RFA DMH Training Services Master Agreement RFA.docx

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services Department of Mental Health

Document Title: Request For Application (RFA) for Training Services Master Agreement

COMMBUYS RFA Number: BD-27-1022-DMH08-8210C-134629

DMH RFA Number: 2027-DMH-Training-MA-01

Date: October 23 2026

Contact Name: Elizabeth Welch

Email: elizabeth.welch@mass.gov

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Attachments

RFA – DMH Training Services Master Agreement RFA COMPELTE - Application and Cover Page 2026.02.26.docx COMPLETE – Training Services Cost Prososal.docx COMPLETE - SDP Plan Form 2023.xlsx COMPLETE - DMH Environmental Preferable Products Checklist COMPLETE - Business Reference Form.docx READ - Evaluation Tool_TrainingMA_FINAL.docx READ - DMH Training MA SOW FORM~1.docx READ - DMH Business Associate Terms and Conditions .docx READ – DMH Standard Contract Requirements READ - OSD RFR - Required Specifications for Commodities and Services 7.10.24.docx READ - OSD Instructions for Vendors Responding to Bids via Commbuys~4.docx READ- Commonwealth Standard Contract Instructions_Contractor Certifications_Terms.pdf READ - Commonwealth of Massachusetts Standard Contract Form.docx READ - Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing.pdf READ - MA Form_W-9.pdf READ - CASL_Sole Proprietor.pdf READ - Electronic Funds Transfer Sign Up Form~6.pdf Request For Application for Training Services Master Agreement DMH #2027-DMH-Training-MA-01 October 2026

1. INTRODUCTION AND GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Issuing Entity/COMMBUYS Information

The terms of 801 CMR 21.00 Procurements of Commodities and Services are incorporated by reference into this Request for Application (RFA). Capitalized Words used in this RFA shall have the meanings defined in 801 CMR 21.00.

Unless otherwise stated, all attachments to this Request for Application (RFA) are included in the Bid’s COMMBUYS file. A list of the attachments that were included when this RFA was issued is set forth at the end of the Table of Contents. The attachments are incorporated into the RFA by this reference. Applicants should review the attachments with care.

General Description of the Procurement and Services being Procured The Department of Mental Health (DMH) seeks to establish a Training Services Master Agreement (TSMA) for the provision of various Training Services, to be purchased as needed. This Request for Applications (RFA) seeks applications from individuals and agencies who wish to be approved to enter into contracts to deliver training services on behalf of the Department of Mental Health (DMH).

These Training Services may include, but are not limited to, the development of evidence-informed training content and/or the delivery of training content in evidence-based or promising practices that are responsive to the culture, language, and identity of the populations DMH serves, for DMH staff, DMH vendor programs, community stakeholders, community members, and individuals served by DMH.

Applicants must demonstrate experience and expertise both in the subject matter of the training(s) proposed and in the development and/or delivery of training content. Applicants may be trainers certified or otherwise credentialed to deliver specific evidence-based or promising practices. DMH is especially interested in applications from prospective trainers who are culturally representative of, and/or speak the languages of, the individuals DMH serves.

Training content may address such areas as: core principles of DMH service delivery (e.g., trauma-informed care, recovery-focused, person-centered, and family-focused); screening, assessment, psychiatric diagnosis, risk management, and psychosocial treatment across the lifespan; and operational practices (e.g., utilization management, project management). (See Section 1.3 for more details.)

If this procurement results in Applicants being determined qualified to provide Training Services in accordance with Section 7 of this RFA (hereinafter, “Qualified Providers”), they will be awarded Training Services Master Agreement Contracts (“TSMA Contracts”) and listed on the Training Services Master Agreement Qualified Provider List (“TSMA List”). Qualified Providers will be awarded Contracts and included on the TSMA List only for the specific Training Services described in their applications and approved by DMH. A provider may submit more than one application and be approved for more than one Training Service. DMH is seeking to maximize the number of Qualified Providers awarded Contracts and included on the TSMA List (hereinafter, “Contractors”) in order to meet demand, address a wide variety of service needs, and provide more options.

When a DMH Area or Division needs to purchase Training Services, it will, to the extent possible, utilize a Contractor(s) on the TSMA List. To purchase the Service, the applicable DMH Area or Division will select a Contractor from the TSMA List using the criteria set forth in Subsection 8.4.2, and will enter into a Statement of Work (SOW) with the selected Contractor. The SOW that DMH intends to use to purchase Services is set forth in the Bid’s COMMBUYS file. DMH may change the format of the SOW if necessary.

