Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program Rules Approval Resolution of 2025

MURIEL BOWSER
MAYOR
June 4, 2025
The Honorable Phil Mendelson
Chairman
Council of the District of Columbia
John A. Wilson Building
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Suite 504
Washington, D.C. 20004
Dear Chairman Mendelson:
Enclosed for consideration and approval by the Council of the District of Columbia, pursuant to section
31 of the Homeless Services Reform Act of 2005, effective October 22, 2005 (D.C. Law 16-35; D.C.
Official Code § 4-756.02), is the "Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program Rules Approval
Resolution of 2025".
The resolution would approve rules that amend requirements and procedures for the District's Family Re­
Housing and Stabilization Program ("FRSP"), which provides time-limited rental assistance to District
residents who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of experiencing homelessness. Families are
offered a range of services, tailored to the unique needs and strengths of the entire household, to assist
them in achieving greater housing stability and economic security, including individualized case
management services, housing identification, connection to government and community-based resources,
and time-limited rental subsidies.
Among other changes, these updated rules establish an expectation that participants will increase their
income during the program assistance period; revise the percentage of a participant's adjusted annual
income toward housing costs to 30%; require service providers to assess a participant's potential
eligibility for longer-term housing assistance programs within the first 90 days of the FRSP assistance
period; establish a financial incentive for FRSP participants who meet program goals related to exiting the
program into stable housing; and revise criteria the Department uses to determine whether a participant
may receive a one-time six -month extension of FRSP assistance.
To facilitate a response to any questions you may have regarding the rules or resolution, please have your
staff contact Lauren Kinard, Special Advisor (OHS) at (202) 716-9493.
I urge the Council to take prompt and favorable action on this proposed resolution.
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4 at the request of the Mayor
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8 A PROPOSED RESOLUTION
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12 IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
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16 To approve proposed rules to implement the Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program.
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18 RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
19 resolution may be cited as the "Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program Rules Approval
20 Resolution of 2025".
21 Sec. 2. Pursuant to section 31 of the Homeless Services Reform Act of 2005, effective
22 October 21, 2005 (D.C. Law 16-35; D .C. Official Code§ 4-756.02), the Council approves the
23 proposed final rules of the Interim Director of the Department of Human Services to amend
24 Chapter 78 (Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program) of Title 29 (Public Welfare) of the
25 District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, regarding the implementation of the Family Re-
26 Housing· and Stabilization Program, which were transmitted to the Council by the Mayor on -----
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28 Sec. 3. Transmittal.
29 The Council shall transmit a copy of this resolution, upon its adoption, to the Mayor, the
30 Interim Director of the Department of Human Services, and the Administrator of the Office of
31 Documents and Administrative Issuances.
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Sec. 4. Fiscal impact statement. 32
The Council adopts the fiscal impact statement in the committee report as the fiscal 33
impact statement required by section 4a of the General Legislative Procedures Act of 1975, 34
approved October 16, 2006 (120 Stat. 2038; D.C. Official Code § 1-301.47a). 35
Sec. 5. Effective date. 36
This resolution shall take effect immediately. 37
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DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

NOTICE OF FINAL RULEMAKING
as transmitted to the Council for its review and approval pursuant to section 31 of the
Homeless Services Reform Act of 2005, effective October 22, 2005
(D.C. Law 16-35; D.C. Official Code § 4-756.02)

The Interim Director of the Department of Human Services ( “Department”), pursuant to the
authority set forth in Section 31 of the Homeless Services Reform Act of 2005 (“HSRA”), effective
October 22, 2005 (D.C. Law 16- 35; D.C. Official Code § 4- 756.02), and pursuant to Mayor ’s
Order 2006-20, dated February 13, 2006, hereby gives notice of her adoption of the following
amendments to Chapter 78 (Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program ) of Title 29 (Public
Welfare) of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (“DCMR”).

These rules amend the existing Chapter 78 of Title 29 of the DCMR, which was adopted via a final
rulemaking published in the District of Columbia Register on April 8, 2016, at 63 DCR 005273.
Chapter 78 established the District’s Family Re -Housing and Stabilization Program ( “FRSP”).
FRSP provides time -limited rental assistance to District residents who are experiencing
homelessness or are at risk of experiencing homelessness. Families are offered a range of services,
tailored to the unique needs and strengths of the entire household, to assist them in achieving
greater housing stability and economic security, including individualized case management
services, housing identification, connection to government and community-based resources, and
time-limited rental subsidies.

The Department Director first adopted emergency rules on March 1, 2024, pursuant to a Notice of
Emergency and Proposed Rulemaking published in the District of Columbia Register on March
22, 2024, at 71 DCR 3298. A Second Notice of E mergency Rulemaking was published in the
District of Columbia Register on September 27, 2024, at 71 DCR 11691; the second emergency
rulemaking continued in place the emergency rules that were adopted in the initial Notice of
Emergency and Proposed Rulemaking. A Notice of Third Emergency and S econd Proposed
Rulemaking was published in the District of Columbia Register on March 7, 2025, at 72 DCR
2386, reflecting changes to the earlier emergency and proposed rules in response to (1) public
comments received after publication of the initial proposed rulemaking and (2) legislation
amending Rapid Re -Housing provisions of the HSRA. The Department received no public
comments in response to the second notice of proposed rulemaking.

In accordance with Section 31 of the HSRA (D.C. Official Code § 4- 756.02), the proposed final
rules were submitted to the Council for a forty-five (45) day period of review and were deemed
approved on June XX, 2025, pursuant to Resolution 26-YYY.

On June ZZ, 2025, the Department Director adopted these rules as final, and the rules shall become
effective upon publication of this notice in the District of Columbia Register.

Chapter 78 (Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program) of Title 29 (Public Welfare) of
the DCMR is amended to read as follows:

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CHAPTER 78 FAMILY RE-HOUSING AND STABILIZATION PROGRAM

7800 SCOPE

7800.1 The purpose of the Family Re -Housing and Stabilization Program ( “FRSP” or
“Program”) is to support District residents who are experiencing homelessness or
at imminent risk of experiencing homelessness to achieve stability in permanent
housing through individualized and time-limited assistance within the twelve (12)-
month maximum allowable program assistance time period.

7800.2 FRSP participants shall work with their assigned Service Provider to increase their
income during the program assistance period and attain at least the District’s
minimum wage. In cases where a disabling condition prevents the participant from
increasing income, the Service Provider will assess the family for additional
services and refer them for appropriate services.

7800.3 FRSP offers a range of supports that are responsive to participant needs, including:
optional individualized case management services, housing identification,
connection to mainstream and community- based resources, and financial
assistance.

7800.4 The provisions of this chapter describe the application process, eligibility criteria,
assistance determination, description of assistance provided, and appeal procedures
for the Program.

7800.5 Nothing in these rules shall be interpreted to mean that FRSP assistance is an
entitlement. This Program shall be subject to annual appropriations and the
availability of funds.

