Washington Proposed New Refinery Training Rules
The state is seeking public feedback on updated apprenticeship wage and occupation notification requirements.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Jobs — General
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The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries has proposed new rules for refinery worker training and certification. These changes are designed to implement requirements mandated by Engrossed House Bill 1173.
Why it matters
The proposal aims to clarify statutory mandates regarding apprenticeship notifications and wages. It ensures regulatory alignment with state law enacted in 2025.
The rulemaking process updates Chapter 296-71 of the Washington Administrative Code to align with the requirements of Engrossed House Bill 1173. The state has scheduled a public hearing to review these changes.
The players
Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
This state agency is responsible for overseeing worker safety, apprenticeship programs, and the enforcement of labor standards.
Division of Labor Standards
This division operates under the state labor department to manage workplace requirements and regulatory compliance.
Division of Occupational Safety and Health
This unit focuses on establishing and enforcing safety regulations to protect employees across various industries.
The details
Developed by the Division of Labor Standards and the Division of Occupational Safety and Health, the proposal focuses on updating apprenticeship wage and occupation notifications. Officials are inviting public comment on the draft before final adoption.
Timeline
Engrossed House Bill 1173 was enacted in 2025.
The rule proposal was announced for public comment on September 24, 2026.
A virtual public hearing is scheduled for October 29, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.
Market Landscape
This regulatory update follows the framework established by Engrossed House Bill 1173, which mandates specific oversight for industrial apprenticeship programs. It represents a broader effort to standardize worker protections and training quality across the state's refinery sector.
Refinery apprentices and employers will see adjustments to how wage and occupation notifications are handled. These changes will impact administrative procedures for apprenticeship training and certification compliance.
The takeaway
Interested parties can participate in the rule-making process by attending the upcoming virtual hearing. Staying informed on these changes is essential for those involved in industrial apprenticeship programs.
What happens next
The department will host a virtual public hearing on October 29, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. to accept testimony on the proposed rule changes.
Further reading
For more information on state employment regulations, visit the Jobs — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Occupational Health & Safety.
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