Do rules or WACs carry the full force of the law?

Rules and Washington Administrative Codes (WACs) do indeed carry the full force of law. In Washington State, WACs are created by state agencies to implement or clarify statutes enacted by the legislature. This means that they have the same legal authority as laws passed by the legislature, making compliance mandatory.

When a regulation is codified in the WAC, it must be followed by individuals and entities under the jurisdiction of the agency that created those rules. This framework ensures that regulatory standards are enforced and provides a mechanism for accountability and compliance within the state.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for dental hygienists and other licensed professionals, as it impacts their practice by necessitating adherence to these rules to avoid potential legal issues or disciplinary actions.