A SOW is not a separate contract, but an engagement under the applicable Contractor’s TSMA Contract. More details about SOWs are provided in Subsection 8.4.

DMH makes no guarantee that Training Services will be purchased from any Contractor on the TSMA List. However, a Contractor may enter into multiple SOWs with DMH Areas or Central Office Divisions during the procurement term and may elect to do so with any DMH Area and/or Division.

The TSMA List will be the primary source for the purchase of Training Services. DMH, however, retains the right to obtain Training Services from other sources if it is in the best interest of DMH to do so.

Training Service Needs Through the TSMA resulting from this RFA, DMH is seeking to utilize Contractors on the TSMA List to provide Training Services, including but not limited to the domains listed below. Trainers in their Applications need to describe the full range of Training Services for which they are seeking to be included on the TSMA List. Trainers included on the TSMA List may only be awarded SOWs for the specific Training Services for which they are on the TSMA List.

0.1.1 Core Service Delivery Principles

Recovery and empowerment; whole-health and wellness; person-centered, youth guided and family driven care; equity and inclusion in service delivery; trauma-responsive care; cultural and linguistic competency; and reducing stigma, discrimination, and other barriers to services.

0.1.2 Screening, Assessment & Diagnosis

Psychosocial assessment and diagnosis across the lifespan; psychological and neuropsychological assessment and interpretation; functional assessment instruments (e.g., The CAFAS (Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale) and CANS (Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths)); and screening, assessment, treatment, and management of risk (e.g., violence, suicide, fire-setting, substance use, problematic sexual behavior, and inability to care for self).

0.1.3 Population-Specific & Specialized Clinical Topics

· Development across the lifespan: older adults and aging; emotional health of young children; and adolescent development and transition-age youth issues.

· Specialized clinical topics: forensic psychiatry; competency restoration; antisocial personality disorder; non-suicidal self-injury; eating disorders; complex PTSD; strategies for persistent engagement; gender identity and sexual orientation; grief, loss, and postvention support; parents with mental illness; early psychosis; smoking cessation; weight management; stress reduction; diabetes; perinatal/postpartum mental health; intimate partner violence screening and response; human trafficking awareness and response; military culture and veteran-specific mental health needs; and Deaf and hard of hearing mental health.

· Medical and neurological co-occurring conditions with behavioral/psychiatric manifestations: HIV/AIDS; Hepatitis; intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD); autism spectrum disorder (ASD); and traumatic brain injury.

· Housing insecurity and other social determinants of health, including education and employment; and rural and other specific service settings.

0.1.4 Evidence-Based & Promising Intervention and Treatment Modalities

· Specific evidence-based and promising practice models: Motivational Interviewing; Illness Management and Recovery; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT); Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Individual Resiliency Training; Multi-family group; CPR and First Aid; Hearing Voices Network; Michael's Game; Alternatives to Suicide; Intentional Peer Support (IPS); Six Core Strategies to Reduce Seclusion and Restraint; Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM); Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS); Zero Suicide; and Changing Lives, Changing Outcomes.

· Psychosocial intervention and treatment approaches: family psychoeducation; family therapy; peer support; group work (e.g., skill-building, support, and psychotherapy groups); cognitive rehabilitation; sensory integration; relapse prevention and safety planning; meditation; and faith-based approaches.

0.1.5 Medication & Pharmacology

General pharmacology; psychopharmacology for psychiatrists and non-physician staff; shared decision-making; long-acting injectables; metabolic syndrome; and medication-assisted treatment for substance use.

0.1.6 General Service Delivery Skills

Treatment planning; documentation and electronic health record best practices; utilization management; working with interpreters; active listening; telehealth; de-escalation techniques; vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, and staff self-care/burnout prevention; trauma-informed clinical supervision; boundaries and professional relationships; expert witness testimony; and responsible use of AI/technology-assisted tools in behavioral health care.

0.1.7 Administrative & Workforce Development

Quality improvement and quality management; policy and program development; program evaluation; billing and compliance; financing strategies and cost-effectiveness; strategic planning; project management; implementation science; adult learning strategies; emergency preparedness and disaster readiness and response; prevention of medical errors; fire safety; and fidelity reviews.

