PHPA 3686_SFY26 Firefighters Research RFA 121025 .pdf

REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS (RFA)

STANDARD GRANT AGREEMENT (SGA)

(COMPETITIVE)

PROCUREMENT ID NUMBER – PHPA 3686/BPM054472

Issue Date: December 10, 2025

Maryland Firefighter Innovative Cancer

Screening Technologies Research Planning

Grants

NOTICE

A Prospective Applicant that has received this document from the Maryland Department of Health, or that has received this document from a source other than the Procurement Officer, and that wishes to assure receipt of any changes or additional materials related to this RFA, should immediately contact the

09/2024

Procurement Officer and provide the Prospective Applicant’s name and mailing address so that addenda to the RFA or other communications can be sent to the Prospective Applicant.

STATE OF MARYLAND

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

RFA KEY INFORMATION SUMMARY SHEET

Request for Applications: Maryland Firefighter Innovative Cancer Screening

Technologies Research Planning Grants

Solicitation Number: PHPA 3686/BPM054472

RFA Issue Date: December 10, 2025

RFA Issuing Office: Maryland Department of Health

Prevention and Health Promotion Administration

Cancer and Chronic Disease Bureau

Center for Cancer Prevention and Control

Procurement Officer: Li’Chelle Lindsey

Maryland Department of Health

201 West Preston Street

Baltimore, MD 21201

Phone: 410-767-5621 e-mail: LiChelle.Lindsey@Maryland.gov

Grant Monitor: Sadie Peters, MA, MD, MHS

Center for Cancer Prevention and Control

201 West Preston Street, 302B

Baltimore, MD 21201

Questions due date and time: December 31, 2025 Time: 2:00 pm EST Local Time

Applications are to be sent to: eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA)

(https://emma.maryland.gov/page.aspx/en/usr/login?Return

Url=%2fpage.aspx%2fen%2fbuy%2fhomepage). For questions and/or technical assistance, please contact emma.helpdesk@maryland.gov. In addition, you may visit https://procurement.maryland.gov for additional information.

Closing Date and Time: January 07, 2026 Time: 2:00pm EST Local Time https://emma.maryland.gov/page.aspx/en/usr/login?ReturnUrl=%2fpage.aspx%2fen%2fbuy%2fhomepage https://emma.maryland.gov/page.aspx/en/usr/login?ReturnUrl=%2fpage.aspx%2fen%2fbuy%2fhomepage mailto:emma.helpdesk@maryland.gov https://procurement.maryland.gov/

SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Summary Statement

1.1.1 The Maryland Department of Health (MDH or the Department), Center for Cancer Prevention and Control, is issuing this Request for Applications (RFA) as part of a phased approach to evaluating the impact of firefighter cancer screening funded by the Maryland Professional and

Volunteer Firefighter Innovative Cancer Screening Technologies Program (the Program). The

Program, through a competitive process, awards fire departments and fire companies funds to buy and administer innovative cancer screening tests that may not be obtained at regular annual physical examinations or that may not be covered by health insurance. Whether these innovative screening tests or testing modalities help improve cancer morbidity or mortality for firefighters through early diagnosis and treatment is unclear. This project is to solicit research designs that evaluate the efficacy and effectiveness of the Program’s cancer screening among Maryland firefighters.

1.1.2 For this solicitation, the Department seeks research centers to provide detailed, actionable research plans for data collection and data analysis of anticipated outcomes associated with firefighter cancer screening activities funded by the Maryland Professional and Volunteer

Firefighter Innovative Cancer Screening Technologies Program.

1.1.3 This solicitation does not include research implementation activities. Implementation of the research to evaluate the impact of the Program’s cancer screening among Maryland firefighters will be conducted at a later date with a separate solicitation, depending on future funding availability. Grantees for this current solicitation who MDH deems to have successfully completed this project’s planning activities are encouraged to apply for implementation funding from MDH as such funding becomes available.

1.1.4 It is the State’s intention to obtain research planning services, as specified in this RFA, from an

Agreement between the selected Applicants and the State. The anticipated duration of services to be provided under this Agreement is April 1, 2026 - June 30, 2026.

1.1.5 The Department intends to make up to 4 awards as a result of this RFA. The total amount available for this opportunity is $120,000.

1.1.6 Applicants, either directly or through their subcontractor(s), must be able to provide all services and meet all the requirements requested in this solicitation and the successful Applicant shall remain responsible for performance regardless of subcontractor participation in the work.

1.2 Contract Type

1.2.1 The Agreement resulting from this solicitation shall be a Fixed Price Contract.

https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/cancer/Pages/Firefighter-Cancer-Screening-Technologies-Program.aspx https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/cancer/Pages/Firefighter-Cancer-Screening-Technologies-Program.aspx

1.3 Procurement Officer

1.3.1 The sole point of contact in the State for purposes of this solicitation prior to the award of any

Agreement is the Procurement Officer at the address listed below:

Li’Chelle Lindsey

Maryland Department of Health

201 West Preston Street

Baltimore, MD 21201

Phone: 410-767-5621 e-mail: LiChelle.Lindsey@Maryland.gov

1.3.2 The Department may change the Procurement Officer at any time by written notice.

1.4 Grant Monitor

1.4.1 The Grant Monitor is:

Sadie Peters

Maryland Department of Health

Center for Cancer Prevention and Control

201 West Preston Street, 302B

Baltimore, MD 21201

1.4.2 The Department may change the Grant Monitor at any time by written notice.

1.5 eMaryland Marketplace Advantage

1.5.1 Each Applicant is requested to indicate its eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA) vendor number in the Transmittal Letter (cover letter) submitted at the time of its application submission to this RFA.

