Community_Corrections_Amendment_2.pdf

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 1 of 25

STATE OF TENNESSEE

Department of Correction

REQUEST FOR GRANT PROPOSALS # 32952-13007

AMENDMENT # 2

FOR COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS SERVICES

DATE: March 7, 2025

RFGP # 32952-13007 IS AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

1. This RFGP Schedule of Events updates and confirms scheduled RFGP dates. Any event, time, or date containing revised or new text is highlighted.

EVENT TIME

(central time zone)

DATE

1. RFP Issued February 4, 2025

2. Disability Accommodation Request Deadline 2:00 p.m. February 7, 2025

3. Pre-response Conference 10:00 a.m. February 10, 2025

4. Notice of Intent to Respond Deadline 10:00 a.m. February 11, 2025

5. Written “Questions & Comments” Deadline 2:00 p.m. February 18, 2025

6. State Response to Written “Questions &

Comments” March 7, 2025

7. Oral Clarifications Conference for Written “Questions & Comments”

1:00 p.m. March 14, 2025

8. Grant Response Deadline 2:00 p.m. April 14, 2025

9. Qualifications Evidence Evaluations Completed April 28, 2025

10. Budget Responses Opened April 29, 2025

11. Award Notice Released and RFGP Files Opened for Public Inspection 2:00 p.m. May 2, 2025

12. Open File Period ends May 9, 2025

13. Grantee Signature Deadline May 16, 2025

14. Contract Signed by the State May 21, 2025

15. Grant Contract Start Date July 1, 2025

2. State responses to questions and comments in the table below amend and clarify this RFGP.

Any restatement of RFGP text in the Question/Comment column shall NOT be construed as a change in the actual wording of the RFGP document.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 2 of 25

RFGP

Section Page

Question/Comment State Response

RFGP Attach.

6.5 & 6.6, Section A.7.g.

6.5 Pg

11 6.6 Pg 12

1. Can LMSW with supervision of LCSW be added for clinical staff?

Yes, this is an acceptable process with the written formal agreement in place between the supervisor and supervisee.

RFGP Attach.

6.5 & 6.6, Section A.10.d.

6.5 Pg

14 6.6 Pg 15

2. Can PTO be changed to roll over comp as current TDOC staff, or are we able to utilize payroll savings for bonuses?

No to both questions. Due to funding structure, PTO cannot roll over from one grant year to the next, but the entity has freedom to develop personnel policies that work for them. The State will no longer honor requests for staff bonuses from salary savings.

RFGP

Attachment 6.5, Section A.7.d

Attachment 3 A, S2.10

3. Are supervision standards the same for DRC and regular supervision?

Yes, the supervision standards are the same for DRC and regular supervision. Participants enrolled in a DRC will have additional requirements set by the DRC which participants must comply with to remain enrolled in the DRC.

Attachment 6.5, Section A.9.d.3

14 4. Please explain if use of interns are allowed with approval.

Interns are allowed but must undergo an annual national background check, including submission of full name, date of birth, social security number, driver’s license, sex, and race.

N/A N/A 5. Would TDOC consider splitting a Judicial District between two HRA’s that is divided by our coverage area?

Perhaps, but it would depend on the services being proposed. It is unlikely that one judicial district would receive funding for two entities in the area offering duplicative services.

Attachment 6.6, Section A.9.b

14 6. Does a Master’s level LADAC II qualify as a Clinical Director?

Yes, TDOC would allow a LADAC II with the master's degree to serve as long as it meets the requirements for TDMHSAS licensure.

RFGP Attach 6.5, D.25.

Attach.

6.5 Pg 26 Attach.

6.6

7. We have been told that we do not have to register with Department of Revenue as we do not provide services charged

We are unable to clarify the requirement to register. These requirements are set forth by the Department of Revenue. Please direct your question to them.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 3 of 25

Pg 27 to outside companies. Please clarify.

RFGP Attach

6.5 & 6.6

5 8. On page 5 of attachment 6.6 Program Facilitator: does a CBIP, MRT, Life Skills, GED, behavioral modification classes , etc. have to be licensed with Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services?

No, there is no requirement for licensure as a facilitator for these programs. However, some of the curriculum requires the facilitator be trained in the specific course.

RFGP Attach

6.5 & 6.6

Attach.

6.5 Pg 7

Attach.

6.6 Pg 6

9. A.4.2 on page 6 of Attachment 6.6: can an agency provide only supervision services or does it have to provide additional services? It says “may include”.

The proposals should include supervision and a type of Evidence-Based Programming (as mandated by statute). Unlike the last contract cycle that required a substance abuse treatment option, the entity is able to propose a method of supervision and Evidence-Based Programming. The State will provide training for at least one Evidence-Based Program offered at no cost to the grantee. In the event that the court sentences an individual to Community Corrections that does not need any type of programming, as indicated by the risk and needs assessment, the entity will not be penalized for not offering programming to that individual. As a whole, the Community Corrections statute requires an Evidence- Based Programming (EBP) component as part of the program and is required.

