IN ADDITION The Texas Register is required by statute to publish certain documents, including applications to purchase control of state banks, notices of rate ceilings, changes in interest rate and applications to install remote service units, and consultant proposal requests and awards. To aid agencies in communicating information quickly and effectively, other information of general interest to the public is published as space allows. Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners Correction of Errors The Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners proposed an amendment to 22 TAC sec.73.2. The rule appeared in the June 11, 1996, issue of the Texas Register (21 TexReg 5232). On page 5233, sec.73.2(d)(3), the word "time" was omitted. The correct text should read: "(3) The licensee cannot practice chiropractic until such time as education is obtained and the expired license has been renewed." The Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners proposed an amendment to 22 TAC sec.76.3. The rule appeared in the June 11, 1996, issue of the Texas Register (21 TexReg 5232). On page 5234, 76.3(b)(3), the cited article is incorrect. It should read as: "Article 4512b." There was an unmarked section within sec.76.3 listed incorrectly as: "[(c)] Impaired Practitioners." The correct marking should read: "(h) [(c)] Impaired Practitioners." Comptroller of Public Accounts Notice of Consultant Contract Award In accordance with the provisions of Chapter 2254, Subchapter B of the Texas Government Code, the Comptroller of Public Accounts and the Texas Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board announce this notice of consultant contract award. The consultant proposal request was published in the August 13, 1996, issue of the Texas Register (21 TexReg 7689). The consultant will assist the Comptroller with actuarial and related consulting services in connection with the administration of a prepaid higher education tuition program. The contract is awarded to Coopers and Lybrand, LLP, 1800 One American Center, 600 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701. The total dollar value of the contract is not to exceed $117,845.00. The contract was executed to become effective December 1, 1996, and extends through December 31, 1998. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617951 Arthur F. Lorton Senior, Legal Counsel Comptroller of Public Accounts Filed: December 11, 1996 Office of the Consumer Credit Commissioner Notice of Rate Ceiling The Consumer Credit Commissioner of Texas has ascertained the following rate ceilings by use of the formulas and methods described in Title 79, Texas Civil Statutes, Article 1.04, as amended (Texas Civil Statutes, Article 5069-1.04). [graphic] Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617964 Leslie L. Pettijohn Commissioner Office of Consumer Credit Commissoner Filed: December 11, 1996 Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Division Request For Proposals - Construction Claims Consultant Services The Texas Department of Criminal Justice - Facilities Division (TDCJ-FD) announces that it requires Construction Claims Consultant Services, potentially for any or all TDCJ-managed facilities and construction projects, including work for TDCJ, Texas Youth Commission (TYC), and other state agencies if so directed by the Legislature, pursuant to the provisions of Section 2254.021 and following of the Texas Government Code. TDCJ-FD intends to contract with three firms for all such services on an as-needed basis through August 31, 1999. Notice is hereby given pursuant to Article 2254.029, Texas Government Code, that the consultant services sought by this RFQ relate to services previously provided by three private consultants and the State intends to award one or more contracts for Construction Claims Consulting Services to one or more private consultants that previously provided the services unless better offer(s) are received. Activities with respect to this program of work will include, but not be limited to, reviewing contractor construction claims, assisting TDCJ in claims presentations, representing TDCJ before Dispute Review Boards, assisting TDCJ in negotiating claims resolutions with contractors, assisting the Attorney General with claims litigation and assisting TDCJ in improving its claims prevention and resolution processes. Firms interested in being considered for these services should request an application packet from the address and/or fax number shown below. To be considered for award of a contract for these services, interested firms must submit their responses containing statements of interest, qualifications, and performance data in the prescribed format not later than 5:00 p.m. on January 16, 1997 to: Jeptha C. Tatum, III, Chief Contracts Administrator, TDCJ-Facilities Division; (Mail) P.O. Box 4011, Huntsville, Texas 77342-9987; (Delivery) Spur 59 off Highway 75 North, Huntsville, Texas 77340; Fax: (409) 294-8753. Any submittal received after the stated time will not be considered. Submittals should include a compensation schedule. Submission and participation in the selection process by interested firms shall be at no cost or obligation to the TDCJ-FD. The TDCJ-FD reserves the right to select one, two, or three firms or reject all submittals received. Materials received will not be returned and the TDCJ-FD shall have no obligation to any firm should it develop or use any idea suggested in the course of, or developed in connection with, its efforts to contract as provided herein. All materials submitted become the property of the TDCJ-FD. Questions regarding this Request for Proposals should be submitted in writing to the address shown previously. Copies of questions and responses to the questions will be forwarded to all firms that have requested application packets. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617948 Carla Reynolds General Counsel Texas Department of Criminal Justice Filed: December 11, 1996 Request For Qualifications The Texas Department of Criminal Justice - Facilities Division (TDCJ-FD) announces that it requires Architectural/Engineering Services in connection with repair and/or replacement of existing roofs on various, yet to be determined, prison units in the State, pursuant to the provisions of the Government Code, Chapter 2254, Subchapter A. TDCJ-FD intends to contract with one firm for all such services on an as-needed basis through August 31, 1999. Firms interested in being considered for these services should request an application packet from the address and/or fax number shown below. To be considered for award of a contract for these services, interested firms must submit their responses containing statements of interest, qualifications, and performance data in the prescribed format not later than 5:00 p.m. on January 13, 1997 to: Jeptha C. Tatum, III, Chief Contracts Administrator, TDCJ- Facilities Division; (Mail) P.O. Box 4011, Huntsville, Texas 77342-9987; (Delivery) Spur 59 off Highway 75 North, Huntsville, Texas 77340; Fax: (409) 294-8639. Any submittal received after the stated time will not be considered. Submittals shall not include a proposed fee or compensation schedule. These services include professional engineering services, and are subject to the Professional Services Act. Submission and participation in the selection process by interested firms shall be at no cost or obligation to the TDCJ-FD. The TDCJ-FD reserves the right to select one firm or reject all submittals received. Materials received will not be returned and the TDCJ-FD shall have no obligation to any firm should it develop or use any idea suggested in the course of, or developed in connection with, its efforts to contract as provided herein. All material submitted become the property of the TDCJ-FD. Questions regarding this Request for Qualifications should be submitted in writing to the address shown previously. Copies of questions and responses to the questions will be forwarded to all firms that have requested application packets. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617949 Carla Reynolds General Counsel Texas Department of Criminal Justice Filed: December 11, 1996 General Land Office Notice of Contract Award Pursuant to sec.sec.2254.001, et seq Texas Government Code Annotated, the General Land Office is filing notice of a contract award to Summerville Consulting, 320 Congress Ave, Suite 101, Austin, Texas, 78701. The Request for Consultant Proposals appeared in the October 25, 1996 issue of the Texas Register (21 TexReg 10628). Finding of Need by the Governor's office was received on December 6, 1996. The consultant will develop and implement a management action plan for the GLO's Resource Management Division. The contract is an amendment of GLO Contract Number 96-226 and increases the compensation to the consultant in an amount not to exceed the sum of $9,500 and extends the contract from August 31, 1996 until January 31, 1997. No documents, films, recordings, or reports are required from the consultant. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617945 Garry Mauro Commissioner General Land Office Filed: December 11, 1996 Texas Department of Health Licensing Action for Radioactive Materials The Texas Department of Health has taken actions regarding licenses for the possession and use of radioactive materials as listed in the table below. The subheading labeled "Location" indicates the city in which the radioactive material may be possessed and/or used. The location listing "Throughout Texas" indicates that the radioactive material may be used on a temporary basis at job sites throughout the state. graphic graphic [graphic] graphic In issueing new licenses and amending and renewing existing licenses, the Texas Department of Health, Bureau of Radiation Control, has determined that the applicants are qualified by reason of training and experience to use the material in question for the purposes requested in accordance with Texas Regulations for Control of Radiation in such a manner as to minimize danger to public health and safety or property and the environment; the applicants' proposed equipment, facilities, and procedures are adequate to minimize danger to public health and safety or property and the environment; the issuance of the license(s) will not be inimical to the health and safety of the public or the environment; and the applicants satisfy any applicable special requirements in the Texas Regulations for Control of Radiation. This notice affords the opportunity for a hearing on written request of a licensee, applicant, or "person affected" within 30 days of the date of publication of this notice. A "person affected" is defined as a person who is resident of a county, or a county adjacent to the county, in which the radioactive materials are or will be located, including any person who is doing business or who has a legal interest in land in the county or adjacent county, and any local government in the county; and who can demonstrate that he has suffered or will suffer actual injury or economic damage due to emissions of radiation. A licensee, applicant, or "person affected" may request a hearing by writing Richard A. Ratliff, P.E., Chief, Bureau of Radiation Control (Director, Radiation Control Program), 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3189. Any request for a hearing must contain the name and address of the person who considers himself affected by Agency action, identify the subject license, specify the reasons why the person considers himself affected, and state the relief sought. If the person is represented by an agent, the name and address of the agent must be stated. Copies of these documents and supporting materials are available for inspection and copying at the office of the Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department of Health, Exchange Building, 8407 Wall Street, Austin, Texas, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday (except holidays). Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 10, 1996. TRD-9617939 Susan K. Steeg General Counsel Texas Department of Health Filed: December 10, 1996 Notice of Request for Proposal (Claims Administrator) Purpose. The Texas Department of Health (department), Health Care Financing Associateship is issuing a Request For Proposals (RFP) to contract with a qualified and experienced firm with the capacity to provide claims processing and adjudication services to the Texas Medicaid program. The department is seeking responsive, competitive proposals from capable and financially sound organizations with significant experience in the development and implementation of comprehensive claims processing and adjudication services. Description. The department is seeking a qualified and experienced firm with the capacity to provide claims processing and adjudication services to the Texas Medicaid program. The length of the proposed contract is 48 months (four years) with four possible one-year extensions of the contract. Beginning September 1, 1998, the bidder selected to perform these services will: (1) Process and adjudicate most claims for services rendered outside the scope of capitated arrangements under the Texas Medicaid program; (2) Process and adjudicate claims submitted under certain state funded programs not eligible for Federal financial participation under Title XIX of the Social Security Act; (3) Process encounter data submitted to the department by health plans paid under capitated payment arrangements; (4) Furnish a Federally-certified Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS) capable of supporting the department's information and reporting