District Of Columbia Council Bill B26-0343

District Of Columbia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/16/25

Caption

Contract No. DCRL-2024-C-0051 with The Hospital for Sick Children Pediatric Center Approval and Payment Authorization Emergency Act of 2025

Impact

The bill allows the CFSA to access essential health services for children and aims to streamline processes associated with emergency contracting. By authorizing this contract, the legislation will facilitate immediate coverage for the medical needs of children who are particularly fragile, thereby improving response times in health service delivery. Given that the bill is categorized as emergency legislation, it underscores the pressing need for these contracts to address health care gaps in a timely manner.

Summary

B26-0343, titled the 'Contract No. DCRL-2024-C-0051 with The Hospital for Sick Children Pediatric Center Approval and Payment Authorization Emergency Act of 2025,' seeks to approve an emergency contract with HSC Pediatric Center for providing in-patient care services for medically fragile youths under the care of the Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) for a total not-to-exceed amount of $3,663,625.74. This contract is designed to ensure timely medical care and support for vulnerable populations within the district.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on ensuring that sick children receive necessary care, it may raise questions regarding the transparency and accountability of emergency contracting processes. Critics may argue that such fast-tracked contracts could lead to overlooking competitive bidding processes and the opportunity for other healthcare providers to offer services. The scrutiny over the necessity and extent of the funding, as well as the management of the funds allocated, is likely to be debated as the council considers this emergency act.