) "Residential mortgage loan modification services" includes negotiating, attempting to negotiate, arranging, attempting to arrange, or otherwise offering to perform a residential mortgage loan modification for compensation or gain. "Residential mortgage loan modification services" also includes the collection of data for submission to an entity performing mortgage loan modification services. (27) "S.A.F.E. act" means the secure and fair enforcement for mortgage licensing act of 2008, Title V of the housing and economic recovery act of 2008 ("HERA"), P.L. 110-289, effective July 30, 2008. (28) "Senior officer" means an officer of a licensee at the vice president level or above. (29) "Service or servicing a loan" means on behalf of the lender or investor of a residential mortgage loan: (a) Collecting or receiving payments on existing obligations due and owing to the lender or investor, including payments of principal, interest, escrow amounts, and other amounts due; (b) collecting fees due to the servicer; (c) working with the borrower and the licensed lender or servicer to collect data and make decisions necessary to modify certain terms of those obligations either temporarily or permanently; (d) otherwise finalizing collection through the foreclosure process; or (e) servicing a reverse mortgage loan. (30) "Service or servicing a reverse mortgage loan" means, pursuant to an agreement with the owner of a reverse mortgage loan: Calculating, collecting, or receiving payments of interest or other amounts due; administering advances to the borrower; and providing account statements to the borrower or lender. (31) "Simple interest method" means the method of computing interest payable on a loan by applying the annual percentage interest rate or its periodic equivalent to the unpaid balances of the principal of the loan outstanding for the time outstanding. (a) On a nonresidential loan each payment is applied first to any unpaid penalties, fees, or charges, then to accumulated interest, and the remainder of the payment applied to the unpaid balance of the principal until paid in full. In using such method, interest must not be payable in advance nor compounded. The prohibition on compounding interest does not apply to reverse mortgage loans made in accordance with the Washington state reverse mortgage act. The director may adopt by rule a more detailed explanation of the meaning and use of this method. (b) On a residential mortgage loan payments are applied as determined in the security instrument. (32) "Student education loan" means any loan solely for personal use to finance postsecondary education and costs of attendance at an educational institution. A student education loan includes a loan made to refinance a student education loan. A student education loan does not include a payment plan or accounts receivable at a higher education institution as defined in RCW 28B.07.020 (4) only during the time of a student's enrollment in the higher education institution, not to include a refinanced payment plan or accounts receivable, an extension of credit under an open-end consumer credit plan, a reverse mortgage transaction, a residential mortgage transaction, or any other loan that is secured by real property or a dwelling. (33) "Student education loan borrower" means: (a) Any resident of this state who has received or agreed to pay a student education loan; or (b) any person who shares responsibility with such resident for repaying the student education loan. (34) "Student education loan servicer" means any person, wherever located, responsible for the servicing of any student education loan to any student education loan borrower. (35) "Student education loan servicing" or "service a student education loan" means: (a) Receiving any scheduled periodic payments from a student education loan borrower pursuant to the terms of a student education loan; (b) applying the payments of principal and interest and such other payments with respect to the amounts received from a student education loan borrower, as may be required pursuant to the terms of a student education loan; (c) working with the student education loan borrower to collect data, or collecting data, to make decisions to modify the loan; or (d) performing other administrative services with respect to a student education loan including collection activities. "Student education loan servicing" does not include third-party student education loan modification services. (36) "Third-party residential mortgage loan modification services" means residential mortgage loan modification services offered or performed by any person other than the owner or servicer of the loan. (37) "Third-party service provider" means any person other than the licensee or a mortgage broker who provides goods or services to the licensee or borrower in connection with the preparation of the borrower's loan and includes, but is not limited to, credit reporting agencies, real estate brokers or salespersons, title insurance companies and agents, appraisers, structural and pest inspectors, or escrow companies. (38) "Third-party student education loan modification services" means for compensation or other consideration by or on behalf of the borrower working with the student education loan borrower or his or her representative to collect data or prepare or submit documents, or collecting data and preparing or submitting documents, to modify, refinance, or consolidate the loan, or change repayment plans. (39) "Unique identifier" means a number or other identifier assigned by protocols established by the nationwide mortgage licensing system.
RCW 18.04.370 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 04 / Section 370
RCW 18.04.370: Penalty.
Status: in_force

(1) Any person who violates any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a crime, as follows: (a) Any person who violates any provision of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a fine of not more than thirty thousand dollars, or to imprisonment for not more than six months, or to both such fine and imprisonment. (b) Notwithstanding (a) of this subsection, any person who uses a professional title intended to deceive the public, in violation of RCW 18.04.345 , having previously entered into a stipulated agreement and order of assurance with the board, is guilty of a class C felony, and upon conviction thereof, is subject to a fine of not more than thirty thousand dollars, or to imprisonment for not more than two years, or to both such fine and imprisonment. (c) Notwithstanding (a) of this subsection, any person whose license was suspended or revoked by the board and who uses the CPA professional title intending to deceive the public, in violation of RCW 18.04.345 , having previously entered into a stipulated agreement and order of assurance with the board, is guilty of a class C felony, and upon conviction thereof, is subject to a fine of not more than thirty thousand dollars, or to imprisonment for not more than two years, or to both fine and imprisonment. (2) With the exception of first time violations of RCW 18.04.345 , subject to subsection (3) of this section whenever the board has reason to believe that any person is violating the provisions of this chapter it shall certify the facts to the prosecuting attorney of the county in which such person resides or may be apprehended and the prosecuting attorney shall cause appropriate proceedings to be brought against such person. (3) The board may elect to enter into a stipulated agreement and orders of assurance with persons in violation of RCW 18.04.345 who have not previously been found to have violated the provisions of this chapter. The board may order full restitution to injured parties as a condition of a stipulated agreement and order of assurance. (4) Nothing herein contained shall be held to in any way affect the power of the courts to grant injunctive or other relief as above provided.Any officer or employee duly designated by the director shall have access to any factory or establishment, the operator of which holds a permit from the director, for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not the conditions of the permit are being complied with, and denial of access for such inspection shall be ground for suspension of the permit until such access is freely given by the operator.
RCW 18.83.010 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 83 / Section 010
RCW 18.83.010: Definitions.
Status: in_force

When used in this chapter: (1) The "practice of psychology" means the observation, evaluation, interpretation, and modification of human behavior by the application of psychological principles, methods, and procedures for the purposes of preventing or eliminating symptomatic or maladaptive behavior and promoting mental and behavioral health. It includes, but is not limited to, providing the following services to individuals, families, groups, organizations, and the public, whether or not payment is received for services rendered: (a) Psychological measurement, assessment, and evaluation by means of psychological, neuropsychological, and psychoeducational testing; (b) Diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders, and psychological aspects of illness, injury, and disability; and (c) Counseling and guidance, psychotherapeutic techniques, remediation, health promotion, and consultation within the context of established psychological principles and theories. This definition does not include the teaching of principles of psychology for accredited educational institutions, or the conduct of research in problems of human or animal behavior. Nothing in this definition shall be construed as permitting the administration or prescribing of drugs or in any way infringing upon the practice of medicine and surgery as defined in chapter 18.71 RCW. (2) "Secretary" means the secretary of health. (3) "Board" means the examining board of psychology. (4) "Department" means the department of health.
RCW 18.39.525 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 39 / Section 525
RCW 18.39.525: Certificates of removal registration.
Status: in_force

(1) The director shall issue a certificate of removal registration to a funeral establishment licensed in another state contiguous to Washington, with laws substantially similar to the provisions of this section, for the limited purpose of removing human remains from Washington prior to submitting a report of death. Licensed funeral establishments wishing to participate must: Apply to the department of licensing for a certificate of removal registration, on a form provided by the department, and pay the required application fee, as set by the director. (2) For purposes of this section, each branch of a registrant's funeral establishment is a separate establishment and must be registered as a fixed place of business. (3) Certificates of death are governed by RCW 70.58A.200 . (4) Notices of removal and disposition permits are governed by RCW 70.58A.210 . (5) The conduct of funeral directors, embalmers, or any other person employed by or acting on behalf of a removal registrant is the direct responsibility of the holder of the certificate of removal registration. (6) The board may impose sanctions upon the holder of a certificate of removal registration if the registrant is found to be in violation of any death care statute or rule. (7) Certificates of removal registration expire January 31st, or as otherwise determined by the director.
RCW 18.205.100 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 205 / Section 100
RCW 18.205.100: Educational programs and alternative training—Supervision—Standards and procedures—Established by rule.
Status: in_force

The secretary may establish by rule the standards and procedures for approval of educational programs and alternative training. The requirements for who may provide approved supervision towards training must be the same for all applicants in the regular or alternative training pathways. The requirements for who may provide approved supervision towards training must allow approved supervision to be provided by a person who meets or exceeds the requirements of a certified substance use disorder professional in the state of Washington and who would be eligible to take the examination required for certification. The secretary may utilize or contract with individuals or organizations having expertise in the profession or in education to assist in the evaluations. The secretary shall establish by rule the standards and procedures for revocation of approval of educational programs. The standards and procedures set shall apply equally to educational programs and training in the United States and in foreign jurisdictions. The secretary may establish a fee for educational program evaluations.
RCW 18.29.050 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 29 / Section 050
RCW 18.29.050: Scope of licensee's functions—Employment—Supervision.
Status: in_force

Any person licensed as a dental hygienist in this state may remove deposits and stains from the surfaces of the teeth, may apply topical preventive or prophylactic agents, may polish and smooth restorations, may perform root planing and soft-tissue curettage, and may perform other dental operations and services delegated to them by a licensed dentist or dental therapist. Any person licensed as a dental hygienist in this state may apply topical anesthetic agents under the general supervision, as defined in RCW 18.260.010 , of a dentist or a dental therapist: PROVIDED HOWEVER, That licensed dental hygienists shall in no event perform the following dental operations or services: (1) Any surgical removal of tissue of the oral cavity; (2) Any prescription of drugs or medications requiring the written order or prescription of a licensed dentist or physician, except that a hygienist may place antimicrobials pursuant to the order of a licensed dentist and under the dentist's or dental therapist's required supervision; (3) Any diagnosis for treatment or treatment planning; or (4) The taking of any impression of the teeth or jaw, or the relationships of the teeth or jaws, for the purpose of fabricating any intra-oral restoration, appliance, or prosthesis, except that a dental hygienist may take an impression for any purpose that is either allowed: (a) For a dental assistant registered under chapter 18.260 RCW; or (b) As a delegated duty for dental hygienists pursuant to rules adopted by the dental quality assurance commission. Such licensed dental hygienists may perform dental operations and services only under the supervision of a licensed dentist or dental therapist, and under such supervision may be employed by hospitals, boards of education of public or private schools, county boards, boards of health, or public or charitable institutions, or in dental offices.
RCW 18.39.215 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 39 / Section 215
RCW 18.39.215: Embalmers—Authorization to embalm—Information required—Immediate care of body—Waiver—Penalty.
Status: in_force

(1)(a) No licensed embalmer shall embalm human remains without first having obtained authorization from the individual or individuals that have the right to control the disposition under RCW 68.50.160 . (b) The funeral director or embalmer shall inform the family member or representative of the deceased that embalming is not required by state law, except that embalming is required under certain conditions as determined by rule by the state board of health. (2)(a) Any licensee authorized to dispose of human remains shall refrigerate or embalm the human remains upon receipt of the human remains. However, subsection (1) of this section and RCW 68.50.108 shall be complied with before human remains are embalmed. Upon written authorization of the proper state or local authority, the provisions of this subsection may be waived for a specified period of time. (b) Violation of this subsection is a gross misdemeanor.
RCW 18.360.040 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 360 / Section 040
RCW 18.360.040: Certification and registration requirements.
Status: in_force

(1)(a) The secretary shall issue a certification as a medical assistant-certified to any person who has satisfactorily completed a medical assistant training program approved by the secretary, passed an examination approved by the secretary, and met any additional qualifications established under RCW 18.360.030 . (b) The secretary shall issue an interim certification to any person who has met all of the qualifications in (a) of this subsection, except for the passage of the examination. A person holding an interim permit possesses the full scope of practice of a medical assistant-certified. The interim permit expires upon passage of the examination and issuance of a certification, or after one year, whichever occurs first, and may not be renewed. (2)(a) The secretary shall issue a certification as a medical assistant-hemodialysis technician to any person who meets the qualifications for a medical assistant-hemodialysis technician established under RCW 18.360.030 . (b) In order to allow sufficient time for the processing of a medical assistant-hemodialysis technician certification, applicants for that credential who have completed their training program are allowed to continue to work at dialysis facilities, under the level of supervision required for the training program, for a period of up to 180 days after filing their application, to facilitate patient continuity of care. (3)(a) The secretary shall issue a certification as a medical assistant-phlebotomist to any person who meets the qualifications for a medical assistant-phlebotomist established under RCW 18.360.030 . (b) In order to allow sufficient time for the processing of a medical assistant-phlebotomist certification, applicants for that credential who have completed their training program are allowed to work, under the level of supervision required for the training program, for a period of up to 180 days after filing their application, to facilitate access to services. (4) The secretary shall issue a certification as a medical assistant-EMT to any person who meets the qualifications for a medical assistant-EMT established under RCW 18.360.030 . (5) The secretary shall issue a certification as a forensic phlebotomist to any person who meets the qualifications for a forensic phlebotomist established under RCW 18.360.030 . (6)(a) The secretary shall issue a registration as a medical assistant-registered to any person who has a current endorsement from a health care practitioner, clinic, or group practice. (b) In order to be endorsed under this subsection (6), a person must: (i) Be endorsed by a health care practitioner, clinic, or group practice that meets the qualifications established under RCW 18.360.030 ; and (ii) Have a current attestation of his or her endorsement to perform specific medical tasks signed by a supervising health care practitioner filed with the department. A medical assistant-registered may only perform the medical tasks listed in his or her current attestation of endorsement. (c) A registration based on an endorsement by a health care practitioner, clinic, or group practice is not transferable to another health care practitioner, clinic, or group practice. (d) An applicant for registration as a medical assistant-registered who applies to the department within seven days of employment by the endorsing health care practitioner, clinic, or group practice may work as a medical assistant-registered for up to sixty days while the application is processed. The applicant must stop working on the sixtieth day of employment if the registration has not been granted for any reason. (7) A certification issued under subsections (1) through (3) of this section is transferable between different practice settings. A certification under subsection (4) of this section is transferable only between hospitals licensed under chapter 70.41 RCW. A certification under subsection (5) of this section is transferable between law enforcement agencies.
RCW 18.59.900 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 59 / Section 900
RCW 18.59.900: Short title.
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the occupational therapy practice act.
RCW 18.225.900 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 225 / Section 900
RCW 18.225.900: Severability—2001 c 251.
Status: in_force

If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected.
RCW 19.16.170 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 16 / Section 170
RCW 19.16.170: Procedure upon change of name or business location.
Status: in_force

Whenever a licensee shall contemplate a change of his, her, or its trade name or a change in the location of his, her, or its principal place of business or branch office, he, she, or it shall give written notice of such proposed change to the director. The director shall approve the proposed change and issue a new license or a branch office certificate, as the case may be, reflecting the change.(1) Subject to subsection (2) of this section, licenses issued under this chapter expire as follows: (a) A salon/shop, personal services, or mobile unit license expires one year from issuance or when the insurance required by RCW 18.16.175 (1)(g) expires, whichever occurs first; (b) A school license expires one year from issuance; and (c) Cosmetologist, hair designer, barber, manicurist, esthetician, master esthetician, and instructor licenses expire two years from issuance. (2) The director may provide for expiration dates other than those set forth in subsection (1) of this section for the purpose of establishing staggered renewal periods.
RCW 18.28.080 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 28 / Section 080
RCW 18.28.080: Fees for debt adjusting services—Limitations—Requirements.
Status: in_force

(1) By contract a debt adjuster may charge a reasonable fee for debt adjusting services. The total fee for debt adjusting services, including, but not limited to, any fee charged by a financial institution or a third-party account administrator, may not exceed fifteen percent of the total debt listed by the debtor on the contract. The fee retained by the debt adjuster from any one payment made by or on behalf of the debtor may not exceed fifteen percent of the payment not including fair share contributions to a nonprofit debt adjuster. The debt adjuster may make an initial charge of up to twenty-five dollars which shall be considered part of the total fee. If an initial charge is made, no additional fee may be retained which will bring the total fee retained to date to more than fifteen percent of the total payments made to date. No fee whatsoever shall be applied against rent and utility payments for housing. In the event of cancellation or default on performance of the contract by the debtor prior to its successful completion, the debt adjuster may collect in addition to fees previously received, six percent of that portion of the remaining indebtedness listed on said contract which was due when the contract was entered into, but not to exceed twenty-five dollars. (2) A debt adjuster shall not be entitled to retain any fee until notifying all creditors listed by the debtor that the debtor has engaged the debt adjuster in a program of debt adjusting. (3) The department of financial institutions has authority to enforce compliance with this section.
RCW 18.138.070 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 138 / Section 070
RCW 18.138.070: Authority of secretary.
Status: in_force

