FSEC to file CR 101 and seek rule updates to adjudicative, application and restoration WACs

Summary

FSEC staff said Oct. 15 it will file a CR 101 pre‑notice to begin rulemaking to amend WAC chapters on adjudicative proceedings, application/pre‑application guidance, and site restoration/financial assurance; staff said changes aim to clarify procedures, update technology references and clarify financial assurance language and that process could

FSEC staff on Oct. 15 told the council it will begin a rulemaking process by filing a CR 101 pre‑notice to amend several Washington Administrative Code chapters related to the council’s procedures.

Staff said the rulemaking would target WAC chapters covering adjudicated proceedings (to clarify expectations, incorporate current technology and clarify the record of decision making), the application chapter (to provide guidance on the value and process of pre‑application review) and the site restoration and preservation chapter (to clarify details on financial insurance and assurance processes).

Staff told the council it expects the rulemaking process to take between six months and one year and that publication of the CR 101 in the Washington Register will begin public engagement and stakeholder development of proposed rule language.

Council members did not raise objections; staff invited early outreach from outside parties and said they will publish CR 101 and engage stakeholders during the rule development timeline.