Procurement Information

1.4.1 Applicable Procurement Law. This Bid is issued under the following law(s):

1.4.2 Terms and Conditions. The Commonwealth Terms and Conditions will be incorporated into the Master Agreements resulting from this RFA. See the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Standard Contract Form and Instructions, Contractor Certification, and Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, in the Bid’s COMMBUYS file, for more information about the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions.

1.4.3 Number of Awards. DMH expects to enter into multiple Master Agreement contracts as a result of this RFA.

DMH reserves the right to negotiate the acquisition method for a SOW at the time the SOW is executed; provided, however, that the acquisition method selected must be one of the methods included in the applicable Contractor’s Application and at the rates or costs that were agreed to by DMH and included as part of Contractor’s Master Service Contract. The rates and costs may be amended from time to time as agreed to be the parties.

1.4.5 Anticipated Expenditure, Funding or Compensation for Expected Duration It is anticipated that the annual amount spent by DMH for Training Services will be approximately $1,400,000.

Contract Duration The duration of a Master Agreement issued during the First TSMA Application and Award Period is as follows:

Anticipated end date of procurement and all MAs issued under the procurement including all rights of renewals

June 30, 2037

DMH will provide Contractors with written notice of its intent to renew.

If a TSMA Contract is awarded after the First Application and Award Period, the duration of the Contract will be put in line with the TSMA Contracts that were awarded during that First Application and Award period, so that potentially all TSMA Contracts will be subject to renewal and termination at the same time. DMH reserves the right to award a Contract for a shorter period if it is determined to be in DMH’s best interest.

All TSMA Contracts and renewals are subject to appropriations and the performance of the Contractors.

PROCUREMENT CALENDAR AND OVERVIEW OF RULES GOVERNING THE PROCUREMENT

Procurement Calendar

Thereafter questions may be submitted at any time up to June 1, 2037, by 3pm

Thereafter responses to questions will be posted at a minimum every 90 days, as is necessary.

Thereafter Applications may be filed at any time up to June 1, 2037, by 3pm

After the First TSMA Review and Award Period, reviews will occur approximately within 30 days of an Application being filed.

After the First Review and Award Period, Negotiations if needed will occur approximately within 45 days of an Application being filed.

Contract Awards (Estimated)

First Review Period: Master Agreement Contracts, if any, will be awarded during the week of December 23, 2026 Thereafter Master Agreements will be awarded as is necessary.

Times are Eastern Standard/Daylight Savings (US), as displayed on the COMMBUYS system clock displayed to Applicants after logging in.

If there is a conflict between the dates in this Procurement Calendar and dates in the Bid’s Header, the dates in the Bid’s Header on COMMBUYS shall prevail. Applicants are responsible for checking the Bid record, including Bid Q&A, on COMMBUYS for Procurement Calendar updates.

Accommodations Applicants who need reasonable accommodation regarding this RFA must submit an email to the RFA contact person (listed in the RFA Title sheet) that describes their needs and the desired accommodation. Requests will be addressed on a case-by-case basis. DMH may deny requests that cause undue hardship or otherwise are not deemed ‘reasonable’. Accommodation could include, but are not limited to, the receipt of RFA information in an alternative format; language access such as translations and/or interpreters, or other types of assistance at various stages of the procurement (e.g., Questions and Answers, Applicant’s Presentation, Contract Negotiation, etc.).

For more information, see the “Reasonable Accommodations” section of the OSD RFA Required Specification for Commodities and Services that is included in the Bid’s COMMBUYS file.

Written Questions Via COMMBUYS The “Bid Q&A” provides the opportunity for Applicants to ask written questions regarding this Bid and receive written answers from DMH. Questions must be submitted through the Bid Q&A found on COMMBUYS prior to the Deadline for Submission of Questions stated in Subsection 2.1. DMH may not respond to questions submitted after the deadline. It is the Applicants’ responsibility to verify receipt of questions Questions submitted using any other medium (including mail, fax, email, or voicemail, etc.) will not be answered. To reduce the number of redundant or duplicate questions, Applicants should review all questions previously submitted to determine whether their questions have already been posted.

Applicants are responsible for entering content suitable for public viewing since all questions are accessible to the public. Applicants must not include information that could be considered personal, security sensitive, inflammatory, incorrect, collusory, or otherwise objectionable, including information about the Applicant’s company or other companies. DMH may edit or delete submitted questions that raise any of these issues or that are not in the best interest of the Commonwealth or this Bid.

