281—16.5(256C) Application process.
	16.5(1) Request for applications.
	a. 	The department announces the commencement of the application period through public notice on the department’s website and the department’s relevant regular electronic publications.
	b. 	Applications for preschool program funding are available on the department’s website and otherwise distributed by the department upon request.
	c. 	All applications are to be submitted to the department in accordance with instructions accompanying the applications.
	16.5(2) Application process.
	a. 	Applications that do not contain the specified information or that are not received by the specified date will not be considered.
	b. 	The department has the final discretion to award funds.
	16.5(3) Notification of applicants. The department notifies all applicants within 45 days following the due date for receipt of applications whether their requests are funded. The department is to provide to each successful applicant a contract to be signed by an official with authority to bind the applicant and to be returned to the department prior to the distribution of any funds under this program.
[ARC 7421C, IAB 12/27/23, effective 1/31/24]