title: RCW 70.127.005

text:
The legislature finds that the availability of home health, hospice, and home care services has improved the quality of life for Washington's citizens. However, the delivery of these services bring risks because the in-home location of services makes their actual delivery virtually invisible. Also, the complexity of products, services, and delivery systems in today's health care delivery system challenges even informed and healthy individuals. The fact that these services are delivered to the state's most vulnerable population, the ill or disabled who are frequently also elderly, adds to these risks.
It is the intent of the legislature to protect the citizens of Washington state by licensing home health, hospice, and home care agencies. This legislation [act] is not intended to unreasonably restrict entry into the in-home service marketplace. Standards established are intended to be the minimum necessary to ensure safe and competent care, and should be demonstrably related to patient safety and welfare.
[ 1988 c 245 s 1.]

catchline: Legislative intent.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 70.127.010

text:
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Administrator" means an individual responsible for managing the operation of an agency.
(2) "Department" means the department of health.
(3) "Director of clinical services" means an individual responsible for nursing, therapy, nutritional, social, and related services that support the plan of care provided by in-home health and hospice agencies.
(4) "Family" means individuals who are important to, and designated by, the patient or client and who need not be relatives.
(5) "Home care agency" means a person administering or providing home care services directly or through a contract arrangement to individuals in places of temporary or permanent residence. A home care agency that provides delegated tasks of nursing under RCW 18.79.260(3)(e) is not considered a home health agency for the purposes of this chapter.
(6) "Home care services" means nonmedical services and assistance provided to ill, disabled, or vulnerable individuals that enable them to remain in their residences. Home care services include, but are not limited to: Personal care such as assistance with dressing, feeding, and personal hygiene to facilitate self-care; homemaker assistance with household tasks, such as housekeeping, shopping, meal planning and preparation, and transportation; respite care assistance and support provided to the family; or other nonmedical services or delegated tasks of nursing under RCW 18.79.260(3)(e).
(7) "Home health agency" means a person administering or providing two or more home health services directly or through a contract arrangement to individuals in places of temporary or permanent residence. A person administering or providing nursing services only may elect to be designated a home health agency for purposes of licensure.
(8) "Home health services" means services provided to ill, disabled, or vulnerable individuals. These services include but are not limited to nursing services, home health aide services, physical therapy services, occupational therapy services, speech therapy services, respiratory therapy services, nutritional services, medical social services, and home medical supplies or equipment services.
(9) "Home health aide services" means services provided by a home health agency or a hospice agency under the supervision of a registered nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or speech therapist who is employed by or under contract to a home health or hospice agency. Such care includes ambulation and exercise, assistance with self-administered medications, reporting changes in patients' conditions and needs, completing appropriate records, and personal care or homemaker services.
(10) "Home medical supplies" or "equipment services" means diagnostic, treatment, and monitoring equipment and supplies provided for the direct care of individuals within a plan of care.
(11) "Hospice agency" means a person administering or providing hospice services directly or through a contract arrangement to individuals in places of temporary or permanent residence under the direction of an interdisciplinary team composed of at least a nurse, social worker, physician, spiritual counselor, and a volunteer.
(12) "Hospice care center" means a homelike, noninstitutional facility where hospice services are provided, and that meets the requirements for operation under RCW 70.127.280.
(13) "Hospice services" means symptom and pain management provided to a terminally ill individual, and emotional, spiritual, and bereavement support for the individual and family in a place of temporary or permanent residence, and may include the provision of home health and home care services for the terminally ill individual.
(14) "Immediate jeopardy" means a situation in which the in-home services agency's noncompliance with one or more statutory or regulatory requirements has placed the health and safety of patients in its care at risk for serious injury, serious harm, serious impairment, or death.
(15) "In-home services agency" means a person licensed to administer or provide home health, home care, hospice services, or hospice care center services directly or through a contract arrangement to individuals in a place of temporary or permanent residence.
(16) "Person" means any individual, business, firm, partnership, corporation, company, association, joint stock association, public or private agency or organization, or the legal successor thereof that employs or contracts with two or more individuals.
(17) "Plan of care" means a written document based on assessment of individual needs that identifies services to meet these needs.
(18) "Quality improvement" means reviewing and evaluating appropriateness and effectiveness of services provided under this chapter.
(19) "Service area" means the geographic area in which the department has given prior approval to a licensee to provide home health, hospice, or home care services.
(20) "Social worker" means a person with a degree from a social work educational program accredited and approved as provided in RCW 18.320.010 or who meets qualifications provided in 42 C.F.R. Sec. 418.114 as it existed on January 1, 2012.
(21) "Survey" means an inspection conducted by the department to evaluate and monitor an agency's compliance with this chapter.
[ 2024 c 121 s 10; 2011 c 89 s 13; 2003 c 140 s 7; 2000 c 175 s 1; 1999 c 190 s 1; 1993 c 42 s 1; 1991 c 3 s 373; 1988 c 245 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 c 89: See note following RCW 18.320.005.
Findings—2011 c 89: See RCW 18.320.005.
Effective date—2003 c 140: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Effective date—2000 c 175: "This act takes effect January 1, 2002." [ 2000 c 175 s 24.]
Severability—1993 c 42: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1993 c 42 s 14.]
Effective dates—1993 c 42: "(1) Sections 1 through 10 and 12 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect June 30, 1993.
(2) Section 11 of this act shall take effect January 1, 1994." [ 1993 c 42 s 15.]

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Definitions.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 70.127.020

text:
(1) After July 1, 1990, a license is required for a person to advertise, operate, manage, conduct, open, or maintain an in-home services agency.
(2) An in-home services agency license is required for a nursing home, hospital, or other person that functions as a home health, hospice, hospice care center, or home care agency.
(3) Any person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor. Each day of a continuing violation is a separate violation.
(4) If any corporation conducts any activity for which a license is required by this chapter without the required license, it may be punished by forfeiture of its corporate charter.
(5) All fines, forfeitures, and penalties collected or assessed by a court because of a violation of this section shall be deposited in the department's local fee account.
[ 2003 c 53 s 363; 2000 c 175 s 2; 1988 c 245 s 3.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Licenses required after July 1, 1990—Penalties.


title: RCW 70.127.030

text:
It is unlawful for any person to use the words:
(1) "Home health agency," "home health care services," "visiting nurse services," "home health," or "home health services" in its corporate or business name, or advertise using such words unless licensed to provide those services under this chapter;
(2) "Hospice agency," "hospice," "hospice services," "hospice care," or "hospice care center" in its corporate or business name, or advertise using such words unless licensed to provide those services under this chapter;
(3) "Home care agency," "home care services," or "home care" in its corporate or business name, or advertise using such words unless licensed to provide those services under this chapter; or
(4) "In-home services agency," "in-home services," or any similar term to indicate that a person is a home health, home care, hospice care center, or hospice agency in its corporate or business name, or advertise using such words unless licensed to provide those services under this chapter.
[ 2000 c 175 s 3; 1988 c 245 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Use of certain terms limited to licensees.


title: RCW 70.127.040

text:
The following are not subject to regulation for the purposes of this chapter:
(1) A family member providing home health, hospice, or home care services;
(2) A person who provides only meal services in an individual's permanent or temporary residence;
(3) An individual providing home care through a direct agreement with a recipient of care in an individual's permanent or temporary residence;
(4) A person furnishing or delivering home medical supplies or equipment that does not involve the provision of services beyond those necessary to deliver, set up, and monitor the proper functioning of the equipment and educate the user on its proper use;
(5) A person who provides services through a contract with a licensed agency;
(6) An employee or volunteer of a licensed agency who provides services only as an employee or volunteer;
(7) Facilities and institutions, including but not limited to nursing homes under chapter 18.51 RCW, hospitals under chapter 70.41 RCW, adult family homes under chapter 70.128 RCW, assisted living facilities under chapter 18.20 RCW, developmental disability residential programs under chapter 71A.12 RCW, other entities licensed under chapter 71.12 RCW, or other licensed facilities and institutions, only when providing services to persons residing within the facility or institution;
(8) Local and combined city-county health departments providing services under chapters 70.05 and 70.08 RCW;
(9) An individual providing care to ill individuals, individuals with disabilities, or vulnerable individuals through a contract with the department of social and health services;
(10) Nursing homes, hospitals, or other institutions, agencies, organizations, or persons that contract with licensed home health, hospice, or home care agencies for the delivery of services;
(11) In-home assessments of an ill individual, an individual with a disability, or a vulnerable individual that does not result in regular ongoing care at home;
(12) Services conducted by and for the adherents of a church or religious denomination that rely upon spiritual means alone through prayer for healing in accordance with the tenets and practices of such church or religious denomination and the bona fide religious beliefs genuinely held by such adherents;
(13) A medicare-approved dialysis center operating a medicare-approved home dialysis program;
(14) A person providing case management services. For the purposes of this subsection, "case management" means the assessment, coordination, authorization, planning, training, and monitoring of home health, hospice, and home care, and does not include the direct provision of care to an individual;
(15) Pharmacies licensed under RCW 18.64.043 that deliver prescription drugs and durable medical equipment that does not involve the use of professional services beyond those authorized to be performed by licensed pharmacists pursuant to chapter 18.64 RCW and those necessary to set up and monitor the proper functioning of the equipment and educate the person on its proper use;
(16) A volunteer hospice complying with the requirements of RCW 70.127.050;
(17) A person who provides home care services without compensation;
(18) Nursing homes that provide telephone or web-based transitional care management services;
(19) A rural health clinic providing health services in a home health shortage area as declared by the department pursuant to 42 C.F.R. Sec. 405.2416;
(20) Hospital at-home services provided by a hospital pursuant to RCW 70.41.550;
(21) A consumer directed employer as described in RCW 74.39A.500; and
(22) An entity contracted with the department of social and health services as a financial services agency and who only serves clients of in-home long-term care workers who are qualified family members as described in RCW 50B.04.010.
[ 2025 c 380 s 46; 2024 c 259 s 4; 2020 c 258 s 2; 2012 c 10 s 54; 2011 c 366 s 6. Prior: 2003 c 275 s 3; 2003 c 140 s 8; 2000 c 175 s 4; 1993 c 42 s 2; 1988 c 245 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 380 ss 1-11, 15, 16, and 40-46: See note following RCW 50B.04.180.
Findings—Intent—2024 c 259: See note following RCW 70.41.550.
Application—2012 c 10: See note following RCW 18.20.010.
Findings—Purpose—Conflict with federal requirements—2011 c 366: See notes following RCW 18.20.020.
Effective date—2003 c 140: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Persons, activities, or entities not subject to regulation under chapter.