7800.6 The Department may execute contracts, grants, and other agreements as necessary
to carry out the Program.

7801 APPLICATION PROCESS

7801.1 Each FRSP application shall be in writing on a form pr ovided by the Department,
signed by the applicant, and submitted to the Eligibility Provider . An authorized
representative may apply on behalf of the applicant, if the applicant provides the
Department a written and signed statement indicating the name and address of the
person authorized to act on the applicant’s behalf.

7801.2 If an applicant with a disability or the authorized representative of an applicant with
a disability requests assistance to complete the FRSP application , the Eligibility
Provider shall assist such applicant or authorized representative with the application

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process to ensure that the applicant has an equal opportunity to submit an
application.

7801.3 The Department shall provide FRSP application forms to the Eligibility Provider to
use and disseminate to applicants, and the Eligibility Provider shall accept
applications from each applicant who requests and is referred for FRSP assistance.

7801.4 At the time of application, the Eligibility Provider shall provide each applicant with
a written FRSP notice explaining the Program. Each applicant shall personally, or
through an authorized representative, sign an FRSP notice acknowledgement form,
acknowledging receipt of the FRSP notice.

7801.5 E ach applicant, personally or through an authorized representative, shall sign an
FRSP release form authorizing the Eligibility Provider to obtain or verify
information necessary for processing the application.

7801.6 E ach applicant shall provide the following information to the Eligibility Provider
to determine the household’s ability to achieve housing stability independent of the
Program by the end of the FRSP assistance period:

(a) The circumstances that brought about the applicant’s experience of
homelessness or imminent risk of homelessness;

(b) Willingness to actively engage in the application process by providing
required documents within the agreed upon timeline to their assigned case
managers; and

(c) Documentation of the following:

(1) Household composition;

(2) Employment status and employment history;

(3) Income and financial assets history;

(4) Household expenses;

(5) Rental and other relevant housing history;

(6) Facts and circumstances surrounding financial and other barriers to
housing stability; and

(7) Facts and circumstances surrounding work experience, education,
or training that can contribute to the household’s ability to achieve
housing stability independent of the Program by the end of the FRSP
assistance period.

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7801.7 The requirement for documentation under § 7801.6(c ) shall be waived if the
applicant signs a declaration containing the necessary information listed in §
7801.6(c).

7801.8 The applicant shall complete an Affordability Assessment that outlines the family’s
projected ability to pay thirty percent (30%) of their monthly income towards their
rental obligation each month to help the applicant select appropriate housing. The
affordability assessment includes:

(a) Current income;

(b) Expected future income;

(c) Employment history; and

(d) Employment potential based on job skills, certifications, or participation in
a training or employment program.

7801.9 The Eligibility Provider and the Department may attempt to verify the information
in Section 7801.6 using any third-party data sources to which it has legal access to
verify Program eligibility. The Eligibility Provider may use, among other things,
documents, telephone conversations, personal and collateral interviews, reports,
correspondence, and conferences to verify applicant information.

7801.10 If additional information is needed from the applicant to determine eligibility for
the Program, the Eligibility Provider shall make the request , in writing, for
additional information, which shall specify the information needed to complete the
application. The written request shall also include information to assist the
applicant with obtaining the required information or offer appropriate assistance in
obtaining the required information. The application shall be considered complete
when all required information is provided to the Eligibility Provider.

7801.11 If an applicant has not obtained and provided to the Eligibility Provider the required
information for eligibility determination under § 7801 within thirty (30) calendar
days of the date of application, then the Eligibility Provider shall make documented
efforts to contact the applicant both by telephone and in writing to discuss whether
the applicant wants to complete their application, and any barriers that are delaying
the requested documentation.

(a) If, at such time , contact with the applicant is made and services are still
requested, the Eligibility Provider will take appropriate steps to assist the
applicant in obtaining the required information.

(b) If, at such time, contact cannot be made, or the applicant no longer requests
the services, an application shall be considered abandoned. The Department

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shall issue the applicant a written notice indicating that the application has
been abandoned.

7801.12 The Eligibility Provider shall refer a complete application to the Department to
determine eligibility.

7802 APPLICANT UNIT

7802.1 The applicant unit shall be composed of each individual who lives in the same
household as the applicant and whose needs, assets, and income are combined to
determine eligibility.

7802.2 To determine the household composition of the applicant unit, the Department shall
consider individuals who live in the same physical housing unit as the applicant,
including:

(a) Persons related by blood or legal adoption with legal responsibility for
minor children in the household;

(b) Persons related by marriage or domestic partnership (as defined by Section
2(4) of the Health Care Benefits Expansion Act of 1992, effective June 11,
1992 (D.C. Law 9- 114; D.C. Official Code § 32- 701(4)), including
stepchildren and unmarried parents of a common child who live together;

(c) Persons with a legal responsibility for an unrelated minor child or an
unrelated adult with a disability;

(d) Any person not included by § 7802.2(a) -(c), regardless of blood
relationship, age, or marriage, whose history and statements reasonably
demonstrate that the individuals inten d to remain together in the same
household; and

(e) Children who live in the household for fifty percent (50%) or more of the
time.

7802.3 A person temporarily away from home due to employment, school, hospitalization,
legal proceedings, or vacation shall be considered to be living in the household. A
minor child who is away at school is considered to be living in the household if he
or she returns to the housing unit on occasional weekends, holidays, school breaks,
or during summer vacations. For purposes of this section, “temporarily” means no
more than six (6) months at a time.

7803 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

7803.1 An applicant shall qualify to enroll into FRSP if the following criteria apply:

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(a) The applicant unit is a family, as defined by Section 2(16) of the Act (D.C.
Official Code § 4-751.01(16));

(b) The applicant unit i s currently experiencing homelessness as defined by
Section 2(18) of the Act (D.C. Official Code § 4-751.01(18)), or is at risk
of experiencing homelessness as defined by Section 2(5B) of the Act (D.C.
Official Code § 4-751.01(5B));

(c) The applicant is a resident of the District of Columbia as defined by Section
2(32) of the Act (D.C. Official Code § 4-751.01(32));

(d) The applicant unit earns forty percent (40%) or less of the District of
Columbia Median Family Income for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan
Area, as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (“HUD”);

(e) The applicant unit has been referred by an approved referral source as
described in § 7803.2; and

(f) The applicant does not have an ownership interest in safe housing and is not
listed on a lease or occupancy agreement for safe housing, unless the
applicant provides credible evidence that they cannot safely inhabit the
housing associated with the lease or occupancy agreement; provided, that
this presumption shall not apply to an applicant seeking assistance for
reasons of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking.

7803.2 The following are approved referral sources for FRSP applicants (designated for
the rest of this chapter as “Referring Providers”):

(a) Providers of a Short-Term Family Housing Program;

(b) Providers of the Homelessness Prevention Program; and

(c) Department-approved providers of emergency domestic violence shelter
programs.

