The rules writing process is open to the public. The public is welcome to take part in helping us write rules. Rules are also known as regulations, Washington Administrative Code, or WAC. The rule-making process includes public notices and workshops, and usually a public hearing before a rule becomes final.
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Current Rules in Progress
Implementation of 2SHB 1724 Certified and Licensed Agency Affiliated Counselor credentials and coursework requirements. CR102 Comment Period and Public Hearing for Chapter 246-810 WAC
The Department of Health (department) has filed a CR-102 proposing amendments to chapter 246-810 WAC to implement several bills. The proposed amendments: (1) establish requirements for new agency affiliated counselor (AAC) credentials, including supervised experience, education, and coursework requirements; (2) establish that student interns are eligible for the registered AAC credential; (3) add federally qualified health centers as an approved practice setting for AACs after January 1, 2028; and (4) clarify credential requirements for the certified counselor, certified adviser, and hypnotherapist professions, consistent with recommendations made by the Certified Counselors and Hypnotherapists Advisory Committee. The new AAC credentials were immediately implemented through emergency rulemaking, which will continue to be refiled until the permanent rules go into effect.
The public rules hearing is scheduled for January 7th, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Below are instructions on how to comment on the proposed rule, registration information for the rules hearing, and supporting documents in this rule package.
You may provide written comments by January 7, 2025, using one of the following options:
Public rules hearing registration information for January 7, 2025, at 3 p.m. PST
The department is holding a virtual public hearing. Individuals may attend virtually using Zoom.
Register here for the Public Rules Hearing Webinar.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Supporting Documents
- AAC CR-102 WSR 24-22-101 (PDF) - includes the official draft of the proposed rule language for chapter 246-810 WAC.
- Chapter 246-810 WAC Significant Analysis (PDF)
- WSR 24-15-077 Emergency rules (PDF)