ERPO RFA - FINAL.pdf

Request for Applications (RFA)

For

Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) Infrastructure and Implementation

Kathy Hochul, Governor

Rossana Rosado, Commissioner

Key Dates and Notices

RFA Release Date Wednesday October 7, 2026

Application Due Date: Wednesday December 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) EST

Estimated Total Program Funding Up to $19,500,000

Award Ceiling $1,500,000

Anticipated Number of Awards Approximately 13

Deadline for Final Submission of Questions Wednesday October 21, 2026

Response to Questions Posted On or about November 6, 2026

Notification of Award(s) On or about January 27, 2027

Anticipated Contract Start Date April 1, 2027

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Division of Criminal Justice Services

Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) Infrastructure and Implementation

Table of Contents

I. INTRODUCTION AND GENERAL INFORMATION 3

II. PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS – GUIDELINES – VENDOR SELECTION 4

III. FUNDING, APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY AND CONTRACT TERM 4

IV. BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND FUNDING GOAL 5

V. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION 9

VI. EVALUATION AND SELECTION OF APPLICATIONS 16

VII. REQUEST FOR APPLICATION QUESTIONS 17

VIII. NOTIFICATION OF AWARDS 20

IX. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 21

X. ADMINISTRATION OF CONTRACTS 22

XI. APPLICATION SUBMISSION AND REQUIREMENTS 27

XII. APPLICATION CHECKLIST 29

APPENDICES:

• DCJS Grants Management System (GMS) Instructions and Helpful Hints

• Best Practices for Preparing an Effective Grant Application

• Budget Detail Worksheet and Narrative Guide

I. INTRODUCTION AND GENERAL INFORMATION

The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) enhances public safety by providing resources and services that inform decision making and improve the quality of the criminal justice system. DCJS is a multi-function criminal justice support agency with a variety of responsibilities, including collection and analysis of statewide crime data; operation of the DNA databank and criminal fingerprint files; administration of federal and state criminal justice funds; and the identification and funding of programs that reduce crime, recidivism, and victimization.

DCJS is committed to providing programs that help keep New York’s communities safe and improve the effectiveness of the state’s criminal justice systems. Applications will be selected for funding consistent with the best interest of the state. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate in their response to this solicitation how their funding candidacy supports New York’s commitment to improving the lives of individuals involved in, having previous involvement in, or at risk of involvement in, the criminal justice system as well as promoting public safety.

Through this RFA, DCJS seeks applications to support Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) infrastructure and implementation across the state. Approximately $19.5 million is expected to be available to support proposals that aim to implement innovative strategies to increase the use of ERPOs and raise awareness of ERPOs as a tool to reduce firearm violence and save lives. Individual awards to law enforcement agencies are capped at $1.5 million per agency for the full 36-month contract period for allowable expenses fulfilling defined grant purposes and procedures. Strategies may include best practice interventions, training and coordination, and support for data collection on ERPO utilization.

Projects that support behavioral health collaborations within the impacted community are encouraged.

Please Note:

1. Applications must be received by the submission deadline on-line via the DCJS Grants Management System (GMS). Applicants who are not registered to access GMS will need to obtain user access to respond to this Solicitation.

• Please See Appendix: DCJS Grants Management System (GMS) Instructions and Helpful Hints.

2. Questions regarding this RFA must be emailed to dcjsfunding@dcjs.ny.gov. Responses to the questions will be posted on the DCJS website on or about November 6, 2026. If the applicant has any general questions such as, “Did DCJS receive my e-mail?” please call

(518) 457-9787. Please note that DCJS cannot answer substantive questions concerning this solicitation in any manner other than the e-mail method. Applicants are encouraged to submit their questions to DCJS as soon as possible prior to the deadline.

https://grants.criminaljustice.ny.gov/ mailto:dcjsfunding@dcjs.ny.gov http://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/ofpa/index.htm

3. Applicants will be advised of award decisions via a letter of notification, which will be emailed to the address provided by the applicant in GMS. Where applicable, applicants not receiving an award will receive notification via email to the contact email provided in GMS. A debriefing is available to any entity that submitted an application to this solicitation who is not successful in receiving an award. (See Section: Notification of Awards.)

4. Unless otherwise modified by DCJS, the contract period for this grant opportunity will be for a thirty-six (36) month period, with two optional one-year terms, contingent upon the availability of future appropriations.

II. PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS – GUIDELINES – VENDOR SELECTION

Procurement Guidelines:

Please ensure that the proper procurement guidelines are followed when procuring vendors. It is necessary to ensure that all documentation about how a vendor(s) has been procured and justification for reasonableness of cost is maintained and can be provided to DCJS staff upon request. Please see retention requirements in the Records section. Failure to comply with procurement guidelines may result in disallowance of costs, voucher rejections, and/or termination of contract(s).

Please note, any and all vendors/subcontractors must have all the necessary licenses, approvals, and certifications currently required by the laws of any applicable local, state, or Federal government to perform the services or work, as applicable.

Units of local government should make procurement decisions in accordance with General Municipal Law Article 5-A and any other applicable regulations.