N/A N/A 10. If we have questions about the answers to these questions will another round of questions/answers be allowed?

No, this is the only round of questions scheduled. However, an Oral Clarifications Conference has been added to the RFGP Schedule of Events. The purpose of this meeting will be to provide additional clarification to the responses provided in this document.

RFGP

Attachment Four

11. Att. 4, Reference Questionnaire: Does this apply to private agencies who only have done business with TDOC, specifically, Community Corrections Grants? If so, who should get the questionnaire to be filled out?

Upon additional review, Attachment Four will no longer be required. Please see below where this requirement is removed.

Attachment 6.6, Section A.9.b

14 12. Att. 6.6 A.9.b.: Can grantee subcontract with a LCSW to be their Clinical Director if the Program Manager does not

Yes

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 4 of 25 have the clinical licensure required by the state?

RFGP Section 3.2.2.

9 13. 3.2.2.1-3.2.2.3: Is this a typo when referencing the RFGP #?

Yes, this is a typo. For email submissions the referenced RFGP# should be 32952-13007.

3.2.2.

9 14. Email Submission (3.2.1.2):

What is the maximum size of an attachment that can be received by the State via email?

Inbound and outbound email are both set to 35MB max size limit. The preference would be to zip file the attachment.

3.2.2.

9 15. If the Technical Response document, to be submitted “in the form of one (1) digital document”, is larger than the maximum size of attachment which can be received by the State, can the Technical Response be submitted in more than one (1) email?

Yes, it can, but please number them (i.e. 1 of 4) so that we ensure that we consider the entire proposal. If e-mail size is an issue, respondents are able to mail their submissions. You can also send it in a zip file.

RFGP Attach.

6.5 & 6.6

16. Attachment 6.5 is intended for Government Entities while

6.6 is for Non-Governmental Entities. Can you clarify which category a Human Resource Agency falls under?

Human Resource Agencies are established by State Statue, so they are government entities and would utilize Attachment 6.5 Pro Forma Contract for Government Entities.

RFGP

Attachment 6.2

19 17. The Technical Response & Evaluation Guide, B20. States that residential agencies will

Yes, that is correct. PREA certification only applies to residential programs.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 5 of 25 document in writing their policies and adoption of and compliance with Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003. Dose this not apply to any non-residential agency?

RFGP Attach.

7 18. Attachment 6.5 – A.3.1.

States “The grantee shall provide close supervision to Offenders court-ordered to be supervised by the Grantee, addressing the identified criminogenic needs and risk factors utilizing Evidence-Based Programming…” Does this indicate that all grantees must provide EBP and supervision, as that seems to conflict with the statement in A.4.2.?

Yes, ALL grantees must provide EBP and supervision. The verbiage used here comes directly from the Community Correction statutes. There is no conflict as A.4.2 includes a variety of options, but we recognize that it is not an exhaustive list of possibilities which is why the language of “may include” was used. All respondents are encouraged to determine what Evidence-Based Programming component meets the needs of their area and jurisdiction.

RFGP Attach.

6.5 & 6.6

7 19. A.4. Program Components – A.4.2. States that the grantee’s program services may include one or a combination of services, including supervision, DRC, EBP or Substance Use Treatment Services. To clarify, it is permissible to provide supervision only?

No, all of the components listed include an Evidence-Based Programming (EBP) element. For all participants sentenced to Community Corrections for supervision, a risk and needs assessment should be completed to identify the needs of the offenders. Evidence-Based Programming should be available to meet the needs identified for all participants. Since there are a variety of ways this can be accomplished, the language “may include” was used. All respondents are encouraged to determine what Evidence-Based Programming component meets the needs of their area and jurisdiction.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 6 of 25

6.5 & 6.6, Section A.5

8 19. A.5. a. States “The State approved Evidence-Based Programming shall include…” and lists 7 options. Can you clarify if ALL options must be utilized if a grantee chooses to provide EBP, or can a grantee provide a limited number of those options?

Not all seven have to be utilized. The respondent can utilize one or more Evidence- Based Programs as listed, or other validated EBP.

RFGP Attach

6.5 & 6.6, Section A.5

8 20. A.5 b. The Grantee must utilize the State-approved curriculum for all identified EBP.

The State will facilitate training as training resources become available. -Is this only related to strong-r training or are they offering other trainings?

The state will provide training for the STRONG-R and will provide training for EBP as the resources are available.

RFGP Attach

6.5 & 6.6, Section A.5

8 21. A.5. e “Groups shall not be less than three (3)…” If a class generally has 3 or 4 offenders in attendance, but that number falls below 3 on one particular class day, are we required to cancel that class for the day and send the offender away; or is the intent to ensure there are 3 or more in a group on a regular basis?

No, we would not support sending participants away from class. However, the intent is to ensure that the group has the minimum number to form a group.

RFGP Attach

6.5 & 6.6, Section A.5

9 22. A.5. f. Pre and Post Assessments – To clarify, is this referring to ASI, STRONG-R, or are there other specified

This will be for EBP, and other programming provided.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 7 of 25 pre/post assessments that will be mandated?