7803.3 A Referring Provider shall assess whether FRSP is an appropriate referral for an
applicant by using an evidence-based assessment such as the Westat Tool. Relevant
factors for determining whether a household is appropriate for FRSP assistance
include:

(a) Assessment on a uniform tool as selected by the Department, such as the
Service Prioritization Decision Assistance Tool (“SPDAT”), that identifies
Rapid Re-Housing as the appropriate housing assistance option based on
the applicant’s needs;

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(b) Identification by the District of Columbia Housing Authority (“DCHA”) or
other subsidized housing provider, as a household that is reasonably likely
to receive DCHA or other subsidized housing within approximately twelve
(12) months;

(c) Willingness to take steps that could reasonably lead to increased income in
the household; and

(d) Identification of and willingness to take steps that could reasonably lead to
permanent housing stability in cohabitation with family, friends, or other
appropriate and safe situations.

7803.4 The Department shall determine the eligibility in as short a time as feasible, but not
later than ten (10) calendar days after receipt of a completed application by the
Eligibility Provider. Delays caused by the following shall not count towards the ten
(10)-day deadline:

(a) The applicant’s inability to supply information to document facts stated in
the completed application needed to determine eligibility and type or
amount of assistance;

(b) The inability to contact the applicant through telephone, mail, or email;

(c) Evidence of misrepresentation of information in the application; or

(d) Delay by a third party from whom the Eligibility Provider has requested
information.

7803.5 The Eligibility Provider shall create and maintain in the applicant’s or participant’s
file detailed documentation of the Program’s eligibility determination, including
the assistance for which the applicant qualifies and subsequent case-management
services provided.

7803.6 If an applicant is determined eligible for FRSP assistance pursuant to § 7803.1, the
Eligibility Provider shall enter in the applicant ’s case file a written Notice of
Eligibility Determination.

7803.7 The Referring Provider shall notify the applicant orally or via electronic
communication when the Eligibility Provider enters a favorable Notice of
Eligibility Determination in the applicant’s case file. P ursuant to Section 9 of the
Act (D.C. Official Code § 4- 754.11(a)(6)), the applicant may request a hard copy
of the favorable Notice of Eligibility Determination.

7803.8 If an applicant is determined ineligible for FRSP assistance, the Department shall
give to the applicant, personally or through an authorized representative, oral and
written notice of the denial. The written Notice of Denial of Eligibility shall state:

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(a) That the applicant is being denied eligibility;

(b) The reason or reasons for the denial , including the factual and legal basis
for the denial;

(c) The applicable statute or regulation pursuant to which the denial was made;

(d) That the FRSP applicant has a right to appeal the denial through fair hearing
and administrative review proceedings pursuant to § 7824 including the
procedures and appropriate deadlines for requesting an appeal; and

(e) Which programs or services within the Continuum of Care the applicant
may qualify for and has been referred to, if applicable.

7804 PRIORITY DETERMINATION

7804.1 Families residing in a Department-funded family shelter shall receive the first
priority for the Program.

7804.2 Families participating in the Department’s Homelessness Prevention Program , or
residing in domestic violence shelter, transitional housing program, or determined
to be at imminent risk of needing admission to shelter or supportive housing
pursuant to 29 DCMR § 2508.1(a)(1), shall receive the second priority for the
Program.

7804.3 Within each of the first and second priority groups , additional priority
determinations may be made based on the following:

(a) The applicant’s prospective ability to achieve housing stability at the end of
the FRSP assistance period, as demonstrated by income, documented work
experience, completion of the Individual Responsibility Plan, the
identification of other stable housing opportunities, or other relevant
factors;

(b) The length of time the applicant has resided in their current program since
the most recent placement;

(c) The need to provide a reasonable accommodation based on a disability; and

(d) Other relevant factors.

7805 PRE-ENROLLMENT SERVICES

7805.1 The FRSP assistance period begins when a family executes Program enrollment
and leasing agreements for the FRSP-subsidized housing unit (referred to as “lease-
up”) and ends when FRSP is no longer paying the rental subsidy for the unit.

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7805.2 A Referring Provider may assist a family who has been determined eligible for
FRSP with the following housing identification services before they have signed a
lease for their FRSP unit:

(a) Gathering documents required for lease -up, including ID, birth certificate,
and proof of income;

(b) Identification of a housing unit independently and/or accessing a listing of
available housing units to identify a unit that best fits the participant’s
needs; and

(c) Assistance in negotiating with landlords to reduce the rent or include
utilities.

7806 RE-HOUSING AND STABILIZATION ASSISTANCE OVERVIEW

7806.1 FRSP is a time -limited rapid re -housing program that supports District residents
who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of experiencing homelessness to
achieve stability in permanent housing through individualized and time-limited
assistance.

7806.2 FRSP assistance comprises appropriate needs-based supports, including any or all
of the following:

(a) Assignment to a qualified Service Provider with the capacity to provide
individualized case management services using a progressive engagement
model based on the presenting needs of the family;

(b) Development of a Housing Stabilization Plan to facilitate attainment of
participant’s goals, including housing stability. For participants receiving
District Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and who
already have an Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP), the IRP should serve
this purpose and can be modified and evaluated as necessary in
collaboration with other organizations and entities that are also engaged
with the participant;

(c) Assessment of the family to determine their potential eligibility and referral
for longer -term housing assistance programs , including Permanent
Supportive Housing (PSH) or Targeted Affordable Housing (TAH) ,
through the Coordinated Assessment and Housing Placement (CAHP)
process;

(d) Connection to other community resources and services that are responsive
to the needs of the household (e.g., behavioral health, primary health care,
educational supports, food and nutrition resources);

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(e) Rental assistance in the form of a monthly rental subsidy, the cost of a
security deposit, move -in assistance, and utility assistance, as needed and
identified in the Housing Stabilization Plan pursuant to paragraph (b) of this
subsection, for up to twelve (12) months;

(f) In cases where a relocation is approved, housing identification assistance
through which the Service Provider assists participants with:

(1) Identification of a unit independently and/or accessing a pool of
available housing units to identify a unit that best fits the
participant’s needs;

(2) Assistance in negotiating with landlords to reduce the rent or include
utilities; and

(3) Scheduling a timely inspection of the unit;

(g) Job placement and workforce development; and

(h) Documentation of activities that can be credited toward a participant’s IRP,
such as housing search, housing counseling services, obtaining a GED
certification, University of the District of Columbia class credit, work
hours, or certification with the District Department of Employment Services
(DOES) or other barrier remediation activities specifically identified in the
plan.

7806.3 The Service Provider will have regular, no less than monthly, engagement with the
participant as dictated by the goals in the Housing Stabilization Plan or IRP,
coordinate with other Service Providers, and maintain current documentation on
progress toward goals. This will include an assessment of progress made towards
the completion of the Housing Stabilization Plan or IRP.

7806.4 The Service Provider shall conduct a formal review of services provided and the
participant’s participation in the Program after three (3), seven (7), and ten (10)
months of assistance. This review will include the following:

(a) Review of participant’s income change and approved budget plan;

(b) Review of progress on the Housing Stabilization Plan or IRP and the
applicant’s approved budget plan;

(c) Needs-based assessments, using a progressive engagement model, to
determine if a less or more aggressive intervention is required; and

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(d) Review of participant’s likely ability to sustain housing stability
independently of the Program at the end of the FRSP assistance period.

