WA HB2198

Expands the list of state agencies subject to credential processing requirements from 14 to 31 agencies, including the Department of Social and Health Services, Employment Security Department, Washington State Patrol, and various health licensing boards

Requires cabinet agencies to establish published decision time deadlines for all credentials on a phased schedule: 25% by January 1, 2027; 50% by 2028; 75% by 2029; and 100% by January 1, 2030

Mandates application fee refunds when agencies fail to meet their published decision times for completed applications, with exceptions for fees under statutory reimbursement programs like the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council

Establishes a statewide credential catalog and central online repository maintained by the Office for Regulatory Innovation and Assistance, requiring standardized information including fees, processing times, application requirements, and appeal processes

Requires agencies to submit annual credential performance reports by March 1st each year, tracking application counts, pending and backlog applications, and average/median processing times for applications received on or after January 1, 2025