requirements; (5) Establish effective interfaces with other elements of the Texas Medicaid Administrative System (TMAS) necessary to support day-to-day operations of the total system (including other state agencies and contractors); and (6) Furnish the resources and personnel essential to support ongoing development of new capabilities for the MMIS. Unlike a standard "Fiscal Agent" relationship, the department seeks bidders who are willing to accept financial risk associated with the cost performance of the Medicaid program. In addition to performing claims processing and adjudication services, the Claims Administrator Contractor selected as a result of this solicitation will perform the following three critical business processes: (1) Assist the department in the development and implementation of Medical Policy for the Texas Medicaid program; (2) Conduct recruitment, education and communications programs for providers serving Medicaid beneficiaries outside the scope of Medicaid managed care programs; and (3) Conduct Federally-required Surveillance & Utilization Review activities for the Medicaid program as a whole. The Claims Administrator Contractor, as part of its responsibilities, will be required to develop and maintain the Texas Medicaid Management Information System (TMMIS), and will be responsible for maintaining interfaces between the TMMIS and all elements of the TMAS (state agencies and other contractors). The Claims Administrator Contractor will play a central -- and critical -- role in the redesign of the TMAS. The department is seeking a Claims Administrator Contractor who can: (1) Provide the business process support and systems capabilities that will be needed to support expanded operational requirements effective September 1, 1998; (2) Provide the development capability -- and the creativity -- to continuously improve the system thereafter to meet the department's emerging requirements; and (3) Serve a pivotal role in an administrative system that will require cooperation among multiple state agencies -- multiple contractors -- to efficiently manage the Medicaid program in Texas. Eligible Applicants. Applicants with the ability to furnish a Federally- certified Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS) capable of supporting the department's information and reporting requirements. The department has adopted policies that restrict contract awards to certain types of firms. The purpose of these policies is to prevent the appearance of conflicts of interest that might arise if firms were awarded multiple contracts which, when considered in combination, pose potential concerns about the successful bidder's ability to objectively discharge all required functions. Additional restrictions on who may bid are detailed in the "Instructions to Bidders" section of the RFP. Limitations. The department reserves the right to reject any and all offers received in response to the RFP and to cancel the RFP if it is deemed in the best interest of the department. Contact. Information concerning the RFP may be obtained from Larry Fisher, Procurement Officer, Texas Department of Health, Mail Code Y-921, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3199. (512) 794-6894, Fax (512) 338-6945. Deadlines. All communications concerning this RFP must be addressed in writing to Mr. Stephen R. Svadlenak, Associate Commissioner, Purchased Health Services, Texas Department of Health, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3199. The physical address for overnight and personal deliveries, also referred to in this notice as the "issuing office", is Mr. Stephen R. Svadlenak, Associate Commissioner, Texas Department of Health, 11044 Research Boulevard, Building D, Room 400, Austin, Texas 78759. Each potential applicant is required to submit a non-binding Letter of Intent To Propose (Letter of Intent), which must be received in the issuing office no later than 4:00 p.m. on January 7, 1997. The Letter of Intent must state that the applicant is considering submitting a proposal. Only the proposals of those applicants who submit Letters of Intent will be considered. Letters of Intent which are not received timely at the issuing office will not be considered. The Letter of Intent must identify the entity that may submit a proposal in response to this RFP, and must be signed by an official of that entity. Responses to questions and other information pertaining to this procurement will be sent only to those potential applicants who submit a Letter of Intent. Potential applicants must include their fax number in the Letter of Intent to provide for the expedited transmission of information pertaining to this procurement. The Letter of Intent must be addressed to Mr. Stephen R. Svadlenak, at the address shown above. Prospective applicants are encouraged to fax Letters of Intent to (512) 338-6945 to ensure timely receipt. By submitting a signed proposal, an applicant agrees that it fully understands the RFP and will abide by the terms and conditions contained in the RFP. No exceptions, amendments, or deviations will be allowed in any response unless agreed to in writing and prior to the date that responses are due. Unauthorized exceptions, amendments, or deviations in a response may result in disqualification of the proposal. To be considered, proposals must be received in the issuing office no later than 4:00 p.m. on March 15, 1997. Proposals may not be faxed, only originals will be accepted. An applicant workshop for prospective applicants will be held on December 17, 1996, at 9:00 a.m.. The meeting will be held in Room T-607 (Tower building) on the Texas Department of Health's main campus at 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas. No reservations are necessary. Due to limited space, the department requests that each organization send no more than two representatives. Evaluation and Selection. Applications will be reviewed by an evaluation committee. The evaluation of the application will be based upon areas of consideration listed in the RFP. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 9, 1996. TRD-9617875 Susan K. Steeg General Counsel Texas Department of Health Filed: December 9, 1996 Notice of Request for Proposal (STAR Network Administrator) Purpose. The Texas Department of Health (department), Health Care Financing Associateship is issuing a Request For Proposals (RFP) to contract with a qualified and experienced firm with the capacity to provide a wide range of administrative tasks associated with the operation of a Primary Care Case Management (PCCM) program designed for the enrollment of several Medicaid coverage groups. The State of Texas' Medicaid Managed Care Plan is known as the "State of Texas Access Reform" or STAR program. The department is seeking responsive, competitive proposals from capable and financially sound organizations with significant experience in the development and implementation of comprehensive primary care provider networks and negotiated contract functions in Medicaid managed care programs. Description. The department is seeking a qualified and experienced firm with the capacity to provide a wide range of administrative tasks associated with the operation of a Primary Care Case Management (PCCM) program designed for the enrollment of several Medicaid coverage groups. The State of Texas' Medicaid Managed Care Plan is known as the "State of Texas Access Reform" or STAR program. The length of the proposed contract could be approximately 34 months (two years and ten months) with two possible one-year extensions of the contract. The STAR program currently incorporates two managed care models, these are: (1) an at-risk, capitated health plan or Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) model, and (2) a traditional Medicaid Primary Care Case Management (PCCM) plan (known as the Star Health Plan). Effective September 1, 1998, it is the department's intention to begin converting the PCCM program to a third model - a partial capitated Prepaid Health Plan (PHP) wherein physicians are at risk for physician services and one or two other ambulatory services within an organized network. "Health plans", as used in this notice, refers to the HMO, PCCM and PHP models. The STAR Network Administrator scope of work includes, but is not limited to, the following elements. The successful bidder will develop an organized plan to assume the administrative functions associated with each regional PCCM program during transition, implementation and operations. The plan must include all of the business processes to be undertaken by the successful bidder. The plan must also describe how the successful bidder will shift from a PCCM model to a partially capitated at-risk model. The STAR Network Administrator must develop a systematic process for provider recruitment in both new regions and in established areas. Materials to support provider recruitment activities must be developed and approved by TDH. Outreach activities must be developed and implemented enough in advance to assure an adequate network when Medicaid recipient marketing commences. Network provider files must be designed and maintained. An interface with other Medicaid contractors who will need access to these files will be essential. Credentialing must occur in a timely manner as part of the recruitment and maintenance effort. The successful bidder will be expected to manage a network of Primary Care Providers (PCPs) as part of the PCCM program. The PCPs will be reimbursed on a Fee-For-Service (FFS) basis initially, but the program will be converted to a partially capitated, risk-based program during the course of this contract. PCPs will be at risk for physician services and one or two other ambulatory services. The STAR Network Administrator will be expected to perform network oversight regardless of the payment mechanism, with oversight processes appropriate to the reimbursement model in place. The successful bidder will assume the hospital contract negotiation process. The STAR Network Administrator must establish a provider file which contains all needed information about the network providers. In addition, the successful bidder must interface with several of the Management Information Systems (MIS) either currently in place or to be implemented by other Medicaid Contractors during 1997 and 1998. The STAR Network Administrator will provide toll free telephone support to both providers and enrollees in the PCCM program. Both network and non-network providers are expected to call the STAR Network Administrator with questions concerning the program and problems encountered. While network providers are required to maintain 24-hour access for their enrollees, the STAR Network Administrator will also maintain a 24-hour toll-free Nurse Line to provide care information and also to serve as back-up should the network provider be unavailable. A quarterly newsletter will be sent to all network providers and a patient oriented newsletter prepared for recipient enrollees. The STAR Network Administrator will perform several activities designed to monitor the quality of medical care being performed by network providers, and other activities designed to monitor utilization of services. There will be a separate Quality Monitoring contractor who will provide an external review of quality care. The separate and distinct effort undertaken by the STAR Network Administrator will include credentialing and recredentialing, conducting provider surveys, monitoring 24-hour availability, monitoring and counseling providers, dispute resolution, utilization management including prospective and concurrent utilization management and provider profiling with analysis and corrective action plans associated with aberrant patterns of care. The STAR Network Administrator will be required to provide the TDH with monthly, quarterly and annual reports documenting its activities. The successful bidder must also be available for meetings with State officials and other managed care entities under contract with the TDH to discuss operational and policy issues. Eligible Applicants. Applicants must not be a Medicaid managed care provider with the State of Texas nor an affiliate of a Texas Medicaid managed care provider. The department has adopted policies that restrict contract awards to certain types of firms. The purpose of these policies is to prevent the appearance of conflicts of interest that might arise if firms were awarded multiple contracts which, when considered in combination, pose potential concerns about the successful bidder's ability to objectively discharge all required functions. Additional restrictions on who may bid are detailed in the "Instructions to Bidders" section of the RFP. Limitations. The department reserves the right to reject any and all offers received in response to the RFP and to cancel the RFP if it is deemed in the best interest of the department. Contact. Information concerning the RFP may be obtained from Larry Fisher, Procurement Officer, Texas Department of Health, Mail Code Y-921, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3199. (512) 794-6894, Fax (512) 338-6945. Deadlines. All communications concerning this RFP must be addressed in writing to Ms. Lynne Hudson, Associate Commissioner, Purchased Health Services, Bureau of Managed Care, Texas Department of Health, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3199. The physical address for overnight and personal deliveries, also referred to in this notice as the "issuing office", is Ms. Lynne Hudson, Associate Commissioner, Purchased Health Services, Bureau of Managed Care, Texas Department of Health, 11044 Research Boulevard, Building D, Room 400, Austin, Texas 