7807 UNIT SELECTION

7807.1 Participation in the FRSP is conditioned upon selecting a housing unit that passes
the FRSP required housing inspection, which shall conform to the August 2024
National Standards for Physical Inspection of Real Estate established by HUD or
other standards designated by the Department by rule , and meets the Rent
Reasonableness Standard as determined by DCHA. The Department or the
Department’s designee may authorize selection of a housing unit that exceeds the
maximum allowable rent for purposes of ensuring the program is readily accessible
by large families and individuals with disabilitie s, in accordance with S ections 9
and 12 of the Act (D.C. Official Code §§ 4-754.11(a)(2) and 4-754.21(11)).

7807.2 The participant shall be required to work with their case manager to identify a unit
independently and access the pool of available housing units to identify a unit that
best fits their needs.

7807.3 The participant shall make a reasonable effort to identify a unit that will allow the
household to achieve housing stability independent of the Program by the end of
the FRSP assistance period as described in § 7801.8.

7807.4 The Department shall permit the following maximum number of bedrooms based
on the household’s composition:

(a) A household with one parent and one child under the age of two (2) will be
approved for a studio or a one (1)-bedroom apartment;

(b) A household of more than one person will be approved for a unit with one
(1) bedroom for the head of household and spouse or partner and one (1)
additional bedroom for each two (2) persons within the household pursuant
to 14 D.C.M.R. § 402.2-402.3.

7807.5 The following exceptions shall apply to the maximum number of bedrooms policy
in § 7807.4:

(a) Children of the opposite gender shall be allocated separate bedrooms once
one of the children is over the age of five (5) or if one (1) of the children
will turn five (5) within six (6) months after the household’s lease is signed;

(b) With the permission of the applicant and to allow the household to identify
a unit that they believe will be more affordable in the long-term, the
Department may allow children of opposite gender between the ages of six
(6) and eleven (11) to occupy the same bedroom, in order to reduce the
number of bedrooms required;

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(c) Children of the same gender shall be allocated one (1) bedroom. Beginning
once one (1) of the children turns age thirteen (13), if there is a difference
of five (5) years or more between children of the same gender, they may
have separate bedrooms; and

(d) A bedroom shall not be assigned to an unborn child unless there is a parent
in the household who is in their third trimester.

7807.6 If a participant requests to lease up in a unit with more bedrooms than is allowed
under § 7807.4 and 7807.5, the household shall request approval of their selected
unit from the Department, which shall be granted only if the household
demonstrates that the increase in bedrooms is necessary to accommodate the
reasonable needs of a household member with a disability.

7807.7 If a parent shares custody of children, bedrooms shall be provided for children if
the children live with the parent for fifty percent (50%) or more of the time. The
Department shall require verification of the shared custody.

7807.8 If the participant’s household composition changes, the household may request an
exception to the standards in § 7807.4 and 7807.5. If the household is already in a
unit, the household may request a unit review.

7807.9 If the participant is unable to secure a housing unit in a timely manner, he or she
shall be offered at least one (1) unit from the available housing inventory to the
extent that units are available in the housing inventory.

7807.10 FRSP assistance shall be provided only for housing units located within the District
of Columbia. Any unit constructed before 1978 in which a child under the age of
six (6) will be residing must comply with Section 302 of the Lead-Based Paint
Poisoning Prevention Act, effective November 9, 1973 (Pub. L. 91-695; 42 U.S.C.
§ 4822), and implementing regulations at 24 C.F.R. part 35, subparts A, B, M, and
R.

7807.11 Upon selection, successful inspection, and signing of a lease, the Service Provider
shall ensure that the case manager’s and Department’s contact information is
promptly provided to the landlord.

7807.12 The Service Provider shall assist a participant in relocating to a different unit if, at
any time during the participant’s tenancy:

(a) The participant needs to move because of a reasonable accommodation;

(b) The participant needs to move because of domestic violence; or

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(c) The unit has substantial housing code violations that adversely impact the
health or safety of the participant’s household, and that the landlord fails to
address after receiving notice of the housing code violations.

7807.13 Relocation to a different unit shall have no effect on the participant’s length of
FRSP assistance.

7808 RENTAL ASSISTANCE

7808.1 FRSP provides rental assistance for up to twelve (12) months. The monthly FRSP
rental assistance amount shall be the difference between the rental cost and the
household contribution.

7808.2 The household shall contribute thirty percent (30%) of their adjusted annual income
toward housing costs , which shall be assessed by the Eligibility Provider . The
actual contribution amount will be calculated based o n the participant’s approved
budget component of the Housing Stabilization Plan or IRP.

7808.3 The FRSP participant shall pay the monthly contribution amount for the duration
of the FRSP assistance period , unless the participant has notified the Service
Provider of good cause for non- payment, such as the participant withholding rent
due to housing code violations in the unit which the landlord has failed to address
after receiving notice of the violations; the Service Provider agrees that good cause
exists; and the participant deposits or retains the amount withheld from the rent in
a financial account approved by the Service Provider. The FRSP participant shall
not be responsible for paying the subsidized portion of the rent.

7808.4 The Department or the Department’s designee shall pay the subsidized portion of
the rent directly to the landlord, including any late fees or court costs that accrue
due to a late payment rent on the part of the Department.

7808.5 The Program shall not be obligated to provide a monetary amount for a requested
service if a less costly alternative is available.

7808.6 The r ental cost for the unit may not exceed the rent reasonableness standard
determined by DCHA. The Referring Provider and the participant shall attempt to
identify housing units below market rent wherever possible.

7808.7 In addition to the monthly rent subsidy, FRSP rental assistance may include the
cost of a security deposit, move-in assistance, and utility assistance, in accordance
with the applicant’s approved budget plan.

7808.8 The maximum FRSP payment for a security deposit shall be the actual amount of
the deposit, which shall not exceed the cost of one (1) month’s unsubsidized rent.

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7808.9 An FRSP participant shall report to their Service Provider in writing within fifteen
(15) calendar days of any change in income of fifty dollars ($50) or more.

7808.10 The FRSP shall not increase the household’s rental payment due to an increase in
earnings unless a participant experiences an increase of more than one thousand
dollars ($1,000) per month for at least three (3) months.

