Laws, Rules, and Statements

The Washington State Board of Nursing (WABON) enforces the statutes of Washington state in relation to the nursing profession.

Learn about Washington's nursing laws and regulations, as well as ongoing policy development areas and opportunities for public engagement, using the links below.

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Definitions

Revised Code of Washington (RCW)

A statute or law, also known as the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) is written by the Washington State Legislature. Once legislation is signed by the governor, it becomes law. You can perform an online search for RCWs on the Washington State Legislature website or go directly to the full list of RCWs.

Washington Administrative Code (WAC)

A rule or Washington Administrative Code (WAC) provides interpretive support for the individuals or entities to whom the rule or statute applies. Department of Health rules are written and adopted by a Board or Commission or the Secretary of the Department of Health. Rules or WACs carry the full force of the law. You can perform an online search for WACs on the Washington State Legislature website or go directly to the full list of WACs.

Interpretive Statement

Interpretive statement means a written expression of the opinion of an agency as to the meaning of a statute or other provision of law, of a court decision, or of an agency order.

Policy Statement

Policy statement means a written description of the current approach of an agency to implementation of a statute or other provision of law, of a court decision, or of an agency order, including where appropriate the agency's current practice, procedure, or method of action based upon that approach.

Advisory Opinion

Advisory Opinions are a written opinion in response to questions concerning the authority of various categories of nursing practitioners to perform particular acts. RCW 18.79.110

An advisory opinion does not have the force of law but may be considered by the board to be the standard of care in our state.