2005 Washington Revised Code RCW 18.19.050: Powers of secretary — Application of uniform disciplinary act — Public education program.

(1) In addition to any other authority provided by law, the secretary has the following authority:

     (a) To adopt rules, in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, necessary to implement this chapter;

     (b) To set all registration and renewal fees in accordance with RCW 43.70.250 and to collect and deposit all such fees in the health professions account established under RCW 43.70.320;

     (c) To establish forms and procedures necessary to administer this chapter;

     (d) To hire clerical, administrative, and investigative staff as needed to implement this chapter;

     (e) To issue a registration to any applicant who has met the requirements for registration; and

     (f) To develop a dictionary of recognized professions and occupations providing counseling services to the public included under this chapter.

     (2) The uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs the issuance and denial of registrations and the discipline of registrants under this chapter. The secretary shall be the disciplining authority under this chapter. The absence of educational or training requirements for counselors registered under this chapter or the counselor's use of nontraditional nonabusive therapeutic techniques shall not, in and of itself, give the secretary authority to unilaterally determine the training and competence or to define or restrict the scope of practice of such individuals.

     (3) The department shall publish and disseminate information in order to educate the public about the responsibilities of counselors and the rights and responsibilities of clients established under this chapter. Solely for the purposes of administering this education requirement, the secretary shall assess an additional fee for each application and renewal, equal to five percent of the fee. The revenue collected from the assessment fee may be appropriated by the legislature for the department's use in educating consumers pursuant to this section. The authority to charge the assessment fee shall terminate on June 30, 1994.

[2001 c 251 § 21; 1991 c 3 § 21; 1987 c 512 § 5.]

Severability -- 2001 c 251: See RCW 18.225.900.