7808.11 Upon receiving written notification from the household of a change in the
household’s monthly income, the Service Provider shall determine whether there is
a need to recalculate the amount of the household’s housing cost contribution, based
on the following criteria:

(a) If the participant reports a decrease in monthly income of fifty dollars ($50)
or more, the Service Provider shall process and submit documentation to
the Department to recalculate the household’s contribution;

(b) If the participant reports a decrease in monthly income of less than fifty
dollars ($50) the household may request that a recalculation be conducted;

(c) If the participant reports an increase in monthly income of more than one
thousand dollars ($1,000) per month that will last for at least three (3)
months, the Service Provider shall process and submit documentation to the
Department to recalculate the household’s contribution;

(d) If the recalculation pursuant to paragraphs (a) or (b) results in an increase
in the amount of FRSP rental assistance, the change shall take effect the
first day of the month or the next day that rent is due if different from the
first of the month, whichever is first, following completion of the
calculation. The recalculation shall be completed within ten (10) business
days of receipt of written notice from the household of the decrease in
household income and request for a recalculation, and documentation
necessary for the Department recalculation;

(e) If the recalculation made pursuant to paragraphs (a), (b), or (c) results in a
decrease in the amount of FRSP rental assistance, the change shall take
effect the first of the month, or on the day that rent is next due if different
than the first of the month, whichever is first, following the month in which
written notice of the change is provided to the household; and

(f) If the next day rent is due is less than fifteen (15) calendar days from the
date the notice is either hand-delivered or postmarked, the change in the
FRSP rental assistance shall be effective the second month (or the second
date upon which rent is due) following the month in which written notice of
the change is provided to the household.

15

7808.12 When the Eligibility Provider calculates the initial FRSP assistance or when a
Service Provider requests a change in FRSP assistance based upon a reported
change in income , the Eligibility Provider or Service Provider shall give to the
participant household a written Notice of FRSP Rental Assistance or a Notice of
Change in FRSP Rental Assistance, as appropriate. Each Notice shall state:

(a) The basis for the rental assistance determination;

(b) The statute or regulation under which the change was made;

(c) The participant’s current FRSP rental assistance and the participant ’s
current share of the housing costs;

(d) If the rental assistance is changing, a computation of the new amount of
FRSP rental assistance and the new participant contribution to the rental
amount;

(e) If the rental assistance amount is changing, the effective date of the change
in accordance with § 7808; and

(f) The FRSP participant’s right to a reconsideration of the initial calculation
or the recalculation by the Department or the Department’s designee, within
thirty (30) calendar days of receipt of the written Notice , and instructions
for submitting such requests for reconsideration.

7808.13 The Eligibility Provider shall respond to a request for reconsideration in accordance
with § 7808.12(f) within five (5) business days of receipt of the household’s written
request for a reconsideration. The five (5) business day timeframe shall be tolled if
the provider has requested documentation necessary to the review and receipt of
such documentation is pending.

7808.14 Within twenty -four (24) hours of the Eligibility Provider’s calculation or
recalculation of the household’s rental assistance, notice required shall be either
hand-delivered to an adult member of the participant household, mailed to the
household by first class mail, or sent by electronic mail if the household has given
consent.

7808.15 Only in rare circumstances , when required by a vendor or by a District or federal
agency, may the assistance payment be made in the form of cash. In all other cases,
the FRSP assistance payment shall be made in the form of non -cash direct vendor
payments.

7809 CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

7809.1 A participant enrolled in FRSP shall receive case management services from a
qualified Service Provider.

16

7809.2 FRSP case management services shall use a progressive engagement model based
on the presenting needs of the family and may include:

(a) Development of a Housing Stabilization Plan to identify the family’s goals
for connecting to services, increasing income, and achieving housing
stability after their FRSP assistance ends, and the intermediary steps the
family must take to accomplish those goals;

(b) Employment services, including job coaching and assistance identifying
opportunities to increase earnings;

(c) Regular contact and communication with a case manager to discuss
progress towards the Housing Stabilization Plan and adjust them as needed;

(d) Connection to other community resources and services that are responsive
to the needs of the household, such as behavioral health, primary health
care, educational supports, food and nutrition resources;

(e) For FRSP participants who are also receiving TANF, documentation of
activities that can be credited toward a participant’s TANF IRP, such as
housing search, housing counseling services, obtaining a GED certification,
University of the District of Columbia class credit, work hours, or
certification with DOES or other barrier remediation activities specifically
identified in the plan; and

(f) An updated assessment in response to changed circumstances or a
significant life event.

7809.3 The Service Provider shall assess a participant’s potential eligibility for longer-term
housing assistance programs, including the PSH program and the TAH program,
within the first ninety (90) days of the FRSP assistance period.

7809.4 The Service Provider shall confirm that a participant is registered to the DCHA
waiting list. If not, the Service Provider shall assist with applying for housing
through DCHA, if such application is available.

7809.5 The Service Provider will have regular engagement with the participant as dictated
by the goals in the Housing Stabilization Plan, but no less than monthly; coordinate
with other Service Providers; and maintain current documentation on progress
toward goals. This includes an assessment of progress made towards the completion
of the Housing Stabilization Plan.

7809.6 The Housing Stabilization Plan or IRP shall aim for a targeted progression towards
exit from the FRSP assistance provided by the end of the twelve (12)-month FRSP
assistance period.

17

7809.7 The participant is expected to plan for the end of FRSP assistance after the end of
the twelve (12)-month assistance period.

7809.8 The Service Provider shall engage the participant on progress made towards the
Housing Stabilization Plan, which includes the family’s plan and actions steps to
exit the program. If the participant elects to request a program extension to receive
assistance beyond the twelve (12)-month program time period, the Service Provider
will review and process the request according to the requirements determined by
the Department and in accordance with Section 7812.

7809.9 A participant who receiv es TANF is required to comply with all TANF
requirements and remain in active engagement status with their assigned TANF
Employment Provider (TEP), and each Service Provider’s Program Rules shall so
provide. In cases where a participant is not engaging with the assigned TEP
provider, the Service Provider may cite this as a Program Rules violation.

7810 [REPEALED]

7811 FINANCIAL INCENTIVES

7811.1 The Department, subject to funding availability, may award a financial incentive to
an FRSP participant who meets program goals related to exiting the program earlier
than the twelve (12) month program timeframe to stable housing within specific
timeframes. The participant may use these awarded funds only to pay rent or
utilities.

7811.2 The FRSP financial incentive shall be in the amounts indicated in Section 7811.3.

7811.3 A participant shall qualify for an FRSP financial incentive if they achieve one of
the following indicators of housing stability, subject to availability of funding:

(a) If the participant has signed a lease in their current housing unit or in a new
housing unit supported by a long- term housing voucher, including PSH,
TAH, District Child and Family Services Agency ( CFSA) Family
Unification, District Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), or Section 8,
within thirty (30) calendar days of approval for the voucher, the participant
is eligible to receive up to two hundred fifty dollars ($250).

(b) If the participant’s household wages earned and unearned, are enough to
afford rent at fifty percent (50%) Rent Burden or less within six (6) months
of being in the program, the participant is eligible to receive up to two
thousand dollars ($2,000). If this goal is reached after six (6) months but
within twelve (12) months of being in the program, the participant is eligible
to receive up to one thousand dollars ($1,000).

18

(c) If the participant has moved in or is planning to move in with family or
friends and has a written commitment that they can live at that location for
at least a year within six (6) months of being in the program, the participant
is eligible to receive up to two thousand dollars ($2,000). If this goal is
reached after six (6) months but within twelve (12) months of being in the
program, the participant is eligible to receive up to one thousand dollars
($1,000).