Answers are final when posted. Subsequent revisions to previously provided answers will be dated.

To Locate Bid Q&A on COMMBUYS: log into COMMBUYS, locate the Bid, acknowledge receipt of the Bid, and scroll down to the bottom of the Bid Header page. A “Bid Q&A” button is on the bottom of that page, and it provides access to the Bid Q&A page.

Except as specifically permitted by this RFA, Applicants are not to Communicate with DMH employees about this RFA.

Bid Amendments, Withdrawal, and Cancellation DMH may make amendments to the Bid. Applicants must check COMMBUYS for amendments to this Bid, and any Bid Q&A records related to this Bid. DMH accepts no responsibility and will not accommodate Applicants who submit Applications based on an out-of-date Bid or on information received from a source other than COMMBUYS.

Amendments to the Bid will only apply to Applications filed after the date of the Amendments. Amendments may be made to Contracts as indicated in Subsection 8.2.

This RFA does not commit DMH to awarding TSMA Contracts to any Applicants or to purchase any Training Services. DMH, at its discretion, may accept or reject any Application; negotiate with any or all Qualified Providers; and withdraw and cancel the RFA, in part or its entirety, at any time.

Required Use of COMMBUYS This Bid has been released on COMMBUYS. COMMBUYS is the official source of information for this Bid.

2.5.1 COMMBUYS Market Center. COMMBUYS is the official source of information for this Bid and is publicly accessible at no charge at www.commbuys.com. Information contained in this document and in COMMBUYS, including file attachments, and information contained in the related Bid Questions and Answers (Q&A), are components of the Bid, as referenced in COMMBUYS, and are incorporated into the Bid and any resulting contract.

Applicants are solely responsible for obtaining all information distributed for this Bid via COMMBUYS. Bid Q&A supports Applicant submission of written questions associated with a Bid and publication of official answers.

It is each Applicant’s responsibility to check COMMBUYS for:

· Any amendments, addenda, or modifications to this Bid, and

· Any Bid Q&A records related to this Bid.

The Commonwealth accepts no responsibility and will provide no accommodation to Applicants who submit a Quote based on an out-of-date Bid or on information received from a source other than COMMBUYS.

2.5.2 COMMBUYS Registration. Applicants may elect to register for a free COMMBUYS Seller account which provides value-added features, including automated email notification associated with postings and modifications to COMMBUYS records. However, to respond to a Bid, Applicants must register and maintain an active COMMBUYS Seller account.

All Applicants submitting a response to this Bid agree that, if awarded the contract they will: 1) maintain an active seller account in COMMBUYS; 2) when directed to do so by DMH, activate and maintain a COMMBUYS-enabled catalog using Commonwealth Commodity Codes; 3) comply with all requests by DMH to utilize COMMBUYS for the purposes of conducting all aspects of purchasing and invoicing with the Commonwealth, as added functionality for the COMMBUYS system is activated; and 4) if the Commonwealth adopts an alternate e-procurement platform, successful Applicants will be required to utilize such system, as directed by the procuring entity. Commonwealth Commodity Codes are based on the United Nations Standard Products and Services Code (UNSPSC).

2.5.3 COMMBUYS Resources. COMMBUYS uses terminology with which Applicants must be familiar to conduct business with the Commonwealth. To view this terminology and to learn more about COMMBUYS, please visit the Learn about COMMBUYS Resources page on mass.gov.

2.5.4 Applicants Prohibited from Adding Response Terms or Making Alterations. Applicants in their Response must not propose additional contractual terms, or supplemental or clarifying language pertaining to contractual terms, even if the proposed additions/clarifications are not in conflict with the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, the Standard Contract Form, or other documents comprising this RFA. Modifications to the body of the Bid may disqualify an Applicant.

Ownership of Submitted Applications and Application Costs All materials submitted by Applicants become the property of the Commonwealth and will not be returned. The Commonwealth may use any ideas, concepts, or configurations that are presented in an Application, whether it is selected for the Contract award. The Commonwealth will not be responsible for any costs or expenses incurred by Applicants responding to this RFA.

Applications stored on COMMBUYS in the encrypted lockbox are considered the files of record. Applicants retain access to a “read-only” copy of this submission via COMMBUYS, as long as their account remains active.