In addition to any other authority provided by law, the secretary may: (1) Adopt rules in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW necessary to implement this chapter; (2) Establish forms necessary to administer this chapter; (3) Issue a certificate to an applicant who has met the requirements for certification and deny a certificate to an applicant who does not meet the minimum qualifications; (4) Hire clerical, administrative, and investigative staff as needed to implement and administer this chapter and hire individuals, including those certified under this chapter, to serve as consultants as necessary to implement and administer this chapter; (5) Maintain the official departmental record of all applicants and certificate holders; (6) Conduct a hearing, pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW, on an appeal of a denial of certification based on the applicant's failure to meet the minimum qualifications for certification; (7) Investigate alleged violations of this chapter and consumer complaints involving the practice of persons representing themselves as certified dietitians or certified nutritionists; (8) Issue subpoenas, statements of charges, statements of intent to deny certifications, and orders and delegate in writing to a designee the authority to issue subpoenas, statements of charges, and statements on intent to deny certifications; (9) Conduct disciplinary proceedings, impose sanctions, and assess fines for violations of this chapter or any rules adopted under it in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW; (10) Set all certification, renewal, and late renewal fees in accordance with RCW 43.70.250 ; and (11) Set certification expiration dates and renewal periods for all certifications under this chapter.
RCW 18.85.231 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 85 / Section 231
RCW 18.85.231: Licenses—Office or records depositories required—Record maintenance and production.
Status: in_force

Every licensed real estate firm must have and maintain an office or records depositories accessible in this state to representatives of the director. The firm must maintain and produce a complete set of records as required by this chapter. The director may prescribe rules for alternative and electronic record storage.
RCW 18.71B.110 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 71B / Section 110
RCW 18.71B.110: Interstate medical licensure compact commission.
Status: in_force

(1) The member states hereby create the "interstate medical licensure compact commission." (2) The purpose of the interstate commission is the administration of the interstate medical licensure compact, which is a discretionary state function. (3) The interstate commission shall be a body corporate and joint agency of the member states and shall have all the responsibilities, powers, and duties set forth in the compact, and such additional powers as may be conferred upon it by a subsequent concurrent action of the respective legislatures of the member states in accordance with the terms of the compact. (4) The interstate commission shall consist of two voting representatives appointed by each member state who shall serve as commissioners. In states where allopathic and osteopathic physicians are regulated by separate member boards, or if the licensing and disciplinary authority is split between multiple member boards within a member state, the member state shall appoint one representative from each member board. A commissioner shall be: (a) An allopathic or osteopathic physician appointed to a member board; (b) An executive director, executive secretary, or similar executive of a member board; or (c) A member of the public appointed to a member board. (5) The interstate commission shall meet at least once each calendar year. A portion of this meeting shall be a business meeting to address such matters as may properly come before the commission, including the election of officers. The chairperson may call additional meetings and shall call for a meeting upon the request of a majority of the member states. (6) The bylaws may provide for meetings of the interstate commission to be conducted by telecommunication or electronic communication. (7) Each commissioner participating at a meeting of the interstate commission is entitled to one vote. A majority of commissioners shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, unless a larger quorum is required by the bylaws of the interstate commission. A commissioner shall not delegate a vote to another commissioner. In the absence of its commissioner, a member state may delegate voting authority for a specified meeting to another person from that state who shall meet the requirements of subsection (4) of this section. (8) The interstate commission shall provide public notice of all meetings and all meetings shall be open to the public. The interstate commission may close a meeting, in full or in portion, where it determines by a two-thirds vote of the commissioners present that an open meeting would be likely to: (a) Relate solely to the internal personnel practices and procedures of the interstate commission; (b) Discuss matters specifically exempted from disclosure by federal statute; (c) Discuss trade secrets, commercial, or financial information that is privileged or confidential; (d) Involve accusing a person of a crime, or formally censuring a person; (e) Discuss information of a personal nature where disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy; (f) Discuss investigative records compiled for law enforcement purposes; or (g) Specifically relate to the participation in a civil action or other legal proceeding. (9) The interstate commission shall keep minutes which shall fully describe all matters discussed in a meeting and shall provide a full and accurate summary of actions taken, including record of any roll call votes. (10) The interstate commission shall make its information and official records, to the extent not otherwise designated in the compact or by its rules, available to the public for inspection. (11) The interstate commission shall establish an executive committee, which shall include officers, members, and others as determined by the bylaws. The executive committee shall have the power to act on behalf of the interstate commission, with the exception of rule making, during periods when the interstate commission is not in session. When acting on behalf of the interstate commission, the executive committee shall oversee the administration of the compact including enforcement and compliance with the provisions of the compact, its bylaws and rules, and other such duties as necessary. (12) The interstate commission may establish other committees for governance and administration of the compact.
RCW 18.390.060 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 390 / Section 060
RCW 18.390.060: Mandatory disclosures to prospective residents.
Status: in_force

(1) A continuing care retirement community must prepare a disclosure statement that includes the following information: (a) The names of the individual or individuals who constitute the continuing care retirement community and each of the officers, directors, trustees, or managing general partners of the legal entity and a description of each individual's duties on behalf of the legal entity; (b) The business address of the continuing care retirement community; (c) The type of ownership, the names of the continuing care retirement community's owner and operator, and the names of any affiliated facilities; (d) The names and business addresses of any individual having any more than a ten percent direct or indirect ownership or beneficial interest in the continuing care retirement community, the percentage of the direct or indirect ownership or beneficial interest, and a description of each individual's interest in or occupation with the continuing care retirement community; (e) The location and general description of the continuing care retirement community, including: (i) The year the continuing care retirement community opened; (ii) The location and number of living units, licensed assisted living facility beds, and nursing beds considered part of the continuing care retirement community; (iii) The average annual occupancy rate for the prior three fiscal years for each type of unit or bed; and (iv) Any other care facilities owned or operated by the owner of the continuing care retirement community; (f) An explanation of the continuing care retirement community's policy regarding placement in off-campus assisted living facilities and nursing homes and the payment responsibilities of the continuing care retirement community and the resident in the event of off-campus placement; (g) The number of residents who were placed off-site in the previous three years for assisted living and nursing services due to the lack of available capacity at the continuing care retirement community; (h) An explanation of all types of fees charged by the continuing care retirement community, how each type of fee is determined, current ranges for each type of fee, and refund policies for each type of fee; (i) Statements describing the continuing care retirement community's policy for notifying residents of fee increases, including the amount of prior notification that is provided; (j) Statements describing the continuing care retirement community's policy related to changes in levels of care and any associated fees; (k) Statements describing the continuing care retirement community's policy for the termination of a contract, including the return of any fees or deposits pursuant to the residency agreement; (l) A description of services provided or proposed to be provided by the continuing care retirement community under its residency agreements, including: (i) The extent to which care, long-term care, or health-related services are provided. If the services are provided at a facility that is not certified as part of the continuing care retirement community's campus, the disclosure statement must identify the location where the services are provided and any additional fees associated with the services; and (ii) The services made available by the continuing care retirement community for an additional charge; and (m)(i) The continuing care retirement community's two most recent annual audited financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles by a certified public accountant. The most recently audited financial statement may not have been prepared more than eighteen months prior to the date that the continuing care retirement community applied for its current registration; or (ii) If the continuing care retirement community is new and: (A) Has obtained financing, but does not have two years of audited financial statements as required under (m)(i) of this subsection, an independent accountant's report opinion letter that has evaluated the financial feasibility of the continuing care retirement community; or (B) Has not obtained financing, a summary of the actuarial analysis for the new continuing care retirement community stating that the continuing care retirement community is in satisfactory actuarial balance. (2) The disclosure statement must be written in understandable language and a clear format. (3) Prior to entering into a residency agreement with, or accepting an entrance fee from, any prospective resident, a continuing care retirement community must deliver to the prospective resident a copy of the disclosure statement most recently submitted to the department.
RCW 18.71.080 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 71 / Section 080
RCW 18.71.080: License renewal—Human trafficking information—Continuing education requirement—Failure to renew, procedure.
Status: in_force

(1)(a) Every person licensed to practice medicine in this state shall pay licensing fees and renew his or her license in accordance with administrative procedures and administrative requirements adopted as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280 . (b) The commission shall request licensees to submit information about their current professional practice at the time of license renewal and licensees must provide the information requested. This information may include practice setting, medical specialty, board certification, or other relevant data determined by the commission. (c) A physician who resides and practices in Washington and obtains or renews a retired active license shall be exempt from licensing fees imposed under this section. The commission may establish rules governing mandatory continuing education requirements which shall be met by physicians applying for renewal of licenses. The rules shall provide that mandatory continuing education requirements may be met in part by physicians showing evidence of the completion of approved activities relating to professional liability risk management. The number of hours of continuing education for a physician holding a retired active license shall not exceed fifty hours per year. (2) The office of crime victims advocacy shall supply the commission with information on methods of recognizing victims of human trafficking, what services are available for these victims, and where to report potential trafficking situations. The information supplied must be culturally sensitive and must include information relating to minor victims. The commission shall disseminate this information to licensees by: Providing the information on the commission's website; including the information in newsletters; holding trainings at meetings attended by organization members; or another distribution method determined by the commission. The commission shall report to the office of crime victims advocacy on the method or methods it uses to distribute information under this subsection. (3) The commission, in its sole discretion, may permit an applicant who has not renewed his or her license to be licensed without examination if it is satisfied that such applicant meets all the requirements for licensure in this state, and is competent to engage in the practice of medicine.Whenever a vehicle license renewal form under RCW 46.16A.110 is given to the registered owner of any vehicle, the department of licensing shall give to the owner written notice of the provisions of this chapter in a manner prescribed by the director of licensing.
RCW 18.205.097 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 205 / Section 097
RCW 18.205.097: Certification—Impermissible grounds for denial.
Status: in_force

The department may not automatically deny an applicant for certification under this chapter for a position as a substance use disorder professional or substance use disorder professional trainee based on a conviction history consisting of convictions for simple assault, assault in the fourth degree, prostitution, theft in the third degree, theft in the second degree, or forgery, the same offenses as they may be renamed, or substantially equivalent offenses committed in other states or jurisdictions if: (1) At least one year has passed between the applicant's most recent conviction for an offense set forth in this section and the date of application for employment; (2) The offense was committed as a result of the person's substance use or untreated mental health symptoms; and (3) The applicant is at least one year in recovery from a substance use disorder, whether through abstinence or stability on medication-assisted therapy, or in recovery from mental health challenges.
RCW 18.32.0355 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 32 / Section 0355
RCW 18.32.0355: Commission—Qualifications of members.
Status: in_force

Members must be residents of this state. Dentist members must be licensed dentists in the active practice of dentistry for a period of five years before appointment. Of the twelve dentists appointed to the commission, at least four must reside and engage in the active practice of dentistry east of the summit of the Cascade mountain range. Public members of the commission may not be a member of any other health care licensing board or commission, or have a fiduciary obligation to a facility rendering health services regulated by the commission, or have a material or financial interest in the rendering of health services regulated by the commission.
RCW 18.130.210 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 130 / Section 210
RCW 18.130.210: Crime by license holder—Notice to attorney general or county prosecuting attorney.
Status: in_force

If the disciplining authority determines or has cause to believe that a license holder has committed a crime, the disciplining authority, immediately subsequent to issuing findings of fact and a final order, shall notify the attorney general or the county prosecuting attorney in the county in which the act took place of the facts known to the disciplining authority.
RCW 18.165.220 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 165 / Section 220
RCW 18.165.220: Unprofessional, unlawful conduct or inability to practice—Penalties.
Status: in_force

Upon a finding that a license holder or applicant has committed unprofessional or unlawful conduct or is unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety due to a physical or mental condition, the director may issue an order providing for one or any combination of the following: (1) Revocation of the license; (2) Suspension of the license for a fixed or indefinite term; (3) Restriction or limitation of the practice; (4) Requiring the satisfactory completion of a specific program of remedial education or treatment; (5) Monitoring of the practice by a supervisor approved by the director; (6) Censure or reprimand; (7) Compliance with conditions of probation for a designated period of time; (8) Withholding a license request; (9) Other corrective action; (10) Refund of fees billed to and collected from the consumer; or (11) Assessing administrative penalties. Any of the actions under this section may be totally or partly stayed by the director. All costs associated with compliance with orders issued under this section are the obligation of the license holder or applicant.
RCW 18.185.070 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 185 / Section 070
RCW 18.185.070: Bond.
Status: in_force

(1) No bail bond agency license may be issued under the provisions of this chapter unless the qualified agent files with the director a bond, executed by a surety company authorized to do business in this state, in the sum of ten thousand dollars conditioned to recover against the agency and its servants, officers, agents, and employees by reason of its violation of the provisions of RCW 18.185.100 . The bond shall be made payable to the state of Washington, and anyone so injured by the agency or its servants, officers, agents, or employees may bring suit upon the bond in any county in which jurisdiction over the licensee may be obtained. The suit must be brought not later than two years after the failure to return property in accordance with RCW 18.185.100 . If valid claims against the bond exceed the amount of the bond or deposit, each claimant shall be entitled only to a pro rata amount, based on the amount of the claim as it is valid against the bond, without regard to the date of filing of any claim or action. (2) Every licensed bail bond agency must at all times maintain on file with the director the bond required by this section in full force and effect. Upon failure by a licensee to do so, the director shall suspend the licensee's license and shall not reinstate the license until this requirement is met. (3) In lieu of posting a bond, a qualified agent may deposit in an interest-bearing account, ten thousand dollars. (4) The director may waive the bond requirements of this section, in his or her discretion, pursuant to adopted rules.
RCW 18.50.135 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 50 / Section 135
RCW 18.50.135: Rules.
Status: in_force

The secretary shall promulgate rules under chapter 34.05 RCW as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
RCW 19.16.220 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 16 / Section 220
RCW 19.16.220: Accounting and payments by customer to licensee.
Status: in_force

Every customer of a licensee shall, within thirty days after the close of each calendar month, account and pay to his, her, or its collection agency all sums owing to the collection agency for payments received by the customer during that calendar month on claims in the hands of the collection agency. If a customer fails to pay a licensee any sums due under this section, the licensee shall, in addition to other remedies provided by law, have the right to offset any moneys due the licensee under this section against any moneys due customer under RCW 19.16.210 .Any person aggrieved by the refusal of the director to issue any license provided for in this chapter, or to renew the same, or by the revocation or suspension of any license issued under this chapter or by the application of any penalty under RCW 18.16.210 , shall have the right to appeal the decision of the director to the superior court of the county in which the person maintains his or her place of business. Such appeal shall be filed within thirty days of the director's decision.
RCW 18.36A.120 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 36A / Section 120
RCW 18.36A.120: License standards for applicants from other jurisdictions—Reciprocity.
Status: in_force

The board shall establish by rule the standards for licensure of applicants licensed in another jurisdiction. However, the standards for reciprocity of licensure shall not be less than required for licensure in the state of Washington.
RCW 18.53.101 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 53 / Section 101
RCW 18.53.101: Application of uniform disciplinary act.
Status: in_force

The uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs unlicensed practice, the issuance and denial of licenses, and the discipline of licensees under this chapter and chapter 18.54 RCW.
RCW 18.35.030 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 35 / Section 030
RCW 18.35.030: Receipt required—Contents.
Status: in_force

Any person who engages in fitting and dispensing of hearing instruments shall provide to each person who enters into an agreement to purchase a hearing instrument a receipt at the time of the agreement containing the following information: (1) The seller's name, signature, license, or permit number, address, and phone number of his or her regular place of business; (2) A description of the instrument furnished, including make, model, circuit options, and the term "used" or "reconditioned" if applicable; (3) A disclosure of the cost of all services including but not limited to the cost of testing and fitting, the actual cost of the hearing instrument furnished, the cost of ear molds if any, and the terms of the sale. These costs, including the cost of ear molds, shall be known as the total purchase price. The receipt shall also contain a statement of the purchaser's recision rights under this chapter and an acknowledgment that the purchaser has read and understands these rights. Upon request, the purchaser shall also be supplied with a signed and dated copy of any hearing evaluation performed by the seller. (4) At the time of delivery of the hearing instrument, the purchaser shall also be furnished with the serial number of the hearing instrument supplied.
RCW 18.106.250 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 106 / Section 250
RCW 18.106.250: Infraction—Cases—Administrative Procedure Act—Burden of proof—Order—Appeal.
Status: in_force