1.5.2 eMMA is an electronic commerce system administered by the Maryland Department of General

Services. The RFA and associated materials, the solicitation and summary of the Pre-Proposal

Conference, Applicant questions and the Procurement Officer’s responses, addenda, and other solicitation-related information will be provided via eMMA.

1.5.3 In order to receive a contract award, a vendor must be registered on eMMA. Registration is free. Go to https://procurement.maryland.gov/, click on “Register” to begin the process, and then follow the prompts.

https://procurement.maryland.gov/

1.6 Questions

1.6.1 Written questions from prospective Applicants will be accepted by the Procurement Officer.

Questions to the Procurement Officer shall be submitted via e-mail to the following e-mail address: LiChelle.Lindsey@maryland.gov Please identify in the subject line the Solicitation

Number and Title.

1.6.2 Questions are requested to be submitted no later than the due date indicated on the RFA Key

Information Summary Sheet. The Procurement Officer, based on the availability of time to research and communicate an answer, shall decide whether an answer can be given before the

Application due date.

1.7 Application Due (Closing) Date and Time

1.7.1 Applications, in the number and form set forth in Section 4.2 “Applications' ' must be received by the Procurement Officer, in eMaryland Marketplace (eMMA) or the RFA email address

RFA.PHPA@maryland.gov, no later than 2:00 pm EST Local Time on January 07, 2026 in order to be considered. If emailing, please identify in the subject line the Solicitation Number and Title.

1.7.2 Requests for an extension of this time or date will not be granted. Applications received after the due date and time listed in this section will not be considered. Questions regarding this solicitation should be directed (By e-mail only, no phone calls will be accepted) to the

PROCUREMENT OFFICER.

1.7.3 Applications may be modified or withdrawn by written notice received by the Procurement

Officer before the time and date set forth in this section for receipt of Application. Multiple and/or alternate Applications will not be accepted.

1.8 Award Basis

1.8.1 The Grant shall be awarded to responsible Applicants submitting Applications that have been determined to be the most advantageous to the State, considering price and evaluation factors set forth in this RFA, for providing the activities as specified in this RFA. See RFA Section 5 for further award information.

1.9 Revisions to the RFA

1.9.1 If it becomes necessary to revise this RFA before the due date for Applications, the Department shall endeavor to provide addenda to all prospective Applicants that were sent this RFA, or which are otherwise known by the Procurement Officer to have obtained this RFA.

1.9.2 Acknowledgment of the receipt of all addenda to this RFA issued before the Application due date shall be included in the Transmittal Letter accompanying the Applicant’s Project Narrative.

Acknowledgement of the receipt of addenda to the RFA issued after the Application due date shall be in the manner specified in the addendum notice. Failure to acknowledge receipt of an addendum does not relieve the Applicant from complying with the terms, additions, deletions, or corrections set forth in the addendum.

mailto:RFA.PHPA@maryland.gov

1.10 Cancellations

1.10.1 The State reserves the right to cancel this RFA, accept or reject any and all Applications, in whole or in part, received in response to this RFA, waive or permit the cure of minor irregularities, and conduct discussions with all qualified or potentially qualified applicants in any manner necessary to serve the best interests of the State. The State reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to award a Grant based upon the written Applications received without discussions or negotiations.

1.10.2 In the event a government entity proposes and receives the recommendation for award, the contract, application and solicitation for this RFA may be canceled, and the award processed in accordance with COMAR 21.01.03.01.A(4). If the services that are the subject of the RFA are currently being provided under an interagency agreement with a public institution of higher education and the State determines that the services can be provided more cost effectively by the public institution of higher education, then the RFA may be canceled in accordance with Md.

Code Ann., State Finance and Procurement Art., § 3- 207(b)(2).

THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

SECTION 2 – MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Applicant Mandatory Requirements

The Applicant must provide proof with its application that the following Mandatory Requirements have been met:

2.1.1 The Applicant shall be a social organization as defined per Section 7-402 of the State Finance and

Procurement Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland or a local, state government agency, public college or state university.

2.1.2 For social organization Applicants (not local, state government agency, public college, or state university), the Applicant must be a nonprofit organization, classified by the IRS as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Applications must include attachments of the following documentation from the applicant:

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: Documentation of tax-exempt status of the Applicant or the Applicant’s fiscal sponsor (i.e., IRS tax exempt status determination letter)

2.1.3 The applicant research center shall be an organization or a unit within a Maryland organization that operates in Maryland.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: Documentation of tax forms showing a Maryland address

2.1.4 The Applicant shall have previous experience in developing, coordinating, promoting, or facilitating the understanding of a specific area of study that includes human subjects research with Maryland populations.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: The Applicant must submit a portfolio of previous work or conducting human subjects research with Maryland populations or other documentation that demonstrates previous experience.