title: RCW 70.127.050

text:
(1) An entity that provides hospice care without receiving compensation for delivery of any of its services is exempt from licensure pursuant to RCW 70.127.020(1) if it notifies the department, on forms provided by the department, of its name, address, name of owner, and a statement affirming that it provides hospice care without receiving compensation for delivery of any of its services. This form must be filed with the department within sixty days after being informed in writing by the department of this requirement for obtaining exemption from licensure under this chapter.
(2) For the purposes of this section, it is not relevant if the entity compensates its staff. For the purposes of this section, the word "compensation" does not include donations.
(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of RCW 70.127.030(2), an entity that provides hospice care without receiving compensation for delivery of any of its services is allowed to use the phrase "volunteer hospice."
(4) Nothing in this chapter precludes an entity providing hospice care without receiving compensation for delivery of any of its services from obtaining a hospice license if it so chooses, but that entity would be exempt from the requirements set forth in RCW 70.127.080(1)(d).
[ 2000 c 175 s 5; 1993 c 42 s 3; 1988 c 245 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Volunteer organizations—Use of phrase "volunteer hospice."


title: RCW 70.127.080

text:
(1) An applicant for an in-home services agency license shall:
(a) File a written application on a form provided by the department;
(b) Demonstrate ability to comply with this chapter and the rules adopted under this chapter;
(c) Cooperate with on-site survey conducted by the department except as provided in RCW 70.127.085;
(d) Provide evidence of and maintain professional liability, public liability, and property damage insurance in an amount established by the department, based on industry standards. This subsection shall not apply to hospice agency applicants that provide hospice care without receiving compensation for delivery of services;
(e) Provide documentation of an organizational structure, and the identity of the applicant, officers, administrator, directors of clinical services, partners, managing employees, or owners of ten percent or more of the applicant's assets;
(f) File with the department for approval a description of the service area in which the applicant will operate and a description of how the applicant intends to provide management and supervision of services throughout the service area. The department shall adopt rules necessary to establish criteria for approval that are related to appropriate management and supervision of services throughout the service area. In developing the rules, the department may not establish criteria that:
(i) Limit the number or type of agencies in any service area; or
(ii) Limit the number of persons any agency may serve within its service area unless the criteria are related to the need for trained and available staff to provide services within the service area;
(g) File with the department a list of the home health, hospice, and home care services provided directly and under contract;
(h) Pay to the department a license fee as provided in RCW 70.127.090;
(i) Comply with RCW 43.43.830 through 43.43.842 for criminal background checks; and
(j) Provide any other information that the department may reasonably require.
(2) A certificate of need under chapter 70.38 RCW is not required for licensure except for the operation of a hospice care center.
[ 2000 c 175 s 6; 1999 c 190 s 2; 1993 c 42 s 4; 1988 c 245 s 9.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Licenses—Application procedure and requirements.


title: RCW 70.127.085

text:
(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of RCW 70.127.080(1)(c), an in-home services agency that is certified by the federal medicare program, or accredited by the community health accreditation program, or the joint commission on accreditation of health care organizations as a home health or hospice agency is not subject to a state licensure survey if:
(a) The department determines that the applicable survey standards of the certification or accreditation program are substantially equivalent to those required by this chapter;
(b) An on-site survey has been conducted for the purposes of certification or accreditation during the previous twenty-four months; and
(c) The department receives directly from the certifying or accrediting entity or from the licensee applicant copies of the initial and subsequent survey reports and other relevant reports or findings that indicate compliance with licensure requirements.
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of RCW 70.127.080(1)(c), an in-home services agency providing services under contract with the department of social and health services or area agency on aging to provide home care services and that is monitored by the department of social and health services or area agency on aging is not subject to a state licensure survey by the department of health if:
(a) The department determines that the department of social and health services or an area agency on aging monitoring standards are substantially equivalent to those required by this chapter;
(b) An on-site monitoring has been conducted by the department of social and health services or an area agency on aging during the previous twenty-four months;
(c) The department of social and health services or an area agency on aging includes in its monitoring a sample of private pay clients, if applicable; and
(d) The department receives directly from the department of social and health services copies of monitoring reports and other relevant reports or findings that indicate compliance with licensure requirements.
(3) The department retains authority to survey those services areas not addressed by the national accrediting body, department of social and health services, or an area agency on aging.
(4) In reviewing the federal, the joint commission on accreditation of health care organizations, the community health accreditation program, or the department of social and health services survey standards for substantial equivalency to those set forth in this chapter, the department is directed to provide the most liberal interpretation consistent with the intent of this chapter. In the event the department determines at any time that the survey standards are not substantially equivalent to those required by this chapter, the department is directed to notify the affected licensees. The notification shall contain a detailed description of the deficiencies in the alternative survey process, as well as an explanation concerning the risk to the consumer. The determination of substantial equivalency for alternative survey process and lack of substantial equivalency are agency actions and subject to RCW 34.05.210 through 34.05.395 and 34.05.510 through 34.05.675.
(5) The department is authorized to perform a validation survey on in-home services agencies who previously received a survey through accreditation or contracts with the department of social and health services or an area agency on aging under subsection (2) of this section. The department is authorized to perform a validation survey on no greater than ten percent of each type of certification or accreditation survey.
(6) This section does not affect the department's enforcement authority for licensed agencies.
[ 2000 c 175 s 7; 1993 c 42 s 11.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: State licensure survey.


title: RCW 70.127.090

text:
(1) Application and renewal fee: An application for a license or any renewal shall be accompanied by a fee as established by the department under RCW 43.70.250. The department shall adopt by rule licensure fees based on a sliding scale using such factors as the number of agency full-time equivalents, geographic area served, number of locations, or type and volume of services provided. For agencies receiving a licensure survey that requires more than two on-site surveys by the department per licensure period, an additional fee as determined by the department by rule shall be charged for each additional on-site survey. The department may set different licensure fees for each licensure category. Agencies receiving a license without necessity of an on-site survey by the department under this chapter shall pay the same licensure or transfer fee as other agencies in their licensure category.
(2) Change of ownership fee: The department shall charge a reasonable fee for processing changes in ownership. The fee for transfer of ownership may not exceed fifty percent of the base licensure fee.
(3) Late fee: The department may establish a late fee for failure to apply for licensure or renewal as required by this chapter.
[ 2000 c 175 s 8; 1999 c 190 s 3; 1993 c 42 s 5; 1988 c 245 s 10.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: License or renewal—Fees—Sliding scale.


title: RCW 70.127.100

text:
Upon receipt of an application under RCW 70.127.080 for a license and the license fee, the department shall issue a license if the applicant meets the requirements established under this chapter. A license issued under this chapter shall not be transferred or assigned without thirty days prior notice to the department and the department's approval. A license, unless suspended or revoked, is effective for a period of two years, however an initial license is only effective for twelve months. The department shall conduct a survey within each licensure period and may conduct a licensure survey after ownership transfer.
[ 2000 c 175 s 9; 1993 c 42 s 6; 1988 c 245 s 11.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.