6.5 & 6.6, Section A.6

10 23. A.6. b. Placing offenders in treatment facility within ten

(10) days – Due to available space, it can take longer than 10 days to place an offender in treatment. If so, does that indicate that another assessment would need to be conducted after the initial 10 days has passed?

No, an additional assessment would not be necessary unless there was a significant sentinel event that occurred after the 10-day time period.

RFGP Attach

6.5 & 6.6, Section A.6

10 24. A.6. d. “The grantee budget must include all costs for Offender treatment.” If offenders are required to purchase their own MRT book through the grantee, is the cost of MRT books considered part of the treatment cost?

No, the cost of materials, if covered by the respondent, should be included in the budget. If the participant is going to be expected to purchase supplies, then the items should not be budgeted. If the costs are born by the participant, the respondent should also plan for how costs will be covered for those identified as indigent.

Attachment Three B

25. Attachment Three B – Within the supervision matrix, it shows a standard of 1 home visit regardless of supervision level. Can you confirm that this is the intent rather than an oversight?

Yes, the supervision matrix was developed by the Tennessee Community Corrections Association and adopted by TDOC as part of this RFP. However, we will update the matrix to indicate that the “Warrant on Bond” supervision level is not required.

RFGP Section

3 26. INTRODUCTION – within the introduction, it states “All treatment providers are required to be licensed through

The licensing or certification requirements of the program being delivered should be met, if the delivery of services requires a licensed individual to deliver the services, they are expected to meet TDMHSAS requirements for licensure. For the programs mentioned (CBIP and MRT), the programs require certified individuals to deliver the program.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 8 of 25 the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS).”

Unless a treatment program is licensable by TDMHSAS, how is it possible to obtain such a license? For example, if it is permissible to provide MRT & CBIP only, is that a treatment program that would be licensable by TDMHSAS?

Five

27. RFGP Contents page 1 contains a reference to “Attachment Five TDOC Policies,” however there is no “Attachment Five” in the RFGP packet. Can the State please confirm that the document labeled “Attachment Three A” is the TDOC Policies referenced on the page 1 contents list?

No, Attachment Three A is the Tennessee Department of Correction Community Corrections Program Standards. It appears as though when the Central Procurement Office(CPO) posted the RFGP on their website they failed to include Attachment Five. TDOC will ensure CPO posts Attachment Five. TDOC will also send a copy of Attachment Five to everyone that submitted an Intent to Respond Notice.

RFGP Attach

6.2 A.4.

16 28. For respondents who do not utilize credit accounts, would a positive reference indicating timely satisfaction of monetary obligations suffice to meet this requirement?

Yes

6.2 A.5.

16 29. Can the State specify the precise information that must be shown on this requested “credit rating” / “credit bureau” report?

The intent of this requirement is to ensure that the entity is financially solvent. In lieu of a credit rating, a letter from a bank will suffice.

RFPG

Attachment

21 30. Can the State define what a “strategy for length of stay of offenders” means? Is it asking

Yes, provide the approximate timeframes associated with program phases.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 9 of 25

6.2 - Section C.3 for approximate timeframes to complete various program phases?

RFPG

6.2 - Section C.3

21 31. Can the State clarify what it means when it references “offenders who will successfully complete the program”?

Defined as the participant completing all requirements related to programming, goals, and attendance.

6.2 - Section C.3

21 32. How is the State defining a successful completion?

Defined as the participant completing all requirements related to programming, goals, and attendance.

RFPG

Attachment

6.2 - Section C.3

21 33. Does the State have any guidelines to follow, or factors to consider, when trying to determine if an offender has successfully completed and should be transferred back to State Probation?

When a respondent is determining an offender’s successful completion pending court order transferring of supervision to state probation, the respondent should ensure the offender has completed at least one year of supervision and not in a violation status, complete all special conditions assigned as part of their Community Corrections supervision, satisfying all employment, fees, and restitutions requirements by court and/or Community Corrections behavioral contract, and has completed any identified programming need.

RFPG

Attachment

6.2 - Section C.3

21 34. Does TDOC policy permit a grantee to have an offender on its program for longer than one year?

There is not a TDOC policy that specifies the term length in which an offender may remain on Community Corrections supervision. TDOC encourages the transfer of offender to TDOC supervision after completing one year of Community Corrections supervision however, the sentencing court has to approve an order to transfer the offender to TDOC supervision.

RFPG

Attachment

6.2 - Section C.3

21 35. If it is allowable under TDOC policy for a grantee to have an offender on its program for longer than one year, under what circumstances is this permitted?

There is not a list of circumstances in which a transfer is permitted, as once an offender is sentenced to Community Corrections, the offender remains on Community Corrections supervision until the sentencing court approves a court order transfer the offender’s supervision to TDOC.

FGP

Attachment

6.2 – Section D.4

23 36. Can the State confirm that item D.4 is simply asking respondents to copy and paste the phases of supervision and required number of contacts from TDOC policy, and nothing more?