An applicant who proposes to obtain consultant services from a vendor without competitive bidding shall obtain the prior written approval of the Deputy Commissioner of the Office of Program Development and Funding, or their designee. The request for approval shall be in writing and set forth, at a minimum, a detailed justification for selection and the basis upon which the price was determined to be reasonable.

III. FUNDING, APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY AND CONTRACT TERM

A. Funding

It is anticipated that approximately $19.5 million will be made available to support this RFA.

Individual applications and subsequent awards are subject to a cap of $1.5 million per agency for the full 36-month contract period. Please note that applications may only include allowable activities as detailed in this RFA. All funding must support ERPO program efforts that will be accomplished during the contract period. Funding under this program must supplement, not supplant, funds already allocated by the applicant for the proposed program(s).

Supplanting occurs when an applicant reduces existing funds for an activity and/or position specifically because DCJS funding is available (or expected to be available) to fund that same activity. This is prohibited under this RFA.

B. Applicant Eligibility Requirements

Only local municipal police or sheriff’s agencies in New York State, employing sworn officers with police powers are eligible to submit applications. This includes city, town, village, or tribal police departments as well as county sheriff’s offices.

Please note that regional, or multi-agency applications with a single lead applicant are permitted.

C. Contract Term

Grant award agreements, unless otherwise modified by DCJS, will be for a term of 36 months starting April 1, 2027, with two optional one-year terms, contingent upon the availability of future appropriations.

D. Availability and Approved Use of State Funds

Awarded funds may only be used for ERPO expenses or costs directly related to the operation of the Department's ERPO program and delivery of the program's services.

Budgets will be based on actual expenses necessary to support the program. These costs may include personnel, fringe benefits, staff training, consultant services, equipment (e.g. storage lockers for confiscated firearms), supplies, travel and sustenance, and all other expenses as justified for the efficient, successful operation of the program.

For new programs or expansions of existing programs that have not previously received DCJS grant support for start-up implementation costs, specific one-time start-up costs may also be requested as part of the overall budget.

Indirect costs are not an allowable expense for governmental organizations.

Ineligible expenses include, but are not limited to, out of program scope expenses, vehicles, and construction other than minimal renovation as justified by program design and preapproved by DCJS. Costs associated with defending civil claims or litigation against a specific agency or its officers are also not allowable.

IV. Background Information and Funding Goal

This RFA requests applications to support infrastructure and implementation of initiatives directly related to New York’s Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law. This funding and the awarded programs will advance the following key goal:

• Leverage best practices and effective community partnerships to expand and support the appropriate, effective use of ERPOs and ERPO-adjacent activities across New https://erpo.org/state/new-york/

York State, through a variety of initiatives coordinated by law enforcement in partnership with community stakeholders. Operating in accordance with, or adoption of DCJS’s Municipal Police Training Council’s (MPTC) Extreme Risk Protection Order Model Policy, found here, is highly encouraged.

For purposes of this RFA, “ERPO-adjacent activities” include, but are not limited to, activities that directly support the identification, filing, service, firearm removal, storage and return, or tracking of ERPOs, including related training and referral partnerships.

• Additional information related to New York State’s Red Flag Law can be found here.

• ERPOs may be appropriate in a range of circumstances, including suicide risk, domestic and intimate partner violence, and threats of targeted or mass violence;

projects may address any of these and/or other appropriate scenarios.

A. General ERPO Information

An Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO), also known as a ‘red flag’ law, is a civil court order that temporarily restricts firearm access for an individual who is behaving dangerously or presents a high risk of harm to self or others.1 Twenty-two states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are currently utilizing evidence informed ERPO laws to curb the public health crisis of gun violence in the United States.2 In 2023, 46,728 people died by firearms in the U.S., including more than 27,000 firearm suicides – the highest number ever recorded.3 ERPOs can serve as a powerful tool to reduce gun deaths; a 2024 study of four ERPO states estimated that for every 17 ERPOs issued, 1 suicide was prevented.4

Additionally, this best practice resource may prove helpful: Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions.

In most states, law enforcement is responsible for serving ERPO petitions and removing firearms from respondents’ possession. In addition, law enforcement may also:

• Investigate potential ERPO cases.

• Complete an affidavit/filing for an ERPO petition and testify before a judicial officer regarding threats of dangerous actions.

• Coordinate with other law enforcement agencies to mitigate any risks to the

1 Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions. “Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs).” Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions/solutions/red-flag-laws-or-erpos 2 Geller LB, Cantrell SM. Applying an Implementation Science Framework to Extreme Risk Protection Orders. Inquiry. 2025 Jan- Dec;62:469580251371786. doi: 10.1177/00469580251371786. Epub 2025 Sep 3. PMID: 40899864; PMCID: PMC12409057.

