The bill amends RCW 18.410.020 to enhance the professional licensing reporting requirements by mandating the department to conduct an annual review and analysis of approximately 10 percent of the professional licenses it regulates, starting in 2024. The department is required to submit an electronic report to legislative leaders and members by August 31st each year, detailing recommendations on whether to terminate, continue, or modify the licenses. This review process is to be completed for all professional licenses within ten years and repeated every decade thereafter. The report will include various details such as the title of the professional license, budget information, and a breakdown of expenses related to licensing activities.

Additionally, the bill introduces several new reporting requirements, including a breakdown of expenses by activities such as processing applications and handling complaints, options to reduce license renewal fees for certain professions, and a cost analysis for transitioning to a two-year license renewal period. The report will also analyze the educational and training requirements for licenses, compare regulations with other states, and summarize any regulatory changes made as a result of the review. If further analysis is deemed necessary, the relevant legislative committee can request additional information from the department, focusing on consumer protection and the least restrictive methods of regulation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.410.020