2.7 Applicant Certifications

In addition to the certifications found in the Commonwealth's Standard Contract Form, an Applicant that submits an Application certifies that the Application has been arrived at independently and has been submitted without any communication, collaboration, or without any agreement, understanding, or planned common course of action with any other Applicant of the commodities and/or services described in the RFA. Also, the Applicant certifies that the Bid will remain in effect for at least 90 days from the date of Application submission.

If an Applicant uses generative AI in preparing its Application, the Applicant further certifies that it has reviewed and verified the accuracy and completeness of all information submitted, and remains fully responsible for the content of its Application regardless of the tools used to prepare it.

MINIMUM APPLICANT QUALIFICATIONS

At a minimum an Applicant must meet the requirements set forth in this Section 3. As part of the minimum submission review process, described in Subsection 7.1, it will be determined if an Applicant meets these requirements; if not, the Applicant’s Application will be rejected and not fully reviewed.

Note if an Applicant is other than the individual, the Applicant must list in their application all individuals who will be providing the Training Services that are described in the Application and such individuals must meet the requirements set forth in this Section with the exception of the debarment, Fiscal and the Environmental Products requirements which must be met by the corporation, company or other type of entity filing the Application.

3.1 Applicant Requirements

DMH seeks Applicants with deep subject-matter knowledge and extensive experience delivering training to diverse audiences. The minimum qualifications below apply to all Applicants, as relevant to the Training Service(s) proposed.

3.1.1 License and/or Certification

Where Massachusetts law or regulation, or the developer/purveyor of a specific evidence-based or promising practice, requires a license or certification to provide the proposed Training Service, the Applicant must hold a current, valid, and unrestricted license or certification in that field, and must be registered and in good standing with the relevant Massachusetts Board of Registration or credentialing body, as identified in the Application.

No license or certification is required where none applies to the proposed Training Service. DMH welcomes Applications from individuals with demonstrated subject-matter expertise who do not hold formal credentials, provided the Training Service does not otherwise require licensure or certification.

3.1.2 Experience

An Applicant must demonstrate a track record of providing training in the specific content area and/or evidence-based or promising practice proposed.

An Applicant's experience must reflect familiarity with the needs of individuals living with serious emotional disturbance or severe mental illness and their families, as well as experience adapting training content to address those needs.

3.1.3 Range of Audiences

An Applicant must demonstrate experience delivering training to a range of audiences, including individuals of all ages who receive DMH services, their family members, and DMH staff serving in a wide variety of clinical, peer, direct care, administrative, and leadership roles.

3.1.4 Accessibility of Training Content

An Applicant must demonstrate familiarity with the U.S. Department of Justice's Title II regulations implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act, 28 C.F.R. Part 35, Subpart H (Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Government Entities), which require conformance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA.

3.1.5 Fiscal Requirements. Applicants must meet the requirements set forth in this Subsection at the time they file a response and if awarded a Contract, during the duration of the Contract.

a. Sound Fiscal Condition. Applicants must be of sound financial condition as determined by DMH. DMH may request financial information from an Applicant or a Contractor at any time throughout the procurement, to determine if the Applicant or Contractor meets this standard.

b. Solvency and Compliance with State Tax and Business Laws.

· Applicants must not be currently in bankruptcy or receivership or have been in bankruptcy and/or receivership within the last five (3) calendar years.

· Applicants must have no outstanding liabilities to the Internal Revenue Service, the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. or any other government agencies.

· Applicants must not be subject to any charges, complaints, or other claims now pending before any court, regulatory board, or government agency that could have an impact on their stability or ability to provide services under the RFA.

· If a Corporation or a Limited Liability Company, the Applicant must be in good standing with the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

SERVICE REQUIREMENTS AND STANDARDS

General Standard of Care and Compliance A Contractor must provide all Services in accordance with generally accepted professional standards of practice applicable to the Contractor's discipline and specialty. Services must be delivered competently, ethically, and in a manner consistent with prevailing training and clinical standards of care.

A Contractor must comply with all applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and professional requirements, including but not limited to DMH regulations, applicable statutes, and governing professional ethical standards.

All training content and delivery methods, including digital and web-based materials, must comply with the U.S. Department of Justice's Title II regulations implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act, 28 C.F.R. Part 35, Subpart H (Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Government Entities), which require conformance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA. As a state agency, DMH must comply with this rule by April 26, 2027, and expects all training materials provided under the TSMA to meet this standard.