(1) The administrative law judge shall conduct notice of infraction cases under this chapter pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW. (2) The burden of proof is on the department to establish the commission of the infraction by a preponderance of the evidence. The notice of infraction shall be dismissed if the defendant establishes that, at the time the notice was issued: For the defendant who was issued a notice of infraction authorized by RCW 18.106.020 (4) (a) through (c), the person employed or supervised by the defendant has a certificate, license, endorsement, temporary permit, or registration issued by the department in accordance with this chapter, was supervised by a person who had such a certificate, license, temporary permit, or endorsement, was exempt from this chapter under RCW 18.106.150 , or was registered as a plumbing contractor under this chapter and registered as a contractor under chapter 18.27 RCW. (3) After consideration of the evidence and argument, the administrative law judge shall determine whether the infraction was committed. If it has not been established that the infraction was committed, an order dismissing the notice shall be entered in the record of the proceedings. If it has been established that the infraction was committed, the administrative law judge shall issue findings of fact and conclusions of law in its decision and order determining whether the infraction was committed. (4) An appeal from the administrative law judge's determination or order shall be to the superior court. The decision of the superior court is subject only to discretionary review pursuant to Rule 2.3 of the Rules of Appellate Procedure.
RCW 18.130.140 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 130 / Section 140
RCW 18.130.140: Appeal.
Status: in_force

An individual who has been disciplined, whose license has been denied, or whose license has been granted with conditions by a disciplining authority may appeal the decision as provided in chapter 34.05 RCW.
RCW 18.27.340 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 27 / Section 340
RCW 18.27.340: Infraction—Monetary penalty.
Status: in_force

(1) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (3) of this section, a contractor found to have committed an infraction under RCW 18.27.200 shall be assessed a monetary penalty of not less than $200 and not more than $10,000. (2) The director may waive collection in favor of payment of restitution to a consumer complainant. (3) A contractor found to have committed an infraction under RCW 18.27.200 for failure to register shall be assessed a fine of not less than $1,200, nor more than $10,000. The director may reduce the penalty for failure to register, but in no case below $600, if the person becomes registered within 10 days of receiving a notice of infraction and the notice of infraction is for a first offense. (4) Monetary penalties collected under this section shall be deposited in the homeowner recovery account under RCW 18.27.420 .
RCW 18.71.017 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 71 / Section 017
RCW 18.71.017: Rules by commission—Successor to other boards.
Status: repealed

(1) The commission may adopt such rules as are not inconsistent with the laws of this state as may be determined necessary or proper to carry out the purposes of this chapter. The commission is the successor in interest of the board of medical examiners and the medical disciplinary board. All contracts, undertakings, agreements, rules, regulations, and policies continue in full force and effect on July 1, 1994, unless otherwise repealed or rejected by this chapter or by the commission. (2) The commission may adopt rules governing the administration of sedation and anesthesia in the offices of persons licensed under this chapter, including necessary training and equipment.
RCW 18.185.140 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 185 / Section 140
RCW 18.185.140: Statement of charges—Notice.
Status: in_force

When a statement of charges is issued against a license holder or applicant under RCW 18.235.050 , notice of this action must be given to the owner or qualified agent of the employing bail bond agency.
RCW 18.50.040 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 50 / Section 040
RCW 18.50.040: Candidates for examination—Application—Eligibility—Student midwife permits—License extensions.
Status: in_force

(1) Any person seeking to be examined shall present to the secretary, at least 45 days before the commencement of the examination, a written application on a form or forms provided by the secretary setting forth under affidavit such information as the secretary may require and proof the candidate has received a high school degree or its equivalent; that the candidate is 21 years of age or older; that the candidate has received a certificate or diploma from a midwifery program accredited by the secretary and licensed under chapter 28C.10 RCW, when applicable, or a certificate or diploma in a foreign institution on midwifery of equal requirements conferring the full right to practice midwifery in the country in which it was issued. The diploma must bear the seal of the institution from which the applicant graduated. Foreign candidates must present with the application a translation of the foreign certificate or diploma. (2) The candidate shall meet the following conditions: (a) Obtaining a minimum period of midwifery training for at least three years including the study of the basic nursing skills that the department shall prescribe by rule. However, if the applicant is a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse under chapter 18.79 RCW, or has had previous nursing education or practical midwifery experience, the required period of training may be reduced depending upon the extent of the candidate's qualifications as determined under rules adopted by the department. In no case shall the training be reduced to a period of less than two years. (b) Meeting minimum educational requirements which shall include studying midwifery; obstetrics; neonatal pediatrics; basic sciences; reproductive anatomy and physiology; behavioral sciences; childbirth education; community care; obstetrical pharmacology; epidemiology; gynecology; family planning; genetics; embryology; neonatology; the medical and legal aspects of midwifery; nutrition during pregnancy and lactation; lactation; nursing skills, including but not limited to injections, administering intravenous fluids, catheterization, and aseptic technique; and such other requirements prescribed by rule. (c) For a student midwife during training, undertaking the care of not less than 50 individuals in each of the prenatal, intrapartum, and early postpartum periods, but the same individuals need not be seen through all three periods. A student midwife may be issued a permit upon the satisfactory completion of the requirements in (a), (b), and (c) of this subsection and the satisfactory completion of the licensure examination required by RCW 18.50.060 . The permit permits the student midwife to practice under the supervision of a midwife licensed under this chapter, a physician, or a certified nurse-midwife licensed under the authority of chapter 18.79 RCW. The permit shall expire within one year of issuance and may be extended as provided by rule. (d) Observing an additional 50 individuals in the intrapartum period before the candidate qualifies for a license. (e) For candidates seeking a limited prescriptive license extension, completion of additional study and training requirements as prescribed by the department, in collaboration with the Washington medical commission and the midwifery advisory committee, in rule. Such rules shall provide requirements for: (i) The number of additional obstetrical pharmacology training hours consistent with the training hours required for other similar prescribers; and (ii) Additional training consistent with guidelines commensurate with other professions providing family planning and treating common prenatal and postpartum conditions and any other relevant sources. (f) For candidates seeking a licensing extension to include medical devices and implants, completion of the requirements listed in (e) of this subsection and additional study and training requirements as prescribed by the department, in collaboration with the Washington medical commission and the midwifery advisory committee, in rule. Such rules shall provide requirements for: (i) The minimum number of completed procedures under supervision; (ii) Completing trainings as required by the device manufacturers or an equivalent; and (iii) Additional training consistent with guidelines commensurate with other professions providing family planning and treating common prenatal and postpartum conditions and any other relevant sources. (g) The license extensions referenced in (e) and (f) of this subsection do not apply to newborn care. (3) Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (2) of this section, the department shall adopt rules to provide credit toward the educational requirements for licensure before July 1, 1988, of midwives who are not licensed in Washington, including rules to provide: (a) Credit toward licensure for documented deliveries; (b) The substitution of relevant experience for classroom time; and (c) That experienced lay midwives may sit for the licensing examination without completing the required coursework. The training required under this section shall include training in any birth setting with particular emphasis on learning the ability to differentiate between low-risk and high-risk pregnancies.
RCW 18.83.210 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 83 / Section 210
RCW 18.83.210: Certain counseling or guidance not prohibited.
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as prohibiting any individual from offering counseling or guidance provided that such individuals do not hold themselves forth as psychologists.

PDF RCW 18.83.210

Certain counseling or guidance not prohibited. (Effective October 1, 2025.)

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as prohibiting any individual from offering counseling or guidance provided that such individuals do not hold themselves forth as psychologists or licensed psychological associates.
RCW 18.86.030 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 86 / Section 030
RCW 18.86.030: Duties of broker.
Status: in_force

(1) A broker owes the following duties to their principal and to all parties in a transaction, which may not be waived: (a) To exercise reasonable skill and care; (b) To deal honestly and in good faith; (c) To present all written offers, written notices and other written communications to and from either party in a timely manner, regardless of whether the property is subject to an existing contract for sale or the buyer is already a party to an existing contract to purchase; (d) To disclose all existing material facts known by the broker and not apparent or readily ascertainable to a party; provided that this subsection shall not be construed to imply any duty to investigate matters that the broker has not agreed to investigate; (e) To account in a timely manner for all money and property received from or on behalf of either party; (f) To provide a pamphlet in the form prescribed by RCW 18.86.120 and obtain an acknowledgment of receipt by the party. The pamphlet shall be provided to: (i) Any party to whom the broker renders real estate brokerage services as soon as reasonably practical but before the party signs a services agreement; and (ii) Any party not represented by a broker in a transaction before the party signs an offer or as soon as reasonably practical; and (g) To disclose in writing before the broker's principal signs an offer, or as soon as reasonably practical, but before the parties reach mutual agreement: (i) Whether the broker represents the buyer as the buyer's agent, the seller as the seller's agent, or both parties as a limited dual agent. The disclosure shall be set forth in a separate paragraph titled "Agency Disclosure" in the agreement between the buyer and seller or in a separate writing titled "Agency Disclosure"; and (ii) Any terms of compensation offered by a party or a real estate firm to a real estate firm representing another party. (2) Unless otherwise agreed, a broker owes no duty to conduct an independent inspection of the property or to conduct an independent investigation of either party's financial condition, and owes no duty to independently verify the accuracy or completeness of any statement made by either party or by any source reasonably believed by the broker to be reliable.
RCW 18.205.160 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 205 / Section 160
RCW 18.205.160: Co-occurring disorder specialist enhancement—Substance use disorder counseling services.
Status: in_force

The department of health must amend its rules, including WAC 246-341-0515, to allow persons with a co-occurring disorder specialist enhancement under chapter 18.205 RCW to provide substance use disorder counseling services that are equal in scope with the scope and practice of a substance use disorder professional under chapter 18.205 RCW, subject to the practice limitations under RCW 18.205.105 .
RCW 18.35A.030 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 35A / Section 030
RCW 18.35A.030: State participation in the compact.
Status: in_force

(1) A license issued to an audiologist or speech-language pathologist by a home state to a resident in that state shall be recognized by each member state as authorizing an audiologist or speech-language pathologist to practice audiology or speech-language pathology, under a privilege to practice, in each member state where the licensee obtains such a privilege. (2) A state must implement or utilize procedures for considering the criminal history records of applicants for initial privilege to practice. These procedures shall include the submission of fingerprints or other biometric-based information by applicants for the purpose of obtaining an applicant's criminal history record information from the federal bureau of investigation and the agency responsible for retaining that state's criminal records. (a) A member state must fully implement a criminal background check requirement, within a time frame established by rule, by receiving the results of the federal bureau of investigation record search on criminal background checks and use the results in making licensure decisions. (b) Communication between a member state, the commission, and among member states regarding the verification of eligibility for licensure through the compact shall not include any information received from the federal bureau of investigation relating to a federal criminal records check performed by a member state under Public Law 92-544. (3) Upon application for a privilege to practice, the licensing board in the issuing remote state shall ascertain, through the data system, whether the applicant has ever held, or is the holder of, a license issued by any other state, whether there are any encumbrances on any license or privilege to practice held by the applicant, whether any adverse action has been taken against any license or privilege to practice held by the applicant. (4) Each member state shall require an applicant to obtain or retain a license in the home state and meet the home state's qualifications for licensure or renewal of licensure as well as all other applicable state laws. (5) An audiologist must: (a) Meet one of the following educational requirements: (i) On or before December 31, 2007, have graduated with a master's degree or doctorate in audiology, or equivalent degree regardless of degree name, from a program that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the council for higher education accreditation, or its successor, or by the United States department of education and operated by a college or university accredited by a regional or national accrediting organization recognized by the licensing board; or (ii) On or after January 1, 2008, have graduated with a doctoral degree in audiology, or equivalent degree, regardless of degree name, from a program that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the council for higher education accreditation, or its successor, or by the United States department of education and operated by a college or university accredited by a regional or national accrediting organization recognized by the licensing board; or (iii) Have graduated from an audiology program that is housed in an institution of higher education outside of the United States (A) for which the program and institution have been approved by the authorized accrediting body in the applicable country and (B) the degree program has been verified by an independent credentials review agency to be comparable to a state licensing board-approved program; (b) Have completed a supervised clinical practicum experience from an accredited educational institution or its cooperating programs as required by the commission; (c) Have successfully passed a national examination approved by the commission; (d) Hold an active, unencumbered license; (e) Have not been convicted or found guilty, and has not entered into an agreed disposition, of a felony related to the practice of audiology, under applicable state or federal criminal law; and (f) Have a valid United States social security or national practitioner identification number. (6) A speech-language pathologist must: (a) Meet one of the following educational requirements: (i) Have graduated with a master's degree from a speech-language pathology program that is accredited by an organization recognized by the United States department of education and operated by a college or university accredited by a regional or national accrediting organization recognized by the licensing board; or (ii) Have graduated from a speech-language pathology program that is housed in an institution of higher education outside of the United States (A) for which the program and institution have been approved by the authorized accrediting body in the applicable country and (B) the degree program has been verified by an independent credentials review agency to be comparable to a state licensing board-approved program; (b) Have completed a supervised clinical practicum experience from an educational institution or its cooperating programs as required by the commission; (c) Have completed a supervised postgraduate professional experience as required by the commission; (d) Have successfully passed a national examination approved by the commission; (e) Hold an active, unencumbered license; (f) Have not been convicted or found guilty, and has not entered into an agreed disposition, of a felony related to the practice of speech-language pathology, under applicable state or federal criminal law; (g) Have a valid United States social security or national practitioner identification number. (7) The privilege to practice is derived from the home state license. (8) An audiologist or speech-language pathologist practicing in a member state must comply with the state practice laws of the state in which the client is located at the time service is provided. The practice of audiology and speech-language pathology shall include all audiology and speech-language pathology practice as defined by the state practice laws of the member state in which the client is located. The practice of audiology and speech-language pathology in a member state under a privilege to practice shall subject an audiologist or speech-language pathologist to the jurisdiction of the licensing board, the courts, and the laws of the member state in which the client is located at the time service is provided. (9) Individuals not residing in a member state shall continue to be able to apply for a member state's single-state license as provided under the laws of each member state. However, the single-state license granted to these individuals shall not be recognized as granting the privilege to practice audiology or speech-language pathology in any other member state. Nothing in this compact shall affect the requirements established by a member state for the issuance of a single-state license. (10) Member states may charge a fee for granting a compact privilege. (11) Member states must comply with the bylaws and rules and regulations of the commission.
RCW 18.35.270 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 35 / Section 270
RCW 18.35.270: Assistant ratios—Data collection.
Status: in_force

Recognizing the trend in utilization of speech-language pathologist assistants and audiologist assistants across practice settings, the board of hearing and speech shall, on an ongoing basis, collect data on: The number of assistants in specific practice settings; supervisor to speech-language pathologist assistant or audiologist assistant ratios; and the level of education and training of speech-language pathologist assistants and audiologist assistants.
RCW 18.51.050 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 51 / Section 050
RCW 18.51.050: License—Issuance, renewal—Fee—Display.
Status: in_force

(1)(a) Upon receipt of an application for a license, the department may issue a license if the applicant and the nursing home's facilities meet the requirements established under this chapter, except that the department shall issue a temporary license to a court-appointed receiver for a period not to exceed six months from the date of appointment. (b)(i) Except as provided in (b)(ii) of this subsection, prior to the issuance or renewal of the license, the licensee shall pay a license fee. Beginning July 1, 2011, and thereafter, the per bed license fee must be established in the omnibus appropriations act and any amendment or additions made to that act. The license fees established in the omnibus appropriations act and any amendment or additions made to that act may not exceed the department's annual licensing and oversight activity costs and shall include the department's cost of paying providers for the amount of the license fee attributed to medicaid clients. (ii) No fee shall be required of government operated institutions or court-appointed receivers. (c) A license issued under this chapter may not exceed twelve months in duration and expires on a date set by the department. (d) In the event of a change of ownership, the previously established license expiration date shall not change. (2) All applications and fees for renewal of the license shall be submitted to the department not later than thirty days prior to the date of expiration of the license. All applications and fees, if any, for change of ownership shall be submitted to the department not later than sixty days before the date of the proposed change of ownership. A nursing home license shall be issued only to the person who applied for the license. The license is valid only for the operation of the facility at the location specified in the license application. Licenses are not transferable or assignable. Licenses shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the licensed premises.
RCW 18.64.245 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 64 / Section 245
RCW 18.64.245: Prescription records—Digital or electronic form—Penalty.
Status: in_force

