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, initiated at the end of option year one, and the funding has been certified as available within the District's Local Budget for Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026. The Office of the Attorney General has confirmed the legal sufficiency of the proposed agreement.

Additionally, the bill includes an increase in reimbursement rates for the Mental Health Community Residential Facilities (MHCRF), raising the per diem for Supported Rehabilitative Residence (SRR) from $106.15 to $126.50, and extends the performance period for the contract. It emphasizes compliance with various laws, including the Protecting Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and the Unemployed Anti-Discrimination Act, while also mandating that at least 51% of new hires be local residents. The bill introduces provisions for the management and protection of Protected Health Information (PHI) in compliance with HIPAA and establishes comprehensive insurance requirements for Providers. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the operational framework of the Department of Behavioral Health while ensuring accountability and transparency in service delivery.