D.4. is asking for the proposer to provide their policy and procedure as to how direct supervision of offender will be conducted by the proposer in accordance with Attachment Three B – The Supervision Matrix and Attachment Three S2.10.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 10 of 25

FGP

6.2 – Section D.4

23 37. Can the State confirm that item D.4 is not asking respondents about treatment phases?

D.4. is referencing supervision and not treatment phases.

Attachments

Section A.4

7 Paragraph A.4 (p. 7) Program Components appears to permit respondents to propose supervision-only offices, which was strictly forbidden in the last

CC RFGP.

38. Can the State confirm supervision-only offices are now permitted?

No, all of the components listed include a programming element. For all participants sentenced to Community Corrections for supervision, a risk and needs assessment should be completed to identify the needs of the offenders. Evidence-Based Programming should be available to meet the needs identified for all participants. Since there are a variety of ways this can be accomplished, the language “may include” was used. All respondents are encouraged to determine what Evidence-Based Programming component meets the needs of their area and jurisdiction.

Attachments

Section A.4

7 39. Can the State confirm that supervision-only offices are now permitted to co-exist in counties where an established DRC exists?

Since DRCs are utilized for substance abuse treatment, it is possible that supervision services can exist in the same area without providing duplicative services. For all participants sentenced to Community Corrections for supervision, a risk and needs assessment should be completed to identify the needs of the offenders. Evidence-Based Programming should be available to meet the needs identified for all participants. Since there are a variety of ways this can be accomplished, the language “may include” was used. All respondents are encouraged to determine what Evidence-Based Programming component meets the needs of their area and jurisdiction.

6.5 & 6.6

A.5.a.

8 40. Can the State clarify the differences between these two program designations:

“Evidence-Based Programming” and “Substance Use Treatment Services”?

Substance Use Treatment services address only substance abuse. Evidence-Based Programming could address a variety of issues. It is possible to have a comprehensive substance abuse treatment service that incorporates other Evidence-Based Programming.

6.5 & 6.6

8 41. Can the State confirm it has not set any offender eligibility requirements that specifically apply to EBP (as is the case for DRC enrollees)?

Confirmed, the risk and needs assessment will identify the type of need the participant has and the entity will determine appropriate programming placements to address the identified needs.

RFPG

Attachments

8 42. Can the State confirm it has not set any enrollment

Confirmed, most EBP have curriculum timelines built into the program.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 11 of 25 periods/time restrictions for enrollees in EBP?

RFPG

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6

8 43. Can an offender participating in Medication Assisted Therapy be enrolled in EBP? (The RFGP makes clear such offenders cannot enroll in DRC, but it is not clear with regard to EBP).

Yes, MAT participants can participate in EBP to address identified needs according to the risk and needs assessment.

The requirement to provide abstinence-based treatment in the DRCs will be removed.

Respondents will have the option, but not be required, to enroll offenders participating in MAT.

RFPG

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6

8 44. Can an offender who previously participated in Medication Assisted Therapy be enrolled in EBP?

Yes

RFPG

Attachments

Section A.5.d

8 45. Can the State define what it means by “receipt of EBP recommendation”? From whom is the grantee receiving this recommendation?

The EBP recommendation is provide by the results of the RNA evaluation.

Attachments

Section A.5.f

9 46. Can the State specify which “assessment tools” it has approved thus far for each “applicable program”?

The state has not pre-approved any assessment tools at this time. The state will review any and all EBP programs and the program’s associated Pre/Post assessment tools as presented by each respondent for approval.

RFPG

Attachments

Section A.6.

10 47. Can the State confirm it is using the phrase “Substance Use Treatment Services” to refer to IOP services? And if not, can the State clarify how the

Substance Use Treatment encompasses a variety of options. Yes, IOP is one treatment methodology that falls under the SUT umbrella.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 12 of 25 described “SUT” services differ from standard IOP services?

10 48. Can the State confirm it has not established eligibility criteria for enrollees in “Substance Use Treatment Services”?

Confirmed. Each entity can establish the requirements for admittance into substance abuse programs. The entity should utilize the risk and needs assessment to determine the needs of the offender and base program placement to address needs identified.

RFPG

Attachments

10 49. Is it the State’s intent for respondents to identify their own eligibility criteria for SUT services within their proposals?

Yes, entities should detail what services their programs will offer as well as how they will administer the programs.

RFPG

Attachments

10 50. Can the State clarify that it has not established enrollment periods/time restrictions for enrollees in “Substance Use Treatment Services”?

Confirmed. Each entity can establish the requirements for admittance into substance abuse programs. The entity should utilize the risk and needs assessment to determine the needs of the offender and base program placement to address needs identified.

10 51. Is it the State’s intent for respondents to create their own enrollment periods for SUT services within their proposals?

Yes, entities should detail what services their programs will offer as well as how they will administrate the programs.

10 52. Can the State clarify whether an offender participating in Medication Assisted Therapy can be enrolled in Substance Use Treatment Services? (The RFGP makes clear such offenders cannot enroll in DRC, but it is not clear with regard to SUT Services).

