(a)

1. (1) Funds shall be available in response to requests for proposals. The department shall rank the proposals for funding on a priority consideration based on established greatest need in the most heavily populated areas, the most underserved areas, and the most economically disadvantaged areas, both in urban and rural counties.

2. (2) After ranking the priorities pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), funds shall be given to applicants in the following order of priority taking into consideration the factors set forth in subdivision (b).

   1. (A) Private nonprofit agencies.
   2. (B) Joint ventures between public and private nonprofit agencies.
   3. (C) Public agencies.

(b) In ranking the proposals, the department shall also consider the following factors:

1. (1) The number of youths to be served.
2. (2) The cost effectiveness of the proposal.
3. (3) The utilization of, and coordination with, other agencies serving youth.
4. (4) Experience in program management, particularly in programs serving the needs of youth.
5. (5) Experience in programs serving youth.

(c) The department shall, to the extent possible given the amount of funds available, attempt to ensure a broad distribution of the funds consistent with the program priorities, in order to meet the needs of youth.

The department shall consider any protest or objection regarding the award of a contract, whether submitted before or after the award, provided that the protest is filed within the time period established in the request for proposals, made pursuant to Section 2016. All protests or objections shall be filed in writing. The protesting party shall be notified in writing of the final decision on the protest, and the notification shall set forth the rationale upon which the decision is based.