(1) Every proprietor or manager of a pharmacy shall keep readily available a suitable record of prescriptions which shall preserve for a period of not less than two years the record of every prescription dispensed at such pharmacy which shall be numbered, dated, and filed, and shall produce the same in court or before any grand jury whenever lawfully required to do so. The record shall be maintained either separately from all other records of the pharmacy or in such form that the information required is readily retrievable from ordinary business records of the pharmacy. All recordkeeping requirements for controlled substances must be complied with. Such record of prescriptions shall be for confidential use in the pharmacy, only. The record of prescriptions shall be open for inspection by the commission or any officer of the law, who is authorized to enforce this chapter or chapter 69.41 or 69.50 RCW. (2) When a pharmacy receives a prescription in digital or electronic format through facsimile equipment transmitting an exact visual image of the prescription, or through electronic communication of prescription information, the digital or electronic record of every such prescription dispensed at the pharmacy constitutes a suitable record of prescriptions, provided that the original or direct copy of the prescription is electronically or digitally numbered or referenced, dated, and filed in a form that permits the information required to be readily retrievable. (3) A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.
RCW 18.89.040 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 89 / Section 040
RCW 18.89.040: Scope of practice.
Status: in_force

(1) A respiratory care practitioner licensed under this chapter is employed in the treatment, management, diagnostic testing, rehabilitation, disease prevention, and care of patients with deficiencies and abnormalities which affect the cardiopulmonary system and associated aspects of other systems, and is under the direct written, verbal, or telephonic order and under the qualified medical direction of a health care practitioner. The practice of respiratory care includes: (a) The use and administration of prescribed medical gases, exclusive of general anesthesia, including the administration of nitrous oxide for analgesia under the direct supervision of a health care practitioner; (b) The use of air and oxygen administering apparatus; (c) The use of humidification and aerosols; (d) The administration, to the extent of training, as determined by the secretary, of prescribed pharmacologic agents, including any medications administered via a nebulizer, related to cardiopulmonary care; (e) The use of mechanical ventilatory, hyperbaric, and physiological support; (f) Postural drainage, chest percussion, and vibration; (g) Bronchopulmonary hygiene; (h) Cardiopulmonary resuscitation as it pertains to advanced cardiac life support or pediatric advanced life support guidelines; (i) The maintenance of natural and artificial airways and insertion, without cutting tissues, of artificial airways, as prescribed by a health care practitioner; (j) Diagnostic and monitoring techniques such as the collection and measurement of cardiorespiratory specimens, volumes, pressures, and flows; (k) The insertion of devices to draw, analyze, infuse, or monitor pressure in arterial, capillary, or venous blood as prescribed by a health care practitioner; (l) Diagnostic monitoring of and therapeutic interventions for desaturation, ventilatory patterns, and related sleep abnormalities to aid the health care practitioner in diagnosis. This subsection does not prohibit any person from performing sleep monitoring tasks as set forth in this subsection under the supervision or direction of a licensed health care provider; (m) Acting as an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation specialist for the purposes of extracorporeal life support and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in all critical areas, including the operating room, only if a respiratory therapist has obtained specialized education and training as determined by the secretary. Programs meeting the extracorporeal life support organization guidelines for training and continuing education of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation specialists shall be considered sufficient to meet the specialized education requirement. For the purposes of this subsection, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation specialist duties do not include the conduct and management of cardiopulmonary bypass, the incorporation of venous reservoirs, or cardiotomy suction during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy; and (n) Cardiopulmonary stress testing, including the administration of medications used during cardiopulmonary stress testing. (2) Nothing in this chapter prohibits or restricts: (a) The practice of a profession by individuals who are licensed under other laws of this state who are performing services within their authorized scope of practice, that may overlap the services provided by respiratory care practitioners; (b) The practice of respiratory care by an individual employed by the government of the United States while the individual is engaged in the performance of duties prescribed for him or her by the laws and rules of the United States; (c) The practice of respiratory care by a person pursuing a supervised course of study leading to a degree or certificate in respiratory care as a part of an accredited and approved educational program, if the person is designated by a title that clearly indicates his or her status as a student or trainee and limited to the extent of demonstrated proficiency of completed curriculum, and under direct supervision; (d) The use of the title "respiratory care practitioner" by registered nurses authorized under chapter 18.79 RCW; or (e) The practice without compensation of respiratory care of a family member. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require that individual or group policies or contracts of an insurance carrier, health care service contractor, or health maintenance organization provide benefits or coverage for services and supplies provided by a person licensed under this chapter.
RCW 18.84.140 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 84 / Section 140
RCW 18.84.140: Application of chapter—Exemption for authorized scope of practice.
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter may be construed to prohibit or restrict the practice of a profession by a person who is either registered, certified, licensed, or similarly regulated under the laws of this state who is performing services within the person's authorized scope of practice.
RCW 18.160.100 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 160 / Section 100
RCW 18.160.100: Unlicensed operations—Penalty.
Status: in_force

Any fire protection sprinkler system contractor who constructs, installs, or maintains a fire protection sprinkler system in any occupancy, except an owner-occupied single-family dwelling, without first obtaining a fire sprinkler contractor's license from the state of Washington, is guilty of a gross misdemeanor. This section may not be construed to create any criminal liability for a prime contractor or an owner of an occupancy unless it is proved that the prime contractor or owner had actual knowledge of an illegal construction, installation, or maintenance of a fire protection sprinkler system by a fire protection sprinkler system contractor.
RCW 26.30.900 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 30 / Section 900
RCW 26.30.900: Uniformity of interpretation.
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be so interpreted and construed as to effectuate its general purpose to make uniform the law of those states which enact it.This chapter may be known and cited as the Washington state denturist act.
RCW 18.85.265 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 85 / Section 265
RCW 18.85.265: Inactive licenses.
Status: in_force

(1) Any license issued under this chapter and not otherwise revoked is deemed "inactive" at any time it is delivered to the director. Until reissued under this chapter, the holder of an inactive license is prohibited from conducting real estate brokerage services. (2) An inactive license may be renewed on the same terms and conditions as an active license, except that a person with an inactive license need not comply with the education requirements of RCW 18.85.101 (1)(c) or 18.85.211 . Failure to renew shall result in cancellation in the same manner as an active license. (3) An inactive license may be placed in an active status upon completion of an application as provided by the director and upon compliance with this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant thereto. If a holder has an inactive license for more than three years, the holder must show proof of successfully completing a thirty clock hour course in real estate within one year before the application for active status. Holders employed by the state and conducting real estate transactions on behalf of the state are exempt from this course requirement. (4) The provisions of this chapter relating to the denial, suspension, and revocation of a license are applicable to an inactive license as well as an active license, except that when proceedings to suspend or revoke an inactive license have been initiated, the license shall remain inactive until the proceedings have been completed.
RCW 18.205.150 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 205 / Section 150
RCW 18.205.150: Uniform disciplinary act.
Status: in_force

The uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW, shall govern the issuance and denial of certificates, unauthorized practice, and the discipline of persons certified under this chapter. The secretary shall be the disciplining authority under this chapter.
RCW 18.08.440 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 08 / Section 440
RCW 18.08.440: Powers under RCW 18.235.110—Grounds.
Status: in_force

The board shall have the power to impose any action listed under RCW 18.235.110 upon the following grounds: (1) Offering to pay, paying, or accepting, either directly or indirectly, any substantial gift, bribe, or other consideration to influence the award of professional work; (2) Being willfully untruthful or deceptive in any professional report, statement, or testimony; (3) Having a financial interest in the bidding for or the performance of a contract to supply labor or materials for or to construct a project for which employed or retained as an architect except with the consent of the client or employer after disclosure of such facts; or allowing an interest in any business to affect a decision regarding architectural work for which retained, employed, or called upon to perform; (4) Signing or permitting a seal to be affixed to any drawings or specifications that were not prepared or reviewed by the architect or under the architect's personal supervision by persons subject to the architect's direction and control; or (5) Willfully evading or trying to evade any law, ordinance, code, or regulation governing construction of buildings.
RCW 18.57.015 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 57 / Section 015
RCW 18.57.015: Osteopathic physician health program—Content—License surcharge.
Status: in_force

(1) To implement an osteopathic physician health program as authorized by RCW 18.130.175 , the board shall enter into a contract with a physician health program or a voluntary substance use disorder monitoring program. The osteopathic physician health program may include any or all of the following: (a) Contracting with providers of treatment programs; (b) Receiving and evaluating reports of suspected impairment from any source; (c) Intervening in cases of verified impairment; (d) Referring impaired osteopathic physicians to treatment programs; (e) Monitoring the treatment and rehabilitation of impaired osteopathic physicians including those ordered by the board; (f) Providing education, prevention of impairment, posttreatment monitoring, and support of rehabilitated impaired osteopathic physicians; and (g) Performing other related activities as determined by the board. (2) A contract entered into under subsection (1) of this section shall be financed by a surcharge of $70 per year or equivalent on each license issuance or renewal to be collected by the department from every osteopathic physician licensed under this chapter. These moneys shall be placed in the health professions account to be used solely for the implementation of the osteopathic physician health program.
RCW 18.51.280 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 51 / Section 280
RCW 18.51.280: Chapter cumulative.
Status: in_force

The remedies provided by this chapter are cumulative, and shall not be construed as restricting any remedy, provisional or otherwise, provided by law for the benefit of any party, and no judgment under this chapter shall preclude any party from obtaining additional relief based upon the same facts.
RCW 18.225.095 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 225 / Section 095
RCW 18.225.095: Supervised experience hours—Reductions for certified chemical dependency professionals.
Status: in_force

The department shall reduce the total number of supervised experience hours required under RCW 18.225.090 by ten percent for any applicant for a license under this chapter who has practiced as a certified chemical dependency professional for three years in the previous ten years.
RCW 18.64.350 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 64 / Section 350
RCW 18.64.350: Nonresident pharmacies—Findings.
Status: in_force

(1) The legislature finds and declares that the practice of pharmacy is a dynamic, patient-oriented health service that applies a scientific body of knowledge to improve and promote patient health by means of appropriate drug use and drug-related therapy. (2) The legislature recognizes that with the proliferation of alternate methods of health delivery, there has arisen among third-party payors and insurance companies the desire to control the cost and utilization of pharmacy services through a variety of mechanisms, including the use of mail order pharmacies located outside the state of Washington. (3) As a result, the legislature finds and declares that to continue to protect the Washington consumer-patient, all out-of-state pharmacies, including those located in Canada, that provide services to Washington residents shall be licensed by the department of health, disclose specific information about their services, and provide pharmacy services at a high level of protection and competence.
RCW 18.44.181 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 44 / Section 181
RCW 18.44.181: Proof of licensure prerequisite to action for fee.
Status: in_force

No person engaged in the business or acting in the capacity of an escrow agent may bring or maintain any action in any court of this state for the collection or compensation for the performances of any services entered upon after December 31, 1965, for which licensing is required under this chapter without alleging and proving that he or she was a duly licensed escrow agent at the time of commencement of such services.
RCW 18.230.010 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 230 / Section 010
RCW 18.230.010: Definitions.
Status: in_force

The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise. (1) "Department" means the department of health. (2) "Recreation therapy" means the use of recreational, and/or community activities to include leisure counseling and community integration as treatment intervention to improve functional leisure and community competence of persons with a physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioral, or social disability. The primary purpose of recreation therapy is the use of leisure and community integration activities to restore, remediate, or rehabilitate persons in order to improve functioning and independence, as well as reduce or eliminate the effects of illness or disability. (3) "Recreational therapist" means a person registered under this chapter. (4) "Registration" means the registration issued to a person under this chapter. (5) "Secretary" means the secretary of health or the secretary's designee.
RCW 18.380.110 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 380 / Section 110
RCW 18.380.110: Authority of secretary.
Status: in_force

The secretary, in consultation with the committee, may adopt rules under chapter 34.05 RCW as necessary to implement this chapter, including rules: (1) Establishing continuing competency as a condition of license or certification renewal; (2) Establishing standards for delegation and supervision of licensed assistant behavior analysts and certified behavior technicians; and (3) Defining the tasks that a certified behavior technician may perform.
RCW 18.91.020 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 91 / Section 020
RCW 18.91.020: Definitions.
Status: in_force

As used in this compact, unless the context requires otherwise, the following definitions shall apply: (1) "Active military member" means any person with a full-time duty status in the armed forces of the United States, including members of the national guard and reserve. (2) "Adverse action" means any administrative, civil, equitable, or criminal action permitted by a state's laws which is imposed by any state authority with regulatory authority over respiratory therapists, such as license denial, censure, revocation, suspension, probation, monitoring of the licensee, or restriction on the licensee's practice, not including participation in an alternative program. (3) "Alternative program" means a nondisciplinary monitoring or practice remediation process applicable to a respiratory therapist approved by any state authority with regulatory authority over respiratory therapists. This includes, but is not limited to, programs to which licensees with substance abuse or addiction issues are referred in lieu of adverse action. (4) "Charter member states" means those member states that were the first seven states to enact the compact into the laws of their state. (5) "Commission" or "respiratory care interstate compact commission" means the government instrumentality and body politic whose membership consists of all member states that have enacted the compact. (6) "Commissioner" means the individual appointed by a member state to serve as the member of the commission for that member state. (7) "Compact" means the respiratory care interstate compact. (8) "Compact privilege" means the authorization granted by a remote state to allow a licensee from another member state to practice as a respiratory therapist in the remote state under the remote state's laws and rules. The practice of respiratory therapy occurs in the member state where the patient is located at the time of the patient encounter. (9) "Criminal background check" means the submission by the member state of fingerprints or other biometric-based information on license applicants at the time of initial licensing for the purpose of obtaining that applicant's criminal history record information, as defined in 28 C.F.R. Sec. 20.3(d) or successor provision, from the federal bureau of investigation and the state's criminal history record repository, as defined in 28 C.F.R. Sec. 20.3(f) or successor provision. (10) "Data system" means the commission's repository of information about licensees as further set forth in RCW 18.91.080 . (11) "Domicile" means the jurisdiction which is the licensee's principal home for legal purposes. (12) "Encumbered license" means a license that a state's respiratory therapy licensing authority has limited in any way. (13) "Executive committee" means a group of directors elected or appointed to act on behalf of, and within the powers granted to them by, the commission. (14) "Home state," except as set forth in RCW 18.91.050 , means the member state that is the licensee's primary domicile. (15) "Home state license" means an active license to practice respiratory therapy in a home state that is not an encumbered license. (16) "Jurisprudence requirement" means an assessment of an individual's knowledge of the state laws and regulations governing the practice of respiratory therapy in such state. (17) "Licensee" means an individual who currently holds an authorization from the state to practice as a respiratory therapist. (18) "Member state" means a state that has enacted the compact and been admitted to the commission in accordance with the provisions herein and commission rules. (19) "Model compact" means the model for the respiratory care interstate compact on file with the council of state governments or other entity as designated by the commission. (20) "Remote state" means a member state where a licensee is exercising or seeking to exercise the compact privilege. (21) "Respiratory therapist" or "respiratory care practitioner" means an individual who holds a credential issued by the national board for respiratory care (or its successor) and holds a license in a state to practice respiratory therapy. For purposes of this compact, any other title or status adopted by a state to replace the term "respiratory therapist" or "respiratory care practitioner" shall be deemed synonymous with "respiratory therapist" and shall confer the same rights and responsibilities to the licensee under the provisions of this compact at the time of its enactment. (22) "Respiratory therapy," "respiratory therapy practice," "respiratory care," "the practice of respiratory care," and "the practice of respiratory therapy" means the care and services provided by or under the direction and supervision of a respiratory therapist or respiratory care practitioner. (23) "Respiratory therapy licensing authority" means the agency, board, or other body of a state that is responsible for licensing and regulation of respiratory therapists. (24) "Rule" means a regulation promulgated by an entity that has the force and effect of law. (25) "Scope of practice" means the procedures, actions, and processes a respiratory therapist licensed in a state or practicing under a compact privilege in a state is permitted to undertake in that state and the circumstances under which the respiratory therapist is permitted to undertake those procedures, actions, and processes. Such procedures, actions, and processes, and the circumstances under which they may be undertaken, may be established through means including, but not limited to, statute, regulations, case law, and other processes available to the state respiratory therapy licensing authority or other government agency. (26) "Significant investigative information" means information, records, and documents received or generated by a state respiratory therapy licensing authority pursuant to an investigation for which a determination has been made that there is probable cause to believe that the licensee has violated a statute or regulation that is considered more than a minor infraction for which the state respiratory therapy licensing authority could pursue adverse action against the licensee. (27) "State" means any state, commonwealth, district, or territory of the United States.
RCW 18.74.500 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 74 / Section 500
RCW 18.74.500: Physical Therapy Licensure Compact.
Status: in_force

