Subject of Possible Rule Making: The department is proposing to amend working connections child care (WCCC), WAC 388-290-0045, 388-290-0055, 388-290-0190 and other sections as appropriate.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The governor's mandate for the WorkFirst redesign is precipitating changes to WACs specific to TANF recipients. In some cases WCCC references to specific WorkFirst WAC will no longer be appropriate. These changes will clarify WCCC eligibility and payment requirements for TANF and non-TANF recipients.

     Process for Developing New Rule: All interested parties are invited to review and provide input on draft rule language. Obtain draft material by contacting the identified representative below. The rules will also be posted on the policy proposal comment internet site at http://www1.dshs.wa.gov/esa/extpolicy/.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Sheri Bruu-Deleon, Program Manager, Division of Child Care and Early Learning, P.O. Box 45480, Olympia, WA 98504-5480, phone (360) 725-4675, fax (360) 413-3482, e-mail bruudsl@dshs.wa.gov.

January 23, 2006

Andy Fernando, Manager

Rules and Policies Assistance Unit