SECTION 54.21. Initial Screening; Evaluation and Review Process

(a) The OAG will initially screen each application for eligibility. Applications that are not eligible will not be scored further and will not be eligible for a grant award. Applications will be deemed ineligible if:

(1) the applicant did not register timely an intent to apply, if required;

(2) the application is submitted by an ineligible applicant;

(3) the application is not filed in the manner and form required by the RFA;

(4) the application is filed after the deadline established in the RFA; or

(5) the application does not meet other requirements as stated in the RFA and the Application Kit.

(b) The OAG may designate teams to evaluate and review eligible applications. The evaluation teams may consist of OAG employees, employees of other state agencies, or other designees. Evaluation factors will be developed to assess the award criteria as stated in the RFA and Application Kit.

(c) During the initial screening or evaluation and review process, an applicant may be contacted to provide additional information.

(d) There are several steps in the evaluation and review process. A decision to deny an application may be made at any point during the evaluation and review process.

Source Note: The provisions of this §54.21 adopted to be effective May 26, 2013, 38 TexReg 2975