August 13, 2012_AFH "Dear Provider" Letters

August 13, 2012

ADSA:  AFH #2012-014
FINAL AMENDMENTS RELATED TO CHAPTER 388-76 WAC

 

Dear Adult Family Home Provider:

In January, February, and April 2012, Residential Care Services (RCS) informed you of proposed changes to the adult family home licensing rules.  The Department recently filed the final Rule-Making Order CR-103 for amendments to Chapter 388-76 WAC, Adult family home minimum licensing requirements, with the Office of the Code Reviser.  The rule becomes effective August 31, 2012, and will be published in the Washington State Register as WSR 12-16-087.

The rules were amended to comply with and be consistent with Initiative 1163, Engrossed Substitute House Bill (ESHB) 1277 as codified in RCW 70.128 and (ESHB) Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2314. 

Highlights of the changes:

  • Clarification of background check requirements and provision related to disqualifying drug crimes;
  • Clarification of  training and certification requirements for  adult family home applicants; and
  • Identification of criteria for leaving residents unattended.

We enclose the CR-103 document and the final language changes to WAC 388-76.  Please add this to the top of the existing chapter as a supplement until it is "codified" (merged) into the full WAC. 

After the August 31, 2012 effective date, the Code Reviser's office will "codify" (merge) the rule language into the existing WAC chapter.  You will be able to read and print the complete updated chapter by visiting http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=388-76.

In addition, all rule-making documents are posted on the ADSA internet, adult family home professional page at http://www.adsa.dshs.wa.gov/professional/afh.htm.

If you have questions, please contact your local Residential Care Services Field Manager.  Thank you for your continued commitment to the care of long-term care residents in our state.

Sincerely,

Joyce Pashley Stockwell, Director
Residential Care Services
Enclosures:   WSR 12-16-087