How We Do Rulemaking
From start to finish, we are committed to being transparent and involving the public in the rulemaking process.
- Open rules: we are actively working on making changes to a rule. We have formally initiated rulemaking by filing notice with the Washington Code Reviser.
- Recently Adopted rules: the Board has voted to approve changes to the rules, the order of adoption is filed with the Code Reviser, and changes are being implemented. We generally keep recently adopted rules on this web page for 12-months after the rule’s official date of implementation.
- Delayed rules: we have initiated rulemaking, but the work is on-hold. The Board may suspend its work on a rule due to lack of resources, need for more research, prioritization of other projects, or legislative action.
What are the typical phases in the rulemaking process?
A full description with explanations of what the typical phases are in the rulemaking process.
How to Participate
We encourage public participation in our rulemaking process. [When rule comment periods are active or hearing dates are set, details will be noted below and linked to the appropriate rulemaking page.]
- Submit written comments during informal rule comment periods.
- Submit written comments during formal rule comment periods.
- Testify at an official rules hearing.
At the June 4, 2025 Board of Health Meeting there will be two rules hearings:
at 1:30 p.m. Rules Hearing, Auditory Screening, Chapter 246-760 WAC – Testimony will be taken – Possible Action
at 2:30 p.m. Rules Hearing, School Rules Project - Repeal of Chapter 246-366A WAC – Testimony will be taken – Possible Action
Open Rules
- Newborn Screening - OTC, GAMT, and ARG1-D
- 2024-2025 School Rule Review Project
- Auditory Screening Standards for Washington Schools
- Sanitary Control of Shellfish
- Water Recreation Facilities
- Vital Records Rulemaking Delegation
- Group A Public Water Supplies – PFAS – Current Rulemakings
- Rulemaking to Adjust COVID-19 Notifiable Conditions Reporting Requirements
Recently Adopted Rules
- Rulemaking Delegation - Sanitary Control of Shellfish - Minimum Performance Standards
- Handling of Human Remains - Response to SHB 1974
- Rulemaking Delegation – Minor Updates to the Board’s Immunizations Rules
- On-site Sewage Systems
- Group A Public Water Supplies – Climate Resilience Planning
Delayed Rules
Opportunities to Connect with the Board
- Attend a regularly scheduled Board meeting. Most meetings are now hybrid and offer online and in-person options.
- Submit Public Comment. Send in your comments ahead of time or share them in-person during the public comment period.
- Add your name to our email distribution list and get notices about rules, meetings, and other information about our work.
Rulemaking Glossary & Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly used words and phrases and frequently asked questions about agency rulemaking.