Yes, MAT participants can participate in other Substance Abuse Treatment to support addressing the identified needs according to the risk and needs assessment.

The requirement to provide abstinence-based treatment in the DRCs will be removed.

Respondents will have the option, but not be required, to enroll offenders participating in MAT.

10 53. Can the State clarify whether an offender who previously participated in

Yes, MAT participants or former participants can participate in other Substance Abuse Treatment to support addressing the identified needs according to the risk and needs assessment.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 13 of 25

Medication Assisted Therapy can be enrolled in Substance Use Treatment Services?

6.5 & 6.6

A.6.a.

10 54. Can the State confirm it is referring to the Strong-R (aka Validated RNA) when it references “State-indicated assessments”? And if not, can the State identify the specific assessment(s) to which it is referring?

In Attachments 6.5 & 6.6, Section A.6.a. the reference to “State-indicated assessments” refers to the STRONG-R, TCUD, and ASI/ASAM.

RFPG

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6

A.6.b.

10 55. Can the State confirm that Grantees will have access to the criminal justice grant system for in-patient placements when indicated?

No, respondents will not have the ability to access funds from the Community Treatment Collaborative grant. Treatments funding for participants on supervision with the respondent must be paid through the respondent’s budget.

RFPG

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6

A.6.d.

10 56. Does TDOC intend to allocate grant funding toward Offender treatment costs incurred outside the Grantee’s agency, such as costs for in-patient or residential placements when such is indicated by assessment and the grantee does not offer the needed service in-house?

No, additional grant funding is not allocated by TDOC for these services.

6.5 & 6.6

A.7.a.

10 57. Per State policy, is it permissible for a client to enter the DRC after having been previously prescribed a Medication assisted Treatment regimen?

Yes, MAT participants or former participants can participate in other Substance Abuse Treatment to support addressing the identified needs according to the risk and needs assessment.

The requirement to provide abstinence-based treatment in the DRCs will be removed.

Respondents will have the option, but not be required, to enroll offenders participating in MAT.

RFPG

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.7.a.

10 58. Per State policy, is it permissible for a client to enter the DRC while working on a tapering plan during the program to achieve abstinence?

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 14 of 25

6.5 & 6.6

A.7.a.

10 59. Can the State confirm that the presence of a DRC in a city does not prohibit a respondent from proposing another service, such as supervision, EBP or Substance Abuse Treatment Services, in that same city?

Confirmed, since DRCs are utilized for substance abuse treatment, it is possible that supervision services can exist in the same area without providing duplicative services. For all participants sentenced to Community Corrections for supervision, a risk and needs assessment should be completed to identify the needs of the offenders. Evidence-Based Programming should be available to meet the needs identified for all participants. Since there are a variety of ways this can be accomplished, the language “may include” was used. All respondents are encouraged to determine what Evidence-Based Programming component meets the needs of their area and jurisdiction.

6.5 & 6.6

A.7.e.

11 60. Can the State clarify whether or not the 9-hour minimum referenced in paragraph A.7.e. applies during all DRC phases, including aftercare?

In order to comply with ASAM levels of care, a minimum of nine hours is required for the IOP portion of the program. This minimum does not include aftercare.

Section A.7.f.

11 61. Can the State clarify whether the grantee is permitted to continue using the ASAM in lieu of ASI, or if now only ASI is allowed?

Yes, the grantee is permitted to continue to use the ASAM.

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6

A.7.f.3.

11 62. Can the State confirm para.

A.7.f.3 “State-approved assessment tools” is a reference to the Strong-R (aka Validated Risk Needs Assessment)? And if not, then can the State specify to which assessment(s) it is referring?

The “state approved assessment tools” refers to the STRONG-R, TCUD, and ASI/ASAM.

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.7.f.4. & A.7.k.

11-12 A.7.f.4 provides that “referrals for services may only be accepted from local sentencing court or TDOC” but then section A.7.k. states “Any offender referred to the DRC from an outside entity must seek reimbursement of service fees

63. Yes, if the entity accepts clients from sources other than TDOC or the sentencing court, TDOC is not financially responsible for the services and the grant cannot be charged.

64. Yes, a grantee may serve a client who does not originate from TDOC or the sentencing court as long as no grant funds are used to support the services provided to the client. For instance, if the client needs to participate in EBP and grants funds have been used to purchase the workbooks and pay for the EBP class facilitator, then the client would not be authorized to

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 15 of 25 from the referring entity directly.”

63. Can the State clarify whether the language cited above means that a grantee may accept clients from sources other than TDOC and the courts, but TDOC funding cannot be used to support services provided to such clients?

64. Per TDOC policy, can a grantee serve a client who does not originate from TDOC or the courts, as long as no grant funds support such services?

participate in that EBP class. They would need to participate in an EBP class not funded through this grant.

RFPG

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6

A.17.b.

17 65. Can the State identify (by name and/or description) what assessments and mechanisms to which this para. A.17.b is specifically referring?

The assessments referenced in A.17.b. is referring to the offender program success as indicated by the program’s Pre/Post assessments. The mechanism for reporting program success is via the respondents reporting through the Monthly Self Report (MSR).

