The proposed bill seeks to approve Modification No. M004 to the Human Care Agreement No. CW101567 with Surpassing The Average Rehabilitation Services (STARS) to exercise option year two, with a not-to-exceed amount of $1,385,175. This modification will enable STARS to continue providing supported rehabilitative services to adults diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness within the District's public mental health system. The contract amount reflects an increase due to an expansion in bed capacity from 14 to 30 beds, and the funding has been certified as available within the District's Local Budget for Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026. The bill also includes an increase in reimbursement rates for Mental Health Community Residential Facilities, raising the per diem for Supported Rehabilitative Residence from $106.15 to $126.50, and extends the performance period for the contract.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the management and protection of Protected Health Information (PHI) in compliance with HIPAA and the Mental Health Information Act. It mandates the appointment of Privacy and/or Security Officers by both the Provider and the Department to ensure compliance, and establishes a framework for breach notification. The bill also outlines responsibilities for Providers regarding claims and disputes, including a new dispute resolution process and updates to the Non-Discrimination Clause. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of operational efficiency by introducing new solicitation documents, such as a W-9 Form and a Tax Certification Affidavit, to streamline the procurement process within the Department of Behavioral Health.