Negotiated Rule Making
Utilizing this Negotiated Rule Making (NRM) approach, the Licensing Division has begun the process of amending the foster care WAC 110-148 as part of the DS Settlement.
NRM is a way to develop rules by seeking consensus from delegates representing groupings made up of similar parties that are impacted by the rule. Utilizing a NRM approach to rule making has several benefits such as:
- Providing greater public access to rulemaking
- Creating more culturally and developmentally appropriate rules
- Better understanding of rule intent
- Increased compliance with rules
Virtual Negotiations
First round of negotiations will begin the week of Oct. 21, 2024.
If you would like to give input on revised WAC, email dcyf.fostercarenrm@dcyf.wa.gov so the team can connect you with your program representative.
View full list of Foster Care NRM Representatives
WAC Sets
WAC Set #1 - October 2024
WAC Set #2 - November 2024
Foster Care NRM Roundtables
The Foster Care NRM Team and members of the Office of Tribal Relations (OTR) hosted Foster Care NRM Tribal Roundtables on Sept. 17 and Sept. 25, 2024. During the Roundtables attendees provided input on different foster care WAC to help create more culturally and developmentally appropriate rules for tribal children placed in foster care settings. We extend our deepest gratitude to those who participated and shared their unique wisdom and insights.
New Strategies Report, Immediate Recommendations to Enhance Practice
The new Early Implementation Work Group Report highlights current practices related to the seven areas in the D.S. Settlement Systems Improvement 4.9 Revising Licensing Standards. A diverse group of participants including licensed caregivers and representatives from group care facilities, child placing agencies, and the Office of Tribal Relations (OTR) collaborated to identify barriers, review Prudent Parenting guidelines and create recommendations on practice improvements that can be immediately implemented with current Washington Administrative Code (WAC) rules.
Ways to Engage
- Recommend changes to current WAC through the Foster Care email at: dcyf.fostercarenrm@dcyf.wa.gov
- Participate as a representative in the hybrid negotiation in October 2024
If you have any questions, email dcyf.fostercarenrm@dcyf.wa.gov.
Project Timeline
- Oct. 1, 2023 – Dec. 31, 2023: Foster Care NRM Preparation
- Jan. 1, 2024 – Sept. 30, 2024: Foster Care NRM Development and Hybrid Negotiation
- Oct. 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025: Foster Care NRM Virtual Negotiations
- April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025: Foster Care NRM WAC Polishing and Filing
- July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026: Foster Care NRM Rule Training and Implementation
- July 1, 2026: Foster Care WAC compliance