(d) If the participant has entered into a shared housing agreement where the
participant will be able to live in the housing for at least a year paying fifty
percent (50%) Rent Burden or less within six (6) months of being in the
program, the participant is eligible to receive up to two thousand dollars
($2,000). If this goal is reached after six (6) months but within twelve (12)
months of being in the program, the participant is eligible to receive up to
one thousand dollars ($1,000).

7812 EXTENSION CRITERIA

7812.1 FRSP provides assistance for a maximum period of twelve (12) months, unless the
Department has funding available for FRSP extensions in a given fiscal year. When
such funding is available, the Department may accept FRSP extension requests. If
FRSP funding is available for extensions, a n FRSP participant may request an
extension of FRSP assistance for an additional six (6) months under certain
circumstances. The Department will consider the totality of circumstances as
described in this section when determining an extension request.

7812.2 The Department shall consider requests for FRSP assistance extending past twelve
(12) months if funding is available within the FRSP budget for program extensions.
The Department may rely on budget appropriations and P rogram spending
projections based on the availability of current Fiscal Year funding for FRSP rental
subsidies and other FRSP services for current FRSP participants, as well as families
projected to enter the P rogram during the current Fiscal Year , when making this
determination. DHS shall publish a notice in the District of Columbia Register
when FRSP funding for extensions has been exhausted in a given fiscal year.

7812.3 A request for an extension of FRSP assistance must be submitted in writing between
ninety (90) and sixty (60) days before the end of the participant’s twelve (12)-month
assistance period. The request for an extension must be on a form prescribed by the
Department. The Service Provider will assist the participant in gathering and
submitting the required information to the Department.

7812.4 The Department may grant an extension of FRSP assistance if the participant has
demonstrated a good faith effort toward the achievement of goals set forth in their
Housing Stabilization Plan or IRP as observed by the Service Provider at the three
(3), seven (7), and ten (10) month reviews, but cannot yet sustain housing stability
independently of the program.

19

7812.5 For the purposes of this section, the participant shall have demonstrated a good faith
effort toward the achievement of goals set forth in their Housing Stabilization Plan
or IRP by meeting the following requirements:

(a) The participant has missed no more than one monthly rent payment;

(b) The participant has no documented P rogram Rules violations in the past
three (3) months;

(c) The participant has a housing stabilization plan with an aim of a targeted
progression towards exit from the supports of FRSP; and

(d) The participant has met, in -person or virtually, with their FRSP case
manager at least once per month for the past five (5) months.

7812.6 For the purposes of this section, the Department will determine whether the
participant can sustain housing independently of FRSP using the Affordability
Assessment described at §7801.8. An FRSP participant will not qualify for an
extension of FRSP assistance if median rent based on unit size for the Washington-
Arlington-Alexandria Metropolitan Area as defined by HUD is less than fifty
percent (50%) of the FRSP participant’s household income.

7812.7 The Department shall accept a request for extension of FRSP assistance from an
FRSP participant who has been approved for permanently affordable housing if the
Department has determined that funding for extensions is available in the current
fiscal year pursuant to § 7812.2. When such funding is available, a participant who
has been approved for permanently available housing shall receive an extension of
FRSP assistance for up to six months or until the participant begins to receive
assistance from the new housing program provider, whichever comes first.

7812.8 For the purposes of this section, “permanent ly affordable housing” shall include
federally or locally funded programs through which families receive long- term
housing assistance. These programs include the Housing Choice Voucher Program,
Permanent Supportive Housing, Targeted Affordable Housing, the DC Flexible
Rent Subsidy Pilot Progr am, the Career Mobility Action Plan Program, and other
comparable housing programs.

7812.9 When determining whether to grant a participant an extension beyond twelve (12)
months of FRSP assistance, the Department shall consider the totality of the
circumstances. In addition to the factors described above in this section, the totality
of the circumstances shall also include the participant’s progress toward attaining
employment income equal to or exceeding the equivalent of at least an average of
thirty (30) hours per week at the District’s minimum wage and the length of total
program assistance the participant has received.

20

7812.10 An FRSP participant shall not qualify for an extension of FRSP assistance beyond
twelve (12) months unless they have earned the equivalent of at least an average of
thirty (30) hours per week at or above the minimum wage of the District for the
past four (4) months.

7812.11 DHS may waive the employment requirement in Section 7812.10, if, at the time of
the participant’s extension request, the participant faces a significant hardship, such
as having a child in their custody under the age of six (6) months or experiencing a
medical condition that prevents the FRSP participant from meeting the employment
requirement. To qualify for this waiver, the participant must demonstrate
reasonable efforts to engage with their case manager to address the hardship
preventing their employment.

7812.12 FRSP is not an entitlement, and the program is not designed to be an indefinite
bridge to long-term affordable housing. Therefore, an FRSP participant may not
submit a request for an extension of FRSP assistance if they have already been
granted one six (6)-month extension of program assistance.

7812.13 The Department shall notify the participant and the participant’s Service Provider
if the Department grants the request for an additional six (6) months of FRSP
assistance.

7812.14 The Service Provider shall conduct two (2) additional formal reviews for an FRSP
participant who receives an additional six (6) months of FRSP assistance to ensure
the participant receives the support necessary to exit FRSP with stable housing.

7812.15 If the Department denies the request for an extension of FRSP assistance, the
Department shall give the participant a written notice at least thirty (30) calendar
days before the final FRSP subsidy payment. The written extension denial notice
shall state:

(a) The reason for the denial of additional FRSP assistance;

(b) The participant’s right to appeal the determination through a fair hearing
and administrative review, including deadlines for requesting an appeal; and

(c) The participant’s right to continuation of FRSP assistance pending the
outcome of any fair hearing requested within fifteen (15) calendar days’
receipt of the written notice of denial.

7820 PROGRAM TERMINATION

7820.1 A Service Provider may terminate its FRSP assistance pursuant to Section 22 of the
Act (D.C. Official Code § 4-754.36).

21

7820.2 Termination under this provision shall apply to rental assistance, case management
services, and any other service or assistance provided by the Service Provider by
virtue of the participant’s participation in FRSP.

7820.3 The Service Provider shall give written and oral notice to an FRSP participant of
their termination from the program pursuant to this section at least thirty (30)
calendar days before the effective date of the termination.

7820.4 The Service Provider’s written notice to the participant of the termination shall
include:

(a) A clear statement of the termination and its effective date;

(b) A clear and detailed statement of the factual basis for the termination ,
including the date or dates on which the basis or bases for the termination
occurred;

(c) A reference to the statute, regulation, or Program Rule pursuant to which
the termination is being implemented;

(d) A clear and complete statement of the participant’ s right to appeal the
termination through administrative review and fair hearing proceedings
pursuant to § 7824, including the appropriate deadlines for instituting the
appeal; and

(e) A statement of the participant ’s right, if any, to continuation of benefits
pending the outcome of any appeal, pursuant to Section 9(a)(18) of the Act
(D.C. Official Code § 4-754.11(a)(18)).