The Physical Therapy Licensure Compact as set forth in this section is hereby enacted into law and entered into on behalf of this state with any and all other states legally joining therein in a form substantially as follows: PHYSICAL THERAPY LICENSURE COMPACT ARTICLE I - PURPOSE The purpose of this compact is to facilitate interstate practice of physical therapy with the goal of improving public access to physical therapy services. The practice of physical therapy occurs in the state where the patient/client is located at the time of the patient/client encounter. The compact preserves the regulatory authority of states to protect public health and safety through the current system of state licensure. This compact is designed to achieve the following objectives: (1) Increase public access to physical therapy services by providing for the mutual recognition of other member state licenses; (2) Enhance the states' ability to protect the public's health and safety; (3) Encourage the cooperation of member states in regulating multistate physical therapy practice; (4) Support spouses of relocating military members; (5) Enhance the exchange of licensure, investigative, and disciplinary information between member states; and (6) Allow a remote state to hold a provider of services with a compact privilege in that state accountable to that state's practice standards. ARTICLE II - DEFINITIONS As used in this compact, and except as otherwise provided, the following definitions apply: (1) "Active duty military" means full-time duty status in the active uniformed service of the United States, including members of the national guard and reserve on active duty orders pursuant to 10 U.S.C. Secs. 1209 and 1211. (2) "Adverse action" means disciplinary action taken by a physical therapy licensing board based upon misconduct, unacceptable performance, or a combination of both. (3) "Alternative program" means a nondisciplinary monitoring or practice remediation process approved by a physical therapy licensing board. This includes, but is not limited to, substance abuse issues. (4) "Compact privilege" means the authorization granted by a remote state to allow a licensee from another member state to practice as a physical therapist or work as a physical therapist assistant in the remote state under its laws and rules. The practice of physical therapy occurs in the member state where the patient/client is located at the time of the patient/client encounter. (5) "Continuing competence" means a requirement, as a condition of license renewal, to provide evidence of participation in, and/or completion of, educational and professional activities relevant to practice or area of work. (6) "Data system" means a repository of information about licensees, including examination, licensure, investigative, compact privilege, and adverse action. (7) "Encumbered license" means a license that a physical therapy licensing board has limited in any way. (8) "Executive board" means a group of directors elected or appointed to act on behalf of, and within the powers granted to them by, the commission. (9) "Home state" means the member state that is the licensee's primary state of residence. (10) "Investigative information" means information, records, and documents received or generated by a physical therapy licensing board pursuant to an investigation. (11) "Jurisprudence requirement" means the assessment of an individual's knowledge of the laws and rules governing the practice of physical therapy in a state. (12) "Licensee" means an individual who currently holds an authorization from the state to practice as a physical therapist or to work as a physical therapist assistant. (13) "Member state" means a state that has enacted the compact. (14) "Party state" means any member state in which a licensee holds a current license or compact privilege or is applying for a license or compact privilege. (15) "Physical therapist" means an individual who is licensed by a state to practice physical therapy. (16) "Physical therapist assistant" means an individual who is licensed/certified by a state and who assists the physical therapist in selected components of physical therapy. (17) "Physical therapy" has the same meaning given in RCW 18.74.010 . "Physical therapy practice" and "the practice of physical therapy" have the same meaning given to "practice of physical therapy" in RCW 18.74.010 . (18) "Physical therapy compact commission" or "commission" means the national administrative body whose membership consists of all states that have enacted the compact. (19) "Physical therapy licensing board" or "licensing board" means the agency of a state that is responsible for the licensing and regulation of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. (20) "Remote state" means a member state other than the home state, where a licensee is exercising or seeking to exercise the compact privilege. (21) "Rule" means a regulation, principle, or directive promulgated by the commission that has the force of law. (22) "State" means any state, commonwealth, district, or territory of the United States of America that regulates the practice of physical therapy. ARTICLE III - STATE PARTICIPATION IN THE COMPACT (1) To participate in the compact, a state must: (a) Participate fully in the commission's data system, including using the commission's unique identifier as defined in rule; (b) Have a mechanism in place for receiving and investigating complaints about licensees; (c) Notify the commission, in compliance with the terms of the compact and rules, of any adverse action or the availability of investigative information regarding a licensee; (d) Fully implement a criminal background check requirement, within a time frame established by rule, by receiving the results of the federal bureau of investigation record search on criminal background checks and use the results in making licensure decisions in accordance with subsection (2) of this Article; (e) Comply with the rules of the commission; (f) Utilize a recognized national examination as a requirement for licensure pursuant to the rules of the commission; and (g) Have continuing competence requirements as a condition for license renewal. (2) Upon adoption of this statute, the member state shall have the authority to obtain biometric-based information from each physical therapy licensure applicant and submit this information to the federal bureau of investigation for a criminal background check in accordance with 28 U.S.C. Sec. 534 and 42 U.S.C. Sec. 14616. (3) A member state shall grant the compact privilege to a licensee holding a valid unencumbered license in another member state in accordance with the terms of the compact and rules. (4) Member states may charge a fee for granting a compact privilege. ARTICLE IV - COMPACT PRIVILEGE (1) To exercise the compact privilege under the terms and provisions of the compact, the licensee shall: (a) Hold a license in the home state; (b) Have no encumbrance on any state license; (c) Be eligible for a compact privilege in any member state in accordance with subsections (4), (7), and (8) of this Article; (d) Have not had any adverse action against any license or compact privilege within the previous two years; (e) Notify the commission that the licensee is seeking the compact privilege within a remote state(s); (f) Pay any applicable fees, including any state fee, for the compact privilege; (g) Meet any jurisprudence requirements established by the remote state(s) in which the licensee is seeking a compact privilege; and (h) Report to the commission adverse action taken by any nonmember state within thirty days from the date the adverse action is taken. (2) The compact privilege is valid until the expiration date of the home license. The licensee must comply with the requirements of subsection (1) of this Article to maintain the compact privilege in the remote state. (3) A licensee providing physical therapy in a remote state under the compact privilege shall function within the laws and regulations of the remote state. (4) A licensee providing physical therapy in a remote state is subject to that state's regulatory authority. A remote state may, in accordance with due process and that state's laws, remove a licensee's compact privilege in the remote state for a specific period of time, impose fines, and/or take any other necessary actions to protect the health and safety of its citizens. The licensee is not eligible for a compact privilege in any state until the specific time for removal has passed and all fines are paid. (5) If a home state license is encumbered, the licensee shall lose the compact privilege in any remote state until the following occur: (a) The home state license is no longer encumbered; and (b) Two years have elapsed from the date of the adverse action. (6) Once an encumbered license in the home state is restored to good standing, the licensee must meet the requirements of subsection (1) of this Article to obtain a compact privilege in any remote state. (7) If a licensee's compact privilege in any remote state is removed, the individual shall lose the compact privilege in any remote state until the following occur: (a) The specific period of time for which the compact privilege was removed has ended; (b) All fines have been paid; and (c) Two years have elapsed from the date of the adverse action. (8) Once the requirements of subsection (7) of this Article have been met, the licensee must meet the requirements in subsection (1) of this Article to obtain a compact privilege in a remote state. ARTICLE V - ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY PERSONNEL OR THEIR SPOUSES A licensee who is active duty military or is the spouse of an individual who is active duty military may designate one of the following as the home state: (1) Home of record; (2) Permanent change of station; or (3) State of current residence if it is different than the permanent change of station state or home of record. ARTICLE VI - ADVERSE ACTIONS (1) A home state shall have exclusive power to impose adverse action against a license issued by the home state. (2) A home state may take adverse action based on the investigative information of a remote state, so long as the home state follows its own procedures for imposing adverse action. (3) Nothing in this compact shall override a member state's decision that participation in an alternative program may be used in lieu of adverse action and that such participation shall remain nonpublic if required by the member state's laws. Member states must require licensees who enter any alternative programs in lieu of discipline to agree not to practice in any other member state during the term of the alternative program without prior authorization from such other member state. (4) Any member state may investigate actual or alleged violations of the statutes and rules authorizing the practice of physical therapy in any other member state in which a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant holds a license or compact privilege. (5) A remote state shall have the authority to: (a) Take adverse actions as set forth in subsection (4) of Article IV of this compact against a licensee's compact privilege in the state; (b) Issue subpoenas for both hearings and investigations that require the attendance and testimony of witnesses, and the production of evidence. Subpoenas issued by a physical therapy licensing board in a party state for the attendance and testimony of witnesses, and/or the production of evidence from another party state, shall be enforced in the latter state by any court of competent jurisdiction, according to the practice and procedure of that court applicable to subpoenas issued in proceedings pending before it. The issuing authority shall pay any witness fees, travel expenses, mileage, and other fees required by the service statutes of the state where the witnesses and/or evidence are located; and (c) If otherwise permitted by state law, recover from the licensee the costs of investigations and disposition of cases resulting from any adverse action taken against that licensee. (6)(a) In addition to the authority granted to a member state by its respective physical therapy practice act or other applicable state law, a member state may participate with other member states in joint investigations of licensees. (b) Member states shall share any investigative, litigation, or compliance materials in furtherance of any joint or individual investigation initiated under the compact. ARTICLE VII - ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PHYSICAL THERAPY COMPACT COMMISSION (1) The compact member states hereby create and establish a joint public agency known as the physical therapy compact commission: (a) The commission is an instrumentality of the compact states. (b) Venue is proper and judicial proceedings by or against the commission shall be brought solely and exclusively in a court of competent jurisdiction where the principal office of the commission is located. The commission may waive venue and jurisdictional defenses to the extent it adopts or consents to participate in alternative dispute resolution proceedings. (c) Nothing in this compact shall be construed to be a waiver of sovereign immunity. (2)(a) Each member state shall have and be limited to one delegate selected by that member state's licensing board. (b) The delegate shall be a current member of the licensing board, who is a physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, public member, or the board administrator. (c) Any delegate may be removed or suspended from office as provided by the law of the state from which the delegate is appointed. (d) The member state board shall fill any vacancy occurring in the commission. (e) Each delegate shall be entitled to one vote with regard to the promulgation of rules and creation of bylaws and shall otherwise have an opportunity to participate in the business and affairs of the commission. (f) A delegate shall vote in person or by such other means as provided in the bylaws. The bylaws may provide for delegates' participation in meetings by telephone or other means of communication. (g) The commission shall meet at least once during each calendar year. Additional meetings shall be held as set forth in the bylaws. (3) The commission shall have the following powers and duties: (a) Establish the fiscal year of the commission; (b) Establish bylaws; (c) Maintain its financial records in accordance with the bylaws; (d) Meet and take such actions as are consistent with the provisions of this compact and the bylaws; (e) Promulgate uniform rules to facilitate and coordinate implementation and administration of this compact. The rules shall have the force and effect of law and shall be binding in all member states; (f) Bring and prosecute legal proceedings or actions in the name of the commission, provided that the standing of any state physical therapy licensing board to sue or be sued under applicable law shall not be affected; (g) Purchase and maintain insurance and bonds; (h) Borrow, accept, or contract for services of personnel including, but not limited to, employees of a member state; (i) Hire employees, elect or appoint officers, fix compensation, define duties, grant such individuals appropriate authority to carry out the purposes of the compact, and establish the commission's personnel policies and programs relating to conflicts of interest, qualifications of personnel, and other related personnel matters; (j) Accept any and all appropriate donations and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services, and to receive, utilize, and dispose of the same; provided that at all times the commission shall avoid any appearance of impropriety and/or conflict of interest; (k) Lease, purchase, or accept appropriate gifts or donations of, or otherwise to own, hold, improve, or use any property real, personal, or mixed; provided that at all times the commission shall avoid any appearance of impropriety; (l) Sell, convey, mortgage, pledge, lease, exchange, abandon, or otherwise dispose of any property real, personal, or mixed; (m) Establish a budget and make expenditures; (n) Borrow money; (o) Appoint committees, including standing committees comprised of members, state regulators, state legislators or their representatives, and consumer representatives, and such other interested persons as may be designated in this compact and the bylaws; (p) Provide and receive information from, and cooperate with, law enforcement agencies; (q) Establish and elect an executive board; and (r) Perform such other functions as may be necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes of this compact consistent with the state regulation of physical therapy licensure and practice. (4) The executive board shall have the power to act on behalf of the commission according to the terms of this compact. (a) The executive board shall be comprised of nine members: (i) Seven voting members who are elected by the commission from the current membership of the commission; (ii) One ex officio, nonvoting member from a recognized national physical therapy professional association; and (iii) One ex officio, nonvoting member from a recognized membership organization of the physical therapy licensing boards. (b) The ex officio members will be selected by their respective organizations. (c) The commission may remove any member of the executive board as provided in bylaws. (d) The executive board shall meet at least annually. (e) The executive board shall have the following duties and responsibilities: (i) Recommend to the entire commission changes to the rules or bylaws, changes to this compact legislation, fees paid by compact member states such as annual dues, and any commission compact fee charged to licensees for the compact privilege; (ii) Ensure compact administration services are appropriately provided, contractual or otherwise; (iii) Prepare and recommend the budget; (iv) Maintain financial records on behalf of the commission; (v) Monitor compact compliance of member states and provide compliance reports to the commission; (vi) Establish additional committees as necessary; and (vii) Other duties as provided in rules or bylaws. (5)(a) All meetings shall be open to the public, and public notice of meetings shall be given in the same manner as required under the rule-making provisions in Article IX of this compact. (b) The commission or the executive board or other committees of the commission may convene in a closed, nonpublic meeting if the commission or executive board or other committees of the commission must discuss: (i) Noncompliance of a member state with its obligations under the compact; (ii) The employment, compensation, discipline, or other matters, practices, or procedures related to specific employees or other matters related to the commission's internal personnel practices and procedures; (iii) Current, threatened, or reasonably anticipated litigation; (iv) Negotiation of contracts for the purchase, lease, or sale of goods, services, or real estate; (v) Accusing any person of a crime or formally censuring any person; (vi) Disclosure of trade secrets or commercial or financial information that is privileged or confidential; (vii) Disclosure of information of a personal nature where disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy; (viii) Disclosure of investigative records compiled for law enforcement purposes; (ix) Disclosure of information related to any investigative reports prepared by or on behalf of or for use of the commission or other committee charged with responsibility of investigation or determination of compliance issues pursuant to the compact; or (x) Matters specifically exempt from disclosure by federal or member state statute. (c) If a meeting, or portion of a meeting, is closed pursuant to this provision, the commission's legal counsel or designee shall certify that the meeting may be closed and shall reference each relevant exempting provision. (d) The commission shall keep minutes that fully and clearly describe all matters discussed in a meeting and shall provide a full and accurate summary of actions taken, and the reasons therefore, including a description of the views expressed. All documents considered in connection with an action shall be identified in such minutes. All minutes and documents of a closed meeting shall remain under seal, subject to release by a majority vote of the commission or order of a court of competent jurisdiction. (6)(a) The commission shall pay, or provide for the payment of, the reasonable expenses of its establishment, organization, and ongoing activities. (b) The commission may accept any and all appropriate revenue sources, donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services. (c) The commission may levy on and collect an annual assessment from each member state or impose fees on other parties to cover the cost of the operations and activities of the commission and its staff, which must be in a total amount sufficient to cover its annual budget as approved each year for which revenue is not provided by other sources. The aggregate annual assessment amount shall be allocated based upon a formula to be determined by the commission, which shall promulgate a rule binding upon all member states. (d) The commission shall not incur obligations of any kind prior to securing the funds adequate to meet the same; nor shall the commission pledge the credit of any of the member states, except by and with the authority of the member state. (e) The commission shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements. The receipts and disbursements of the commission shall be subject to the audit and accounting procedures established under its bylaws. However, all receipts and disbursements of funds handled by the commission shall be audited yearly by a certified or licensed public accountant, and the report of the audit shall be included in and become part of the annual report of the commission. (7)(a) The members, officers, executive director, employees, and representatives of the commission shall be immune from suit and liability, either personally or in their official capacity, for any claim for damage to or loss of property or personal injury or other civil liability caused by or arising out of any actual or alleged act, error, or omission that occurred, or that the person against whom the claim is made had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of commission employment, duties, or responsibilities; provided that nothing in this subsection shall be construed to protect any such person from suit and/or liability for any damage, loss, injury, or liability caused by the intentional or willful or wanton misconduct of that person. (b) The commission shall defend any member, officer, executive director, employee, or representative of the commission in any civil action seeking to impose liability arising out of any actual or alleged act, error, or omission that occurred within the scope of commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, or that the person against whom the claim is made had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of commission employment, duties, or responsibilities; provided that nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit that person from retaining his or her own counsel; and provided further, that the actual or alleged act, error, or omission did not result from that person's intentional or willful or wanton misconduct. (c) The commission shall indemnify and hold harmless any member, officer, executive director, employee, or representative of the commission for the amount of any settlement or judgment obtained against that person arising out of any actual or alleged act, error, or omission that occurred within the scope of commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, or that such person had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, provided that the actual or alleged act, error, or omission did not result from the intentional or willful or wanton misconduct of that person. ARTICLE VIII - DATA SYSTEM (1) The commission shall provide for the development, maintenance, and utilization of a coordinated database and reporting system containing licensure, adverse action, and investigative information on all licensed individuals in member states. (2) Notwithstanding any other provision of state law to the contrary, a member state shall submit a uniform data set to the data system on all individuals to whom this compact is applicable as required by the rules of the commission, including: (a) Identifying information; (b) Licensure data; (c) Adverse actions against a license or compact privilege; (d) Nonconfidential information related to alternative program participation; (e) Any denial of application for licensure, and the reason(s) for such denial; and (f) Other information that may facilitate the administration of this compact, as determined by the rules of the commission. (3) Investigative information pertaining to a licensee in any member state will only be available to other party states. (4) The commission shall promptly notify all member states of any adverse action taken against a licensee or an individual applying for a license. Adverse action information pertaining to a licensee in any member state will be available to any other member state. (5) Member states contributing information to the data system may designate information that may not be shared with the public without the express permission of the contributing state. (6) Any information submitted to the data system that is subsequently required to be expunged by the laws of the member state contributing the information shall be removed from the data system. ARTICLE IX - RULE MAKING (1) The commission shall exercise its rule-making powers pursuant to the criteria set forth in this Article IX and the rules adopted thereunder. Rules and amendments shall become binding as of the date specified in each rule or amendment. (2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of Article IX, the board shall review the rules of the commission. The board may reject or approve and adopt the rules of the commission as rules of the board. The state of Washington is subject to a rule of the commission only if the rule of the commission is adopted by the board and the rule does not violate any right guaranteed by the state Constitution or the United States Constitution. (3) If a majority of the legislatures of the member states rejects a rule, by enactment of a statute or resolution in the same manner used to adopt the compact within four years of the date of adoption of the rule, then such rule shall have no further force and effect in any member state. (4) Rules or amendments to the rules shall be adopted at a regular or special meeting of the commission. (5) Prior to promulgation and adoption of a final rule or rules by the commission, and at least thirty days in advance of the meeting at which the rule will be considered and voted upon, the commission shall file a notice of proposed rule making: (a) On the website of the commission or other publicly accessible platform; and (b) On the website of each member state physical therapy licensing board or other publicly accessible platform or the publication in which each state would otherwise publish proposed rules. (6) The notice of proposed rule making shall include: (a) The proposed time, date, and location of the meeting in which the rule will be considered and voted upon; (b) The text of the proposed rule or amendment and the reason for the proposed rule; (c) A request for comments on the proposed rule from any interested person; and (d) The manner in which interested persons may submit notice to the commission of their intention to attend the public hearing and any written comments. (7) Prior to adoption of a proposed rule, the commission shall allow persons to submit written data, facts, opinions, and arguments, which shall be made available to the public. (8) The commission shall grant an opportunity for a public hearing before it adopts a rule or amendment if a hearing is requested by: (a) At least twenty-five persons; (b) A state or federal governmental subdivision or agency; or (c) An association having at least twenty-five members. (9) If a hearing is held on the proposed rule or amendment, the commission shall publish the place, time, and date of the scheduled public hearing. If the hearing is held via electronic means, the commission shall publish the mechanism for access to the electronic hearing. (a) All persons wishing to be heard at the hearing shall notify the executive director of the commission or other designated member in writing of their desire to appear and testify at the hearing not less than five business days before the scheduled date of the hearing. (b) Hearings shall be conducted in a manner providing each person who wishes to comment a fair and reasonable opportunity to comment orally or in writing. (c) All hearings will be recorded. A copy of the recording will be made available on request. (d) Nothing in this Article IX shall be construed as requiring a separate hearing on each rule. Rules may be grouped for the convenience of the commission at hearings required by this Article IX. (10) Following the scheduled hearing date, or by the close of business on the scheduled hearing date if the hearing was not held, the commission shall consider all written and oral comments received. (11) If no written notice of intent to attend the public hearing by interested parties is received, the commission may proceed with promulgation of the proposed rule without a public hearing. (12) The commission shall, by majority vote of all members, take final action on the proposed rule and shall determine the effective date of the rule, if any, based on the rule-making record and the full text of the rule. (13) Upon determination that an emergency exists, the commission may consider and adopt an emergency rule without prior notice, opportunity for comment, or hearing, provided that the usual rule-making procedures provided in the compact and in this Article IX shall be retroactively applied to the rule as soon as reasonably possible, in no event later than ninety days after the effective date of the rule. For the purposes of this provision, an emergency rule is one that must be adopted immediately in order to: (a) Meet an imminent threat to public health, safety, or welfare; (b) Prevent a loss of commission or member state funds; (c) Meet a deadline for the promulgation of an administrative rule that is established by federal law or rule; or (d) Protect public health and safety. (14) The commission or an authorized committee of the commission may direct revisions to a previously adopted rule or amendment for purposes of correcting typographical errors, errors in format, errors in consistency, or grammatical errors. Public notice of any revisions shall be posted on the website of the commission. The revision shall be subject to challenge by any person for a period of thirty days after posting. The revision may be challenged only on grounds that the revision results in a material change to a rule. A challenge shall be made in writing, and delivered to the chair of the commission prior to the end of the notice period. If no challenge is made, the revision will take effect without further action. If the revision is challenged, the revision may not take effect without the approval of the commission. ARTICLE X - OVERSIGHT, DISPUTE RESOLUTION, AND ENFORCEMENT (1) Oversight. (a) The executive, legislative, and judicial branches of state government in each member state shall enforce this compact and take all actions necessary and appropriate to effectuate the compact's purposes and intent. The provisions of this compact and the rules promulgated hereunder shall have standing as statutory law. (b) All courts shall take judicial notice of the compact and the rules in any judicial or administrative proceeding in a member state pertaining to the subject matter of this compact which may affect the powers, responsibilities, or actions of the commission. (c) The commission shall be entitled to receive service of process in any such proceeding, and shall have standing to intervene in such a proceeding for all purposes. Failure to provide service of process to the commission shall render a judgment or order void as to the commission, this compact, or promulgated rules. (2) Default, technical assistance, and termination. (a) If the commission determines that a member state has defaulted in the performance of its obligations or responsibilities under this compact or the promulgated rules, the commission shall: (i) Provide written notice to the defaulting state and other member states of the nature of the default, the proposed means of curing the default, and/or any other action to be taken by the commission; and (ii) Provide remedial training and specific technical assistance regarding the default. (b) If a state in default fails to cure the default, the defaulting state may be terminated from the compact upon an affirmative vote of a majority of the member states, and all rights, privileges, and benefits conferred by this compact may be terminated on the effective date of termination. A cure of the default does not relieve the offending state of obligations or liabilities incurred during the period of default. (c) Termination of membership in the compact shall be imposed only after all other means of securing compliance have been exhausted. Notice of intent to suspend or terminate shall be given by the commission to the governor, the majority and minority leaders of the defaulting state's legislature, and each of the member states. (d) A state that has been terminated is responsible for all assessments, obligations, and liabilities incurred through the effective date of termination, including obligations that extend beyond the effective date of termination. (e) The commission shall not bear any costs related to a state that is found to be in default or that has been terminated from the compact, unless agreed upon in writing between the commission and the defaulting state. (f) The defaulting state may appeal the action of the commission by petitioning the United States district court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the commission has its principal offices. The prevailing member shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorneys' fees. (3) Dispute resolution. (a) Upon request by a member state, the commission shall attempt to resolve disputes related to the compact that arise among member states and between member and nonmember states. (b) The commission shall promulgate a rule providing for both mediation and binding dispute resolution for disputes as appropriate. (4) Enforcement. (a) The commission, in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, shall enforce the provisions and rules of this compact. (b) By majority vote, the commission may initiate legal action in the United States district court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the commission has its principal offices against a member state in default to enforce compliance with the provisions of the compact and its promulgated rules and bylaws. The relief sought may include both injunctive relief and damages. In the event judicial enforcement is necessary, the prevailing member shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorneys' fees. (c) The remedies herein shall not be the exclusive remedies of the commission. The commission may pursue any other remedies available under federal or state law. ARTICLE XI - DATE OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INTERSTATE COMMISSION FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE AND ASSOCIATED RULES, WITHDRAWAL, AND AMENDMENT (1) The compact shall come into effect on the date on which the compact statute is enacted into law in the tenth member state. The provisions, which become effective at that time, shall be limited to the powers granted to the commission relating to assembly and the promulgation of rules. Thereafter, the commission shall meet and exercise rule-making powers necessary to the implementation and administration of the compact. (2) Any state that joins the compact subsequent to the commission's initial adoption of the rules shall be subject to the rules as they exist on the date on which the compact becomes law in that state. Any rule that has been previously adopted by the commission shall have the full force and effect of law on the day the compact becomes law in that state. (3) Any member state may withdraw from this compact by enacting a statute repealing the same. (a) A member state's withdrawal shall not take effect until six months after enactment of the repealing statute. (b) Withdrawal shall not affect the continuing requirement of the withdrawing state's physical therapy licensing board to comply with the investigative and adverse action reporting requirements of this compact prior to the effective date of withdrawal. (4) Nothing contained in this compact shall be construed to invalidate or prevent any physical therapy licensure agreement or other cooperative arrangement between a member state and a nonmember state that does not conflict with the provisions of this compact. (5) This compact may be amended by the member states. No amendment to this compact shall become effective and binding upon any member state until it is enacted into the laws of all member states. ARTICLE XII - CONSTRUCTION AND SEVERABILITY This compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes thereof. The provisions of this compact shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence, or provision of this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any party state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact shall be held contrary to the constitution of any party state, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining party states and in full force and effect as to the party state affected as to all severable matters.
RCW 18.71C.080 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 71C / Section 080
RCW 18.71C.080: Rule making.
Status: in_force