All Services must be delivered in accordance with the deliverables, timelines, and performance expectations set forth in the applicable Statement of Work (“SOW”).

Service Delivery Principles When applicable, all Training content should reflect and be delivered in accordance with the following DMH service principles:

1. A person-centered and youth-guided and family-driven approach to assessment, treatment planning, and service delivery, incorporating identified strengths, coping strategies, goals, and barriers to discharge, and informed by a comprehensive bio-psychosocial formulation.

1. Ongoing collaboration with patients and families regarding treatment effectiveness and medication tolerability, consistent with shared decision-making principles.

1. Utilization of evidence-based, best practice, and promising practice guidelines, including psychopharmacological approaches that seek to maximize therapeutic benefit while minimizing unnecessary polypharmacy.

1. Provision of culturally and linguistically competent services that are responsive to cultural, ethnic, linguistic, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, parental status, and other individual needs.

1. Flexible service delivery that is responsive to DMH and client needs and may be provided at a DMH facility, program, or site; in a client's home; at the Contractor's place of business; or in other appropriate community settings.

Licensure and Professional Responsibility

4.3.1 Licensure

A Contractor shall maintain, at its sole cost and expense, all licenses, certifications, registrations, and other credentials required by law to qualify to provide the specific Training Service(s) under the SOW for the duration of the Contract.

4.3.2 Insurance

(a) General Liability. A Contractor shall maintain commercial general liability insurance covering bodily injury and property damage arising from the performance of Services under the Contract, with limits no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate, unless otherwise agreed to by DMH or the Contractor is a state entity. This requirement applies to all Contractors regardless of licensure status.

(b) Professional Liability. Where the Training Service involves the exercise of clinical or other professional judgment (e.g., licensed clinicians, certified evidence-based practice trainers), the Contractor shall also maintain professional liability (malpractice) insurance covering Services performed under the Contract, with the same limits, unless otherwise agreed to by DMH or the Contractor is a state entity.

(c) Proof of Coverage. Proof of current coverage under subsections (a) and (b), as applicable, shall be provided to DMH upon request and maintained throughout the term of the Contract. If coverage is lost or reduced below the specified limits, DMH must be notified, and the Contract may be canceled by DMH.

4.3.3 Professional Responsibility

A Contractor shall provide prompt written notice to DMH of any change in licensure status, insurance coverage, disciplinary action, or other circumstance that may materially affect the Contractor's ability to perform Services in accordance with the Contract.

4.3.4 Substitution of Trainer/Personnel

Where a Contractor's qualification under this RFA was based on the credentials, experience, or expertise of a specific named individual, that individual must perform the Training Services under the resulting Contract. A Contractor may not substitute a different individual to deliver Training Services without DMH's prior written approval. DMH may request documentation demonstrating that a proposed substitute meets the applicable qualifications under Section 3.1 before approving a substitution.

4.3.5 ADA/Accessibility Training

Each individual who will be developing and/or delivering Training Services must complete the “Title II: Accessibility for State and Local Government” self-paced training offered through the ADA National Network's Accessibility Online program (or an equivalent training approved by DMH), and must submit a copy of the resulting Certificate of Attendance with the Application.

4.3.6 Generative AI Use

“Generative AI” means artificial intelligence tools that use large language models to produce content; it does not include software used for grammar-checking, citation assistance, or plagiarism detection. A Contractor may use generative AI tools in developing training content, but generative AI must not be the sole contributor to that content — human expertise and review are required to ensure the accuracy, quality, and clinical appropriateness of all Training Services. If generative AI is used in developing training content or materials, the Contractor must disclose this use to DMH, describe the role and extent of AI's contribution, and confirm the accuracy of the resulting content, including citations and other supporting documentation. Upon DMH's request, the Contractor must provide documentation of AI-generated content for review and must ensure that any necessary copyrights and permissions for AI-generated content have been secured.

Privacy, Confidentiality, and Data Protection

4.4.1 HIPAA and Business Associate Obligations

Where applicable, the Contractor shall comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (“HIPAA”) and its implementing regulations. Contractors who qualify as Business Associates of DMH shall comply with the DMH Training Services Business Associate Terms and Conditions incorporated into the Contract.