title: RCW 70.127.120

text:
The department shall adopt rules consistent with RCW 70.127.005 necessary to implement this chapter under chapter 34.05 RCW. In order to ensure safe and adequate care, the rules shall address at a minimum the following:
(1) Maintenance and preservation of all records relating directly to the care and treatment of individuals by licensees;
(2) Establishment and implementation of a procedure for the receipt, investigation, and disposition of complaints regarding services provided;
(3) Establishment and implementation of a plan for ongoing care of individuals and preservation of records if the licensee ceases operations;
(4) Supervision of services;
(5) Establishment and implementation of written policies regarding response to referrals and access to services;
(6) Establishment and implementation of written personnel policies, procedures and personnel records for paid staff that provide for prehire screening, minimum qualifications, regular performance evaluations, including observation in the home, participation in orientation and in-service training, and involvement in quality improvement activities. The department may not establish experience or other qualifications for agency personnel or contractors beyond that required by state law;
(7) Establishment and implementation of written policies and procedures for volunteers who have direct patient/client contact and that provide for background and health screening, orientation, and supervision;
(8) Establishment and implementation of written policies for obtaining regular reports on patient satisfaction;
(9) Establishment and implementation of a quality improvement process;
(10) Establishment and implementation of policies related to the delivery of care including:
(a) Plan of care for each individual served;
(b) Periodic review of the plan of care;
(c) Supervision of care and clinical consultation as necessary;
(d) Care consistent with the plan;
(e) Admission, transfer, and discharge from care; and
(f) For hospice services:
(i) Availability of twenty-four hour seven days a week hospice registered nurse consultation and in-home services as appropriate;
(ii) Interdisciplinary team communication as appropriate and necessary; and
(iii) The use and availability of volunteers to provide family support and respite care; and
(11) Establishment and implementation of policies related to agency implementation and oversight of nurse delegation as defined in RCW 18.79.260(3)(e).
[ 2003 c 140 s 9; 2000 c 175 s 10; 1993 c 42 s 8; 1988 c 245 s 13.]
Notes:
Effective date—2003 c 140: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Rules for recordkeeping, services, staff and volunteer policies, complaints.


title: RCW 70.127.125

text:
The department is directed to continue to develop, with opportunity for comment from licensees, interpretive guidelines that are specific to each type of service and consistent with legislative intent.
[ 2000 c 175 s 11; 1993 c 42 s 7.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Interpretive guidelines for services.


title: RCW 70.127.130

text:
Licensees shall conform to the standards of RCW 69.41.030 and 69.50.308. Rules adopted by the department concerning the use of legend drugs or controlled substances shall reference and be consistent with pharmacy quality assurance commission rules.
[ 2013 c 19 s 125; 1993 c 42 s 9; 1988 c 245 s 14.]
Notes:
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 42: See notes following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Legend drugs and controlled substances—Rules.


title: RCW 70.127.135

text:
A hospice care center licensed under this chapter shall establish a policy allowing for the medical use of cannabis in compliance with RCW 69.51A.222.
[ 2026 c 20 s 5.]
Notes:
Intent—Finding—Short title—2026 c 20: See notes following RCW 69.51A.222.

catchline: Medical use of cannabis—Policy.


title: RCW 70.127.140

text:
(1) An in-home services agency shall provide each individual or designated representative with a written bill of rights affirming each individual's right to:
(a) A listing of the in-home services offered by the in-home services agency and those being provided;
(b) The name of the individual supervising the care and the manner in which that individual may be contacted;
(c) A description of the process for submitting and addressing complaints;
(d) Submit complaints without retaliation and to have the complaint addressed by the agency;
(e) Be informed of the state complaint hotline number;
(f) A statement advising the individual or representative of the right to ongoing participation in the development of the plan of care;
(g) A statement providing that the individual or representative is entitled to information regarding access to the department's listing of providers and to select any licensee to provide care, subject to the individual's reimbursement mechanism or other relevant contractual obligations;
(h) Be treated with courtesy, respect, privacy, and freedom from abuse and discrimination;
(i) Refuse treatment or services;
(j) Have property treated with respect;
(k) Privacy of personal information and confidentiality of health care records;
(l) Be cared for by properly trained staff with coordination of services;
(m) A fully itemized billing statement upon request, including the date of each service and the charge. Licensees providing services through a managed care plan shall not be required to provide itemized billing statements; and
(n) Be informed about advanced directives and the agency's responsibility to implement them.
(2) An in-home services agency shall ensure rights under this section are implemented and updated as appropriate.
[ 2000 c 175 s 12; 1988 c 245 s 15.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Bill of rights—Billing statements.


title: RCW 70.127.150

text:
No licensee, contractee, or employee may hold a durable power of attorney on behalf of any individual who is receiving care from the licensee.
[ 2000 c 175 s 13; 1988 c 245 s 16.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Durable power of attorney—Prohibition for licensees, contractees, or employees.


title: RCW 70.127.165

text:
(1) When the department determines the in-home services agency has previously been subject to an enforcement action for the same or similar type of violation of the same statute or rule, or has been given any previous statement of deficiency that included the same or similar type of violation of the same or similar statute or rule, or when the in-home services agency failed to correct noncompliance with a statute or rule by a date established or agreed to by the department, the department may impose reasonable conditions on a license. Conditions may include correction within a specified amount of time, training, or hiring a department-approved consultant if the in-home services agency cannot demonstrate to the department that it has access to sufficient internal expertise. If the department determines that the violations constitute immediate jeopardy, the conditions may be imposed immediately in accordance with subsection (5) of this section.
(2)(a) In accordance with the authority the department has under RCW 43.70.095, the department may assess a civil fine of up to $3,000 per violation on an in-home services agency licensed under this chapter when the department determines the in-home services agency has previously been subject to an enforcement action for the same or similar type of violation of the same statute or rule, or has been given any previous statement of deficiency that included the same or similar type of violation of the same or similar statute or rule, or when the in-home services agency failed to correct noncompliance with a statute or rule by a date established or agreed to by the department.
(b) Proceeds from these fines may only be used by the department to offset costs associated with licensing and enforcement of in-home services agencies.
(c) The department shall adopt in rules under this chapter specific fine amounts in relation to the severity of the noncompliance and at an adequate level to be a deterrent to future noncompliance.
(d) If a licensee is aggrieved by the department's action of assessing civil fines, the licensee has the right to appeal under RCW 43.70.095.
(3) The department may suspend a specific category or categories of services or care that the in-home services agency provides as related to the violation by imposing a limited stop service. This may only be done if the department finds that noncompliance results in immediate jeopardy.
(a) Prior to imposing a limited stop service, the department shall provide an in-home services agency written notification upon identifying deficient practices or conditions that constitute an immediate jeopardy. The in-home services agency shall have 24 hours from notification to develop and implement a department-approved plan to correct the deficient practices or conditions that constitute an immediate jeopardy. If the deficient practices or conditions that constitute immediate jeopardy are not verified by the department as having been corrected within the same 24-hour period, the department may issue the limited stop service.
(b) When the department imposes a limited stop service, the in-home services agency may not provide the services in the category or categories subject to the limited stop service to any new or existing individuals until the limited stop service is terminated.
(c) The department shall conduct a follow-up inspection within five business days or within the time period requested by the in-home services agency if more than five business days is needed to verify the violation necessitating the limited stop service has been corrected.
(d) The limited stop service shall be terminated when:
(i) The department verifies the violation necessitating the limited stop service has been corrected or the department determines that the in-home services agency has taken intermediate action to address the immediate jeopardy; and
(ii) The in-home services agency establishes the ability to maintain correction of the violation previously found deficient.
(4) The department may suspend new admissions to an in-home services agency that qualifies as a hospice care center by imposing a stop placement. This may only be done if the department finds that noncompliance results in immediate jeopardy and is not confined to a specific category or categories of services or care that the hospice care center provides.
(a) Prior to imposing a stop placement, the department shall provide an in-home services agency that qualifies as a hospice care center written notification upon identifying deficient practices or conditions that constitute an immediate jeopardy. The hospice care center shall have 24 hours from notification to develop and implement a department-approved plan to correct the deficient practices or conditions that constitute an immediate jeopardy. If the deficient practices or conditions that constitute immediate jeopardy are not verified by the department as having been corrected within the same 24-hour period, the department may issue the stop placement.
(b) When the department imposes a stop placement, the hospice care center may not admit any new patients until the stop placement is terminated.
(c) The department shall conduct a follow-up inspection within five business days or within the time period requested by the hospice care center if more than five business days is needed to verify the violation necessitating the stop placement has been corrected.
(d) The stop placement shall be terminated when:
(i) The department verifies the violation necessitating the stop placement has been corrected or the department determines that the hospice care center has taken intermediate action to address the immediate jeopardy; and
(ii) The hospice care center establishes the ability to maintain correction of the violation previously found deficient.
(5) The department may deny an application for a license or suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a license.
[ 2024 c 121 s 12.]

catchline: Licenses—Conditions on a license—Civil penalties—Limited stop services—Stop placements—Denials.