7820.5 Termination pursuant to this section refers to a termination of the Service
Provider’s FRSP assistance only and does not provide the Department or an FRSP
Provider with any authority to interfere with a participant’s tenancy rights under
the lease agreement as governed by Title 14 of the District of Columbia Municipal
Regulations.

7821 PROGRAM EXIT

7821.1 Pursuant to Section 22b(a) of the Act (D.C. Official Code § 4-754.36b(a)), a Service
Provider may conduct a program exit when:

(a) The FRSP participant reaches the end of their FRSP assistance period; or

(b) The Department determines the participant is no longer eligible for FRSP.

7821.2 The Service Provider shall provide the participant oral and written notice of the
program exit at least thirty (30) calendar days before the effective date of the

22

program exit. The Service Provider may issue the written notice via electronic
transmission if the participant has consented and provided such contact
information.

7821.3 The Service Provider’s written notice to the participant of the program exit shall
include:

(a) A clear statement of the effective date of the participant’s exit from the
Program, including the final month for which the participant will receive
FRSP housing assistance;

(b) A clear and detailed statement of the factual basis for the program exit,
including the date or dates on which the basis or bases for the program exit
occurred;

(c) A reference to the statute or regulation pursuant to which the program exit
is being implemented;

(d) A clear and complete statement of the participant’s right to appeal the
program exit pursuant to §7824, including deadlines for instituting the
appeal; and

(e) A statement of the participant’s right to continuation of FRSP assistance
pending the outcome of an appeal requested within fifteen (15) calendar
days after receipt of written notice of the program exit, pursuant to § 7824.

7821.4 A program exit from FRSP shall not affect a participant’s tenancy rights under an
agreement governed by Title 14 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

7821.5 An FRSP participant may withdraw from FRSP, including all FRSP services and
rental assistance, at any time.

7821.6 An FRSP participant who wishes to withdraw from FRSP shall submit a Voluntary
Withdrawal Form to the Department. The Department shall respond in writing to
indicate the final date of FRSP assistance.

7822 SUMMARY OF PROVIDER RESPONSIBILITIES

7822.1 An Eligibility Provider is responsible for the following:

(a) Assisting the FRSP applicant with the overall application process, including
assisting the applicant in obtaining required information to complete the
application process;

(b) Referring the completed FRSP application to the Department in as short a
time as possible;

23

(c) Maintaining in the applicant’s or participant’s file the following detailed
documentation:

(1) Assistance for which the applicant qualifies;

(2) Case-management reviews; and

(3) The applicant’s or participant’s individualized Housing
Stabilization Plan or IRP;

(d) For an applicant who is determined ineligible for FRSP assistance,
providing them with a referral or referrals to other programs and services
within the Continuum of Care.

7822.2 A Service Provider is responsible for the following:

(a) Providing individualized case management services using a progressive
engagement model based on the presenting needs of all members of the
participant household;

(b) Developing an individualized Housing Stabilization Plan or IRP in
collaboration with the participant and other organizations and entities that
are also engaged with the participant;

(c) Connecting the participant to other community resources, and ongoing
evaluation of the Housing Stabilization Plan or IRP and modification as
needed;

(d) Conducting a review of case management services provided and participant
participation after three (3), seven (7), and ten (10) months of assistance;

(e) In cases of an approved relocation, a ssisting the participant to identify a
housing unit independently or access the pool of available housing units to
identify a unit that best fits their needs;

(f) Providing employment supports; and

(g) Ensuring a participant receiving TANF receives credit for any work or
barrier remediation activities and supports identified in the service plan,
such as job search, GED preparation, housing search and counseling.

7823 PARTICIPANT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

7823.1 An FRSP participant shall have the rights described pursuant to Sections 9 and 10a
of the Act (D.C. Official Code §§ 4-754.11 and 4-754.12a).

24

7823.2 A participant shall have the right to withdraw from the Program at any time during
the FRSP assistance period.

7823.3 A participant shall have the responsibilities described pursuant to Section 11 of the
Act (D.C. Official Code § 4-754.13).

7823.4 A participant shall also have the following responsibilities:

(a) The participant must pay their monthly rental contribution on time for the
duration of the FRSP assistance period;

(b) The participant is responsible for notifying the Department or their Service
Providers if a member of their applicant unit will not reside in the unit for
longer than 6 months; and

(c) The participant is responsible for reporting changes in income pursuant to
§ 7808.9.

7824 FAIR HEARING AND ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW

7824.1 An FRSP applicant or participa nt shall have ninety (90) calendar days following
the receipt of a written notice described in §§ 7803.8, 7812.15, 7820.3, or 7821.4
to appeal the action that is the subject of the written notice. The appeal shall be
conducted in accordance with the fair hearing and administrative review provisions
of Sections 26 and 27 of the Act (D.C. Official Code §§ 4-754.41 and 4-75.42).

7824.2 Upon receipt of an appeal , the Department shall offer the petitioner or the
petitioner’s authorized representative an opportunity for an administrative review
in accordance with Section 27 of the A ct (D.C. Official Code § 4- 754.42), except
that if an eviction is imminent, the Department shall take all reasonable steps to
provide an expedited administrative review to maximize resolution of the appeal in
time to resolve the housing emergency and prevent the eviction.

7824.3 In accordance with Section 26 of the Act (D.C. Official Code § 4-754.41(b)(2)(F)),
an appeal of a written notice of program exit issued because the participant reached
the end of their FRSP assistance period may not be reviewed at a fair hearing. The
administrative review decision by the Department shall be final in such cases.

7824.4 In accordance with Section 27 of the Act (D.C. Official Code § 4-754.42(d)(3)), the
Department may conduct an administrative review on the papers and without an in-
person hearing if the purpose of the administrative review is to ascertain the validity
of a decision to exit the participant because the participant reached the end of their
FRSP assistance period.

25

7824.5 In accordance with S ections 9 and 22b of the Act (D.C. Official Code §§ 4-
754.11(a)(18)) and 4-754.36b((c)), a participant who appeals within fifteen (15)
days of receipt of a written notice of termination pursuant to § 7820 or program
exit pursuant to § 7821 shall have the right to the continuation of FRSP services
pending a final decision from the fair hearing proceedings, except, that a participant
who appeals within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a written notice of program exit
issued because the participant reached the end of their FRSP assistance period shall
have the right to continuation of FRSP services pending the administrative review
decision.

7899 DEFINITIONS

7899.1 The terms and definitions in 29 DCMR § 2599 are incorporated by reference in this
chapter.

7899.2 For the purposes of this chapter, the following additional terms shall have the
meanings ascribed:

Act – the Homeless Services Reform Act of 2005, effective October 22, 2005 (D.C.
Law 16-35; D.C. Official Code § 4-751.01 et seq.).

Approved Budget Plan – a household’s estimate of costs, revenue, and resources
over a specified period, reflecting a reading of future financial conditions
and goals. An approved budget plan serves also as a: (1) plan of action for
achieving quantified objectives, (2) standard for measuring performance,
and (3) device for coping with foreseeable adverse situations.