3 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ICD-10 Expanded Mortality Data. CDC WONDER. 2023. https://wonder.cdc.gov/ucd-icd10-expanded.html 4 Swanson JW, Zeoli AM, Frattaroli S, et al. Suicide prevention effects of extreme risk protection order laws in four states. J Am Acad Psychiatry Law. 2024;52(3):327-337. doi:10.29158/ JAAPL.240056-24 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcriminaljustice.ny.gov%2Fsystem%2Ffiles%2Fdocuments%2F2026%2F03%2Fmptc_erpo_modelpolicy2025-final.pdf&data=05%7C02%7CAlison.Verdini%40dcjs.ny.gov%7C4c7444f15f3445b1d9b308df0766b008%7Cf46cb8ea79004d108ceb80e8c1c81ee7%7C0%7C0%7C639237809751935015%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Hl7NA%2F%2FqVAFEK2NTXV6pvZ0dAV36Om%2FP7nfGBnPLs4c%3D&reserved=0 https://www.ny.gov/programs/red-flag-gun-protection-law https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions/solutions/red-flag-laws-or-erpos respondent and community.

• Coordinate with community partners such as schools, mental health services, and other social services as appropriate.

• Serve the respondent with any ERPO related documents (petition, temporary order) including a copy of the final ERPO.

• Dispossess the respondent of any firearms to which they have access.

• Safely and securely store the surrendered firearms and return them once the ERPO has expired.

• Conduct regular training for department staff, service providers and community groups on ERPOs, ERPO processes and procedures to increase awareness of ERPOs as a tool.

• Appear with counsel at subsequent hearings.

• Collaborate with social service providers and others to monitor the respondents’ progress as directed by the court and in accordance with state law, to ensure the individual gets connected to necessary resources.

• Ensure ERPO petitions and orders are properly filed with the court. Please note that reporting of temporary and final ERPOs to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) occurs through the Office of Court Administration (OCA), in conjunction with the New York State Police.

B. New York’s ERPO Law

In New York State, the ERPO law5 provides procedural safeguards to ensure that no firearm is removed without due process while helping to prevent gun-related tragedies, including suicides, homicides, and mass shootings. New York’s gun laws are some of the strongest in the nation, and the ERPO law is the first in the United States to allow teachers, school administrators, and mental health professionals to help prevent shootings by pursuing court intervention.6

In New York, petitioners include law enforcement officers, district attorneys, family or household members (including persons related by blood or marriage, current or former spouses, persons with a child in common, household members, and persons in an intimate partnership), school administrators or their designee7, and health care practitioners (including

5 N.Y. Civil Practice Law and Rules, Article 63-A. New York State. NYSenate.gov, https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/CVP/A63-A. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026 6 State of New York. “Red Flag Gun Protection Law.” NY.gov, https://www.ny.gov/programs/red-flag-gun-protection-law. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

7 The school administrator may be from any school in which the respondent is currently enrolled or has been enrolled in the six months immediately preceding the filing of the petition. The school administrator’s designee must be employed at the same school as the school administrator and shall be any of the following who has been designated in writing to file a petition with respect to the respondent: a school teacher, school guidance counselor, school psychologist, school social worker, school nurse, or other school personnel required to hold a teaching or administrative license or certificate, and full or part-time compensated school employee required to hold a temporary coaching license or professional coaching certificate. N.Y. CPLR § 6340(2); N.Y. Soc. Serv. Law § 459-a.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/CVP/A63-A https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/CVP/A63-A licensed physicians, licensed psychiatrists, licensed psychologists, registered nurses, licensed clinical social workers, certified clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse practitioners, licensed clinical marriage and family therapists, registered professional nurses, and licensed master social workers or licensed mental health counselors).8 In 2022, New York strengthened its ERPO law, making it a requirement, rather than an option, for police officer and prosecutorial authorities to pursue the orders.9

There are two types of ERPOs: temporary ERPOs (sometimes referred to as TERPOs) and final ERPOs. All petitioners first file an application for a temporary ERPO. A temporary ERPO remains in effect until the hearing on the final ERPO, which the court must hold no sooner than three nor more than six business days after service of the temporary order. The respondent may request additional time to prepare for the hearing, which can extend that period. If a judge does not issue a temporary ERPO, the hearing for a final ERPO will be held no later than 10 business days after the ERPO application is served on the respondent.10 A final ERPO lasts up to one year.

C. Rural Considerations

Based on 2023 data, across the country, rural counties had a higher percentage of gun suicides out of total suicides compared to metropolitan counties. Data indicates that nearly two-thirds of all suicide deaths in rural counties were inflicted by guns.11 More than 86.6% of New York’s land area is rural with 18% of the population and over 3.5 million people residing in rural areas. The suicide rate in rural New York is significantly greater than the state average (13.1 vs. 8.3/100,000) and has increased at a greater rate between 2000 and 2018 (47% vs. 40%). While there are many factors that amplify suicide risk in rural areas-including social isolation, stigma, and a lack of access to behavioral health services, rates of gun ownership are another factor that increases risk of suicide.12

DCJS encourages applicants to consider whether rural considerations could be specifically addressed and made part of any wider strategy.

D. Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence

Firearm access is a significant lethality factor in domestic and intimate partner violence. In 2022, firearms were used in 33 percent of intimate partner homicides in New York State: 24 percent in New York City and 41 percent in the rest of the state.13 Suicidal ideation by a person who has used violence against a partner is also a recognized warning sign of risk to that partner, and an ERPO can be one component of a safety plan or crisis response in these

8 NY CLS CPLR § 6340; The health care practitioners must have treated the respondent within the six months immediately preceding the filing of the petition to be valid ERPO petitioners. N.Y. CPLR § 6340(2).

9 https://www.governor.ny.gov/executive-order/no-19-directing-state-police-file-extreme-risk-protection-ordersL. 2022, ch. 208 (S.9113-A/A.10502), amending N.Y. CPLR § 6341.

10 NY CLS CPLR § 6342

11 https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions/issues/firearm-suicide 12 https://www.preventsuicideny.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Rural-Suicide-Prevention-Report_2021.pdf 13 DCJS, Domestic Homicide in New York State 2022 (March 2024) https://www.governor.ny.gov/executive-order/no-19-directing-state-police-file-extreme-risk-protection-orders#:%7E:text=Executive%20Order%2019%20directs%20the%20New%20York,the%20supreme%20court%20in%20the%20respondent's%20county https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions/issues/firearm-suicide https://www.preventsuicideny.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Rural-Suicide-Prevention-Report_2021.pdf cases, alongside orders of protection and other existing tools.

DCJS encourages applicants to consider how their proposed project could address the use of ERPOs in domestic and intimate partner violence cases, including through coordination with existing Coordinated Community Response (CCR) Teams and Domestic Violence High Risk Teams (DVHRT), defined below, where they exist.

• Coordinated Community Response (CCR) Teams: A CCR brings together a diverse group of community partners to develop a shared vision to collectively and consistently address the impact of domestic and gender-based violence (GBV) and provide multiple pathways to support, healing, and accountability for families.

• Domestic Violence High Risk Teams (DVHRT): A DVHRT brings together law enforcement, prosecution, community corrections, community-based GBV service providers, and other stakeholders to review and respond to specific high-risk cases, with the goal of preventing future violence and holding accountable those who cause harm.

V. Program Description

Grant funding will be awarded to successful applicants based on the process outlined in this Request for Applications for allowable programs and expenses. Funding may be used to cover personnel, fringe benefits, staff training, consultant services, equipment, supplies, travel and subsistence, and all other expenses as justified for the efficient and successful implementation of proposed activities in support of the funding goal.

A. Allowable Activities

Applicants will propose projects/initiatives in support of the following program/funding goal:

• Leverage best practices and effective community partnerships to expand and support the effective use of ERPOs and ERPO-adjacent activities across New York State, through a variety of initiatives coordinated by law enforcement in partnership with community stakeholders.

Applicants may apply for funding for one or more of the following supportive activities:

• Policy and Protocol Development o Drafting or revising ERPO policies

Use of MPTC’s Model Policy, found here, is encouraged https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcriminaljustice.ny.gov%2Fsystem%2Ffiles%2Fdocuments%2F2026%2F03%2Fmptc_erpo_modelpolicy2025-final.pdf&data=05%7C02%7CAlison.Verdini%40dcjs.ny.gov%7C4c7444f15f3445b1d9b308df0766b008%7Cf46cb8ea79004d108ceb80e8c1c81ee7%7C0%7C0%7C639237809751935015%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Hl7NA%2F%2FqVAFEK2NTXV6pvZ0dAV36Om%2FP7nfGBnPLs4c%3D&reserved=0

Please note the firearm surrender, storage, return and other similar provisions in the MPTC Model Policy o Development of internal implementation guides o Development of referral processes and Memoranda of Understanding with schools and mental health systems o Legal review of ERPO procedures

• Training o Officer and supervisor training on:

ERPO statutory standards

Court procedures, consistent with the Office of Court Administration

(OCA) standards set forth here

Evidence collection and documentation

Firearm surrender o Cross training with prosecutors and court staff o Civilian focused training for other ERPO petitioners (teachers, school administrators, mental health professionals, family, etc.)

• Personnel and Staff Capacity o ERPO Coordinator o Legal support staff/legal representation for the applicant agency in its capacity as ERPO petitioners, including at temporary and final ERPO hearings o Data analysts o Limited overtime for ERPO related duties

• Equipment and Technology o Data tracking tools o Secure firearm storage solutions

• Community Engagement and Collaboration o Mobile Crisis or Mobile Health Response Programming o Participation in Coordinated Community Response (CCR) Teams to integrate

ERPOs into safety planning o Participation in Domestic Violence High Risk Teams (DVHRT) to integrate

ERPOs into high-risk case review

• Community-based organization co-response with Law Enforcement Agency o ERPO Support Specialists o Development of informational materials and training curriculum https://www.nycourts.gov/help/safety-violence/extreme-risk-protection-orders o Awareness, communication and marketing

• Social media campaigns, community awareness and training, community messaging, palm cards, etc.

o Community presentations o Stakeholder advisory groups and partnerships

B. Program and Activity Examples

The following sections include more in-depth information and resources on selected activities to support ERPO implementation. The information and examples are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all potential proposed projects that can be supported by this funding. This section is based on research and best practice resources gathered by the National Criminal Justice Association.