title: RCW 70.127.170

text:
The department is authorized to take any of the actions identified in RCW 70.127.165 against an in-home services agency's license in any case in which it finds that the licensee:
(1) Failed or refused to comply with the requirements of this chapter, standards or rules adopted under this chapter, RCW 48.43.732, or other applicable state or federal statutes or rules regulating the facility or agency;
(2) Was the holder of a license issued pursuant to this chapter that was revoked for cause and never reissued by the department, or that was suspended for cause and the terms of the suspension have not been fulfilled and the licensee has continued to operate;
(3) Has knowingly or with reason to know made a misrepresentation of, false statement of, or failed to disclose, a material fact to the department in an application for the license or any data attached thereto or in any record required by this chapter or matter under investigation by the department, or during a survey, or concerning information requested by the department;
(4) Refused to allow representatives of the department to inspect any book, record, or file required by this chapter to be maintained or any portion of the licensee's premises;
(5) Willfully prevented, interfered with, or attempted to impede in any way the work of any representative of the department and the lawful enforcement of any provision of this chapter. This includes but is not limited to: Willful misrepresentation of facts during a survey, investigation, or administrative proceeding or any other legal action; or use of threats or harassment against any patient, client, or witness, or use of financial inducements to any patient, client, or witness to prevent or attempt to prevent him or her from providing evidence during a survey or investigation, in an administrative proceeding, or any other legal action involving the department;
(6) Willfully prevented or interfered with any representative of the department in the preservation of evidence of any violation of this chapter or the rules adopted under this chapter;
(7) Failed to pay any civil monetary penalty assessed by the department pursuant to this chapter within 10 days after the assessment becomes final;
(8) Used advertising that is false, fraudulent, or misleading;
(9) Has repeated incidents of personnel performing services beyond their authorized scope of practice;
(10) Misrepresented or was fraudulent in any aspect of the conduct of the licensee's business;
(11) Within the last five years, has been found in a civil or criminal proceeding to have committed any act that reasonably relates to the person's fitness to establish, maintain, or administer an agency or to provide care in the home of another;
(12) Was the holder of a license to provide care or treatment to ill individuals, vulnerable individuals, or individuals with disabilities that was denied, restricted, not renewed, surrendered, suspended, or revoked by a competent authority in any state, federal, or foreign jurisdiction. A certified copy of the order, stipulation, or agreement is conclusive evidence of the denial, restriction, nonrenewal, surrender, suspension, or revocation;
(13) Failed to comply with an order issued by the secretary or designee;
(14) Aided or abetted the unlicensed operation of an in-home services agency;
(15) Operated beyond the scope of the in-home services agency license;
(16) Failed to adequately supervise staff to the extent that the health or safety of a patient or client was at risk;
(17) Compromised the health or safety of a patient or client, including, but not limited to, the individual performing services beyond their authorized scope of practice;
(18) Continued to operate after license revocation, suspension, or expiration, or operating outside the parameters of a modified, conditioned, or restricted license;
(19) Failed or refused to comply with chapter 70.02 RCW;
(20) Abused, neglected, abandoned, or financially exploited a patient or client as these terms are defined in RCW 74.34.020;
(21) Misappropriated the property of an individual;
(22) Is unqualified or unable to operate or direct the operation of the agency according to this chapter and the rules adopted under this chapter;
(23) Obtained or attempted to obtain a license by fraudulent means or misrepresentation; or
(24) Failed to report abuse or neglect of a patient or client in violation of chapter 74.34 RCW.
[ 2025 c 389 s 9; 2024 c 121 s 11; 2003 c 140 s 10; 2000 c 175 s 14; 1988 c 245 s 18.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2025 c 389: See note following RCW 48.43.732.
Effective date—2003 c 140: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Licenses—Conditions for penalties.


title: RCW 70.127.175

text:
(1) Except as otherwise provided, RCW 43.70.115 governs notice of the imposition of conditions on a license, a limited stop service, stop placement, or the suspension, revocation, or refusal to renew a license and provides the right to an adjudicative proceeding. Adjudicative proceedings and hearings under this section are governed by the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. The application for an adjudicative proceeding must be in writing, state the basis for contesting the adverse action, include a copy of the department's notice, be served on and received by the department within 28 days of the licensee's receipt of the adverse notice, and be served in a manner that shows proof of receipt.
(2) When the department determines a licensee's noncompliance results in immediate jeopardy, the department may make the imposition of conditions on a licensee, a limited stop service, stop placement, or the suspension of a license effective immediately upon receipt of the notice by the licensee, pending any adjudicative proceeding.
(a) When the department makes the suspension of a license or imposition of conditions on a license effective immediately, a licensee is entitled to a show cause hearing before a presiding officer within 14 days of making the request. The licensee must request the show cause hearing within 28 days of receipt of the notice of immediate suspension or immediate imposition of conditions. At the show cause hearing the department has the burden of demonstrating that more probably than not there is immediate jeopardy.
(b) At the show cause hearing, the presiding officer may consider the notice and documents supporting the immediate suspension or immediate imposition of conditions and the licensee's response and shall provide the parties with an opportunity to provide documentary evidence and written testimony, and to be represented by counsel. Prior to the show cause hearing, the department shall provide the licensee with all documentation that supports the department's immediate suspension or imposition of conditions.
(c) If the presiding officer determines there is no immediate jeopardy, the presiding officer may overturn the immediate suspension or immediate imposition of conditions.
(d) If the presiding officer determines there is immediate jeopardy, the immediate suspension or immediate imposition of conditions shall remain in effect pending a full hearing.
(e) If the presiding officer sustains the immediate suspension or immediate imposition of conditions, the licensee may request an expedited full hearing on the merits of the department's action. A full hearing must be provided within 90 days of the licensee's request.
(3) When the department determines an alleged violation, if true, would constitute an immediate jeopardy, and the licensee fails to cooperate with the department's investigation of such an alleged violation, the department may impose an immediate stop placement, immediate limited stop service, immediate imposition of conditions, or immediate suspension.
(a) When the department imposes an immediate stop placement, immediate limited stop service, immediate imposition of conditions, or immediate suspension for failure to cooperate, a licensee is entitled to a show cause hearing before a presiding officer within 14 days of making the request. The licensee must request the show cause hearing within 28 days of receipt of the notice of an immediate stop placement, immediate limited stop service, immediate imposition of conditions, or immediate suspension for failure to cooperate. At the show cause hearing the department has the burden of demonstrating that more probably than not the alleged violation, if true, would constitute an immediate jeopardy and the licensee failed to cooperate with the department's investigation.
(b) At the show cause hearing, the presiding officer may consider the notice and documents supporting the immediate stop placement, immediate limited stop service, immediate imposition of conditions, or immediate suspension for failure to cooperate, and the licensee's response and shall provide the parties with an opportunity to provide documentary evidence and written testimony, and to be represented by counsel. Prior to the show cause hearing, the department shall provide the licensee with all documentation that supports the department's immediate action for failure to cooperate.
(c) If the presiding officer determines the alleged violation, if true, does not constitute an immediate jeopardy or determines that the licensee cooperated with the department's investigation, the presiding officer may overturn the immediate action for failure to cooperate.
(d) If the presiding officer determines the allegation, if true, would constitute an immediate jeopardy and the licensee failed to cooperate with the department's investigation, the immediate action for failure to cooperate shall remain in effect pending a full hearing.
(e) If the presiding officer sustains the immediate action for failure to cooperate, the licensee may request an expedited full hearing on the merits of the department's action. A full hearing must be provided within 90 days of the licensee's request.
[ 2024 c 121 s 13.]


title: RCW 70.127.180

text:
(1) The department may at any time conduct a survey of all records and operations of a licensee in order to determine compliance with this chapter. The department may conduct in-home visits to observe patient/client care and services. The right to conduct a survey shall extend to any premises and records of persons whom the department has reason to believe are providing home health, hospice, or home care services without a license.
(2) Following a survey, the department shall give written notice of any violation of this chapter or the rules adopted under this chapter. The notice shall describe the reasons for noncompliance.
(3) The licensee may be subject to formal enforcement action under RCW 70.127.170 if the department determines: (a) The licensee has previously been subject to a formal enforcement action for the same or similar type of violation of the same statute or rule, or has been given previous notice of the same or similar type of violation of the same statute or rule; (b) the licensee failed to achieve compliance with a statute, rule, or order by the date established in a previously issued notice or order; (c) the violation resulted in actual serious physical or emotional harm or immediate threat to the health, safety, welfare, or rights of one or more individuals; or (d) the violation has a potential for serious physical or emotional harm or immediate threat to the health, safety, welfare, or rights of one or more individuals.
[ 2000 c 175 s 15; 1988 c 245 s 19.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Surveys and in-home visits—Notice of violations—Enforcement action.