Authorized Representative – an individual who is at least eighteen ( 18) years of
age, who is acting on behalf of the applicant, and has sufficient knowledge
of the applicant’s circumstances to provide or obtain necessary information
about the applicant, or a person who has legal authorization to act on behalf
of the applicant.

Eligibility Provider – an organization that receives Family Re -Housing and
Stabilization Program funds and is authorized to assess eligibility and
administer Family Re -Housing and Stabilization Program services ,
including the payment of rental subsidies.

Family – (A) a group of individuals with at least one minor or dependent child,
regardless of blood relationship, age, or marriage, whose history and
statements reasonably tend to demonstrate that they intend to remain
together as a family unit; or (B) a pregnant woman in her third trimester.

Housing Stability – the ability to pay housing costs with or without assistance from
another source, including rent and utilities, or to secure other viable and

26

secure housing options necessary to retain housing without FRSP
assistance.

Individualized Housing Stabilization Plan – the self -sufficiency plan that the
Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program participant has entered into
with the shelter, housing, District Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
(TANF), or other service provider that sets out the steps and goals necessary
for the participant to achieve greater housing and economic self-sufficiency.

Longer-Term Housing Assistance Program – a program within the Continuum
of Care that combines supportive services with permanent rental assistance.

Progressive Engagement – a strategy of starting off offering a small amount of
assistance initially, and, after reassessment, adding more assistance if
needed to help each household reach stability. This strategy uses the lightest
touch possible for a household to be successful, knowing more assistance
can be added later if needed.

Rapid Re-Housing – a supportive housing program that provides a homeless
individual or family with financial assistance as a bridge to permanent
housing, by providing some or all of a security deposit, first month’s rent,
short-term rental subsidy, and supportive services in order to help the
recipient become self-sufficient. FRSP is a Rapid Re-Housing program.

Referring Provider – a Continuum of Care provider designated by Section 7803.2
as an approved referral source for applicants to FRSP.

Rent Burden– the share of a family’s adjusted gross income that is paid towards
rent and utilities.

Rental Payment – a regular payment made by a tenant to an owner or landlord for
the right to occupy or use property.

Security Deposit – a sum of money paid in advance that is required by the owner
or landlord for leasing property as security against the tenant’s inability to
fulfill the lease or security to cover damage to the rental premises.

Service Provider – an organization that receives Family Re -Housing and
Stabilization Program funds and is authorized to deliver Family Re-Housing
and Stabilization Program services.

Vendor – a provider of a service or product, including a landlord.

1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Suite 409, Washington, D.C. 20004
Phone (202) 262-6402 Email: adele.el-khouri@dc.gov

GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

BRIAN L. SCHWALB PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL
ATTORNEY GENERAL ATTORNEY-CLIENT COMMUNICATION

LEGAL COUNSEL DIVISION

MEMORANDUM

TO: Monica Brown
General Counsel
Department of Human Services

FROM: Adele El-Khouri
Deputy Attorney General
Legal Counsel Division

DATE: April 18, 2025

SUBJECT: Legal Sufficiency Review of the Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program Rules
Approval Resolution of 2025 (AR-25-118)
_____________________________________________________________________________________

This memorandum responds to your request that t he Office of the Attorney General conduct a legal
sufficiency review of the above-referenced approval resolution.

The resolution approves the rules in the Department of Human Services’ Notice of Third Emergency and
Second Proposed Rulemaking, which amends Chapter 78 (Family Re-Housing and Stabilization Program)
of Title 29 (Public Welfare) of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR).

The resolution is legally sufficient. If you have any questions regarding this memorandum, please contact
Tangiah Wright, Assistant Attorney General, Legal Counsel Division, at 202-655-9743, or me at (202) 262-
6402.

AME/tsw

GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICTOF COLUMBIA
DEPARTMENTOF HUMAN SERVICES
xk *
an
Ee
OfficeoftheAgencyFiscalOfficer
MEMORANDUM
TO: A.D.RachelPierreInterimDirectorDepartmentofHumanServices
THRU: ialOfficerHumanSupportServicesCluster
DigitallysignedbyFROM: HaydenBernard Hayden A.sydenabemard
AgencyFiscalOfficerBernard — 3te:20250602
DepartmentofHumanServices 16:42:58-0400°
DATE: May30,2025
SUBJECT:_ FiscalImpactStatement—FamilyRe-HousingandStabilizationProgram(FRSP”)NoticeofFinalRulemaking

Background:TheInterimDirectoroftheDistrictofColumbia(District)DepartmentofHumanServices(DHS),
pursuanttosection31oftheHomelessServicesReformActof2005,effectiveOctober22,2005(D.C.Law16-35;D.C.OfficialCode§4-756.02),andpursuanttoMayor’sOrder2006-20,datedFebruary13,2006,haspreparedforsubmissiontotheCouncila proposedNoticeofFinal
RulemakingandaccompanyingApprovalResolutionfortheDistrict’sFamilyRe-HousingandStabilizationProgram(FRSP).
TheproposedfinalrulesamendrequirementsandproceduresfortheDistrict’sFamilyRe-HousingandStabilizationProgram(FRSP),whichprovidestime-limitedrentalassistancetoDistrict
residentswhoareexperiencinghomelessnessorareatriskofexperiencinghomelessness.Familiesareofferedarangeofservices,tailoredtotheuniqueneedsandstrengthsoftheentirehousehold,toassisttheminachievinggreaterhousingstabilityandeconomicsecurity,including
individualizedcasemanagementservices,housingidentification,connectiontogovernmentandcommunity-basedresources,andtime-limitedrentalsubsidies.

P.O,Box54047,64NewYorkAvenue,NE,SixthFloor,Washington,DC20002(202)671-4200Fax(202)671-4326
‘Therulesestablishanexpectationthatparticipantswillincreasetheirincomeduringtheprogramassistanceperiod;revisethepercentageofa participant’adjustedannualincometowardhousingcoststo30%,whichhadpreviouslybeenarangeof40%to60%;requireServiceProviderstoassessaparticipant'spotentialeligibilityforlonger-termhousingassistanceprogramswithinthefirst

inety(90)daysoftheFRSPassistanceperiod;establishafinancialincentiveforFRSPparticipantswhomeetprogramgoalsrelatedtoexitingtheprogramintostablehousing;andrevisecriteriaDHS usestodeterminewhetheraparticipantmayreceiveaone-timesix(6)-month
extensionofFRSPassistancebeyondthestandardtwelve(12)-monthperiod.
BudgetandFinancialPlanImpact:Thetablebelowoutlinesthecostoftheproposedrulemaking:

FY25FiscalYear_|(Approved)| FY26 FY27 FY28 Fy29
ProjectedBudget $60,653.00_|$43,792,082| $27,010,310.95| $27,820,620.28| $28,655,238.89
ConelusionFundingavailabilityfortheproposedrulemakingforFY25throughFY 2028willbedependent
upontheavailabilityoffundinginboththeDistrict'sBudgetandfinancialplan,uponapprovalby
theCouncilandMayorandcompletionofthethirty(30)dayCongressionalreviewperiod.