4.4.2 State Confidentiality and Data Protection Laws

The Contractor shall comply with all applicable Massachusetts confidentiality and privacy laws, including but not limited to:

1. M.G.L. c. 66A (Fair Information Practices Act)

1. M.G.L. c. 93H (Data Security and Breach Notification)

1. M.G.L. c. 123, § 36

1. 104 CMR 27.16 and 28.09 The Contractor shall implement and maintain appropriate administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and security of all client, patient, and Department information.

Documentation, Records, and Reporting

4.5.1 Reports and Billing

The Contractor shall complete and submit all reports, deliverables, and billing documentation required under the SOW in the format and within the timeframes specified therein.

4.5.2 Record Retention

The Contractor shall maintain all administrative and billing records related to Services under the Contract for a minimum of six (6) years from the date of final payment, or longer if required by law. Records shall be made available to DMH upon request for monitoring, audit, inspection, or compliance review.

4.5.3 CEU Documentation

Where a Training Service is eligible for continuing education units (“CEUs”) through DMH's continuing education infrastructure, the Contractor must complete and submit all CEU-related forms and documentation required by DMH, accurately and within the timeframe specified by DMH. Failure to submit required CEU documentation in a timely manner may affect trainees' ability to receive CEU credit and may be considered in DMH's evaluation of Contractor performance under Section 4.7.

CORI Compliance If an individual is determined Qualified for a contract under this RFA, the individual must agree to allow the Department to perform a Criminal Offender Record (CORI) check, as provided under 105 CMR 950.00. If a corporation or company (e.g., LLC) is approved for a contract, the corporation or company must perform CORI checks of all individuals who may perform services under the contract, pursuant to 105 CMR 950.00. A contract will be awarded only as permitted under 105 CMR 950.00. During the duration of a Contract awarded under this RFA, and/or upon any renewal, DMH may request the Contractor to complete updated CORI reviews.

Contract Management and Performance Monitoring

4.7.1 Contract Monitoring and Oversight

The Contractor must cooperate fully with DMH's contract monitoring and oversight processes.

4.7.2 Performance Review Meetings

The Contractor must participate in meetings with the applicable DMH Area, Division, or Awarding Authority as specified in the SOW or as otherwise requested. Such meetings may include review of:

1. Progress toward SOW deliverables

1. Quality and timeliness of Services

1. Accuracy and timeliness of reports and billing

1. Responsiveness to DMH inquiries

1. Overall Contract compliance

4.7.3 Training Evaluation and Quality Assurance

The Contractor must participate in DMH's evaluation of Training Services, including facilitating trainee feedback and completing any evaluation activities requested by DMH within the timeframe specified in the SOW. DMH may use trainee feedback, fidelity reviews, and other quality indicators in its ongoing performance monitoring of the Contractor and in decisions regarding contract renewal or continuation on the TSMA List.

Conflict of Interest An Applicant must disclose, at the time of Application and throughout the term of any resulting Contract, any actual, potential, or apparent conflict of interest that may affect, or appear to affect, the Applicant's ability to provide Training Services objectively and in DMH's best interest. This includes, but is not limited to, financial interests in curricula, products, or organizations promoted or referenced during training; personal or professional relationships with DMH staff involved in selecting or overseeing the engagement; and simultaneous engagements that may create competing obligations. DMH reserves the right to request additional information regarding a disclosed conflict, and to decline to award, or to terminate, a Contract based on an unresolved conflict of interest.

Intellectual Property and Publicity

(a) Ownership of Pre-Existing and Third-Party Materials. The Contractor retains all ownership, copyright, and other intellectual property rights in any training curricula, materials, or content that (i) the Contractor developed independently of the Contract, or (ii) the Contractor uses under license from a third-party developer or purveyor (e.g., a proprietary evidence-based or promising practice curriculum). Nothing in the Contract transfers or assigns any such pre-existing or third-party-licensed rights to DMH or the Commonwealth.

(b) License to DMH. Unless otherwise specified in the SOW, DMH shall receive a perpetual, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, and adapt any training materials developed specifically for DMH under the Contract for DMH's internal training and operational purposes. The Contractor may continue to use, adapt, and license such materials to other clients unless the SOW specifies that the materials were developed exclusively for DMH.

(c) Publicity. The Contractor must provide DMH with reasonable notice, and an opportunity to respond, before making any public statement regarding the work performed under the Contract, or issuing any related material for publication through any medium.