title: RCW 70.127.190

text:
All information received by the department through filed reports, surveys, and in-home visits conducted under this chapter shall not be disclosed publicly in any manner that would identify individuals receiving care under this chapter.
[ 2000 c 175 s 16; 1988 c 245 s 20.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Disclosure of compliance information.


title: RCW 70.127.200

text:
(1) Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the department may, in the manner provided by law and upon the advice of the attorney general, who shall represent the department in the proceedings, maintain an action in the name of the state for an injunction or other process against any person to restrain or prevent the advertising, operating, maintaining, managing, or opening of a home health, hospice, hospice care center, or home care agency without an in-home services agency license under this chapter.
(2) The injunction shall not relieve the person operating an in-home services agency without a license from criminal prosecution, or the imposition of a civil fine under *RCW 70.127.213(2), but the remedy by injunction shall be in addition to any criminal liability or civil fine. A person that violates an injunction issued under this chapter shall pay a civil penalty, as determined by the court, of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars, which shall be deposited in the department's local fee account. For the purpose of this section, the superior court issuing any injunction shall retain jurisdiction and the cause shall be continued, and in such cases the attorney general acting in the name of the state may petition for the recovery of civil penalties. All fines, forfeitures, and penalties collected or assessed by a court because of a violation of RCW 70.127.020 shall be deposited in the department's local fee account.
[ 2000 c 175 s 17; 1988 c 245 s 21.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 70.127.213 was amended by 2024 c 121 s 14, moving the discussion of "the imposition of civil fines" from subsection (2) to subsection (5).
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Unlicensed agencies—Department may seek injunctive or other relief—Injunctive relief does not prohibit criminal or civil penalties—Fines.


title: RCW 70.127.213

text:
(1) The department may give written notice to cease and desist to any person whom the department has reason to believe is engaged in the unlicensed operation of an in-home services agency.
(2)(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the requirement to cease and desist unlicensed operation is effective 20 days after the person receives the notice.
(b) The department may make the date the action is effective sooner than 20 days after receipt when necessary to protect the public health, safety, or welfare. When the department does so, it shall state the effective date and the reasons supporting the effective date in the written notice to cease and desist.
(3) The person to whom the notice to cease and desist is issued may request an adjudicative proceeding to contest the notice. The adjudicative proceeding is governed by the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. The request for an adjudicative proceeding must be in writing, state the basis for contesting the notice, include a copy of the notice, and be served on and received by the department within 20 days from the date the person receives the notice to cease and desist.
(4)(a) If the department gives a person 20 days' notice to cease and desist and the person requests an adjudicative proceeding before its effective date, the department shall not implement the notice until the final order has been entered. The presiding or reviewing officer may permit the department to implement part or all of the notice while the proceedings are pending if the respondent causes an unreasonable delay in the proceeding, if the circumstances change so that implementation is in the public interest, or for other good cause.
(b) If the department gives a licensee less than 20 days' notice to cease and desist and the respondent timely files a request for an adjudicative proceeding, the department may implement the cease and desist on the effective date stated in the notice. The presiding or reviewing officer may order the department to stay implementation of part or all of the adverse action while the proceedings are pending if staying implementation is in the public interest or for other good cause.
(5) The department may assess a civil fine not exceeding $5,000 for each day a person operates an in-home services agency without a valid license.
(a) The department shall give written notice to the person against whom it assesses a civil fine.
(b) Except as otherwise provided in (c) and (d) of this subsection, the civil fine is due and payable 20 days after receipt.
(c) The person against whom the department assesses a civil fine has the right to request an adjudicative proceeding. The proceeding is governed by the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. The request must be in writing, state the basis for contesting the fine, include a copy of the notice, be served on and received by the department within 20 days of the person receiving the notice of civil fine, and be served in a manner which shows proof of receipt.
(d) If the person files a timely and sufficient request for adjudicative proceeding, the department shall not implement the fine until the final order has been served.
(6) Neither the issuance of a cease and desist order nor payment of a civil fine shall relieve the person so operating an in-home services agency without a license from criminal prosecution, but the remedy of a cease and desist order or civil fine shall be in addition to any criminal liability. A final notice to cease and desist is conclusive proof of unlicensed operation and may be enforced under RCW 7.21.060. This method of enforcement of the final notice to cease and desist or civil fine may be used in addition to, or as an alternative to, any provisions for enforcement of agency orders set out in chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 2024 c 121 s 14; 2000 c 175 s 19.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Unlicensed operation of an in-home services agency—Cease and desist orders—Adjudicative proceedings—Fines.


title: RCW 70.127.216

text:
The legislature finds that the operation of an in-home services agency without a license in violation of this chapter is a matter vitally affecting the public interest for the purpose of applying the consumer protection act, chapter 19.86 RCW. Operation of an in-home services agency without a license in violation of this chapter is not reasonable in relation to the development and preservation of business. Such a violation is an unfair or deceptive act in trade or commerce and an unfair method of competition for the purpose of applying the consumer protection act, chapter 19.86 RCW.
[ 2000 c 175 s 20.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Unlicensed operation of an in-home services agency—Consumer protection act.


title: RCW 70.127.280

text:
(1) Applicants desiring to operate a hospice care center are subject to the following:
(a) The application may only be made by a licensed hospice agency. The agency shall list which of the following service categories will be provided:
(i) General inpatient care;
(ii) Continuous home care;
(iii) Routine home care; or
(iv) Inpatient respite care;
(b) A certificate of need is required under chapter 70.38 RCW;
(c) A hospice agency may operate more than one hospice care center in its service area;
(d) For hospice agencies that operate a hospice care center, no more than forty-nine percent of patient care days, in the aggregate on a biennial basis, may be provided in the hospice care center;
(e) The maximum number of beds in a hospice care center is twenty;
(f) The maximum number of individuals per room is one, unless the individual requests a roommate;
(g) A hospice care center may either be owned or leased by a hospice agency. If the agency leases space, all delivery of interdisciplinary services, to include staffing and management, shall be done by the hospice agency; and
(h) A hospice care center may either be freestanding or a separate portion of another building.
(2) The department is authorized to develop rules to implement this section. The rules shall be specific to each hospice care center service category provided. The rules shall at least specifically address the following:
(a) Adequate space for family members to visit, meet, cook, share meals, and stay overnight with patients or clients;
(b) A separate external entrance, clearly identifiable to the public when part of an existing structure;
(c) Construction, maintenance, and operation of a hospice care center;
(d) Means to inform the public which hospice care center service categories are provided; and
(e) A registered nurse present twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week for hospice care centers delivering general inpatient services.
(3) Hospice agencies which as of January 1, 2000, operate the functional equivalent of a hospice care center through licensure as a hospital, under chapter 70.41 RCW, shall be exempt from the certificate of need requirement for hospice care centers if they apply for and receive a license as an in-home services agency to operate a hospice home care center by July 1, 2002.
[ 2000 c 175 s 21.]
Notes:
Effective date—2000 c 175: See note following RCW 70.127.010.

catchline: Hospice care centers—Applicants—Rules.


title: RCW 70.127.290

text:
(1) Every agency or facility providing hospice services as defined in RCW 70.127.010 shall submit to the department of health its policies related to access to care regarding end-of-life care and this chapter. The information shall include: (a) A section for the public with specific information about which end-of-life services are and are not generally available at each agency or facility; and (b) the contact information for the agency or facility in case patients have specific questions about services available at the hospice.
(2) If an agency or facility providing hospice services as defined in RCW 70.127.010 makes changes to any of the policies listed under subsection (1) of this section, it shall submit a copy of the changed policy to the department of health within 30 days after the agency or facility approves the changes.
(3) A copy of the policies provided to the department of health under subsection (1) of this section must be posted to the website of each agency or facility providing hospice services as defined in RCW 70.127.010 in a location where the policies are readily accessible to the public without a required login or other restriction.
[ 2023 c 38 s 19.]

catchline: Access to care policies—Submission to department of health—Policies on display.


