PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Retired active status. This rule or rules would allow licensed midwives who are practicing only in emergent or intermittent circumstances to hold a retired active license at a reduced renewal fee. It would also establish the qualifications required to return to active status. In addition, there would be an amendment to WAC 246-834-990 to establish a reduced renewal fee for the retired active status license.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 18.130.250.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Individuals who hold midwifery licenses have long been requesting a license at a reduced fee for those individuals not currently in practice or practicing only intermittently. Licensees who fall into this category have decided that the regular fee is too much and have let their license lapse. By allowing this status, these midwives can fill a need in emergent and intermittent circumstances.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.
Process for Developing New Rule: The department intends to hold an open forum on March 16, 1999, at the Midwifery Advisory Committee meeting in Olympia, Washington, to elicit input from interested parties. All licensed midwives and interested parties will be informed.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. A public meeting will be held on March 16, 1999. Written comments may be submitted to the Department of Health, Midwifery Program, Attn: Kendra Pitzler, Program Manager, P.O. Box 98504-7864, phone (360) 236-4723, fax (360) 236-4738.
February 26, 1999
Kristine Van Gorkom
Deputy Secretary