SECTION 3 – SCOPE OF WORK

3.1 Background and Purpose

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), firefighters have a significantly higher risk of developing cancer and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer compared to the general United States population.1 In 2019, the Maryland legislature, in an effort to support cancer screening for firefighters, established the Maryland Professional and Volunteer Firefighters Innovative

Cancer Screening Technologies Program (Program). As required by Health-General Article §§13-4001-

13-4007, the Maryland Department of Health Center for Cancer Prevention and Control administers the

Program and funds Maryland fire departments and volunteer fire companies and departments (collectively known as “fire departments”) to procure innovative cancer screening tests that may be unavailable during routine physical examinations or that may not be covered by insurance.

The Program aims to reduce cancer mortality among professional and volunteer firefighters while advancing the adoption of novel technologies that may also benefit the health of Marylanders and the economy of the State. However, it is unclear if this effort reduces cancer morbidity or mortality among

Maryland firefighters screened. Hence, careful assessment of the Program’s clinical utility and effectiveness in finding cancers and cancer risks early is necessary to maximize and improve its effectiveness.

This solicitation is specifically for Maryland research centers to propose plans for evaluating the impact of firefighter cancer screening conducted using one or more innovative cancer screening technologies funded by the Program. For this project, research centers will develop detailed, actionable plans describing how they would collect, analyze, and process program outcome data associated with firefighters cancer screening activities funded by the Program. In subsequent state fiscal years, action plans resulting from these planning grants would be implemented to evaluate the impact of the Program’s cancer screening among firefighters via a separate solicitation, dependent on available funding.

The Program application process is outlined below to provide Applicants with a better understanding of the Program and how its activities are currently implemented by fire departments.

Current Program Application Process for Fire Departments

In compliance with the governing statute, each year MDH issues an RFA soliciting applications from fire departments for funding to procure cancer screening tests.

Eligibility. Both professional and volunteer fire departments/companies based in Maryland are eligible to apply, as well as counties and other local government entities applying on behalf of their fire departments.

Associations representing volunteer fire departments or fire department collaborations are also encouraged to apply with written permission from the fire departments represented.

Partnership with a Healthcare Team. Before applying, fire departments must assemble a healthcare team to help identify a valid innovative cancer screening test, assist with implementation preparation, and oversee test administration. Fire departments are required to name the healthcare team members who will guide development and administration of informed consent documents, deliver post-test counseling for

1 NIOSH Firefighter Cancer Study Finds Higher Cancer Rates among US Firefighters https://www.sffcpf.org/niosh-study-of-firefighters-finds-increased-rates-of-cancer/ https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/cancer/Pages/Firefighter-Cancer-Screening-Technologies-Program.aspx https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/cancer/Pages/Firefighter-Cancer-Screening-Technologies-Program.aspx https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ghg&section=13-4001&enactments=True&archived=False https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ghg&section=13-4001&enactments=True&archived=False people who have positive or actionable screening results, and provide advice on accessing resources for further diagnostic testing and treatment should these be needed.

Identification of a Valid Innovative Cancer Screening Test. The fire department’s application must include documentation of:

a. the claimed accuracy and reliability of the proposed test;

b. the scientific and clinical evidence supporting the claimed accuracy and reliability of the screening test;

c. whether the test employs innovative or novel technologies such as DNA sequencing, genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and other state-of-the-art technology.

d. whether the test can simultaneously screen for two or more cancer types for which firefighters have a higher incidence or death rate;

e. the cost of the test; and

f. whether the test is developed, manufactured, or commercialized by a business entity in Maryland.

Identification of Firefighters to be Screened. Fire departments are also required to estimate the number of firefighters to be screened. The RFA also requires applicants to disclose how they are identifying who is at highest risk and therefore prioritized for screening.

Implementation of Cancer Screening. In State Fiscal Years (SFY) 2024 and 2025, a majority of fire departments used the funds to purchase a commercially available blood-based multi-cancer detection test.

Fire departments used email, flyers, social media, and word of mouth to inform firefighters of this cancer screening opportunity. The test company delivered cancer screening test kits to sites chosen by the fire departments–usually the fire service or county headquarters with private meeting rooms that could host large numbers of firefighters at one time. Some fire departments hired phlebotomists to help with blood draws, but others used certified nurses or paramedics from their fire services for blood draws. Several fire departments conducted large scale screening sessions over a couple days, but others had more protracted blood drawing timelines. In SFY 2024, grant funds supported screening of 513 firefighters using this blood-based biomarker test and in SFY 2025, 425 firefighters were screened with the same blood-based biomarker test.

In SFY 2025, two grantees contracted with an ultrasound imaging service to offer whole body ultrasound to their firefighters. The ultrasound company brought their equipment to the fire department headquarters and, over several consecutive days or batches of days, performed the half hour exam in private rooms specifically scheduled for these cancer screening sessions. One hundred sixty-one firefighters were screened via ultrasound using Program funds.

3.2 Scope of Work - Requirements

The Applicant shall:

3.2.1 Research Proposal Outline

that includes:

3.2.1.1 Specific Aims: A concise statement of the overarching goals and the specific aims the planning project will address.