title: RCW 70.127.295

text:
(1) Each consumer directed employer and each in-home services agency that is licensed under this chapter to provide home care services, hospice services, or home health services shall submit financial information to the department as necessary to inform the development of a home care safety net assessment to use in securing federal matching funds under federally prescribed programs available through the state medicaid plan or a waiver, as specified in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) The financial information to be submitted under subsection (1) of this section shall be comprised of the following information related to in-home services client revenue, separated by type of service and payer, from the 12-month period between July 1, 2022, and July 1, 2023:
(a) Total client revenue for home care services expressed as client revenue for home care services paid by:
(i) Medicaid;
(ii) Medicare;
(iii) Private pay;
(iv) Commercial insurance;
(v) The veterans administration; and
(vi) All other payers;
(b) Total client revenue for home health services expressed as client revenue for home health services paid by:
(i) Medicaid;
(ii) Medicare;
(iii) Private pay;
(iv) Commercial insurance;
(v) The veterans administration; and
(vi) All other payers; and
(c) Total client revenue for hospice services expressed as client revenue for hospice services paid by:
(i) Medicaid;
(ii) Medicare;
(iii) Private pay;
(iv) Commercial insurance;
(v) The veterans administration; and
(vi) All other payers.
(3) In-home services agencies and consumer directed employers shall submit the financial information to the department by January 1, 2024.
(4)(a) The department shall adopt guidance for reporting standards under subsection (1) of this section that assist in-home services agencies and consumer directed employers to deidentify any in-home services agency's clients from the financial information before submitting the financial information to the department.
(b)(i) The financial information submitted to the department under this section is considered proprietary information and is confidential and may not be disclosed under chapter 42.56 RCW.
(ii)(A) The department may only distribute nonaggregated financial information that identifies in-home services agencies and consumer directed employers, to the extent necessary, to:
(I) Members of the work group established in RCW 74.39A.540 who are representing a state agency;
(II) Executive branch agency staff who are providing support to the work group established in RCW 74.39A.540 or are involved in the development of a home care safety net assessment; and
(III) An entity under contract with the health care authority to provide data analysis of the financial information as necessary to assist the work group established in RCW 74.39A.540 to carry out its responsibilities.
(B) Any information that has been distributed pursuant to this subsection (4)(b)(ii) may not be further distributed by the recipient of the financial information and must be destroyed once the department and the health care authority have determined that it is no longer necessary for the support of the activities of the work group established in RCW 74.39A.540.
(C) The health care authority may release reports containing nonaggregated data in order to meet relevant regulatory requirements.
(5) For the purposes of this section:
(a) "Client revenue" means the total amount of revenue received as client care for in-home services determined on a cash basis of accounting. "Client revenue" includes all payments received as client care revenue from home care, home health, and hospice from medicaid, commercial insurance, and all other payers for payment for services rendered.
(b) "Consumer directed employer" has the same meaning as in RCW 74.39A.009.
[ 2023 c 209 s 1.]

catchline: Home care safety net assessment—Financial information—Reporting.


title: RCW 70.127.300

text:
(1) Beginning September 1, 2023, and annually thereafter, individuals that hold a multistate nurse license issued by a state other than Washington and are employed by hospice care centers licensed under this chapter shall complete any demographic data surveys required by the board of nursing in rule as a condition of employment.
(2) Individuals that hold a multistate nurse license issued by a state other than Washington and are employed by hospice care centers licensed under this chapter shall complete the suicide assessment, treatment, and management training required by RCW 43.70.442(5)(a) as a condition of employment.
(3) Hospice care centers shall report to the board of nursing, within 30 days of employment, all nurses holding a multistate license issued by a state other than Washington and an attestation that the employees holding a multistate license issued by a state other than Washington have completed the tasks required under this section as a condition of employment.
(4) This section is subject to enforcement by the department.
[ 2023 c 123 s 29.]
Notes:
Short title—2023 c 123: See RCW 18.80.900.

catchline: Multistate nurse license—Conditions of employment.


title: RCW 70.128.005

text:
(1) The legislature finds that:
(a) Adult family homes are an important part of the state's long-term care system. Adult family homes provide an alternative to institutional care and promote a high degree of independent living for residents.
(b) Persons with functional limitations have broadly varying service needs. Adult family homes that can meet those needs are an essential component of a long-term system. Different populations living in adult family homes, such as persons with developmental disabilities and elderly persons, often have significantly different needs and capacities from one another.
(c) There is a need to update certain restrictive covenants to take into consideration the legislative findings cited in (a) and (b) of this subsection; the need to prevent or reduce institutionalization; and the legislative and judicial mandates to provide care and services in the least restrictive setting appropriate to the needs of the individual. Restrictive covenants which directly or indirectly restrict or prohibit the use of property for adult family homes (i) are contrary to the public interest served by establishing adult family homes and (ii) discriminate against individuals with disabilities in violation of RCW 49.60.224.
(2) It is the legislature's intent that department rules and policies relating to the licensing and operation of adult family homes recognize and accommodate the different needs and capacities of the various populations served by the homes. Furthermore, the development and operation of adult family homes that promote the health, welfare, and safety of residents, and provide quality personal care and special care services should be encouraged.
(3) The legislature finds that many residents of community-based long-term care facilities are vulnerable and their health and well-being are dependent on their caregivers. The quality, skills, and knowledge of their caregivers are the key to good care. The legislature finds that the need for well-trained caregivers is growing as the state's population ages and residents' needs increase. The legislature intends that current training standards be enhanced.
(4) The legislature finds that the state of Washington has a compelling interest in developing and enforcing standards that promote the health, welfare, and safety of vulnerable adults residing in adult family homes. The health, safety, and well-being of vulnerable adults must be the paramount concern in determining whether to issue a license to an applicant, whether to suspend or revoke a license, or whether to take other licensing actions.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 3 s 201; 2009 c 530 s 2; 2001 c 319 s 1; 2000 c 121 s 4; 1995 c 260 s 1; 1989 c 427 s 14.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 3: "The legislature finds that Washington's long-term care system should more aggressively promote protections for the vulnerable populations it serves. The legislature intends to address current statutes and funding levels that limit the department of social and health services' ability to promote vulnerable adult protections. The legislature further intends that the cost of facility oversight should be supported by an appropriate license fee paid by the regulated businesses, rather than by the general taxpayers." [ 2011 1st sp.s. c 3 s 101.]

catchline: Findings—Intent.


title: RCW 70.128.007

text:
The purposes of this chapter are to:
(1) Encourage the establishment and maintenance of adult family homes that provide a humane, safe, and residential home environment for persons with functional limitations who need personal and special care;
(2) Establish standards for regulating adult family homes that adequately protect residents;
(3) Encourage consumers, families, providers, and the public to become active in assuring their full participation in development of adult family homes that provide high quality and cost-effective care;
(4) Provide for appropriate care of residents in adult family homes by requiring that each resident have a care plan that promotes the most appropriate level of physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being consistent with client choice; and
(5) Accord each resident the right to participate in the development of the care plan and in other major decisions involving the resident and their care.
[ 2001 c 319 s 5; 1995 1st sp.s. c 18 s 19; 1989 c 427 s 15.]
Notes:
Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 18: See notes following RCW 74.39A.030.

catchline: Purpose.


title: RCW 70.128.010

text:
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Adult family home" means a residential home in which a person or persons provide personal care, special care, room, and board to more than one but not more than six adults who are not related by blood or marriage to the person or persons providing the services. An adult family home may provide services to up to eight adults upon approval from the department under RCW 70.128.066.
(2) "Adult family home licensee" means a provider as defined in this section who does not receive payments from the medicaid and state-funded long-term care programs.
(3) "Adult family home training network" means a nonprofit organization established by the exclusive bargaining representative of adult family homes designated under RCW 41.56.155 with the capacity to provide training, workforce development, and other services to adult family homes.
(4) "Adults" means persons who have attained the age of eighteen years.
(5) "Capacity" means the maximum number of persons in need of personal or special care permitted in an adult family home at a given time. This number shall include related children or adults in the home and who received special care.
(6) "Department" means the department of social and health services.
(7) "Home" means an adult family home.
(8) "Imminent danger" means serious physical harm to or death of a resident has occurred, or there is a serious threat to resident life, health, or safety.
(9) "Provider" means any person who is licensed under this chapter to operate an adult family home. For the purposes of this section, "person" means any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or limited liability company.
(10) "Resident" means an adult in need of personal or special care in an adult family home who is not related to the provider.
(11) "Resident manager" means a person employed or designated by the provider to manage the adult family home.
(12) "Special care" means care beyond personal care as defined by the department, in rule.
[ 2020 c 220 s 1. Prior: 2019 c 466 s 2; 2007 c 184 s 7; prior: 2001 c 319 s 6; 2001 c 319 s 2; 1995 c 260 s 2; 1989 c 427 s 16.]
Notes:
Part headings not law—Severability—Conflict with federal requirements—2007 c 184: See notes following RCW 41.56.155.

