Summary
The State Board of Health (Board) makes rules for the yearly hearing screenings done in Washington schools. These rules are in chapter 246-760 WAC. The rules ensure schools can identify students with difficulty hearing and refer them for follow-up care. In August 2023, a community group requested that the Board update its hearing screening rules. This group asked the Board if it would consider adding another hearing screening technology to the rules. The Board accepted the request and is considering this possible update. The Board is also considering other technical or minor changes to the rule.
Check out this ASL video that describes this project and shares how you can get involved.
Versión del guion del video en español.
Find additional videos about the project on our YouTube channel.
For More Information
Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.210.020
State Board of Health Contact: Molly Dinardo, molly.dinardo@sboh.wa.gov
If you would like to receive future updates for these rules (e.g., email notices with the next steps on this project and other opportunities to be involved), you can fill out the auditory screening rulemaking interest form online here: https://airtable.com/appInSCDg3PQGljEz/pagLMwUygEb81rYhw/form
Additional Background
In 2023, the Washington State Board of Health (Board) began updating the state’s school hearing screening standards (chapter 246-760 WAC). These rules set requirements for annual screenings, including which students are screened, how often, approved tools, referral criteria, procedures, and staff qualifications.
The proposed updates would allow schools to use otoacoustic emission (OAE) devices as an optional tool for students who can’t be screened with the current technology. In addition, these changes aim to clarify the rule’s language, align it with vision screening standards, and reflect current national hearing screening guidelines.
The paperwork filed is a CR-102 form. This form announces the proposed rule to the public and includes the proposed rule language.
To receive updates about this project, sign up for emails by filling out the Auditory Screening Interest Form.
This project was announced on October 18, 2023, and can be found under WSR 23-22-004 (CR-101).
The draft proposed rules and rules hearing were announced on April 22, 2025, and are listed under WSR 25-09-146 (CR-102).
