REPOST: Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Hard of Hearing, Late-deafened (DDBHH/LD) and Limited English Proficient (LEP) Statewide Language Interpreter Services

The Maryland Department of Health’s Behavioral Health Administration issued a Request for Applications to select qualified providers for statewide language interpreter services targeting Deaf, Deaf-blind, Hard of Hearing, Late-deafened (DDBHH/LD), and Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals diagnosed with Substance Use Disorder, Mental Health Disorder, or co-occurring conditions. The program aims to improve access to behavioral health treatment by providing culturally and linguistically appropriate interpretation services, including American Sign Language (ASL), tactile interpreting, and other specialized modes across Maryland’s 23 jurisdictions and Baltimore City. The funded services are not reimbursable under fee-for-service models and are specifically designed for individuals with documented diagnoses who face communication barriers and lack staff trained in culturally and linguistically appropriate care. The contract, valued between $500,000 and $2,000,000, incorporates multiple attachments and references federal and state regulations, including sections of the Rehabilitation Act requiring affirmative action and nondiscrimination, and mandates compliance with applicable licensing, certification, and audit requirements. The procurement emphasizes the importance of staff certification, subcontractor agreements, and adherence to ADA and Section 504 standards, with a focus on ensuring accessibility, quality, and continuous monitoring through site visits, satisfaction surveys, and quarterly reporting. The evaluation process for applications is a balanced assessment of technical merit and cost, with equal weighting given to project approach, feasibility, and budget reasonableness. Applicants must submit a two-part electronic application via the Maryland eMMA portal by the specified deadline, including a detailed project narrative (without pricing) and a comprehensive budget justification. The contract stipulates that services will be delivered across various community and clinical settings, with performance monitored through site inspections, compliance reviews, and participant satisfaction surveys. Payment procedures require detailed invoices aligned with approved budgets, and the contract includes provisions for amendments, subcontracting, and short-term awards if necessary. Overall, the contract emphasizes ensuring effective communication access for vulnerable populations, maintaining compliance with federal and state laws, and fostering ongoing quality assurance through structured oversight and reporting mechanisms.