78759. Each potential applicant is required to submit a non-binding Letter of Intent To Propose (Letter of Intent), which must be received in the issuing office no later than 4:00 p.m. on January 7, 1997. The Letter of Intent must state that the applicant is considering submitting a proposal. Only the proposals of those applicants who submit Letters of Intent will be considered. Letters of Intent which are not received timely at the issuing office will not be considered. The Letter of Intent must identify the entity that may submit a proposal in response to this RFP, and must be signed by an official of that entity. Responses to questions and other information pertaining to this procurement will be sent only to those potential applicants who submit a Letter of Intent. Potential applicants must include their fax number in the Letter of Intent to provide for the expedited transmission of information pertaining to this procurement. The Letter of Intent must be addressed to Ms. Lynne Hudson, at the address shown above. Prospective applicants are encouraged to fax Letters of Intent to (512) 338-6945 to ensure timely receipt. By submitting a signed proposal, an applicant agrees that it fully understands the RFP and will abide by the terms and conditions contained in the RFP. No exceptions, amendments, or deviations will be allowed in any response unless agreed to in writing and prior to the date that responses are due. Unauthorized exceptions, amendments, or deviations in a response may result in disqualification of the proposal. To be considered, proposals must be received in the issuing office no later than 4:00 p.m. on March 15, 1997. Proposals may not be faxed, only originals will be accepted. An applicant workshop for prospective applicants will be held on December 18, 1996 at 9:00 a.m.. The meeting will be held in Room T-607 (Tower building) on the Texas Department of Health's main campus at 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas. No reservations are necessary. Due to limited space, the department requests that each organization send no more than two representatives. Evaluation and Selection. Applications will be reviewed by an evaluation committee. The evaluation of the application will be based upon areas of consideration listed in the RFP. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 9, 1996. TRD-9617876 Susan K. Steeg General Counsel Texas Department of Health Filed: December 9, 1996 The Texas Department of Health\The Texas Department of Human Services Request for Applications - Managed Health Care Delivery Systems for Harris County The Texas Department of Health ("TDH") and the Texas Department of Human Services (TDHS) are accepting applications ("RFA") from health maintenance organizations ("HMOs") and sec.5.01(a) approved nonprofit health corporations which have or will receive a certificate of authority from the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) to provide health care services to certain Medicaid eligible individuals in the Harris County Service Delivery Area, which consists of Harris County and its contiguous counties of Fort Bend, Montgomery, Waller, Brazoria, and Galveston Counties. The Harris County Service Delivery Area will integrate preventive, primary, acute, and long term care services in Harris County only. The program will provide preventive, primary, and acute services in Fort Bend, Montgomery, Waller, Brazoria, and Galveston Counties. The RFA will include services for individuals classified as Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC), AFDC-related Medicaid persons, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medical Assistance Only (MAO) eligible persons. TDH and TDHS will make a monthly capitation payment for each enrollee for covered medical services. The managed care program in Harris County is subject to approval by the federal Health Care Financing Administration ("HCFA") of certain waivers of Medicaid requirements under sec.1915(b) & (c) of the Social Security Act. These waivers allow the state to provide health care services in a managed care setting. It is anticipated that the original term of the program will be two years. Qualified applicants. TDH and TDHS are requesting applications from HMOs which are or will be licensed in the State of Texas by the Texas Department of Insurance ("TDI") in accordance with the Texas Health Maintenance Act and from sec.5.01(a) approved nonprofit health corporations which are or will receive a certificate of authority from TDI under Article 21.52F, Insurance Code by the date upon which contracts are awarded for the Service Area. Other types of Managed Care arrangements such as Primary Care Case Management (PCCM) Models may be considered through a separate process but are not included as qualified applicants in this RFA. Timetable: The RFA will be available at TDH office on January 7, 1997. An applicant conference will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, January 21, 1997, at the Texas Department of Human Services, Room 125-E, 701 West 51st Street, Austin, Texas 78751. The deadline for clarification questions from applicants is January 28, 1997. TDH and TDHS answers to clarification questions will be available on February 11, 1997. The approximate date of publication of TDH and TDHS responses and notice of availability of final addenda is February 18, 1997. The HMO RFA application is due at TDH by 5:00 p.m., March 18, 1997. The award date for Harris County service area is April 15, 1997. Implementation date in Harris County is October 1, 1997. Implementation date in Fort Bend, Montgomery, Waller, Brazoria and Galveston Counties is March 1, 1998. All applications to TDH and/or TDHS made in connection with the RFA must be submitted in accordance with the procedure set forth in the RFA on or before 5:00 p.m. central standard time on the date on which the submission is due. The dates and times set forth above are mandatory application process requirements. Failure to comply with a published application deadline may result in TDH's and/or TDHS's refusal to accept the application. Specific requirements of the application process and detailed information regarding the scope of the projects are contained in the RFA. A complete copy of the RFA may be obtained in person or by submitting a written request to TDH at the following addresses: Send written requests for copies of the RFA to: Bureau of Managed Care, Texas Department of Health, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3168, Facsimile Transmission Number: (512) 794-6818. Deliver request or submissions in person to: Bureau Chief, Bureau of Managed Care, Texas Department of Health, 11044-D Research Blvd. Suite 214, Austin, TX 78714-9030. A copy of the RFA will be sent by overnight delivery if the request is submitted by facsimile transmission at the number noted above and the Federal Express, Airborne Express or PS billing number of the recipient is included in the request. TDH and TDHS are not obligated to execute a contract, provide any funds or endorse any application submitted in response to the RFA. The issuance of the RFA does not commit TDH or TDHS to pay any costs or expenses of an applicant, including costs incurred in preparing an application. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617961 Susan K. Steeg General Counsel Texas Department of Health Filed: December 11, 1996 Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs TDHCA to Seek Applicants for 1997 Emergency Shelter Grants Program (ESGP) Funds The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) will receive $3,463,000 for FY 1997 Emergency Shelter Grants Program (ESGP). As in the past, TDHCA will use a statewide competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process to obligate the funds. RFP packets will be available in December. ESGP funds are authorized under the Stewart B. McKinnney Homeless Assistance act of 1987 (42 United States Code 11371 et seq), and may be used for the rehabilitation or conversion of facilities which are to be used as emergency shelter for the homeless, for the payment of certain operating and support service expenses in connection with the provision of emergency shelter for the homeless, and for homelessness prevention activities. For FFY 1997, regulatory changes have been made to the requirements for this grant. These changes were published in the Federal Register dated October 2, 1996, and include: (1) a requirement that each recipient of ESGP funding provide for the participation of homeless individuals on its board of directors or other policymaking entity and (2) listing food as an operating expense, not an essential service. The RFP will contain more specific information regarding these and other changes. Any qualifying entity wishing to be added to the mailing list to receive an RFP may fax their request to (512) 475-3539, or may use the following mailing address: Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, Community Services Section, P.O. Box 13941, Austin, Texas 78711 3941, ATTENTION: Phyllis Buenrostro. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 9, 1996. TRD-9617832 Larry Paul Manley Executive Director Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs Filed: December 9, 1996 Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation Notice of Public Hearings on Medicaid Rates The Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation (TDMHMR) will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the department's proposed reimbursements for the following Medicaid ICF/MR programs: non-state operated model based rates effective January 1, 1997, through December 31, 1997; and, state operated small facility specific rate for 9th Street home of The Lakes Regional State Operated Community Services effective September 11, 1996 through December 31, 1996. The public hearing is held in compliance with Title 25, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 409, Subchapter A, sec.409.002(j), which requires a public hearing on proposed reimbursement rates for medical assistance programs. The hearing will be held at 8:30 a.m., Monday, January 6, 1997, in the Auditorium of the TDMHMR Central Office (main building) at 909 West 45th Street in Austin, Texas. Persons who wish to offer testimony but who are unable to attend the hearing may submit written comments which must be received by noon the day of the hearing. The written comments should be sent to the Data Analysis Section, Medicaid Administration, Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation, P.O. Box 12668, Austin, Texas 78711-2668 or faxed to (512) 206-5725. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the reimbursement briefing package by calling the Data Analysis Section at (512) 206-5680. If interpreters for the hearing impaired are required, please contact the Data Analysis Section at the number given above at least 72 hours in advance of the hearing. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617969 Ann K. Utley Chair, Texas MHMR Board Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation Filed: December 11, 1996 The Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation (TDMHMR) will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the department's proposed reimbursements for the following Medicaid HCS program: non-state operated model based rates effective January 1, 1997, through December 31, 1997. The public hearing is held in compliance with Title 25, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 409, Subchapter A, sec.409.002(j), which requires a public hearing on proposed reimbursement rates for medical assistance programs. The hearing will be held at 8:30 a.m., Monday, January 6, 1997, in the Auditorium of the TDMHMR Central Office (main building) at 909 West 45th Street in Austin, Texas. Persons who wish to offer testimony but who are unable to attend the hearing may submit written comments which must be received by noon the day of the hearing. The written comments should be sent to the Data Analysis Section, Medicaid Administration, Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation, P.O. Box 12668, Austin, Texas 78711-2668 or faxed to (512) 206-5725. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the reimbursement briefing package by calling the Data Analysis Section at (512) 206-5680. If interpreters for the hearing impaired are required, please contact the Data Analysis Section at the number given above at least 72 hours in advance of the hearing. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617944 Ann K. Utley Chair, Texas MHMR Board Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation Filed: December 11, 1996 Texas Department of Public Safety Correction of Errors The Texas Department of Public Safety proposed amendments to 37 TAC sec.sec.4.31, 4.32, 4.34-4.36, 4.39-4.43, and 4.46. The rules appeared in the November 26, 1996, issue of the Texas Register (21 TexReg 11444). In sec.4.43 Impoundment or Immobilization of Vehicles, subsection (c) should read "Vehicles shall be impounded by or at the direction of the department. The Vehicle impounded shall not be released until all towing and storage fees have been paid. If the vehicle is impounded because..." Public Utility Commission of Texas Notice of Intent to File Pursuant to Substantive Rule sec.23.27 Notice is given to the public of the intent to file with the Public Utility Commission of Texas an application on December 13, 1996, pursuant to Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule 23.27 for approval of a customer-specific contract to provide CentraNet service to the General Services Administration at its Irving, College Station, Del Rio, Pecos, and Plano business addresses. Tariff Title and Number: Application of GTE Southwest, Inc. for approval of a customer-specific contract to provide CentraNet service to General Services Administration at its Irving, College Station, Del Rio, Pecos, and Plano business addresses, pursuant to Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule 23.27. Tariff Control Number 16732. The Application: GTE Southwest, Inc. seeks approval of a customer-specific billing contract to provide CentraNet service to General Services Administration at its Irving, College Station, Del Rio, Pecos, and Plano business addresses. Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, by mail at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas, 78711- 3326, or call the Public Utility Commission Consumer Affairs Section at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with Texas telephones (TTY) may contact the Commission at (512) 936-7136. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617956 Paula Mueller Secretary of the Commission Public Utility Commission of Texas Filed: December 11, 1996 Notice is given to the public of the intent to file with the Public Utility Commission of Texas an application pursuant to Public Utility Substantive Rule sec.23.27 for approval of a 10 station addition to the existing PLEXAR-Custom Service for South San Antonio ISD in San Antonio, Texas. Tariff Title and Number. Application of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 10 Station Addition to Existing PLEXAR-Custom Service for South San Antonio ISD in San Antonio, Texas. Pursuant to Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule sec.23.27. Tariff Control Number 16742. The Application. Southwestern Bell Telephone Company is requesting approval for a 325 station addition to an existing PLEXAR-Custom service for South San Antonio ISD in San Antonio, Texas. The geographic service market for this specific service is the San Antonio, Texas, area. Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, by mail at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas, 78711- 3326, or call the Public Utility Commission Consumer Affairs Section at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with Texas telephones (TTY) may contact the Commission at (512) 936-7136. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617955 Paula Mueller Secretary of the Commission Public Utility Commission of Texas Filed: December 11, 1996 Notice is given to the public of the intent to file with the Public Utility Commission of Texas an application pursuant to Public Utility Substantive Rule sec.23.27 for approval of a 160 station addition to the existing PLEXAR-Custom Service for Edinburg ISD in Edinburg, Texas. Tariff Title and Number. Application of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 160 Station Addition to Existing PLEXAR-Custom Service for Edinburg ISD in Edinburg, Texas, Pursuant to Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule sec.23.27. Tariff Control Number 16736. The Application. Southwestern Bell Telephone Company is requesting approval for a 160 station addition to an existing PLEXAR-Custom service for Edinburg ISD in Edinburg, Texas. The geographic service market for this specific service is the Brownsville, Texas, area. Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, by mail at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas, 78711- 3326, or call the Public Utility Commission Consumer Affairs Section at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with Texas telephones (TTY) may contact the Commission at (512) 936-7136. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617957 Paula Mueller Secretary of the Commission Public Utility Commission of Texas Filed: December 11, 1996 Notice is given to the public of the intent to file with the Public Utility Commission of Texas an application pursuant to Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule sec.23.27 for approval of a 325 station addition to the existing PLEXAR-Custom Service for Cancer Therapy and Research Center in San Antonio, Texas. Tariff Title and Number. Application of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 325 Station Addition to Existing PLEXAR-Custom Service for Cancer Therapy and Research Center in San Antonio, Texas, Pursuant to Public Utility Substantive Rule sec.23.27. Tariff Control Number 16704. The Application. Southwestern Bell Telephone Company is requesting approval for a 325 station addition to an existing PLEXAR-Custom service for Cancer Therapy and Research Center in San Antonio, Texas. The geographic service market for this specific service is the San Antonio, Texas, area. Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, by mail at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas, 78711- 3326, or call the Public Utility Commission Consumer Affairs Section at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with Texas telephones (TTY) may contact the Commission at (512) 936-7136. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617958 Paula Mueller Secretary of the Commission Public Utility Commission of Texas Filed: December 11, 1996 Public Notice of Interconnection Agreements On December 5, 1996, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company (SWB) and Cypress Telecommunications, Inc. (Cypress) collectively referred to as Applicants filed a joint application for approval of an interconnection agreement under the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 (FTA) (Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statutes 56 (1996), (to be codified at 47 United States Code, sec.sec.151 et seq) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act of 1995 (PURA95) (Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated Article 1446c-0 Vernon's Supplement. 1996). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 16740. The joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas. The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA sec.252(e)(2) the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under FTA sec.252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements. The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it is submitted by the parties. The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application by filing 18 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally, a copy of the comments should be served on each of the Applicants. The comments should specifically refer to Docket Number 16740. As a part of the comments, an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by January 24, 1997, and shall include: 1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those interests; 2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof: a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party to the agreement; or b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity; or c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and 3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based. After reviewing any comments, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) of the commission will determine whether to conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The ALJ shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public Utility Commission of Texas Procedural Rule sec.22.202. The ALJ may identify issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the Applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The ALJ may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the Public Utility Commission Office of Consumer Affairs at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the Commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket Number 16740. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617952 Paula Mueller Secretary of the Commission Public Utility Commission of Texas Filed: December 11, 1996 On December 4, 1996, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company (SWB) and Choctaw Communications, L. C. collectively referred to as Applicants filed a joint application for approval of an interconnection agreement under the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 (FTA) (Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statutes 56 (1996), (to be codified at 47 United States Code, sec.sec.151 et seq) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act of 1995 (PURA95) (Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated Article 1446c-0 Vernon's Supplement 1996). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 16737. The joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas. The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA sec.252(e)(2) the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under FTA sec.252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements. The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it is submitted by the parties. The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application by filing 18 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally, a copy of the comments should be served on each of the Applicants. The comments should specifically refer to Docket Number 16737. As a part of the comments, an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by January 10, 1997, and shall include: 1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those interests; 2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof: a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party to the agreement; or b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity; or c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and 3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based. After reviewing any comments, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) of the commission will determine whether to conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The ALJ shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public Utility Commission of Texas Procedural Rule sec.22.202. The ALJ may identify issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the Applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The ALJ may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the Public Utility Commission Office of Consumer Affairs at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the Commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket Number 16737. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617953 Paula Mueller Secretary of the Commission Public Utility Commission of Texas Filed: December 11, 1996 On November 25, 1996, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company (SWB) and American Communication Services of Fort Worth, Inc. (ACSI) collectively referred to as Applicants filed a joint application for approval of supplements to an interconnection agreement under the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 (FTA) (Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statutes 56 (1996), (to be codified at 47 United States Code, sec.sec.151 et seq) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act of 1995 (PURA95) (Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated Article 1446c-0 Vernon's Supplement 1996). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 16700. The joint application and the underlying supplemental interconnection agreement are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas. The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA sec.252(e)(2) the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under FTA sec.252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements. The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it is submitted by the parties. The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the supplements to the interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application by filing 18 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally, a copy of the comments should be served on each of the Applicants. The comments should specifically refer to Docket Number 16700. As a part of the comments, an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by January 10, 1997, and shall include: 1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those interests; 2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof: a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party to the agreement; or b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity; or c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and 3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based. After reviewing any comments, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) of the commission will determine whether to conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The ALJ shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public Utility Commission of Texas Procedural Rule sec.22.202. The ALJ may identify issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the Applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The ALJ may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the Public Utility Commission Office of Consumer Affairs at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the Commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket Number 16700. Issued in Austin, Texas, on December 11, 1996. TRD-9617954 Paula Mueller Secretary of the Commission Public Utility Commission of Texas Filed: December 11, 1996 State Securities Board Correction of Errors The State Securities Board submitted an Open Meeting Notice, which appeared in the December 6, 1996, issue of the Texas Register (21 TexReg 11861). Due to an error by the Texas Register, the date was printed as January 31, 1996. The notice should reflect a meeting date of January 31, 1997.