RFGP

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.9.c.

13 66. In section A.9 Staffing Section C it states that a Case Officer position requires a 4-year degree and that the State will accept a candidate for the position of Case Officer with a minimum of 4 years of qualifying full-time professional law enforcement experience in lieu of degree. Can we change that to full time related Criminal Justice or related field professional experience may be substituted for the bachelor’s degree on a year for year basis?

TDOC agrees to change the Case Officer position requirements to align with those of the TDOC Probation and Parole Officer 1 requirements. Please see below for the changes to the contract.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 16 of 25

This would align with TDOC PPO 1 job posting language.

Four

67. Can you explain Attachment Four Reference Questionnaire and give us examples of who we need to send this to?

Upon additional review, Attachment Four will no longer be required. Please see below where this requirement is removed.

RFGP

Section 1.3

4 68. Can you define “officials of the State of Tennessee”?

Any state of Tennessee employee.

RFGP

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.10.a

14 69. Would it be possible to have access to relevant TDOC job descriptions and salary ranges for positions that are comparable to current Community Corrections positions?

This information is available on DOHR’s website.

RFGP

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.10

14-15 70. In A.10 Staff Salaries, it states that the State will not entertain requests to utilize payroll savings or payroll equity for one-time bonuses. Would we be able to use the bonus structure that TDOC uses for its employees?

TDOC does not have an established bonus structure. The State utilizes a Pay for Performance structure, and decisions are made annually based on the availability of funds as to what if any increase or bonus will be granted. Each entity should develop their own personnel policies that clearly define salaries and any benefits they offer to employees. Payroll savings will not be granted at the end of the year to fund bonuses for employees as has been done in years’ past.

Rather than relying on bonuses from salary savings, the entities' budget should contain a cost-of-living wage increase as noted in the RFGP in Attachments 6.5 & 6.6, Section A.10.b.

RFGP

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.7.f.

11 80. Can TDOC provide a copy of the Bio-Psycho-Social assessment referenced in A.7 Day Reporting Centers Section F?

Yes, a copy will be attached to this amendment.

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.7.

10-11 81. Can the therapist determine the appropriate phase/treatment for each client in this grant? For example, some clients need to start at

Yes, the therapist/clinical director can make that determination.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 17 of 25

Phase 1 of the DRC, while others may need to begin in Phase 2 or Phase 3.

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.7.i.

12 82. The grant also states that we can provide virtual services through a HIPAA compliant platform. SimplePractice is an example HIPPA compliant remote service delivery. Is this platform state approved?

TDOC does not specify which platform to use, only that it must be HIPPA compliant.

SimplePractice is acceptable.

RFGP

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.7.k.

12 83. The grant states that if an offender is referred to the DRC from an outside entity, we must seek reimbursement fees from the referring entity directly.

How would we go about doing this exactly and what examples or standards exist for fees related to referrals outside of our agency and TDOC.

Since State funds cannot be used for participants outside of TDOC referrals or court ordered participants, the entity would need to make this determination for themselves. The statement was added to the RFP to allow entities to accept referrals from other sources if they want to do so, but to also clarify that grant funds under this procurement cannot be used to provide the services.

N/A N/A 84. What is the policy for using counseling or social work interns?

Using interns and externs in addition to the staffing matrix is appropriate. The grantee would have to have all documentation supporting the internship/externship placement. Interns must undergo an annual national background check, including submission of full name, date of birth, social security number, driver’s license, sex, and race.

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.4.2.d. & A.6.

8 & 10 85. Substance Use Treatment Services are listed in the program components sections of the grant. What exactly does this entail? For example, is it stated that we need to start completing specific substance-related assessments such as the SASSI for offenders and simply

Yes, there are several assessments available. You can continue to use the STRONG-R, TCUD, and ASI/ASAM. Tools like the SASSI or other validated assessments are additional resources.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 18 of 25 make a referral out to services?

Or is this merely stating that we can continue to use the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) to refer offenders to the appropriate treatment level?

N/A N/A 86. If two Respondents offer services in the same Judicial District/County, can both be awarded a Contract? Would this disqualify the Respondents’ proposal?

Yes, this is possible, however, the intent is to award to as many service areas as possible and offer as many services as possible with the funds available. It is unlikely that one judicial district would receive funding for two entities offering duplicative services. All valid proposals will be evaluated based on the criteria noted in the RFP.

RFGP

Attachment 6.2, Section C.

21 87. Technical Response & Evaluation Guide C.2.2. State the number of incarcerations for non-violent felony offender in the judicial district(s) to be served in calendar year 2014. Is this the correct year or a typo needing to reflect 2024?

Yes, this is a typo. It should read 2024.

Attachment 6.2, Section C.

21 88. Technical Response & Evaluation Guide C.2.2. State the number of incarcerations for non-violent felony offender in the judicial district(s) to be served in calendar year 2014. Is this the correct year or a typo needing to reflect 2024?

Yes, this is a typo. It should read 2024.