3.2.1.2 Approach: Detailed description of the methodologies and activities to be undertaken during the planning phase. This should include:

A. Literature reviews and analysis of firefighter cohorts of need

B. Description of the proposed innovative cancer screening technologies/tests to be assessed

C. Engagement and partnerships with fire departments or firefighter associations

D. Description of how the research cohort will be identified, enrolled, and followed over time

E. Experience and qualifications of the research team and organizational support

F. Required equipment/supplies, and data management procedures

G. Proposed outcomes to be tracked (with frequencies and timelines)

H. Estimation of the impact of the chosen test/screening modality on morbidity and mortality

3.2.1.3 Sustainability: Description of how the planning and subsequent implementation will lead to a sustainable, larger-scale outcomes research initiative and potentially secure future funding

3.2.1.4 Outline a budget and budget justification:

A. Detailed breakdown of anticipated expenses for implementing the research project

B. Clear justification for each item in the budget

3.2.2 Work Plan

Using the template provided, the Applicant will submit a Work Plan with their application that describes the activities of this planning effort. See ATTACHMENT G for the Work Plan template.

3.2.3 Reporting Requirements and Project Deliverable

3.2.3.1 At the end of the grant period, the Applicant shall submit both a final invoice and financial report and a final project report to the MDH grant monitor by the deadline specified.

A. A final financial report listing all grant expenditures during the award period (on the template MDH will provide) is required by the due date set by MDH.

B. The final project report (the Project Deliverable) should summarize the project activities undertaken for this planning project and contain an Action Plan detailing proposed activities for implementing future research on the impact of innovative cancer screening using the tests funded by the Maryland Professional and Volunteer Firefighter Innovative

Cancer Screening Technologies with firefighters in Maryland.

3.2.4 General Requirements

3.2.4.1 The Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act (https:

www.ada.gov/) protects qualified individuals with disabilities from discrimination on the basis of disability in services, programs, and activities. Accessibility and inclusion of diverse populations are essential to reduce health disparities for vulnerable populations. Contractors must comply with all ADA requirements in their work to ensure the needs of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable populations are met. This includes, but is not limited to:

● facilities and any venues used for meetings/conferences are accessible.

● requested accommodations are provided in a timely manner; and

● written and printed materials developed in accessible formats (easy to read, large print, etc.), or providing access to alternative formats.

For contracts which include direct patient care or service delivery through a program, the ADA requires entities provide full and equal access for people with disabilities. This includes, but is not limited to:

● reasonable modifications of policies, practices, and procedures.

● effective communication; and

● accessible facilities.

3.3 Invoicing

3.3.1 General

(a) All invoices shall include the following information:

● Grantee name;

● Remittance address;

● Federal taxpayer identification number (or if sole proprietorship, the individual’s social security number);

● Invoice period;

● Invoice date;

● Invoice number

● State assigned Contract number;

● State assigned (Blanket) Purchase Order number(s);

● Goods or services provided; and

● Amount due.

Invoices submitted without the required information cannot be processed for payment until the Contractor provides the required information.

(b) The Department reserves the right to reduce or withhold Grant payment in the event the

Grantee does not provide the Department with all required deliverables within the time frame specified in the Grant or in the event that the Grantee otherwise materially breaches the terms and conditions of the Grant until such time as the Grantee brings itself into full compliance with the Grant.

3.3.2 Invoice Submission Schedule

The Grantee shall submit invoices in accordance with the following schedule:

Document Expenditure Period Due Date Payment

Amount

Project Invoice April 1, 2026 - June 30, 2026 July 15, 2026 Actual expenditures must be accompanied by adequate documentation

Final Financial Report April 1, 2026 - June 30, 2026 August 15, 2026

3.3.3 Insurance Requirements - The recommended awardee must provide current certificate(s) of insurance with the prescribed coverages, limits and requirements set forth in this section within five (5) Business Days from notice of recommended award. During the period of performance for multi-year contracts, the Grantee shall provide certificates of insurance annually, or as otherwise directed by the Contract Monitor. Any insurance furnished as a condition of the Contract shall be issued by a company authorized to do business in the State of Maryland.

3.3.3.1 Subcontractor Insurance - The Grantee shall require any subcontractors to obtain and maintain comparable levels of coverage and shall provide the

Contract Monitor with the same documentation as is required of the

Contractor.

3.3.3.2 The following type(s) of insurance and minimum amount(s) of coverage are required:

A. Commercial General Liability - of $1,000,000 combined single limit per occurrence for bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury and $3,000,000 annual aggregate. The minimum limits required herein may be satisfied through any combination of primary and umbrella/excess liability policies.

B. Errors and Omissions/Professional Liability - $1,000,000 per combined single limit per claim and $3,000,000 annual aggregate.

C. Worker’s Compensation - The Contractor shall maintain such insurance as necessary or as required under Workers’ Compensation Acts, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’

Compensation Act, and the Federal Employers’ Liability Act, to not be less than one million dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence (unless a state’s law requires a greater amount of coverage). Coverage must be valid in all states where work is performed.

SECTION 4 – APPLICATION FORMAT

4.1 Two Part Submission

4.1.1 Applicants shall submit applications in separate volumes:

▪ Volume I – Project Narrative

▪ Volume II – Budget Justification/Narrative

4.2 Applications

4.2.1 Applications must be submitted to eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA), or the RFA email address RFA.PHPA@maryland.gov. The Procurement Officer will not accept submission after the date and exact time stated in the Key Information Summary Sheet.

