DSHS Amendments to Several WAC Chapters

DSHS has recently announced the filing of a CR-103P, Rule-making Order (Permanent Rule) amending and adding sections of Chapter 388-76 WAC, Chapter 388-78A WAC, Chapter 388-97 WAC, and Chapter 388-107 WAC. These rules go into effect on March 15, 2026.

The adopted changes require facilities to:

• Create and regularly maintain a resident roster and complete contact information and respond to requests from the long-term care ombuds within specified time frames.
• Post stop placement orders in a conspicuous place.
• Replace “his or her” with gender-neutral terms.
• Define “resident representative” (applied in this rule making to adult family homes, nursing homes, and enhanced services facilities, which do not currently have a statutory definition).

Read the full Dear Provider letter now.