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section

13 89. Case Officer- Minimum education of Bachelor's degree or law enforcement experience- If a Case Officer was hired prior

As this has always previously been the requirement, no staff member should have been hired that does not meet this requirement. Current employees who were previously grandfathered in by TDOC are exempt.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 19 of 25

A.9.c. to this requirement, will the Grantee still have to terminate staff member?

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.10.c.

14 90. Does this mean with payroll savings/equity we will not be allowed to offer a one-time bonus to staff if payroll savings/equity would allow this? TDOC currently allows bonuses for staff members.

TDOC does not have an established bonus structure. The State utilizes a Pay for Performance structure, and decisions are made annually based on the availability of funds as to what if any increase or bonus will be granted. Each entity should develop their own personnel policies that clearly define salaries and any benefits they offer to employees. Payroll savings will not be granted at the end of the year to fund bonuses for employees as has been done in years’ past.

Rather than relying on bonuses from salary savings, the entities' budget should contain a cost-of-living wage increase as noted in the RFGP in Attachments 6.5 & 6.6, Section A.10.b.

6.5 & 6.6 Sections A.4.2, A.6. &

Six

Pgs 8 & 10

91. Will the State continue to provide funding to Felony Community Corrections Programs to pay for Intensive Outpatient Treatment services for persons assigned to State Probation if this service is included in the proposal?

Funding for IOP treatment services of offenders on State Probation shall be paid for with respondent funds allocated within the Community Correction grant, designated for treatment services, if the respondent accepts the State supervised offenders into their IOP treatment program.

N/A N/A 92. Will persons on State Probation be referred to Felony Community Corrections Programs that provide Evidence-Based Programming?

The intent is not to routinely refer state probationers to Community Corrections EBP. However, in specific circumstances and on a case-by-case basis, a referral may be made if the resources allow for it.

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.6.

10 93. Referencing RFGP Attachment 6.5, page 10, section A.6.: Substance Use Treatment Services – subsections b-e only applicable if Grantee has its own treatment staff/ providers –

a) “Its own treatment staff/provider” – does this

a) Both, it can include subcontracted providers or grantee staff licensed to provide treatment.

b) Yes

c) The respondent would be responsible for the identified level(s) of treatment cost outlined within the contract agreement with the subcontracting community provider.

d) No, the funds are not to be designated to pay for MAT treatment.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 20 of 25 include substance use providers that have contracts with the Grantee or ONLY if the Grantee has its own treatment staff/ provider that the Grantee supervises, and this staff/ provider is included as a position in the grant proposal?

b) Please confirm if Subsection a is the only requirement for Grantees who contract with substance use treatment providers.

c) Will the Grantee, with funding from this grant, be responsible for the cost of all levels of substance use treatment, or should it be the payer of last resort?

d) Is medication assisted treatment (MAT) an approved treatment method that can be funded by this grant if referred by the Grantee and in the proposal?

N/A N/A 94. If the Grantee has an existing signed contract for IOP services with a substance use treatment provider, may the contract be modified by an agreement or memorandum of understanding to include additional levels of treatment, or will a new signed contract be required?

The entities are encouraged to follow their established procurement rules. The State will accept either an MOU or contract for the services.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 21 of 25

4.7

95. We are applying as a County entity. Since the County is self-insured, will that suffice for all of the insurance liability requirements in this RFPG?

Yes.

N/A N/A 96. May we include provisions for treatment for co-occurring disorder in our proposals, including but not limited to mental health evaluation & treatment, case management, therapy, and medication management?

You can include in the proposal; however, they may not be approved. Providing MH therapy, and medication management is mental health treatment and not part of this contract.

RFGP

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.4.2.

7 97. Can an agency only provide Supervision services?

No, all of the components listed include an Evidence-Based Programming element. For all should be completed to identify the needs of the offenders. Evidence-Based Programming should be available to meet the needs identified for all participants. Since there are a variety of ways this can be accomplished, the language “may include” was used. All respondents are

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.4.2.

7 98. Can an agency only provide Supervision services?

No, all of the components listed include an Evidence-Based Programming element. For all should be completed to identify the needs of the offenders. Evidence-Based Programming should be available to meet the needs identified for all participants. Since there are a variety of ways this can be accomplished, the language “may include” was used. All respondents are

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.4.2.c.

8 99. Does the Evidence-Based Programming have to be taught by a LADAC?

Not necessarily. The EBP covers various curriculum and most of those do not require LADAC to facilitate.

RFGP

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section

7 100. We currently offer Supervision and IOP Services to offenders, would we have to continue offering Supervision

No, supervision and IOP services meet the requirements of the contract.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 22 of 25

A.4.2. and IOP Services and another service that’s listed in the new

RFGP?

Four & RFGP Attachment 6.2, Section E.2.

25 101. Attachment four, the reference questionnaire, appears to be a standard form used on all state RFGP solicitations. It appears to be geared towards private businesses that provide commercial services who may be soliciting grant funds. The services we provide are only provided to offenders in the program and no other entities. As such, who is the appropriate audience that the questionnaire should be provided to and how does this differ from the E.2(5) Letters of Support?

