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Rules, Laws, and Statements of the Nursing Commission

The Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (NCQAC) 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 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 are 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.

Advisory Opinion

A set of recommended practices designed by the nursing commission to assist nurses about appropriate health care for specific circumstances. An advisory opinion does not have the force of law, but may be considered by the nursing commission to be the standard of care in our state.

Procedure

Establishes the proper steps to take to conduct commission business.

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If you have questions, please contact our rules staff at NCQAC.Rules@doh.wa.gov

More agency rule resources

Department of Health Rule Making

State Board of Health Rules

Other Department rules in WAC Title 246

Rule Petition