1. Policy and Protocol Development

Model policies are designed to guide law enforcement in the utilization of ERPOs;

Developing a model policy and then providing training based on the policy can be a helpful step in expanding implementation. In 2025, the New York State Municipal Police Training Council developed and updated the Extreme Risk Protection Order Model Policy. Adoption of the Model Policy is recommended, and policy and protocol development should align with its framework and principles where practicable.

2. Training

Research indicates that law enforcement officers with ERPO training or experience are generally more likely to utilize ERPOs as an effective tool to impact and reduce firearm violence, suicide, and victimization.14 Training officers can increase ERPO usage as well as improve overall implementation. Department-wide training is necessary for all members of an agency, to include:

• Basic ERPO training for new officers.

• Ongoing rollcall training to inform officers about law and policy changes related to ERPOs.

• Develop training to support civilian petitioners.

Training is needed for civilian petitioners, such as family members, mental health providers, and school administrators. Law enforcement agencies could partner with community-based organizations to develop a training curriculum, increase

14 Valek R, Teichman R, Rakshe S, Stahla G, DeFrancesco S, Carlson KF. Professional Training and Public Education Can Support Extreme Risk Protection Order Utilization: A Qualitative Study of Professionals in Oregon. Inquiry. 2025 Jan-Dec;62:469580251371379.

doi: 10.1177/00469580251371379. Epub 2025 Sep 1. PMID: 40888123; PMCID: PMC12402562.

https://www.ncja.org/ https://www.ncja.org/ https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcriminaljustice.ny.gov%2Fsystem%2Ffiles%2Fdocuments%2F2026%2F03%2Fmptc_erpo_modelpolicy2025-final.pdf&data=05%7C02%7CAlison.Verdini%40dcjs.ny.gov%7C4c7444f15f3445b1d9b308df0766b008%7Cf46cb8ea79004d108ceb80e8c1c81ee7%7C0%7C0%7C639237809751935015%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Hl7NA%2F%2FqVAFEK2NTXV6pvZ0dAV36Om%2FP7nfGBnPLs4c%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcriminaljustice.ny.gov%2Fsystem%2Ffiles%2Fdocuments%2F2026%2F03%2Fmptc_erpo_modelpolicy2025-final.pdf&data=05%7C02%7CAlison.Verdini%40dcjs.ny.gov%7C4c7444f15f3445b1d9b308df0766b008%7Cf46cb8ea79004d108ceb80e8c1c81ee7%7C0%7C0%7C639237809751935015%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Hl7NA%2F%2FqVAFEK2NTXV6pvZ0dAV36Om%2FP7nfGBnPLs4c%3D&reserved=0 awareness, and use ERPOs in their communities. Readily accessible information and instructions help those petitioners understand the process and more confidently file an ERPO petition.

A training curriculum for civilian petitioners has been developed by the Battered Women’s Justice Project (BWJP) as part of the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence’s (OPDV’s) New York State Gender-Based Violence Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) Training and Technical Assistance Program. This initiative is funded separately from this RFA. OPDV is available to provide technical assistance and support to police agencies as needed.

3. Personnel and Staff Capacity

a. Dedicated ERPO Coordinators

Dedicating staff that are specifically trained on ERPO implementation to oversee ERPO cases can be helpful in expanding utilization across law enforcement agencies. ERPO Coordinators can streamline the process and mitigate administrative burden on law enforcement officers in a variety of ways, including but not limited to:

• Serving as the agency’s main point of contact on all ERPO matters, including communicating with civilians, community-based organizations, and other non-law enforcement personnel.

• Developing ERPO protocols, policies and procedures.

• Collecting and analyzing data pertaining to TERPOs and ERPOs.

• Developing and delivering training for both internal law enforcement staff and civilians and community-based organizations as well.

An ERPO coordinator could be a civilian employee or sworn staff at a law enforcement agency, or they could be housed in a district attorney’s office, or other agency.

The Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions (CGVS) recently published an article about ERPO practices in Lake County, Illinois, including the use of a dedicated ERPO Coordinator. The coordinator’s scope of work includes training and support for law enforcement and other petitioners with all ERPO matters. Applicants interested in utilizing an ERPO Coordinator can review more information in the article, From Policy to Practice: How Site Visits Support Effective Implementation of Extreme Risk Protection Orders. 15

15 Cantrell S, Jacoby R, Lemon T, Rinehart E, Leahy E, Geller L. From Policy to Practice: How Site Visits Support Effective Implementation of Extreme Risk Protection Orders. INQUIRY: The Journal of Health Care Organization, Provision, and Financing. 2026;63.

doi:10.1177/00469580251386249 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00469580251386249 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00469580251386249 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00469580251386249 https://doi.org/10.1177/00469580251386249

b. Legal Support Staff/Legal Representation

Legal representation and guidance can be instrumental in supporting effective ERPO implementation. Law enforcement agencies have benefited from strong partnerships and support from municipal or district attorneys through multiple aspects of the ERPO process. Attorneys can support law enforcement petitioners, as well as non-law enforcement petitioners, through the following activities:16

• Case vetting and filing – Attorneys can review potential cases with officers to ensure they meet specific statutory criteria necessary to file an ERPO.