Upon additional review, Attachment Four will no longer be required. Please see below where this requirement is removed.

RFGP Section 3.2.2.

9 102. What are the file size limitations of the State’s email system with regard to submitting the solicitation via email? Is there any possibility of the State providing an FTP platform/website to upload the documents with confirmation of receipt?

Inbound and outbound email are both set to 35MB max size limit. The preference would be to zip file the attachment. The State will not provide an FTP platform/website to upload documents. Respondents have the option of mailing their proposals if they do not wish to email them.

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.5.b.

8 103. Do we know an estimate timeframe these EBP Training Resources will become available?

We estimate this will occur within the first six months of the award, but the State will work with the grantees to determine which programs meet the needs of their participants and this could impact the timeline.

RFGP

Attachments

13 104. A.9 Staffing (5 under clinical staff) states: “The

This provision applies to all positions.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 23 of 25

A.9.d.

Grantees shall ensure all vacant position(s) are filled within sixty

(60) calendar days of posting.

Failure to fill the identified vacant position(s) after ninety

(90) calendar days shall be subject to suspension of funding for the identified vacant position(s). If a Grantee fails to fill identified vacant position(s) after one hundred twenty (120) calendar days, the identified vacant position(s) shall be eliminated for the remainder of the specified contract year. Any payroll savings resulting from a vacant position will only be approved for use of operational expenses and will not be approved for any salary increases or one-time bonus payments.” Does this include all staff positions or just for clinical staff?

6.2 Section

C.2.

21 106. Pg 21 C2-the year says 2014, do you need information from that year or this current term?

That was an error, it should say 2024.

Attachment

6.2 Section

C.3.

21 107. Pg 21 C3 3-does supervision need to be for only 1 year or if the judge/DA requires it to be longer, is that approved?

Any transfer of supervision requires an approval from the Judge, so if the transfer is denied, it is acceptable for the supervision to last longer than one year.

RFGP

Attachment

6.2 Section

E.2.5.

25 108. Pg 25 E2 5/6 Can you provide examples of the “leading citizens”

A leading citizen is an individual of good character that provides contributions to their local community that benefit the common good.

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 24 of 25

6.5 & 6.6 Section A.4.2.

7 109. Can agencies provide two services (i.e. EBP & IOP)

Yes, respondents are encouraged to meet as many identified needs of their participants as they are able.

RFGP

Attachments

6.5 & 6.6 Section E.2.

6.5 Pgs

29-33

6.6 Pgs

31-34

110. New insurance coverage, is the maximum coverage going to be less than $5,000,000

The limits listed are standard state contract limits. There are various minimum and maximum coverage amounts depending on the type of insurance. Please refer to RFGP Attachment 6.5 pages 29-33 and RFGP Attachment 6.6 pages 31-34 to determine the required coverage amounts. In the event that there are difficulties meeting these limits, please note these in your proposal. On a case-by-case basis, TDOC could potentially submit a Rule Exception Request from the State Comptroller.

3. Delete Attachment Four in its entirety and all references and requirements related to Attachment Four.

4. Delete RFGP Attachment 6.5, Section A.7.a. in its entirety and replace with the following:

The Grantee shall provide DRC services at approved locations within the State of Tennessee as found in Attachment Five TDOC Policy #514.01, as may revised. The Grantee may not operate a DRC in the following cities: Memphis, Jackson, Nashville, Murfreesboro, Columbia, Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Johnson City

5. Delete RFGP Attachment 6.6, Section A.7.a. in its entirety and replace with the following:

The Grantee shall provide DRC services at approved locations within the State of Tennessee as found in Attachment Five TDOC Policy #514.01, as may revised. The Grantee may not operate a DRC in the following cities: Memphis, Jackson, Nashville, Murfreesboro, Columbia, Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Johnson City

6. Delete RFGP Attachment 6.5 Section A.9.c. in its entirety and replace with the following:

Case Officer: Minimum education of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. In lieu of a bachelor’s degree, the State will accept full-time professional experience on a year-for-year basis. This includes law enforcement experience. The Grantee must maintain proof of a valid baccalaureate degree or qualifying professional experience for all staff hired in Case Officer position for review at the time of annual audits by OIG staff. If the Grantee fails to submit the documentation within the required time frame, the Grantee must terminate the staff member

RFGP # 32952-13007– Amendment # 2 Page 25 of 25

7. Delete RFGP Attachment 6.6 Section A.9.c. in its entirety and replace with the following:

Case Officer: Minimum education of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. In lieu of a bachelor’s degree, the State will accept full-time professional experience on a year-for-year basis. This includes law enforcement experience. The Grantee must maintain proof of a valid baccalaureate degree or qualifying professional experience for all staff hired in Case Officer position for review at the time of annual audits by OIG staff. If the Grantee fails to submit the documentation within the required time frame, the Grantee must terminate the staff member

8. RFGP Amendment Effective Date. The revisions set forth herein shall be effective upon release. All other terms and conditions of this RFP not expressly amended herein shall remain in full force and effect.