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 70.128.030

text:
(1) The following residential facilities are exempt from the operation of this chapter:
(a) Nursing homes licensed under chapter 18.51 RCW;
(b) Assisted living facilities licensed under chapter 18.20 RCW;
(c) Facilities approved and certified under chapter 71A.22 RCW;
(d) Residential treatment centers for individuals with mental illness licensed under chapter 71.24 RCW;
(e) Hospitals licensed under chapter 70.41 RCW;
(f) Homes for individuals with developmental disabilities licensed under chapter 74.15 RCW; and
(g) A medical foster home, as defined in 38 C.F.R. 17.73, that is under the oversight and annually reviewed by the United States department of veterans affairs in which care is provided exclusively to three or fewer veterans, and its caregivers are in compliance with applicable state laws including any required training, certification, and background checks.
(2) The following individuals are exempt from the operation of this chapter:
(a) An individual who has or had an active license to operate as a foster family home, as defined in RCW 74.15.020, for at least three years and:
(i) Had provided personal care services, as defined in RCW 74.39A.009, for the former foster youth in the individual's care for at least three years on the date the youth exited foster care;
(ii) The only unrelated adults the individual provides personal care to in the home are the former foster youth or youths in (a)(i) of this subsection;
(iii) Does not have any founded or substantiated findings by child protective services or final substantiated findings by adult protective services; and
(iv) Is not the subject of a pending or prior adverse licensing action under RCW 74.15.130 at the time the youth in their care exits the foster care system; and
(b) An individual who is or has previously been approved by the department of children, youth, and families for a child-specific license under RCW 74.15.125 and:
(i) The only unrelated adults the individual is providing personal care to in the home are the former foster youth or youths for whom the individual received the child-specific license;
(ii) Does not have any founded or substantiated findings by child protective services or final substantiated findings by adult protective services; and
(iii) Is not the subject of a pending or prior adverse licensing action under RCW 74.15.130 at the time the youth in their care exits the foster care system.
(3) The department may establish rules to implement subsection (2) of this section.
[ 2026 c 91 s 1; 2025 c 108 s 1; 2012 c 10 s 55; 1989 c 427 s 17.]
Notes:
Application—2012 c 10: See note following RCW 18.20.010.

catchline: Exemptions.


title: RCW 70.128.040

text:
(1) The department shall adopt rules and standards with respect to adult family homes and the operators thereof to be licensed under this chapter to carry out the purposes and requirements of this chapter. The rules and standards relating to applicants and operators shall address the differences between individual providers and providers that are partnerships, corporations, associations, or companies. The rules and standards shall also recognize and be appropriate to the different needs and capacities of the various populations served by adult family homes such as but not limited to persons who are developmentally disabled or elderly. In developing rules and standards the department shall recognize the residential family-like nature of adult family homes and not develop rules and standards which by their complexity serve as an overly restrictive barrier to the development of the adult family homes in the state. Procedures and forms established by the department shall be developed so they are easy to understand and comply with. Paper work requirements shall be minimal. Easy to understand materials shall be developed for applicants and providers explaining licensure requirements and procedures.
(2)(a) In developing the rules and standards, the department shall consult with all divisions and administrations within the department serving the various populations living in adult family homes, including the division of developmental disabilities and the aging and adult services administration. Involvement by the divisions and administration shall be for the purposes of assisting the department to develop rules and standards appropriate to the different needs and capacities of the various populations served by adult family homes. During the initial stages of development of proposed rules, the department shall provide notice of development of the rules to organizations representing adult family homes and their residents, and other groups that the department finds appropriate. The notice shall state the subject of the rules under consideration and solicit written recommendations regarding their form and content.
(b) In addition, the department shall engage in negotiated rule making pursuant to RCW 34.05.310(2)(a) with the exclusive representative of the adult family home licensees selected in accordance with RCW 70.128.043 and with other affected interests before adopting requirements that affect adult family home licensees.
(3) Except where provided otherwise, chapter 34.05 RCW shall govern all department rule-making and adjudicative activities under this chapter.
(4) The department shall establish a specialty license to include geriatric specialty certification for providers who have successfully completed the University of Washington school of nursing certified geriatric certification program and testing.
[ 2009 c 530 s 1; 2007 c 184 s 8; 1995 c 260 s 3; 1989 c 427 s 18.]
Notes:
Part headings not law—Severability—Conflict with federal requirements—2007 c 184: See notes following RCW 41.56.155.

catchline: Adoption of rules and standards—Negotiated rule making—Specialty license.


title: RCW 70.128.043

text:
(1) Solely for the purposes of negotiated rule making pursuant to RCW 34.05.310(2)(a) and 70.128.040, a statewide unit of all adult family home licensees is appropriate. As of July 22, 2007, the exclusive representative of adult family home licensees in the statewide unit shall be the organization certified by the American arbitration association as the sole representative after the association conducts a cross-check comparing authorization cards against the department of social and health services' records and finds that majority support for the organization exists. If adult family home licensees seek to select a different representative thereafter, the adult family home licensees may request that the American arbitration association conduct an election and certify the results of the election.
(2) In enacting this section, the legislature intends to provide state action immunity under federal and state antitrust laws for the joint activities of licensees and their exclusive representative to the extent such activities are authorized by this chapter.
[ 2007 c 184 s 6.]
Notes:
Part headings not law—Severability—Conflict with federal requirements—2007 c 184: See notes following RCW 41.56.155.

catchline: Negotiated rule making—Statewide unit of licensees—Intent.


title: RCW 70.128.050

text:
(1) After July 1, 1990, no person shall operate or maintain an adult family home in this state without a license under this chapter.
(2) Couples legally married or state registered domestic partners:
(a) May not apply for separate licenses; and
(b) May apply jointly to be coproviders if they are both qualified. One person may apply to be a provider without requiring the other person to apply.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 3 s 202; 1989 c 427 s 19.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 3: See note following RCW 70.128.005.

catchline: License—Required as of July 1, 1990—Limitations.


title: RCW 70.128.055

text:
A person operating or maintaining an adult family home without a license under this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor. Each day of a continuing violation after conviction is considered a separate offense.
[ 1991 c 40 s 1.]

catchline: Operating without a license—Misdemeanor.


title: RCW 70.128.057

text:
Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the department may, in the manner provided by law, upon the advice of the attorney general who shall represent the department in the proceedings, maintain an action in the name of the state for an injunction, civil penalty, or other process against a person to restrain or prevent the operation or maintenance of an adult family home without a license under this chapter.
[ 1995 1st sp.s. c 18 s 20; 1991 c 40 s 2.]
Notes:
Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 18: See notes following RCW 74.39A.030.

catchline: Operating without a license—Injunction or civil penalty.


title: RCW 70.128.058

text:
The legislature finds that the operation of an adult family home without a license in violation of this chapter is a matter vitally affecting the public interest for the purpose of applying the consumer protection act, chapter 19.86 RCW. Operation of an adult family home without a license in violation of this chapter is not reasonable in relation to the development and preservation of business. Such a violation is an unfair or deceptive act in trade or commerce and an unfair method of competition for the purpose of applying the consumer protection act, chapter 19.86 RCW.
[ 1995 1st sp.s. c 18 s 21.]
Notes:
Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 18: See notes following RCW 74.39A.030.

catchline: Operating without a license—Application of consumer protection act.