(1) The commission shall exercise its rule-making powers pursuant to the criteria set forth in this section and the rules adopted thereunder. Commission rules shall become binding as of the date specified by the commission for each rule. (2) The commission shall promulgate reasonable rules in order to effectively and efficiently implement and administer this compact and achieve its purposes. A commission rule shall be invalid and have no force or effect only if a court of competent jurisdiction holds that the rule is invalid because the commission exercised its rule-making authority in a manner that is beyond the scope of the purposes of this compact, or the powers granted hereunder, or based upon another applicable standard of review. (3) The rules of the commission shall have the force of law in each participating state, provided however that where the rules of the commission conflict with the laws of the participating state that establish the medical services a physician assistant may perform in the participating state, as held by a court of competent jurisdiction, the rules of the commission shall be ineffective in that state to the extent of the conflict. (4) If a majority of the legislatures of the participating states rejects a commission rule, by enactment of a statute or resolution in the same manner used to adopt this compact within four years of the date of adoption of the rule, then such rule shall have no further force and effect in any participating state or to any state applying to participate in the compact. (5) Commission rules shall be adopted at a regular or special meeting of the commission. (6) Prior to promulgation and adoption of a final rule or rules by the commission, and at least 30 days in advance of the meeting at which the rule will be considered and voted upon, the commission shall file a notice of proposed rule making: (a) On the website of the commission or other publicly accessible platform; and (b) To persons who have requested notice of the commission's notices of proposed rule making; and (c) In such other way(s) as the commission may by rule specify. (7) The notice of proposed rule making shall include: (a) The time, date, and location of the public hearing on the proposed rule and the proposed time, date, and location of the meeting in which the proposed rule will be considered and voted upon; (b) The text of the proposed rule and the reason for the proposed rule; (c) A request for comments on the proposed rule from any interested person and the date by which written comments must be received; and (d) The manner in which interested persons may submit notice to the commission of their intention to attend the public hearing or provide any written comments. (8) Prior to adoption of a proposed rule, the commission shall allow persons to submit written data, facts, opinions, and arguments, which shall be made available to the public. (9) If the hearing is to be held via electronic means, the commission shall publish the mechanism for access to the electronic hearing. (a) All persons wishing to be heard at the hearing shall[,] as directed in the notice of proposed rule making, not less than five business days before the scheduled date of the hearing, notify the commission of their desire to appear and testify at the hearing. (b) Hearings shall be conducted in a manner providing each person who wishes to comment a fair and reasonable opportunity to comment orally or in writing. (c) All hearings shall be recorded. A copy of the recording and the written comments, data, facts, opinions, and arguments received in response to the proposed rule making shall be made available to a person upon request. (d) Nothing in this section shall be construed as requiring a separate hearing on each proposed rule. Proposed rules may be grouped for the convenience of the commission at hearings required by this section. (10) Following the public hearing[,] the commission shall consider all written and oral comments timely received. (11) The commission shall, by majority vote of all delegates, take final action on the proposed rule and shall determine the effective date of the rule, if adopted, based on the rule-making record and the full text of the rule. (a) If adopted, the rule shall be posted on the commission's website. (b) The commission may adopt changes to the proposed rule provided the changes do not enlarge the original purpose of the proposed rule. (c) The commission shall provide on its website an explanation of the reasons for substantive changes made to the proposed rule as well as reasons for substantive changes not made that were recommended by commenters. (d) The commission shall determine a reasonable effective date for the rule. Except for an emergency as provided in subsection (12) of this section, the effective date of the rule shall be no sooner than 30 days after the commission issued the notice that it adopted the rule. (12) Upon determination that an emergency exists, the commission may consider and adopt an emergency rule with 24 hours' prior notice, without the opportunity for comment, or hearing, provided that the usual rule-making procedures provided in this compact and in this section shall be retroactively applied to the rule as soon as reasonably possible, in no event later than 90 days after the effective date of the rule. For the purposes of this provision, an emergency rule is one that must be adopted immediately by the commission in order to: (a) Meet an imminent threat to public health, safety, or welfare; (b) Prevent a loss of commission or participating state funds; (c) Meet a deadline for the promulgation of a commission rule that is established by federal law or rule; or (d) Protect public health and safety. (13) The commission or an authorized committee of the commission may direct revisions to a previously adopted commission rule for purposes of correcting typographical errors, errors in format, errors in consistency, or grammatical errors. Public notice of any revisions shall be posted on the website of the commission. The revision shall be subject to challenge by any person for a period of 30 days after posting. The revision may be challenged only on grounds that the revision results in a material change to a rule. A challenge shall be made as set forth in the notice of revisions and delivered to the commission prior to the end of the notice period. If no challenge is made, the revision will take effect without further action. If the revision is challenged, the revision may not take effect without the approval of the commission. (14) No participating state's rule-making requirements shall apply under this compact.
RCW 18.85.440 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 85 / Section 440
RCW 18.85.440: Uniform regulation of business and professions act.
Status: in_force

The uniform regulation of business and professions act, chapter 18.235 RCW, governs unlicensed practice, the issuance and denial of licenses, and the discipline of licensees under this chapter.
RCW 18.260.065 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 260 / Section 065
RCW 18.260.065: Registration or licensing requirements—Military training or experience.
Status: in_force

An applicant with military training or experience satisfies the training or experience requirements of this chapter unless the commission determines that the military training or experience is not substantially equivalent to the standards of this state.
RCW 18.400.020 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 400 / Section 020
RCW 18.400.020: Preliminary application for a professional license with a criminal conviction.
Status: in_force