4.2.1.1 The submission subject line shall state the RFA Title and PHPA number and either

Project Narrative or Budget and Budget Narrative.

4.2.1.2 Two Part Submission:

A. Project Narrative (See Section 4.3)

B. Budget and Budget Narrative (See Section 4.4)

4.2.2 Applications will be shown only to State employees, members of the Evaluation Committee, or other persons deemed by the Department to have a legitimate interest in them.

*All information submitted as part of this proposal is subject to release under the Public

Information Act (PIA). If you would like the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) to consider redactions in the event that your proposal is subject to a PIA request, submit a proposed PIA copy including justifications for each redaction and under what statute that justification is qualified for redaction.

4.3 Volume I – Project Narrative

Note: No pricing information is to be included in the Project Narrative (Volume 1). Pricing information is to be included only in the Budget and Budget Narrative (Volume II).

4.3.1 The Project Narrative shall include the following documents and information in the order specified as follows:

4.3.1.1 Transmittal Letter:

● Applicant;

● Solicitation Title and Solicitation Number that the Proposal is in response to;

● Signature, typed name, and title of an individual authorized to commit the

Applicant to its Proposal;

mailto:RFA.PHPA@maryland.gov

● Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) of the Applicant, or if a single individual, that individual’s Social Security Number (SSN);

● Applicant’s eMMA number;

● Applicant’s MBE certification number (if applicable);

● Applicant’s SBR number (if applicable) – please contact eMMA at 410-767-1492 if you don’t know your number.

4.3.1.2 Scope of Work/Work Plan shall include the Scope of Work, including the Work Plan

(as described in Section 3.2).

4.3.1.3 Mandatory Requirements Documentation

Please ensure all the documentation listed in Section 2.1 is complete and submitted with your Application.

4.3.1.4 Applicant Technical Response to RFA Requirements and Proposed Work Plan:

(A Work Plan template is provided as Attachment G.)

a. The Applicant shall address each Scope of Work requirement (Section 3.2) in its

Project Narrative and describe how its proposed services, including the services of any proposed subcontractor(s), will meet or exceed the requirement(s). If the

State is seeking Applicant agreement to any requirement(s), the Applicant shall state its agreement or disagreement. Any paragraph in the Project Narrative that responds to a Scope of Work (Section 3.2) requirement shall include an explanation of how the work will be done. Any exception to a requirement, term, or condition may result in having the Application classified as not reasonably susceptible of being selected for award or the Applicant deemed non-responsive.

b. Applicant shall acknowledge they have read the American with Disabilities Act

Statement in Section 3.2 and will meet all requirements.

4.3.1.5 Signed W-9 with Contact Person Names and Phone Number

4.3.1.6 SDAT Status- Maryland State Department of Assessments & Taxation (SDAT).

Visit https://sdat.dat.maryland.gov/RealProperty/Pages/default.aspx for additional information.

a. The applicant shall take the necessary steps to ensure good standing with the

Maryland State Department of Assessments & Taxation.

b. The applicant must be in good standing at the time the award is made.

https://sdat.dat.maryland.gov/RealProperty/Pages/default.aspx

4.4 Volume II – Budget and Budget Narrative

4.4.1 In a separate document from the Project Narrative and clearly identified in the format identified in

Section 4.2 “Applications,” the Applicant shall submit the Budget and Budget Narrative. The

Budget and Budget Narrative shall contain all price information in the format specified in

Exhibits A and B.

4.4.2 The Applicant shall attach the Budget Narrative (Exhibit B) to the Budget Form (Exhibit A) that details the total cost of the proposed activities. The budget categories may include: Personnel

(salary and fringe), Consultants; Travel; Contractual; Supplies; Operating Costs; and Other project-related costs.

SECTION 5 – EVALUATION COMMITTEE, EVALUATION CRITERIA,

AND SELECTION PROCEDURE

5.1 Evaluation Committee

5.1.1 Evaluation of Applications will be performed by a committee established for that purpose and based on the evaluation criteria set forth below. The Evaluation Committee will review

Applications, participate in Applicant oral presentations and discussions, and provide input to the

Procurement Officer. The Department reserves the right to utilize the services of individuals outside of the established Evaluation Committee for advice and assistance, as deemed appropriate.

5.2 Project Narrative Evaluation Criteria

The criteria to be used to evaluate each Project Narrative within the Scope of Work: Requirements are listed below in descending order of importance.

5.2.1 Research Proposal Outline as described in section 3.2.1

5.2.2 Work Plan as described in section 5.2.2

5.2.3 Reporting Requirements and Project Deliverable as described in section 3.2.3

5.2.4 General Requirements as described in section 3.2.4

5.3 Budget and Budget Narrative Evaluation Criteria

All Qualified Applicants will be ranked from the lowest (most advantageous) to the highest (least advantageous) based on the rating of the Project Narratives. The Budget and Budget Narrative file will be evaluated based on reasonable cost given the time and effort described in the Project Narrative. The budget line items must be within the stated guidelines set forth in this RFA and as submitted on Exhibit

A (Budget) and Exhibit B (Budget Narrative).

5.4 Selection Procedures

5.4.1 General

The Grant will be awarded in accordance with the Standard Grant Agreement method outlined in the Announcement. The State may determine an Applicant to be non-responsive and/or an

Applicant’s Application to be not reasonably susceptible of being selected for award at any time after the initial closing date for receipt of Applications and prior to Grant award.