• Drafting and evidence – Attorneys assist officers in completion of paperwork and collecting evidence, such as police records or witness statements, to justify the ERPO.

• Court representation – Attorneys represent the law enforcement agency in its capacity as ERPO petitioners, at all associated hearings.

• Guidance on implementation – Legal counsel can provide guidance on proper service of orders, safe handling and storage of seized firearms, and legal compliance with all applicable state laws.

• Coordination – Legal counsel can coordinate with community stakeholders, such as victim advocates and behavioral health service providers, to ensure comprehensive safety planning and other support for petitioners and respondents.

4. Equipment and Technology - Safe Storage

New York State’s ERPO laws allow for multiple storage options of dispossessed firearms, such as with law enforcement agencies or a licensed firearms dealer. Multiple storage options support broader use of ERPOs and reduce barriers to firearm relinquishment.

Agencies should review and, where possible, ensure consistency with the Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) Model Policy provisions related to storage, release, and disposition of prohibited weapons.

5. Community Engagement and Collaboration

Collaboration across partners and disciplines increases the effectiveness of ERPO implementation and provides valuable support for law enforcement agencies and

16 “Attorneys.” The National ERPO Resource Center, ERPO.org, https://erpo.org/implementer/attorneys/ https://criminaljustice.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2026/03/mptc_erpo_modelpolicy2025-final.pdf https://criminaljustice.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2026/03/mptc_erpo_modelpolicy2025-final.pdf https://erpo.org/implementer/attorneys/ staff throughout the ERPO process. Potential partnerships/collaborations, include but are not limited to:

• Mental health co-responders

• Crisis intervention teams

• Community organizations

• Prosecutor’s Offices/District Attorneys

• Courts

• County Clerks’ offices

• Domestic Violence Advocates

• Coordinated Community Response (CCR) Teams

• Domestic Violence High Risk Teams (DVHRT)

• Victims’ service providers

• Families and household members of the respondent

a. Multidisciplinary Collaborations

Multidisciplinary collaborations can support law enforcement in the effective service and implementation of ERPOs. Some examples of impactful collaboration include:

• Specially trained mental health professionals supporting law enforcement in identifying and pursuing an ERPO while providing de-escalation of the situation, leveraging their expertise to connect with respondents to needed support services. Co-responder teams and Crisis Intervention teams are well equipped to support ERPO petitions and conduct dispossessions.

• Jurisdictional cross training with law enforcement and crisis intervention teams to establish a designated ERPO response unit that files and serves ERPOs, dispossesses and stores firearms, supports non-law enforcement ERPO petitioners and ensures accountability.

• The previously mentioned Coordinated Community Response (CCR) Teams and Domestic Violence High Risk Teams (DVHRT), working with law enforcement, probation departments, district attorneys; offices, domestic violence service providers and other community partners to ensure that ERPOS are considered as part of a comprehensive, survivor-centered, safety strategy.

b. ERPO Support Specialists

Like an ERPO Coordinator, ERPO Support Specialists can play a crucial role in supporting the effective use of ERPOs. While in practice an ERPO Coordinator is typically housed within a law enforcement agency and focused on the administrative coordination of ERPOs, an ERPO Support Specialist fulfills a broader role, which can include:

• Filing assistance – triage and response to ERPO inquiries, provide guidance on proper paperwork, and filing for all petitioners.

• Community engagement and outreach – connect with community groups, service providers, and others to raise ERPO awareness and support non-law enforcement petitioners (families, school administrators, mental health professionals, etc.) who may be considering an ERPO for a loved one or client.

• Investigation – where the position is housed within a law enforcement agency or prosecutor’s office and consistent with applicable law, investigate firearm access for respondents after ERPO filing through purchase history, efficient communication with law enforcement, previous court orders, etc.

• Data tracking – where the position is housed within a law enforcement agency or prosecutor’s office and consistent with applicable law, track respondent demographics, civil/criminal histories, current violence and firearm data to inform outreach and strategy; assist in data analysis and support ERPO data collection infrastructure.

• Share information and provide training – communicate with prosecutors, law enforcement and courts to promote safe and lawful recovery of firearms and ERPO compliance. ERPO Support Specialists can provide training to petitioners on ERPO practices and educate the public on the use of ERPOs as a tool to prevent gun violence and suicide.

A local or regional ERPO unit can house a dedicated ERPO Support Specialist. The ERPO Support Specialist could play a crucial role as a bridge between individuals in crisis and the ERPO process. Their primary function could be to support families and community members navigating this challenging situation, including determining if an

ERPO is the appropriate course of action, supporting petitioners in the process, and connecting individuals to needed services such as crisis or substance use services.17

The ERPO Support Specialist role can exist in New York as a civilian position within a law enforcement agency, a position in a prosecutor or district attorney’s office, or can be embedded within a community agency. Agencies should consider accessibility and community relationships when determining where to house an ERPO Support Specialist in their community.

c. Awareness, Communication, and Marketing

Since New York law allows for partners, family members, mental health practitioners, and school administrators1819 to file ERPO petitions, resources should be devoted to supporting them. In some situations, family members may prefer to have minimal contact with law enforcement personnel. Readily accessible, approachable information and instructions will assist those petitioners in understanding the process. Public facing, accessible materials with clear information can make the process easier to understand and raise awareness about the use of ERPOs as a tool to reduce gun violence and suicide in communities.

