1. (a) A DRF may request a waiver of specific procedures outlined in this part, in writing, from the department.

2. (b) A request for a waiver shall include:

   1. (1) A specific reference to the section of the rule for which a waiver is being sought;
   2. (2) A full description of why a waiver is necessary; and
   3. (3) A full explanation of alternative provisions or procedures proposed by the DRF.
3. (c) No provision or procedure prescribed by statute shall be waived.

4. (d) A request for a waiver shall be granted after the commissioner or his or her designee determines that the alternative proposed by the DRF meets the objective or intent of the rule and:

   1. (1) Does not negatively impact the health or safety of clients; and
   2. (2) Does not affect the quality of DRF services.
5. (e) Upon receipt of approval of a waiver request, the DRF’s subsequent compliance with the alternative provisions or procedures approved in the waiver shall be considered compliance with the rule for which the waiver was sought.
6. (f) Waivers shall be granted in writing for a specific duration not to exceed 5 years except as in (g) below.

7. (g) Those waivers which relate to the following shall be effective for the DRF’s current designation period only:

   1. (1) Fire safety; or
   2. (2) Other issues relative to consumer health, safety or welfare that require periodic reassessment.
8. (h) A DRF may request a renewal of a waiver from the department. Such request shall be made at least 30 days prior to the expiration of a current waiver.

Source. #10516, eff 1-28-14 (from He-M 405.16); ss by #13299, eff 12-2-21