If the State finds an Applicant to be not responsive and/or an Applicant’s Project Narrative to be not reasonably susceptible of being selected for award, that Applicant’s Budget Narrative will be returned if the Budget Narrative is unopened at the time of the determination.

5.4.2 Award Determination

Upon completion of the Project Narrative and Budget Form and Budget Narrative evaluations and rankings, each Applicant will receive an overall ranking. The Procurement Officer will recommend award of the Grant to the responsible Applicant that submitted the Application determined to be the most advantageous to the State. In making this most advantageous

Application determination, technical factors and financial factors will be weighted equally.

RFA ATTACHMENTS

EXHIBIT A – Budget Form

This must be completed and submitted in the same file as the Budget Narrative (Exhibit B) and separate from the Project Narrative.

EXHIBIT B- Budget Narrative

This form must be completed and submitted with the Budget Form (Exhibit A), but separate from the

Project Narrative.

EXHIBIT C- Standard Grant Agreement “Sample”

This is the sample grant agreement used by the Department. It is provided with the RFA for informational purposes and is not required to be submitted at Application submission time. Upon notification of recommendation for award, a completed standard grant agreement will be sent to the recommended awardee for signature. The recommended awardee must return to the Procurement Officer one (1) executed copies of the Standard Grant Agreement within five (5) Business Days after receipt.

Upon award, a fully executed copy will be sent to the Grantee. APPENDIX A & B, which contain the original application and budget documents.

EXHIBIT D – RFA Document Checklist Use this checklist to ensure that the required documents for the Project Narrative and Budget Narrative are completed.

ATTACHMENT A- Conditions of Award

ATTACHMENT B- Federal Funds

ATTACHMENT C- Debarment Affirmation

ATTACHMENT D - Certification Regarding Tobacco Smoke

ATTACHMENT E - Certification Regarding Lobby

ATTACHMENT F- Additional Information required for Prevention and Health Promotion

Administration Grants

ATTACHMENT G- Work Plan template

EXHIBIT A – BUDGET FORM

BUDGET FORM

The Budget Narrative shall contain all price information in the format specified on these pages. Complete the Budget Form only as provided in the Budget Form format. Do not amend, alter or leave blank any items on the Budget Form. Failure to adhere to any of these instructions may result in the Budget

Narrative being determined non-responsive and rejected by the Department.

Submitted By:

Authorized Signature: _______________________________________________ Date:

Printed Name and Title:

Company Name :

Company Address:

Location(s) from which services will be performed (City/State):

FEIN: _________________________________________

eMMA #: ________________________________________

Telephone: (_______) _______-- ____________________

Fax: (_______) _______--____________________

E-mail: _________________________________________

Budget Summary

Line Item Qty Unit Cost Total Cost

Salary

Fringe

Contractual

Travel

Operating Costs

Supplies

Other

Other

Other

Other

TOTAL

IDC % CAP: There are no indirect costs allowed for this planning grant.

EXHIBIT B – BUDGET NARRATIVE

BUDGET NARRATIVE TEMPLATE

(Please submit a separate Narrative for each Budget Period)

Sample Line-Item Justification

Personnel (Preventionist): $15,600

Justification: The Preventionist will be responsible for: conducting project-related relationship-building activities with new and existing partners; developing informational materials for community leaders and the public, including fact sheets and social media posts related to the project topic; coordinating and facilitating monthly project meetings with partners; conducting awareness-building activities within key demographic areas in the community to engage the project target audience; developing and providing professional training at targeted local governmental agencies and private businesses; attending community events relevant to the project and the project’s partners. The Project Coordinator will also attend RISEMD meetings, collect data, conduct evaluation activities, prepare reports, and act as a liaison with the MDH Grant Monitor.

$30/hr. x 520 hours = $15,600

EXHIBIT C – Standard Grant Agreement “Sample” (Replace with RFA template revision)

ORGANIZATIONS RECEIVING APPROPRIATIONS FROM THE STATE

STANDARD GRANT AGREEMENT

This Agreement, which is executed in compliance with Section 7-402 of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, is made this <enter day> day of <month, year> , between the State of

Maryland (the “State”), acting through the Maryland Department of Health, (the “Department”), located at <enter

MDH Address> and the <grantee name> (the “Grantee” ), located at <grantee address> in <county / city> County, <state, zip> , a Maryland Limited Liability Company / Corporation. .

1. Effective on the date of execution of this Agreement, the State is extending to the Grantee a grant in the amount of

<amount in words> Dollars ($ xx,xxx.xx) (the “Grant”), which the Grantee shall use only for the following purposes: <grant purpose>

2. Any expenditure of Grant funds that is not consistent with the purposes stated in paragraph 1 may, at the sole discretion of the Department, be disallowed. Should any expenditure be disallowed, or should the Grantee violate any of the terms of this Agreement, the State may require repayment to the State Treasury, an offset from any State Grant to the Grantee in the current or succeeding fiscal year, or other appropriate action. The Grantee shall repay to the State any part of the Grant that is not used for the purposes stated in paragraph 1 within 3 months after the date of this Agreement.