VI. EVALUATION AND SELECTION OF APPLICATIONS

Tier I Evaluation – Threshold Pass/Fail

The Tier I Evaluation assesses whether applications satisfy minimum “pass/fail” criteria for funding. All applications will be initially screened by DCJS reviewers to determine their completeness using the following criteria:

• Application was received by the published deadline.

• Applicant is eligible as defined by this solicitation.

• Budget detail and justification is provided in the GMS Budget tab itemizing and justifying expenses in support of the program/project.

Tier I Evaluation criteria will receive pass/fail ratings. Any application that does not meet each of these conditions may be subject to disqualification from further review. DCJS may, at their discretion, request additional information from an applicant as deemed necessary.

17 ”King County, Washington.” Everytown Research & Policy, 15 Jan. 2026, https://everytownresearch.org/erpo-case-studies/king-county-wa/ 18 https://ww2.nycourts.gov/erpo 19 https://erpo.org/state/new-york/ https://everytownresearch.org/erpo-case-studies/king-county-wa/ https://ww2.nycourts.gov/erpo https://erpo.org/state/new-york/

Tier II Evaluation – Evaluation and Scoring

Reviewers will evaluate applications that successfully pass the Tier I Evaluation. A standard rating tool will be used to score responses to questions provided in the application. (See Questions section for additional information.)

The maximum application score will be 100 points. Each response will be scored, and all scores will be totaled, resulting in an overall score. DCJS reserves the right to apply a minimum application score of 75 points to be eligible for funding. The final score will be determined by averaging team reviewers’ overall scores for each application. DCJS may, at their discretion, request additional information from an applicant as deemed necessary. In the event of a substantial scoring disparity, defined as 15 or more points of the total available points, an additional reviewer may rate the relevant application and the average of all the scores will determine the final average score of the application. In the event of a tie score among applicants, and where both applicants cannot be selected, an additional reviewer will rate the affected application and the average of the scores will represent the final score. In the event that two or more of the applications have a tied score after final calculation of all categories, the application with the higher score in the Project Plan will prevail.

Tier III Evaluation

The Tier III Evaluation assessments will be conducted by designated DCJS executive staff.

During the Tier III Evaluation, applicants shall be selected and award amounts shall be determined through consideration of some or all of the following: Tier I eligibility review, Tier II Evaluation scoring and comments, strategic priorities, available funding, and best overall value to New York State.

Final award decisions will be made by DCJS in accordance with the best interests of the State. DCJS reserves the right to award funding to ensure geographic equity. Nothing herein requires DCJS to approve funding for any applicant.

The DCJS Commissioner, or their designee, will make the final decisions regarding approval and individual award amounts based on the quality of the submission, the recommendations of the reviewers, and the specific criteria set forth in this solicitation. Awards must be approved by the Division of the Budget and may also require Attorney General and Office of the State Comptroller approval. All awards are subject to funding availability.

VII. REQUEST FOR APPLICATION QUESTIONS

Applicants must respond to the sections/questions below within the DCJS Grants Management System (GMS), as instructed. GMS instructions are located as an Appendix to this solicitation.

Please prepare prospective responses in a Microsoft Word Document using Arial, 11-point font and

1.5 line spacing with a maximum page limit of 20 pages.

Responses should then be copied and pasted to GMS under the Questions module “tab” of the application. Applicants are also required to attach the Microsoft Word document with responses to these questions using the Attachments module in GMS.

Responses to the following questions will be scored and are the basis for Tier II Evaluation funding recommendations. Note: The aggregate scoring value assigned to all questions equals a total possible score of 100 points.

A. Statement of Need (15 points)

Applicants will need to summarize the need for the proposed project. Responses should include the following components:

• A brief overview of the applicant’s existing ERPO implementation efforts.

• A description of what barriers or challenges exist to ERPO utilization and implementation within the community, agency, or entity.

• Any relevant local or department level data to describe the need for the proposed project.

• Explain the reason for requesting funds: did the applicant experience a loss of funding, is this a new or expanded initiative, are you seeking to expand capacity through resources, training, etc.?

B. Project Plan (30 points)

Applicants must describe their proposed project plan to implement activities/initiatives that support effective implementation and utilization of New York’s ERPO law. Applicants’ response should include:

• A detailed overview of the proposed project. Please include:

o Addressing Need: Explanation of how the proposed project supports issues described in Section A – Statement of Need.

o Funding Goal Alignment: A clear description of how the proposed project/initiative will advance the key goal to: Leverage best practices and effective community partnerships to expand and support the effective use of ERPOs and ERPO-adjacent activities across New York State, through a variety of initiatives coordinated by law enforcement in partnership with community stakeholders.

o Goals/Objectives/Activities: A detailed description of the proposed project components/activities including any specific goals, objectives and deliverables.

o Resources/Partnerships: Other resources including collaborations or community partnerships that are needed for successful implementation of the project. Responses should include:

Details of any partnerships, including a summary of the agency/organization and specific roles as applicable.