(1) An individual who has a criminal conviction may submit to the appropriate licensing authority a preliminary application for a professional license, government certification, or state recognition of the individual's personal qualifications for a determination as to whether the individual's criminal conviction would disqualify the individual from obtaining the occupational or professional license, government certification, or state recognition of the individual's personal qualifications from that licensing authority. The preliminary application may be submitted at any time, including prior to obtaining required education or paying any fee. Only licenses, certifications, or recognitions administered by the department of licensing or a board or commission with the support of the department of licensing are eligible for a determination under this section. (2) In making a determination under this section, the appropriate licensing authority must consider, but is not limited to, the following factors: (a) The nature and seriousness of the offense; (b) The relationship of the offense to the ability, capacity, and fitness required to perform the duties and discharge the responsibilities of the profession; (c) The age of the person at the time of the offense; (d) The length of time elapsed since the offense; (e) Completion of the criminal sentence; and (f) Other evidence of rehabilitation, treatment, testimonials, employment history, and employment aspirations. (3) Upon receipt of a preliminary application, the appropriate licensing authority shall make a determination of whether the individual's criminal conviction would disqualify the individual from obtaining a professional license, government certification, or state recognition of the individual's personal qualifications from that licensing authority. (4) The licensing authority shall issue its determination in writing within two months after receiving a preliminary application. If the licensing authority determines that the individual's criminal conviction would disqualify the individual, the licensing authority will provide a written determination that: (a) Includes the specific factors in subsection (2) of this section that the licensing authority deemed disqualifying; (b) Advises the individual of any action the individual may take to remedy the disqualification; and (c) Provides the earliest date the individual may reapply for a new determination. (5) If the licensing authority finds that the individual has been convicted of a subsequent criminal conviction, or that the individual has failed to disclose a conviction, the licensing authority may rescind a determination upon finding that the subsequent criminal conviction would be disqualifying under subsection (3) of this section. (6) The individual may appeal the determination of the licensing authority. The appeal shall be in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW. (7) An individual whose preliminary application has been disqualified shall not file another preliminary application under this section with the same licensing authority within two years after the final decision on the previous preliminary application, except that if the individual has taken action to remedy the disqualification as advised by the licensing board. If such action has been taken, the individual may file another preliminary application under this section with the same licensing authority six months after the final decision on the previous preliminary application. (8) A licensing authority shall not charge a fee to a person for any preliminary application filed pursuant to this section.
RCW 18.57.045 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 57 / Section 045
RCW 18.57.045: Inactive licenses.
Status: in_force

A licensed osteopathic physician and surgeon who desires to leave the active practice of osteopathic medicine and surgery in this state may secure from the secretary an inactive license. The administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees for an inactive license shall be determined as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280 . The holder of an inactive license may reactivate his or her license to practice osteopathic medicine and surgery in accordance with rules adopted by the board.
RCW 18.92.046 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 92 / Section 046
RCW 18.92.046: Application of uniform disciplinary act.
Status: in_force

The uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs unlicensed practice, the issuance and denial of licenses, and the discipline of licensees under this chapter.
RCW 18.240.050 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 240 / Section 050
RCW 18.240.050: Secretary's authority.
Status: in_force

In addition to any other authority provided by law, the secretary has the authority to: (1) Adopt rules under chapter 34.05 RCW as required to implement this chapter; (2) Establish all certification and renewal fees in accordance with RCW 43.70.110 and 43.70.250 ; (3) Establish forms and procedures necessary to administer this chapter; (4) Certify an applicant or deny certification based upon unprofessional conduct or impairment governed by the uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW; (5) Deny certification to applicants who do not meet the training, competency evaluation, and conduct requirements for certification; (6) Hire clerical, administrative, investigative, and other staff as needed to implement this chapter; (7) Maintain the official department record for all applicants and persons with certifications; (8) Review coursework and training taken by an applicant in another state to determine whether it is substantially equivalent to that required under this chapter and determine whether additional coursework or training is needed before taking an examination for certification under RCW 18.240.060 ; (9) Approve education and training programs; and (10) Convene temporary work groups of individuals knowledgeable in the practice of animal massage to advise the secretary on appropriate standards of practice and credentialing, as necessary.
RCW 18.100.130 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 100 / Section 130
RCW 18.100.130: Application of Business Corporation Act and Nonprofit Corporation Act.
Status: in_force

(1) For a professional service corporation organized for pecuniary profit under this chapter, the provisions of Title 23B RCW shall be applicable except to the extent that any of the provisions of this chapter are interpreted to be in conflict with the provisions thereof, and in such event the provisions and sections of this chapter shall take precedence with respect to a corporation organized pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (2) For a professional service corporation organized under this chapter and chapter 24.03A RCW as a nonprofit corporation, the provisions of chapter 24.03A RCW shall be applicable except to the extent that any of the provisions of this chapter are interpreted to be in conflict with the provisions thereof, and in such event the provisions and sections of this chapter shall take precedence with respect to a corporation organized under the provisions of this chapter.
RCW 18.71.475 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 71 / Section 475
RCW 18.71.475: International medical graduates—Grant funding.
Status: in_force

Subject to appropriation by the legislature and donations received from public and private entities, the department of health shall award grant funding to: (1) Approved entities for career guidance and support services to international medical graduates including, but not limited to, assistance with educational commission for foreign medical graduates certification application and United States medical licensing examination preparation; and (2) Health care facilities or clinical programs to provide supervised clinical training to international medical graduates.
RCW 18.106.070 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 106 / Section 070
RCW 18.106.070: Certificates of competency, installer endorsement—Issuance—Renewal—Rights of holder—Training certificates—Supervision—Training, certified plumber—Work group.
Status: in_force

*** CHANGE IN 2026 *** (SEE 2492-S.SL ) ***

(1) The department shall issue a certificate of competency to all applicants who have passed the examination and have paid the fee for the certificate. The certificate may include a photograph of the holder. The certificate shall bear the date of issuance, and be renewed every three years, upon application, on or before the birthdate of the holder. The department shall renew a certificate of competency if the applicant: (a) Pays the renewal fee assessed by the department; and (b) during the past three years has completed twenty-four hours of continuing education approved by the department with the advice of the advisory board, including four hours related to electrical safety. For holders of the specialty plumber certificate under RCW 18.106.010 (14)(c), the continuing education may comprise both electrical and plumbing education with a minimum of twelve of the required twenty-four hours of continuing education in plumbing. If a person fails to renew the certificate by the renewal date, he or she must pay a doubled fee. If the person does not renew the certificate within ninety days of the renewal date, he or she must retake the examination and pay the examination fee. The journey level plumber, specialty plumber, and residential service plumber certificates of competency, the medical gas piping installer endorsement, and the temporary permit provided for in this chapter grant the holder the right to engage in the work of plumbing as a journey level plumber, specialty plumber, residential service plumber, or medical gas piping installer, in accordance with their provisions throughout the state and within any of its political subdivisions on any job or any employment without additional proof of competency or any other license or permit or fee to engage in the work. This section does not preclude employees from adhering to a union security clause in any employment where such a requirement exists. (2) A person who is indentured to an apprenticeship program approved under chapter 49.04 RCW for the plumbing construction trade or who is learning the plumbing construction trade may work in the plumbing construction trade if supervised by a certified journey level plumber or a certified specialty plumber in that plumber's specialty. All apprentices and individuals learning the plumbing construction trade shall obtain a plumbing training certificate from the department. The certificate shall authorize the holder to learn the plumbing construction trade while under the direct supervision of a journey level plumber or a specialty plumber working in his or her specialty. The certificate may include a photograph of the holder. The holder of the plumbing training certificate shall renew the certificate annually. At the time of renewal, the holder shall provide the department with an accurate list of the holder's employers in the plumbing construction industry for the previous year and the number of hours worked for each employer. A fee shall be charged for the issuance or renewal of the certificate. The department shall set the fee by rule. The fee shall cover but not exceed the cost of administering and enforcing the trainee certification and supervision requirements of this chapter. (3)(a) Trainee supervision shall consist of a trainee under the control of either a journey level plumber, residential service plumber, or an appropriate specialty plumber who has an applicable certificate of competency issued under this chapter. Subject to the ratio of trainees in subsection (4) of this section, either a journey level plumber, residential service plumber, or an appropriate specialty plumber shall be: (i) On the same jobsite as the trainee for a minimum of seventy-five percent of each working day unless otherwise provided in this chapter; or (ii) Available via mobile phone or similar device in a manner that allows both audio and visual direction to the trainee from the supervising plumber. Remote trainee supervision using these types of technology is only permitted in cases that meet the following criteria: (A) The trainee has more than two thousand hours of training; (B) The supervising plumber is no more than forty miles from the jobsite; and (C) The scope of work on the trainee's jobsite is residential service plumbing in a residential structure and limited to the scope of the residential service plumber. (b) An individual who has a current training certificate and who has successfully completed or is currently enrolled in an approved apprenticeship program or in a technical school program in the plumbing construction trade in a school approved by the workforce training and education coordinating board, may work without direct on-site supervision during the last six months of meeting the practical experience requirements of this chapter. (4)(a) Until December 31, 2028, the ratio of trainees to certified journey level, residential service, or specialty plumbers working on a jobsite must be: (i) Not more than three trainees, each working on a separate residential structure jobsite performing residential service plumbing only in a like-in-kind manner for every certified specialty plumber or journey level plumber working as a specialty plumber; (ii) Not more than one trainee working on any one jobsite for every certified journey level plumber working as a journey level plumber; (iii) Not more than one trainee working on any one jobsite for every certified residential service plumber; and (iv) Not more than three trainees working on a residential construction jobsite performing plumbing installation for every certified specialty plumber or journey level plumber working as a specialty plumber. (b) After December 31, 2028, not more than two trainees may work on any residential structure jobsite for every certified specialty plumber or journey level plumber working as a specialty plumber. (5) An individual who has a current training certificate and who has successfully completed or is currently enrolled in a medical gas piping installer training course approved by the department may work on medical gas piping systems if the individual is under the direct supervision of a certified medical gas piping installer who holds a medical gas piping installer endorsement one hundred percent of a working day on a one-to-one ratio. (6) The training to become a certified plumber must include not less than sixteen hours of classroom training established by the director with the advice of the advisory board. The classroom training must include, but not be limited to, electrical wiring safety, grounding, bonding, and other related items plumbers need to know to work under this chapter. (7) All persons who are certified plumbers before January 1, 2003, are deemed to have received the classroom training required in subsection (6) of this section. (8)(a) The department shall instruct the advisory board of plumbers to convene a subgroup that includes the statewide association representing plumbing, heating, and cooling contractors; the union representing plumbers and pipefitters; the association representing plumbing contractors who employ union plumbers and pipefitters; and other directly affected stakeholders after the completion of the 2023 legislative session, the 2027 legislative session, and every three years thereafter. (b) The work group shall evaluate the effects that the trainee ratio changes have had on the industry, including public safety and industry response to public demand for plumbing services. The work group shall determine a sustainable plan for maintaining sufficient numbers of plumbers and trainees within the plumbing workforce to safely meet the needs of the public. The report is due to the standing labor committees of the legislature before December 1st of each year that the work group convenes. The work group shall conclude on receipt of the report by the legislature. Within current funding appropriated to the department, the department must reimburse each member of the work group in accordance with the provisions of RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060 for each day in which the member is actually engaged in attendance of meetings of the advisory board.
RCW 18.170.165 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 170 / Section 165
RCW 18.170.165: Transfer of license.
Status: in_force

A licensee who transfers from one company to another must submit a transfer application on a form prescribed by the director along with a transfer fee established by the director.
RCW 18.19.090 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 19 / Section 090
RCW 18.19.090: Application for credentials—Contents—Form—Requirements—Exemptions.
Status: in_force

(1) Application for agency affiliated counselor, certified counselor, certified adviser, or hypnotherapist must be made on forms approved by the secretary. The secretary may require information necessary to determine whether applicants meet the qualifications for the credential and whether there are any grounds for denial of the credential, or for issuance of a conditional credential, under this chapter or chapter 18.130 RCW. The application for agency affiliated counselor, certified counselor, or certified adviser must include a description of the applicant's orientation, discipline, theory, or technique. Each applicant shall pay a fee determined by the secretary as provided in RCW 43.70.250 , which shall accompany the application. (2) Applicants for agency affiliated counselor must provide satisfactory documentation that they are employed by an agency, have an offer of employment from an agency, or are a student intern as defined by the department. (3) Applicants for certified agency affiliated counselor must complete the following: (a) A bachelor's degree in counseling or one of the social sciences from an accredited college or university which includes coursework specified in subsection (5) of this section; and (b) At least five years of experience in direct treatment of persons with a mental disorder that was gained under the supervision of a mental health professional who is able to independently provide mental health assessments and diagnoses according to the scope of practice of the mental health professional's credential. (4) Applicants for licensed agency affiliated counselor must complete the following: (a) An advanced degree in counseling or one of the social sciences from an accredited college or university which includes coursework specified in subsection (5) of this section; and (b) At least two years of experience in direct treatment of persons with a mental disorder that was gained under the supervision of a mental health professional who is able to independently provide mental health assessments and diagnoses according to the scope of practice of the mental health professional's credential. (5) Applicants for a certified or licensed agency affiliated counselor credential must have counseling-specific coursework as determined by the department in rule. (6)(a) Applicants for licensed agency affiliated counselor are not required to meet the coursework requirements in subsection (5) of this section if, prior to the effective date of the rules adopted under subsection (5) of this section, the applicant held a mental health professional designation based on meeting one of the following criteria: (i) The applicant held an advanced degree in counseling or one of the social sciences from an accredited college or university and had two years of experience in direct treatment of persons with mental illness or emotional disturbance that was gained under the supervision of a mental health professional recognized by the department or attested to by a licensed behavioral health agency; (ii) The applicant met the waiver criteria of RCW 71.24.260 , and the waiver was granted prior to 1986; or (iii) The applicant had an approved waiver to perform the duties of a mental health professional, that was requested by the behavioral health organization and granted by the mental health division prior to July 1, 2001. (b) Applicants for certified agency affiliated counselor are not required to meet the coursework requirements in subsection (5) of this section if, prior to the effective date of the rules adopted under subsection (5) of this section, the applicant met the bachelor's degree and experience requirements in subsection (3) of this section. (c) Applicants for licensed or certified agency affiliated counselors eligible for the legacy provision under this subsection must apply to the department before July 1, 2027. After that date all new applicants must meet the requirements in subsections (3) and (4) of this section. "New applicants" does not include those reinstating a previously issued agency affiliated counselor certification. (7) At the time of application for initial certification, applicants for certified counselor prior to July 1, 2010, are required to: (a) Have been registered for no less than five years at the time of application for an initial certification; (b) Have held a valid, active registration that is in good standing and be in compliance with any disciplinary process and orders at the time of application for an initial certification; (c) Show evidence of having completed coursework in risk assessment, ethics, appropriate screening and referral, and Washington state law and other subjects identified by the secretary; (d) Pass an examination in risk assessment, ethics, appropriate screening and referral, and Washington state law, and other subjects as determined by the secretary; and (e) Have a written consultation agreement with a credential holder who meets the qualifications established by the secretary. (8) Unless eligible for certification under subsection (7) of this section, applicants for certified counselor or certified adviser are required to: (a)(i) Have a bachelor's degree in a counseling-related field, if applying for certified counselor; or (ii) Have an associate degree in a counseling-related field and a supervised internship, if applying for certified adviser; (b) Pass an examination in risk assessment, ethics, appropriate screening and referral, and Washington state law, and other subjects as determined by the secretary; and (c) Have a written supervisory agreement with a supervisor who meets the qualifications established by the secretary. (9) Each applicant shall include payment of the fee determined by the secretary as provided in RCW 43.70.250 .
RCW 18.88B.070 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 88B / Section 070
RCW 18.88B.070: Nurse delegated tasks.
Status: in_force