3. The Grantee may not sell, lease, exchange, give away, or otherwise transfer or dispose of real or personal property, or any part of or interest in real or personal property, acquired with Grant funds without the prior written consent of the

Department. This includes transfer or disposition to a successor on the merger, dissolution, or other termination of the existence of the Grantee. The Grantee shall give the Department written notice at least 30 calendar days before any proposed transfer or disposition. Any proceeds from a permitted transfer or disposition shall be applied to repay to the State a percentage of that portion of the Grant allocable to the particular real or personal property transferred or disposed of, unless the Department and the

Grantee agree to other terms and conditions. The percentage shall be equal to the percentage of the unadjusted basis of the property that would remain if the property had been recovery property placed in service after December 31, 1980, and if all allowable deductions had been taken up to the time of disposition under the Accelerated Cost Recovery System (ACRS) specified in the United States Internal Revenue Code, Section 168(b)(1).

4. For any item of real or personal property that is acquired with Grant funds and has an original fair market value of

Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) or more, the Grantee shall, at its own expense, and for the reasonable useful life of that item or for 5 years, whichever is less, obtain and maintain insurance. The insurance shall provide full protection for the Grantee and the

State against loss, damage, or destruction of or to the real or personal property. The Grantee shall, on request, provide the

Department with satisfactory evidence of its compliance with this requirement. Proceeds of insurance required by this paragraph shall be applied toward replacement of the real or personal property or toward the partial or total repayment of the State of the

Grant, in the sole discretion of the Department.

5. The Grantee may not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other characteristic forbidden as a basis for discrimination by applicable laws and certifies that its Constitution or by-laws contains a non-discrimination clause consistent with the Governor’s Code of Fair practices.

6. The person executing this Agreement on behalf of the Grantee certifies, to the best of that person’s knowledge and belief, that:

A.) Neither the Grantee, nor any of its officers or directors, nor any employee of the Grantee involved in obtaining contracts with or grants from the State or any subdivision of the State, has engaged in collusion with respect to the Grantee’s application for the Grant or this Agreement or has been convicted of bribery, attempted bribery, or conspiracy to bribe under the laws of any state or of the United States.

B.) The Grantee has not employed or retained any person, partnership, corporation, or other entity, other than a bona fide employee or agent working for the Grantee, to solicit or secure the Grant or this Agreement, and the Grantee has not paid or agreed to pay any such entity any fee or other consideration contingent on the making of the Grant or this Agreement; the grantee understands and complies with the Conflicts of Interest provision of the Public Ethics Law, Maryland

Code Annotated, General Provisions, Title 5, Subtitle 5.

C.) The Grantee, if incorporated, is registered or qualified in accordance with the Corporations and Associations

Article of the

Annotated Code of Maryland, is in good standing, has filed all required annual reports and filing fees with the

Department of Assessments and Taxation and all required tax returns and reports with the Comptroller of the Treasury, the Department of Assessments and Taxation, and the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, and has paid or arranged for the payment of all taxes due to the State; and

D.) No money has been paid to or promised to be paid to any legislative agent, attorney, or lobbyist for any services rendered in securing the passage of legislation establishing or appropriating funds for the Grant.

E.) Neither the Grantee, nor any of its officers or directors, nor any person substantially involved in the contracting or fund raising.

activities of the Grantee, is currently suspended or debarred from contracting with the State or any other public entity or subject to debarment under the Code of Maryland Regulations, COMAR 21.08.04.04.

7. Within 60 calendar days after the close of any grant period in which the Grantee receives funds under this

Agreement, the Grantee shall provide to the Department an itemized statement of expenditures, showing how the funds were expended for that grant period. In addition, a copy of the statement shall be mailed to the Director, General Accounting Division, Office of the Comptroller of the Treasury, Room 200, Louis L. Goldstein Treasury Building, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. The

Grantee shall retain bills of sale or other satisfactory evidence of the acquisition of any real or personal property for at least 3 years after the date of this Agreement. The Department, the Department of Budget and Management, the State Comptroller, and the Legislative Auditor, or any of them, may examine and audit this evidence, on request, at any reasonable time within the retention period.

8. The Grantee shall comply with Section 7-221, 7-402, and 7-403 of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the

Annotated Code of Maryland, as applicable.

9. The laws of Maryland shall govern the interpretation and enforcement of this Agreement.

10. This Agreement shall bind the respective successors and assigns of the parties.

11. The Grantee may not sell, transfer, or otherwise assign any of its obligations under this Agreement, or its rights, title, or interest in this Agreement, without the prior written consent of the Department.

12. No amendment to this Agreement is binding unless it is in writing and signed by both parties.

13. The following items are incorporated by referenced and made a part of this Agreement . Appendix A & B, Attachment A, B, C, D, E.&F.

SIGNATURES ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, WITNESS the hands and seals of the parties.

GRANTEE

(Name of Corporation or Association)

By: ___________________________________________

. SEAL

Name: .

Title:

DEPARTMENT

Maryland Department of Health.