FISCAL SPECIFICATIONS

Contractors will be reimbursed using one of two payment mechanisms set forth in Subsection 5.1.

5.1 Payment Method Determined When Selected for a SOW. The mechanism selected by DMH may vary by SOW, based on the nature of the SOW activity and what creates Best Value for DMH. The payment mechanism will be finalized as part of the applicable SOW negotiations and the method agreed upon will be stated in the SOW; together with information needed to implement the method as set forth in Subsection 5.1.1. Negotiations are subject to the rates or costs that were agreed to by DMH and that are included as part of the applicable Contractor’s TSMA Contract. The rates and costs may be amended from time to time as agreed by the parties.

5.1.2 A Contractor will be reimbursed only as specified in the applicable SOW.

5.1.3 All costs listed by a Contractor for reimbursement either through the Rate or Fixed Costs mechanisms may be amended throughout the life of the Contract, in accordance with the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions.

5.2 Invoicing and Reporting

5.2.1 Contractor Responsible for all Invoicing. A Contractor must be the single source for billing and receiving payments from DMH for all services rendered by it or its subcontractors.

5.2.2 Invoicing. A Contractor may bill for services only to the extent authorized in the applicable Statement of Work.

a. Rate. When a Contractor has a SOW, the Contractor must have in place mechanisms to gather and submit to DMH monthly an invoice for the number of services Units that were provided in the previous month and that are billable to DMH.

b. Fixed Cost. A Contractor must invoice DMH for deliverables/milestones when completed and accepted by DMH in accordance with the SOW. Payments will be made to the Contractor only after receiving an accurate invoice for the deliverables/milestones completed and accepted.

c. Documentation. Invoices must provide enough details and documentation to support: the deliverables that are billed (Fixed Rate) or the number of Units that are billed (Unit Rate)

d. Invoices. Invoices shall be submitted by email as directed by DMH. Invoices are due by the 10th day of the month following the month in which the deliverable was completed and accepted, or the services rendered. Invoices shall be sent to the DMH office indicated in the applicable SOW.

e. DMH may develop standard invoice(s) to be used by Contractors.

f. All billing is subject to the Massachusetts Comptroller bill paying policy.

5.2.3 Reports. If, as part of a SOW, a DMH Area or Division requires a provider to furnish regular reports on the status of the project/service; including when applicable, the collection of certain data, the reports must be submitted in the format and at the time specified in the SOW.

A Contractor must furnish such other reports as DMH may request that are relevant to its operations.

5.2.4 Electronic Funds Transfers. Payment through Electronic Funds Transfer is required for any SOW executed as a result of this solicitation. See the Bid’s COMMBUYS file for this form needed to sign-up for Electronic Fund Transfers.

5.3 Supplier Diversity Program

Unless the Applicant is an individual or a sole proprietorship doing business under a trade name, an Applicant responding to this RFA is required to participate in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Program (SDP), by making a meaningful financial commitment to partnering with one or more Supplier Diversity Office (SDO) certified or recognized diverse business enterprise or non -profit organization, Individuals and sole proprietorships may participate in the Massachusetts SDP, but are not required to do so. It is desirable that Providers aim to direct at least 1% of their Commonwealth contract revenue toward spending with SDP Partners.

5.3.1 Program Background. Pursuant to Executive Order 565, the Commonwealth’s Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) promotes business-to- business relationships between awarded Contractors and diverse businesses and non-profit organizations (“SDP Partners”) certified or recognized by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO).

5.3.2 Financial Commitment Requirements. All Applicants that are required by this Subsection 5.3 to participate in the Massachusetts SDP are required to make a meaningful financial commitment (“SDP Commitment”) to partnering with one or more SDO-certified or recognized diverse business enterprise or non-profit organization. This SDP Commitment must be expressed as a percentage of any contract dollars resulting from this solicitation that would be spent with the SDP Partner(s). To receive the minimal score on the Supplier Diversity Program in the Response review an Applicant must propose to commit at least 1% of the contract funds to partnering with one or SDO business. After an award, if any, and to the extent the Contractor enters into any SOWs, the Total SDP Commitment shall become a contractual requirement to be met annually on a Massachusetts fiscal year basis (July 1 – June 30).

If an Applicant is required to participate in the MA SDP, the Applicant cannot be awarded a TSMA Contract without an SDP Commitment that meets the requirements stated herein.

5.3.3 Eligible SDP Partner Certification Categories.