(1) The legislature recognizes that nurses have been successfully delegating nursing care tasks to family members and others for many years. The opportunity for a nurse to delegate nursing care tasks to home care aides certified under this chapter may enhance the viability and quality of health care services in community-based care settings and in-home care settings to allow individuals to live as independently as possible with maximum safeguards. (2)(a) A certified home care aide who wishes to perform a nurse delegated task pursuant to RCW 18.79.260 must complete nurse delegation core training under chapter 18.88A RCW before the home care aide may be delegated a nursing care task by a registered nurse delegator. Before administering insulin, a home care aide must also complete the specialized diabetes nurse delegation training under chapter 18.88A RCW. Before commencing any specific nursing care tasks authorized under RCW 18.79.260 , the home care aide must: (i) Provide to the delegating nurse a transcript or certificate of successful completion of training issued by an approved instructor or approved training entity indicating the completion of basic core nurse delegation training; and (ii) Meet any additional training requirements mandated by the state board of nursing. Any exception to these training requirements is subject to RCW 18.79.260 (3)(e)(vi). (b) In addition to meeting the requirements of (a) of this subsection, before providing delegated nursing care tasks that involve administration of insulin by injection to individuals with diabetes, the home care aide must provide to the delegating nurse a transcript or certificate of successful completion of training issued by an approved instructor or approved training entity indicating completion of specialized diabetes nurse delegation training. The training must include, but is not limited to, instruction regarding diabetes, insulin, sliding scale insulin orders, and proper injection procedures. (3) The home care aide is accountable for his or her own individual actions in the delegation process. Home care aides accurately following written delegation instructions from a registered nurse are immune from liability regarding the performance of the delegated duties. (4) Home care aides are not subject to any employer reprisal or disciplinary action by the secretary for refusing to accept delegation of a nursing care task based on his or her concerns about patient safety issues. No provider of a community-based care setting as defined in RCW 18.79.260 , or in-home services agency as defined in RCW 70.127.010 , may discriminate or retaliate in any manner against a person because the person made a complaint about the nurse delegation process or cooperated in the investigation of the complaint.
RCW 18.130.440 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 130 / Section 440
RCW 18.130.440: Educational materials on nationwide 988 phone number—Veterans crisis line and resources.
Status: in_force

(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall consult with the department of veterans affairs to create educational materials informing health care providers regulated under this chapter about the availability of the nationwide 988 phone number for individuals in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors. The educational materials must include information about the veterans crisis line for veterans and service members, and, beginning July 1, 2023, information about the resources developed under RCW 43.60A.280 . (2) The department shall: (a) Determine the health professions to which this section shall apply; and (b) Collaborate with the corresponding disciplining authority under RCW 18.130.020 to ensure that the educational materials are distributed electronically to appropriate licensed health care providers when a provider renews his or her license. (3) Beginning July 1, 2023, all health care providers are strongly encouraged to inquire with new patients entering care whether the patient is a veteran, member of the military, or a family member of a veteran or member of the military. If the patient responds in the affirmative, the provider is encouraged to share the educational materials created under this section with the patient.
RCW 18.280.090 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 280 / Section 090
RCW 18.280.090: License length and renewal.
Status: in_force

Licenses are issued for a term of two years and expire on the applicant's second birthday following issuance of the license.
RCW 18.19.080 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 19 / Section 080
RCW 18.19.080: Official records.
Status: in_force

The secretary shall keep an official record of all proceedings, a part of which record shall consist of a register of all applicants for registration under this chapter, with the result of each application.
RCW 18.84.110 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 84 / Section 110
RCW 18.84.110: Renewal of certificates.
Status: in_force

The secretary shall establish the administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees for renewal of certificates as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280 .
RCW 18.85.041 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 85 / Section 041
RCW 18.85.041: Director—General powers and duties.
Status: in_force

(1) The director, with the advice and approval of the commission, may issue rules to govern the activities of real estate brokers, managing brokers, designated brokers, and real estate firms, consistent with this chapter and chapters 18.86 and 18.235 RCW, fix the times and places for holding examinations of applicants for licenses, and prescribe the method of conducting them. (2)(a) The director shall enforce all laws and rules relating to the licensing of real estate firms, brokers, managing brokers, and designated brokers, grant or deny licenses including temporary licenses to real estate firms, brokers, and managing brokers, and hold hearings. (b) The director shall enforce all laws and rules relating to the issuance of certificates of approval to real estate schools, real estate school administrators and instructors, and approval of real estate education courses. (3) The director shall establish by rule standards for licensure of applicants licensed in other jurisdictions and for reciprocity including the use of written recognition agreements. (4) The director may issue rules requiring all applicants to submit to a criminal background check, and the applicant is responsible for the payment of any fees incurred. (5) The director shall adopt rules and establish standards relating to permissible forms of clear and conspicuous advertising by licensees. (6) The director shall institute a program of real estate education. The program may include courses at institutions of higher education in Washington, trade schools, private real estate schools, and preapproved forums and conferences. The program shall include establishing minimum levels of ongoing education for licensees relating to the practice of real estate under this chapter. The program may also include the development or implementation of curricula courses, educational materials, or approaches to education relating to real estate when required or approved for continuing education credit. The director may develop and provide educational programs and materials for members of the public. The director may enter into contracts with other persons or entities, whether publicly or privately owned or operated, to assist in developing or implementing the real estate education program. (7) The director shall charge a fee for the certification of courses of instruction, instructors, and schools. (8) The director may take disciplinary action against real estate schools and real estate school administrators and instructors based upon conduct, acts, or conditions prescribed by rule, and may impose any or all of the following sanctions and fines: (a) Withdrawal of the certificate of approval; (b) Suspension of the certificate of approval for a fixed or indefinite term; (c) Stayed suspension for a designated period of time; (d) Censure or reprimand; (e) Payment of a fine for each violation not to exceed one thousand dollars per day per violation. Each day a violation continues or occurs is a separate violation for purposes of imposing a penalty; (f) Denial of an initial or renewal application for a certificate of approval; and (g) Other corrective action.
RCW 18.200.080 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 200 / Section 080
RCW 18.200.080: Licensure without examination.
Status: in_force

The secretary may grant a license without an examination for those applicants who have practiced full time for five of the six years prior to *the effective date of this act and who have provided comprehensive orthotic or prosthetic, or orthotic and prosthetic, services in an established practice. This section applies only to those individuals who apply within one year of *the effective date of this act.
RCW 18.91.100 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 91 / Section 100
RCW 18.91.100: Oversight—Dispute resolution—Enforcement.
Status: in_force

(1) Oversight. (a) The executive and judicial branches of state government in each member state shall enforce this compact and take all actions necessary and appropriate to implement the compact. (b) Venue is proper and judicial proceedings by or against the commission shall be brought solely and exclusively in a court of competent jurisdiction where the principal office of the commission is located. The commission may waive venue and jurisdictional defenses to the extent it adopts or consents to participate in alternative dispute resolution proceedings. Nothing herein shall affect or limit the selection or propriety of venue in any action against a licensee for professional malpractice, misconduct, or any such similar matter. (c) The commission shall be entitled to receive service of process in any proceeding regarding the enforcement or interpretation of the compact and shall have standing to intervene in such a proceeding for all purposes. Failure to provide the commission service of process shall render a judgment or order void as to the commission, this compact, or promulgated rules. (2) Default, technical assistance, and termination. (a) If the commission determines that a member state has defaulted in the performance of its obligations or responsibilities under this compact or the promulgated rules, the commission shall provide written notice to the defaulting state. The notice of default shall describe the default, the proposed means of curing the default, and any other action that the commission may take, and shall offer training and specific technical assistance regarding the default. (b) The commission shall provide a copy of the notice of default to the other member states. (3) If a state in default fails to cure the default, the defaulting state may be terminated from the compact upon an affirmative vote of a majority of the commissioners of the member states, and all rights, privileges, and benefits conferred on that state by this compact may be terminated on the effective date of termination. A cure of the default does not relieve the offending state of obligations or liabilities incurred during the period of default. (4) Termination of membership in the compact shall be imposed only after all other means of securing compliance have been exhausted. Notice of intent to suspend or terminate shall be given by the commission to the governor, the majority and minority leaders of the defaulting state's legislature, the defaulting state's respiratory therapy licensing authority, and each of the member states' respiratory therapy licensing authorities. (5) A state that has been terminated is responsible for all assessments, obligations, and liabilities incurred through the effective date of termination, including obligations that extend beyond the effective date of termination, if necessary. (6) Upon the termination of a state's membership from this compact, that state shall immediately provide notice to all licensees and compact privilege holders (of which the commission has a record) within that state of such termination. The terminated state shall continue to recognize all licenses granted pursuant to this compact for a minimum of 180 days after the date of said notice of termination. (7) The commission shall not bear any costs related to a state that is found to be in default or that has been terminated from the compact, unless agreed upon in writing between the commission and the defaulting state. (8) The defaulting state may appeal the action of the commission by petitioning the United States district court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the commission has its principal offices. The prevailing party shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorneys' fees. (9) Dispute resolution. (a) Upon request by a member state, the commission shall attempt to resolve disputes related to the compact that arise among member states and between member and nonmember states. (b) The commission shall promulgate a rule providing for both mediation and binding dispute resolution for disputes, as appropriate. (10) Enforcement. (a) By majority vote, as may be further provided by rule, the commission may initiate legal action against a member state in default in the United States district court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the commission has its principal offices to enforce compliance with the provisions of the compact and its promulgated rules. A member state by enactment of this compact consents to venue and jurisdiction in such court for the purposes set forth herein. The relief sought may include both injunctive relief and damages. In the event judicial enforcement is necessary, the prevailing party shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorneys' fees. The remedies herein shall not be the exclusive remedies of the commission. The commission may pursue any other remedies available under federal or the defaulting member state's law. (b) A member state may initiate legal action against the commission in the United States district court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the commission has its principal offices to enforce compliance with the provisions of the compact and its promulgated rules. The relief sought may include both injunctive relief and damages. In the event judicial enforcement is necessary, the prevailing party shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorneys' fees. (c) No person other than a member state shall enforce this compact against the commission.
RCW 18.104.110 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 104 / Section 110
RCW 18.104.110: Actions against licenses—Grounds—Duration.
Status: in_force

(1) In cases other than those relating to the failure of a licensee to renew a license, the director may suspend or revoke a license issued pursuant to this chapter for any of the following reasons: (a) For fraud or deception in obtaining the license; (b) For fraud or deception in reporting under RCW 18.104.050 ; (c) For violating the provisions of this chapter, or of any lawful rule or regulation of the department or the department of health. (2) The director shall immediately suspend any license issued under this chapter if the holder of the license has been certified pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320 by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order or a *residential or visitation order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for reinstatement during the suspension, reissuance of the license shall be automatic upon the director's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the person is in compliance with the order. (3) No license shall be suspended for more than six months, except that a suspension under RCW 74.20A.320 shall continue until the department receives a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the person is in compliance with the order. (4) No person whose license is revoked shall be eligible to apply for a license for one year from the effective date of the final order of revocation.
RCW 18.27.070 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 27 / Section 070
RCW 18.27.070: Fees.
Status: in_force

The department shall charge fees for issuance, renewal, and reinstatement of certificates of registration; and changes of name, address, or business structure. The department shall set the fees by rule. The entire amount of the fees are to be used solely to cover the full cost of issuing certificates, filing papers and notices, and administering and enforcing this chapter. The costs shall include reproduction, travel, per diem, and administrative and legal support costs.
RCW 18.39.045 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 39 / Section 045
RCW 18.39.045: College course requirements.
Status: in_force

(1) The two-year college course required for funeral directors under this chapter shall consist of sixty semester or ninety quarter hours of instruction at a school, college, or university accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges or other accrediting association approved by the board, with a minimum 2.0 grade point, or a grade of C or better, in each subject required by subsection (2) of this section. (2) Credits shall include one course in psychology, one in mathematics, two courses in English composition, two courses in social science, and three courses selected from the following subjects: Behavioral sciences, public speaking, counseling, business administration and management, computer science, and first aid. (3) This section does not apply to any person registered and in good standing as an apprentice funeral director or embalmer on or before January 1, 1982.
RCW 18.35A.100 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 35A / Section 100
RCW 18.35A.100: Rule making.
Status: in_force

(1) The commission shall exercise its rule-making powers pursuant to the criteria set forth in this section and the rules adopted thereunder. Rules and amendments shall become binding as of the date specified in each rule or amendment. (2) If a majority of the legislatures of the member states rejects a rule, by enactment of a statute or resolution in the same manner used to adopt the compact within four years of the date of adoption of the rule, the rule shall have no further force and effect in any member state. (3) Rules or amendments to the rules shall be adopted at a regular or special meeting of the commission. (4) Prior to promulgation and adoption of a final rule or rules by the commission, and at least 30 days in advance of the meeting at which the rule shall be considered and voted upon, the commission shall file a notice of proposed rule making: (a) On the website of the commission or other publicly accessible platform; and (b) On the website of each member state audiology or speech-language pathology licensing board or other publicly accessible platform or the publication in which each state would otherwise publish proposed rules. (5) The notice of proposed rule making shall include: (a) The proposed time, date, and location of the meeting in which the rule shall be considered and voted upon; (b) The text of the proposed rule or amendment and the reason for the proposed rule; (c) A request for comments on the proposed rule from any interested person; and (d) The manner in which interested persons may submit notice to the commission of their intention to attend the public hearing and any written comments. (6) Prior to the adoption of a proposed rule, the commission shall allow persons to submit written data, facts, opinions, and arguments, which shall be made available to the public. (7) The commission shall grant an opportunity for a public hearing before it adopts a rule or amendment if a hearing is requested by: (a) At least 25 persons; (b) A state or federal governmental subdivision or agency; or (c) An association having at least 25 members. (8) If a hearing is held on the proposed rule or amendment, the commission shall publish the place, time, and date of the scheduled public hearing. If the hearing is held via electronic means, the commission shall publish the mechanism for access to the electronic hearing. (a) All persons wishing to be heard at the hearing shall notify the executive director of the commission or other designated member in writing of their desire to appear and testify at the hearing not less than five business days before the scheduled date of the hearing. (b) Hearings shall be conducted in a manner providing each person who wishes to comment a fair and reasonable opportunity to comment orally or in writing. (c) All hearings shall be recorded. A copy of the recording shall be made available to any person upon request and at the requesting person's expense. (d) Nothing in this section shall be construed as requiring a separate hearing on each rule. Rules may be grouped for the convenience of the commission at hearings required by this section. (9) Following the scheduled hearing date, or by the close of business on the scheduled hearing date if the hearing was not held, the commission shall consider all written and oral comments received. (10) If no written notice of intent to attend the public hearing by interested parties is received, the commission may proceed with promulgation of the proposed rule without a public hearing. (11) The commission shall, by majority vote of all members, take final action on the proposed rule and shall determine the effective date of the rule, if any, based on the rule-making record and the full text of the rule. (12) Upon determination that an emergency exists, the commission may consider and adopt an emergency rule without prior notice, opportunity for comment, or hearing, provided that the usual rule-making procedures provided in the compact and in this section shall be retroactively applied to the rule as soon as reasonably possible, in no event later than 90 days after the effective date of the rule. For the purposes of this provision, an emergency rule is one that must be adopted immediately in order to: (a) Meet an imminent threat to public health, safety, or welfare; (b) Prevent a loss of commission or member state funds; or (c) Meet a deadline for the promulgation of an administrative rule that is established by federal law or rule. (13) The commission or an authorized committee of the commission may direct revisions to a previously adopted rule or amendment for purposes of correcting typographical errors, errors in format, errors in consistency, or grammatical errors. Public notice of any revisions shall be posted on the website of the commission. The revision shall be subject to challenge by any person for a period of 30 days after posting. The revision may be challenged only on grounds that the revision results in a material change to a rule. A challenge shall be made in writing and delivered to the chair of the commission prior to the end of the notice period. If no challenge is made, the revision shall take effect without further action. If the revision is challenged, the revision may not take effect without the approval of the commission.
RCW 19.16.240 — Washington Code / Title 18 / Chapter 16 / Section 240
RCW 19.16.240: Licensee—Trust fund account—Exception.
Status: in_force

Each licensee, other than an out-of-state collection agency, shall at all times maintain a separate bank account in this state in which all moneys collected by the licensee shall be deposited except that negotiable instruments received may be forwarded directly to a customer. Moneys received must be deposited within ten days after posting to the book of accounts. In no event shall moneys received be disposed of in any manner other than to deposit such moneys in said account or as provided in this section. The bank account shall bear some title sufficient to distinguish it from the licensee's personal or general checking account, such as "Customer's Trust Fund Account". There shall be sufficient funds in said trust account at all times to pay all moneys due or owing to all customers and no disbursements shall be made from such account except to customers or to remit moneys collected from debtors on assigned claims and due licensee's attorney or to refund over payments except that a licensee may periodically withdraw therefrom such moneys as may accrue to licensee. Any money in such trust account belonging to a licensee may be withdrawn for the purpose of transferring the same into the possession of licensee or into a personal or general account of licensee.The department shall immediately suspend the license of a person who has been certified pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320 by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for reinstatement during the suspension, reissuance of the license shall be automatic upon the department's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the licensee is in compliance with the order.