Any necessary agreements (i.e. Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) or subawards) that will be established to formalize partnerships and carry out proposed project activities.

o Outcomes and Impact: A description of the anticipated outcomes and impact of the proposed project/initiative.

C. Implementation Plan (25 points)

Applicants must describe the steps that will be taken to implement the proposed project/initiative, including activities/deliverables, how funds will be used, project roles and responsibilities, and timeline. Responses should include:

• Implementation Steps: Steps to be taken to implement proposed program(s) and/or initiative(s), including specific activities/deliverables throughout the grant period.

• Use of Grant Funds: How grant funds will be used to carry out the proposed project plan, including a timeline to ensure that spending occurs during the grant period.

• Other Resources: What other resources, including leveraged resources (funding, existing programs, etc.) will be used, if applicable to contribute to the proposed project.

• Partnerships: What and how collaborations and/or partnerships as described in section B – Project Plan will be leveraged/established to carry out the proposed project plan.

• Leadership and Oversight: Who will be responsible for this project overall and who will be responsible for individual steps, if different.

• Potential Barriers and Mitigation Strategies: What potential issues may prevent successful implementation of the proposed project/initiative? Describe any anticipated mitigation strategies.

D. Operating Budget Detail and Justification (20 points)

Using the Budget Detail Worksheet and Budget Narrative sheet as a guide, enter the operating budget directly into the Budget module “tab” of the GMS system. Prepare a line-item budget, including detailed justification, by appropriate category of expense (e.g., Personnel, Fringe Benefits, Consultants, etc.). All funded positions should clearly indicate the general duties, full annual salary of the position, hours worked per week, and proposed hours or percentage of Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) supported by the grant.

Budgets should reflect total project costs for a 36-month contract period and be limited to allowable costs. Key considerations:

• If a paid trainer is to deliver training, the cost should be listed in the budget category as “Consultant Services.” Training materials should be listed under the “Supplies” budget category.

• Consultant Services: All consultant services must be obtained in a manner that provides fair and open competition. An applicant who proposes to obtain consultant services from a vendor without competitive bidding shall obtain the prior written approval of the Deputy Commissioner of the Office of Program Development and Funding, or their designee. The request for approval shall be in writing and set forth, at a minimum, a detailed justification for selection and the basis upon which the price was determined to be reasonable. Further, such consultant services must be in accordance with the guidelines, bulletins, and regulations of the NYS Office of the State Comptroller and the State Procurement Council.

• Indirect Costs are not an allowable expense for governmental organizations.

• MWBE forms will be completed and collected when the application is selected for funding, and the contract is sent for review.

E. Data Collection and Impact Measurement (10 points)

Data is critical for measuring effective implementation, reach, and impact. Data collection and analysis will enhance understanding of the laws’ impact on firearm violence, provide necessary feedback to policymakers, identify gaps in implementation or other challenges to inform continuous improvement, and help identify and correct inequitable use of ERPOs. Applicants will be required to collect and track data on the use of ERPOs in furtherance of the goal of this funding and demonstrate the impact of their proposed project/initiative.

a. Describe your department’s capacity and approach to collect, review, and share data on

ERPOs, program activities, participation, and community impact. (5 points)

b. Which data elements will you track, and how will you use this information to understand progress, improve programming, and maintain accountability throughout the award period? (5 points)

VIII. NOTIFICATION OF AWARDS

Applicants approved for funding will be notified in writing by DCJS to the email address provided in GMS. The terms of the final contract agreement are subject to negotiation between DCJS and the grantee.

For those not receiving awards, notification will be sent to the email address provided in GMS.

A debriefing is available to any entity that applied to this solicitation and was not successful in receiving an award. Applicants will be accorded fair and equal treatment with respect to an opportunity for a debriefing. A debriefing shall be requested in writing by the unsuccessful applicant within 15 calendar days of being notified in writing by DCJS that the application was not selected for an award.

Pursuant to §163(9)(c) of the State Finance Law, any non-awarded applicant may request a debriefing regarding the reasons the application was not selected for award.

An unsuccessful applicant’s written request for a debriefing must include specific questions that the applicant wishes to be addressed, and must be submitted to DCJS via the funding mailbox at dcjsfunding@dcjs.ny.gov. The debriefing shall be scheduled to occur within 30 business days of receipt of written request by DCJS or as soon as feasible.

If DCJS and a successful award recipient cannot agree to contract terms within ninety days of notification of selection for award, DCJS reserves the right to rescind the award and redistribute the funds.

IX. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Reporting requirements are provided below:

GMS Quarterly Progress Reporting

All grantees will be required to submit quarterly progress reports via GMS that describe quarterly performance and activities in support of the project Work…