(1) Service Providers shall:
     (a) Maintain documentation that any person that they employ or consult or contract with for the purpose of providing services to Recipients has undergone a fingerprint based criminal history records check conducted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and forwarded by the TBI to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for processing pursuant to the National Child Protection Act;
     (b) Maintain documentation of their credentials demonstrating that they meet the qualifications set by the Department; EDUCATION FREEDOM SCHOLARSHIPS CHAPTER 0520-01-24 (Rule 0520-01-24-.11, continued) March, 2025 (Approved) 12
     (c) Provide Account Holders with a receipt, if requested, for all expenses paid to the Service Provider using EFS funds; and
     (d) Not, in any manner, refund or rebate EFS funds to, or share EFS funds with, an Account Holder or Recipient.

(2) The Department may suspend or terminate a Service Provider’s participation in the Program if the Department determines that the Service Provider has failed to comply with the requirements of the Act, these rules, or the procedures set by the Department.
     (a) If the Department suspends or terminates a Service Provider’s participation, the Department shall notify the affected Recipients and Account Holders and the Service Provider of the decision.
     (b) A Service Provider’s suspension, termination, or withdrawal from the Program shall not affect a Recipient’s eligibility to participate in the Program.

(3) All contracts entered into between the Service Provider and the Recipient or Account Holder are the responsibility of the private parties involved and do not obligate the state in any way.