title: RCW 70.128.060

text:
(1) An application for license shall be made to the department upon forms provided by it and shall contain such information as the department reasonably requires.
(2) Subject to the provisions of this section, the department shall issue a license to an adult family home if the department finds that the applicant and the home are in compliance with this chapter and the rules adopted under this chapter. The department may not issue a license if (a) the applicant or a person affiliated with the applicant has prior violations of this chapter relating to the adult family home subject to the application or any other adult family home, or of any other law regulating residential care facilities within the past ten years that resulted in revocation, suspension, or nonrenewal of a license or contract with the department; or (b) the applicant or a person affiliated with the applicant has a history of significant noncompliance with federal, state, or local laws, rules, or regulations relating to the provision of care or services to vulnerable adults or to children. A person is considered affiliated with an applicant if the person is listed on the license application as a partner, officer, director, resident manager, or majority owner of the applying entity, or is the spouse of the applicant.
(3) The license fee shall be submitted with the application.
(4) Proof of financial solvency must be submitted when requested by the department.
(5) The department shall serve upon the applicant a copy of the decision granting or denying an application for a license. An applicant shall have the right to contest denial of his or her application for a license as provided in chapter 34.05 RCW by requesting a hearing in writing within twenty-eight days after receipt of the notice of denial.
(6) The department shall not issue a license to a provider if the department finds that the provider or spouse of the provider or any partner, officer, director, managerial employee, or majority owner has a history of significant noncompliance with federal or state regulations, rules, or laws in providing care or services to vulnerable adults or to children.
(7) The department shall license an adult family home for the maximum level of care that the adult family home may provide. The department shall define, in rule, license levels based upon the education, training, and caregiving experience of the licensed provider or staff.
(8) For adult family homes that serve residents with special needs such as dementia, developmental disabilities, or mental illness, specialty training is required of providers and resident managers consistent with RCW 70.128.230, and also is required for caregivers, with standardized competency testing for caregivers hired after July 28, 2013, as set forth by the department in rule. The department shall examine, with input from experts, providers, consumers, and advocates, whether the existing specialty training courses are adequate for providers, resident managers, and caregivers to meet these residents' special needs, are sufficiently standardized in curricula and instructional techniques, and are accompanied by effective tools to fairly evaluate successful student completion. The department may enhance the existing specialty training requirements by rule, and may update curricula, instructional techniques, and competency testing based upon its review and stakeholder input. In addition, the department shall examine, with input from experts, providers, consumers, and advocates, whether additional specialty training categories should be created for adult family homes serving residents with other special needs, such as traumatic brain injury, skilled nursing, or bariatric care. The department may establish, by rule, additional specialty training categories and requirements for providers, resident managers, and caregivers, if needed to better serve residents with such special needs.
(9) The department shall establish, by rule, standards used to license nonresident providers and multiple facility operators.
(10) The department shall establish, by rule, for multiple facility operators educational standards substantially equivalent to recognized national certification standards for residential care administrators.
(11)(a)(i) At the time of an application for an adult family home license and upon the annual fee renewal date set by the department, the licensee shall pay a license fee. Beginning July 1, 2011, the per bed license fee and any processing fees, including the initial license fee, must be established in the omnibus appropriations act and any amendment or additions made to that act. The license fees established in the omnibus appropriations act and any amendment or additions made to that act may not exceed the department's annual licensing and oversight activity costs and must include the department's cost of paying providers for the amount of the license fee attributed to medicaid clients.
(ii) In addition to the fees established in (a)(i) of this subsection, the department shall charge the licensee a nonrefundable fee to increase bed capacity at the adult family home to seven or eight beds or in the event of a change in ownership of the adult family home. The fee must be established in the omnibus appropriations act and any amendment or additions made to that act.
(b) The department may authorize a one-time waiver of all or any portion of the licensing, processing, or change of ownership fees required under this subsection (11) in any case in which the department determines that an adult family home is being relicensed because of exceptional circumstances, such as death or incapacity of a provider, and that to require the full payment of the licensing, processing, or change of ownership fees would present a hardship to the applicant.
(12) A provider who receives notification of the department's initiation of a denial, suspension, nonrenewal, or revocation of an adult family home license may, in lieu of appealing the department's action, surrender or relinquish the license. The department shall not issue a new license to or contract with the provider, for the purposes of providing care to vulnerable adults or children, for a period of twenty years following the surrendering or relinquishment of the former license. The licensing record shall indicate that the provider relinquished or surrendered the license, without admitting the violations, after receiving notice of the department's initiation of a denial, suspension, nonrenewal, or revocation of a license.
(13) The department shall establish, by rule, the circumstances requiring a change in the licensed provider, which include, but are not limited to, a change in ownership or control of the adult family home or provider, a change in the provider's form of legal organization, such as from sole proprietorship to partnership or corporation, and a dissolution or merger of the licensed entity with another legal organization. The new provider is subject to the provisions of this chapter, the rules adopted under this chapter, and other applicable law. In order to ensure that the safety of residents is not compromised by a change in provider, the new provider is responsible for correction of all violations that may exist at the time of the new license.
[ 2020 c 220 s 3; 2015 c 66 s 1; 2013 c 300 s 2; 2011 1st sp.s. c 3 s 403; 2009 c 530 s 5; 2004 c 140 s 3; 2001 c 193 s 9; 1995 c 260 s 4; 1989 c 427 s 20.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 3 ss 401-403: See note following RCW 18.51.050.
Finding—Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 3: See note following RCW 70.128.005.

catchline: License—Generally—Fees.


title: RCW 70.128.064

text:
(1) A provisional license permits the operation of an adult family home for a period of time to be determined by the department, not to exceed twelve months, and is not subject to renewal. A provisional license may be issued:
(a) When a currently licensed adult family home provider has applied to be licensed as the new provider for a currently licensed adult family home, the application has been initially processed, and all that remains to complete the application process is an on-site inspection; or
(b) Under exceptional circumstances, such as the sudden and unexpected death of the sole provider of an adult family home.
(2) In order to prevent disruption to current residents, the department shall give priority processing to an application for a change of ownership:
(a) At the request of the currently licensed provider; or
(b) When the department has issued a provisional license.
[ 2018 c 160 s 1; 2001 c 319 s 10.]

catchline: Priority processing for license applications—Provisional license.


title: RCW 70.128.065

text:
(1) A multiple facility operator must successfully demonstrate to the department financial solvency and management experience for the homes under its ownership and the ability to meet other relevant safety, health, and operating standards pertaining to the operation of multiple homes, including ways to mitigate the potential impact of vehicular traffic related to the operation of the homes.
(2) The department shall only accept and process an application for licensure of an additional home when:
(a) A period of no less than twenty-four months has passed since the issuance of the initial adult family home license; and
(b) The department has taken no enforcement actions against the applicant's currently licensed adult family homes during the twenty-four months prior to application.
(3)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, the department shall only accept and process an additional application for licensure of other adult family homes when twelve months has passed since the previous adult family home license, and the department has taken no enforcement actions against the applicant's currently licensed adult family homes during the twelve months prior to application.
(b) The department shall accept and process applications for licensure of additional adult family homes when less than twelve months have passed since the previous adult family home license, if the applications are due to the change in ownership of existing adult family homes that are currently licensed and the department has taken no enforcement actions against the applicant's currently licensed adult family homes during the twelve months prior to application.
(4) In the event of serious noncompliance leading to the imposition of one or more actions listed in RCW 70.128.160(2) for violation of federal, state, or local laws, or regulations relating to provision of care or services to vulnerable adults or children, the department is authorized to take one or more actions listed in RCW 70.128.160(2) against any home or homes operated by the provider if there is a violation in the home or homes.
(5) In the event of serious noncompliance in a home operated by a provider with multiple adult family homes, leading to the imposition of one or more actions listed in RCW 70.128.160(2), the department shall inspect the other homes operated by the provider to determine whether the same or related deficiencies are present in those homes. The cost of these additional inspections may be imposed on the provider as a civil penalty up to a maximum of three hundred dollars per additional inspection.
(6) A provider is ultimately responsible for the day-to-day operations of each licensed home.
[ 2013 c 185 s 1; 2011 1st sp.s. c 3 s 203; 1996 c 81 s 6.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 3: See note following RCW 70.128.005.
Effective date—1996 c 81: See note following RCW 70.128.120.

catchline: Multiple facility operators—Requirements—Licensure of additional homes.


title: RCW 70.128.066

text:
(1) An applicant requesting to increase bed capacity to seven or eight beds must successfully demonstrate to the department financial solvency and management experience for the home under its ownership and the ability to meet other relevant safety, health, and operating standards pertaining to the operation of an eight bed home, including the ability to meet the needs of all current and prospective residents and ways to mitigate the potential impact of vehicular traffic related to the operation of the home.
(2) The department may only accept and process an application to increase the bed capacity to seven or eight beds when:
(a) A period of no less than twenty-four months has passed since the issuance of the initial adult family home license;
(b) The home has been licensed for six residents for at least twelve months prior to application;
(c) The home has completed two full inspections that have resulted in no enforcement actions. For adult family homes applying to increase bed capacity under this section prior to January 1, 2026, the department may:
(i) Complete the first inspection upon receipt of an application to increase bed capacity if the home has otherwise met the requirements of this section.
(ii) Complete a second inspection upon receipt of an application to increase bed capacity if at least six months have passed since the first inspection;
(d) The home has submitted an attestation that an increase in the number of beds will not adversely affect the health, safety, or quality of life of current residents of the home;
(e) The home has demonstrated to the department the ability to comply with the emergency evacuation standards established by the department in rule;
(f) The home has a residential sprinkler system in place in order to serve residents who require assistance during an evacuation; and
(g) The home has paid any fees associated with licensure or additional inspections.
(3) The department shall accept and process applications under RCW 70.128.060(13) for a seven or eight bed adult family home only if:
(a) The new provider is a provider of a currently licensed adult family home that has been licensed for a period of no less than twenty-four months since the issuance of the initial adult family home license;
(b) The new provider's current adult family home has been licensed for six or more residents for at least twelve months prior to application; and
(c) The adult family home has completed at least two full inspections, and the most recent two full inspections have resulted in no enforcement actions.
(4) Prior to issuing a license to operate a seven or eight bed adult family home, the department shall:
(a) Notify the local jurisdiction in which the home is located, in writing, of the applicant's request to increase bed capacity, and allow the local jurisdiction to provide any recommendations to the department as to whether or not the department should approve the applicant's request to increase its bed capacity to seven or eight beds; and
(b) Conduct an inspection to determine compliance with licensing standards and the ability to meet the needs of eight residents.
(5) In addition to the consideration of other criteria established in this section, the department shall consider comments received from current residents of the adult family home related to the quality of care and quality of life offered by the home, as well as their views regarding the addition of one or two more residents.
(6) Upon application for an initial seven or eight bed adult family home, a home must provide at least sixty days' notice to all residents and the residents' designated representatives that the home has applied for a license to admit up to seven or eight residents before admitting a seventh resident. The notice must be in writing and written in a manner or language that is understood by the residents and the residents' designated representatives.
(7) In the event of serious noncompliance in a seven or eight bed adult family home, in addition to, or in lieu of, the imposition of one or more actions listed in RCW 70.128.160(2), the department may revoke the adult family home's authority to accept more than six residents.
[ 2024 c 147 s 1; 2020 c 220 s 2.]

catchline: Seven or eight bed adult family homes—Requirements—Licensure.