(Name of Corporation or Association)

By: __________________________________________

SEAL

Name: _______________________________

Title:

Date:

Date: __________________________________________

APPENDIX A

The Department’s Grant Monitor is: The Grantee’s Grant Monitor is:

<Name and Title of MDH grant monitor> <enter name, title, office, grantee agency, address, <Office> phone number and email >

Maryland Department of Health

201 W. Preston Street

Baltimore, Maryland 21201

Phone:

Email:

I. BACKGROUND INFORMATION OF AGREEMENT

<Enter background information of the agreement>

II. DUTIES OF THE GRANTEE

SCOPE OF WORK:

<Enter all duties and scopes of work for the grant agreement>

APPENDIX B (insert revised budget)

Cost Estimate for:

<Name of Project>

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE - <Date of Project>

<Enter Budget>

II. DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT

Other than awarding the funds to the <grantee/sub-recipient/sub-awardee> for this project

<MDH awarding agency> will:

Provide necessary technical support and monitoring to <grantee/sub-recipient/sub-awardee> to ensure state and federal grant compliance.

This includes but is not limited to:

● Completion of the MDH Office of the Inspector General Risk Assessment. Visit https://health.maryland.gov/oig/Pages/DHMH%20OIG.aspx for more information.

● Completion of the Standard Grant Agreement Checklist.

● Determination of Good Standing with the Maryland State Department of

Assessments & Taxation (SDAT). Visit https://sdat.dat.maryland.gov/RealProperty/Pages/default.aspx for additional information.

● Review for Debarment, Suspension, or any Exclusion from doing business with

Maryland. Visit https://bpw.maryland.gov/pages/debarments.aspx for additional information.

● Determination regarding No Conflicts of Interest.

● Review of Single Audits https://health.maryland.gov/oig/Pages/DHMH%20OIG.aspx https://sdat.dat.maryland.gov/RealProperty/Pages/default.aspx https://bpw.maryland.gov/pages/debarments.aspx

SECTION IV. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

Both parties hereby agree that the documents described below, if any, are hereby incorporated into and made an integral part of this Agreement: (Type "None", if none)

Exact Title of Document(s)

Number of Pages

Conditions of Award- Attachment A 2

Federal Funds- Attachment B 2

Debarment Affirmation- Attachment C 2

Certification Regarding Tobacco Smoke- Attachment D 1

Certification Regarding Lobby- Attachment E 5

Additional Information required for Prevention and Health Promotion

Administration Grants – Attachment F

ATTACHMENT A

CONDITIONS OF AWARD

Maryland Department of Health (MDH)

<Enter Department Here>

<Enter Federal Awarding Agency Here>

<Enter Name of Federal Award and Grant Number Here>

Period of Performance: <Enter from and To Dates Here>

Important Dates:

<Enter Date Here>: Quarterly progress report

<Enter Date Here>: All funds obligated

<Enter Date Here>: All funds must be spent

<Enter Date Here>: Final progress and fiscal report due to MDH

The grantee/sub-grantee/sub-recipient (circle one), shall comply with these conditions. Consequences for failure to comply with these conditions may include: a point reduction in score for future competitive and non-competitive applications, a reduction of overall award, audit exceptions and/or reduction in future awards.

Program Requirements:

1. The grantee/sub-grantee/sub-recipient, <Enter Grantee Name Here > agrees to comply with MDH guidelines and initiatives with regards to their expenditures/purchases.

2. When procuring equipment, the recipient must comply with the procurement standards at 45 CFR Part

92.36 and 45 CFR 74.40 through 74.48, including 74.45, which requires the performance and documentation of some form of cost or price analysis with every procurement action.

3. The grantee/sub-grantee/sub-recipient, will perform activities that coordinate, integrate, prioritize and sustain improvements in public health emergency preparedness.

4. The grantee/sub-grantee/sub-recipient, shall cite < Enter Name of Federal Award > and the MDH <Enter

Department Here> as a funding source when publishing or presenting data or programs partially or fully funded by MDH grants.

5. The grantee/sub-grantee/sub-recipient, should inform the MDH <Enter Department Here> as a courtesy when a presentation or publication is made public that involves programs or data partially or fully funded by MDH, and any federal grants. All reports, data, software, or presentations generated from federal funded projects must be made available to MDH for review and comment prior to release or distribution.

Fiscal Requirements:

1. The grantee/sub-grantee/sub-recipient, shall not use <Enter Name of Federal Award> to:

a. Support the costs of operating clinical trials of investigational agents, equipment or treatments;

b. Make payments directly to recipients of services, except for reimbursement of reasonable and allowable out-of-pocket expenses associated with consumer participation in State or consortia activities;

c. Support legal services;

d. Provide direct maintenance expenses of privately owned vehicles or any other costs associated with a vehicle, such as lease or loan payments, vehicle insurance, or license registration fees;

e. Purchase or improve land, or to purchase, construct, or make permanent improvements to any building, except for minor remodeling;

f. Pay property taxes;

g. Fund capital improvement projects;

h. Supplant personnel costs and/or other activities.

i. Prepare, distribute, or use of any material (publicity/propaganda) or to pay the salary or expenses of grants, contract recipients, or agents that aim to support or defeat the enactment of legislation, regulation, administrative action, or executive order proposed or pending before a legislative body.

2. The grantee/sub-grantee/sub-recipient will comply with all MDH and federal fiscal requirements for timely submission of detailed budgets and budget modifications, including monthly invoice requirements.

3. The grantee/sub-grantee/sub-recipient will return any unspent and unobligated funds to MDH and provide…