(1) In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the department filed an emergency rule suspending the requirement for the department to conduct on-site certification evaluations of each service provider at least once every two years as authorized by RCW 71A.12.080 and required by WAC 388-101-3130.

(2) During the suspension of the certification evaluation requirements, the department continued to conduct complaint investigations in CCRSS settings (group homes, group training homes, and supported living client households) when it became aware of information indicating an immediate threat to client health and safety.

(3) The department must prioritize and resume certification evaluations of service providers affected by the suspension of the certification evaluation requirements by applying the following criteria collectively:

(a) The department has identified an ongoing threat to the health and safety of clients through one or more reported complaints, previous certification evaluations, or previous investigations;

(b) Whether the service provider has had an enforcement remedy imposed in the last 24 months; and

(c) The length of time since the service provider's last certification evaluation.