CDT OSTP Request For Proposal

Request For Proposal (RFP)

RFP 23ITS0639

PART 1 – BIDDER INSTRUCTIONS

FOR

California Broadband Funding

June 1, 2026

Issued by:

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

California Public Utilities Commission 505 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102

Part 1 of the solicitation contains the bidder and bidding instructions, proposal form instructions, solution requirements and instructions, and all other instructional/compliance information that the bidder must meet in order to be considered responsive and responsible to the solicitation.

Part 2 of the solicitation contains all forms a bidder must complete and return with its Final Proposal, including the SOW, administrative forms, qualification forms, requirement responses, and all exhibits/ attachments discussed in Part 1.

Disclaimer: The original version and any subsequent solicitation addenda released by the Procurement Official of this solicitation remain the official version. In the event of any inconsistency between the bidder’s versions, articles, attachments, specifications or provisions (which constitute the Contract), the official State version of the solicitation in its entirety shall take precedence.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. PURPOSE OF RFP

1.2. BACKGROUND

1.3. TERM OF CONTRACT

1.4. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)

2. BIDDING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1. BIDDER ADMONISHMENT

2.2. COMMUNICATIONS AND CONTACTS

2.2.1. PROCUREMENT OFFICERS

2.2.2. QUESTIONS REGARDING THE SOLICITATION DOCUMENT

2.2.3. INTENT TO BID

2.2.4. REQUEST INVITATION TO STATE'S FILE-SHARING SITE

2.3. KEY ACTION DATES

2.4. BIDDING STEPS

2.4.1. FINAL PHASE

2.4.2. WITHDRAWAL AND RESUBMISSION/MODIFICATION OF

PROPOSALS

2.4.3. DISPOSITION OF PROPOSALS

2.5. RULES GOVERNING COMPETITION

2.5.1. IDENTIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF SOLICITATION

REQUIREMENTS

2.5.2. SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS

2.5.3. EXAMINATION OF THE WORK

2.5.4. EXCLUSION FOR CONFLICT OF INTEREST

2.5.5. CONFIDENTIALITY

2.5.6. BONDS

2.5.7. ADDENDA

2.5.8. COST FOR DEVELOPING PROPOSAL

2.5.9. IRREVOCABLE OFFER

2.5.10. FALSE OR MISLEADING STATEMENTS

3. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1. PREQUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

3.1.1. ELECTRONIC VENDOR APPLICATION OF QUALIFICATIONS

(EVAQ)(M)

3.1.1.1. INCORPORATION OF EVAQ REQUIREMENTS

3.2. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS

3.2.1. COVER LETTER (M)

3.2.2. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT (M)

3.2.3. CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT (M)

3.2.4. ABILITY TO PERFORM

3.2.5. PRIMARY BIDDER

3.2.6. SUBCONTRACTORS

3.2.6.1. BIDDER DECLARATION FORM (M)

3.2.7. AMENDMENT

3.2.8. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY INFORMATION

3.2.9. GENERAL PROVISIONS

3.2.10. GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (GENAI)

DISCLOSURE NOTIFICATION

3.2.11. STATEMENT OF WORK (M)

3.2.11.1. INSURANCE COVERAGE

3.2.12. SOCIOECONOMIC PROGRAMS

3.2.12.1. BIDDER'S PREFERENCE AND INCENTIVE DECLARATION

3.2.12.2. DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DVBE)

PROGRAM

3.2.12.2.1. DVBE PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENT (M)

3.2.12.3. CERTIFIED SMALL AND MICROBUSINESS PROGRAM

3.2.12.3.1. SB PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENT (M)

3.2.12.3.2. NON-SMALL BUSINESS SUBCONTRACTOR

PREFERENCE (O)

3.2.12.4. COMMERCIALLY USEFUL FUNCTION (M)

3.2.12.5. TARGET AREA CONTRACT PREFERENCE ACT (TACPA) (O)

3.3. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

3.3.1. BIDDER QUALIFICATIONS (M)

3.3.2. BIDDER REFERENCES (M)

3.3.3. KEY STAFF QUALIFICATIONS (M)(DS)

3.3.3.1. FULL-TIME/PART-TIME MONTH EQUIVALENTS DEFINITION

3.3.4. KEY STAFF REFERENCES (M)

3.4. SOLUTION REQUIREMENTS

3.4.1. UNDERSTANDING AND APPROACH

4. COST

4.1. COST WORKBOOK (MS)

4.2. COST WORKBOOK INSTRUCTIONS

4.3. SALES TAX

5. PROPOSAL/BID FORMAT AND SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

5.1. PREPARATION

5.2. COMPLETION OF PROPOSALS

5.3. DELIVERY OF SUBMITTALS

5.4. PROPOSAL CONTENT AND STRUCTURE

5.4.1. VOLUME 1: RESPONSE TO ADMINISTRATIVE AND TECHNICAL

REQUIREMENTS

5.4.2. VOLUME 2: COST

6. EVALUATION

6.1. EVALUATION TEAM

6.2. PROPOSAL EVALUATION

6.2.1. VALIDATION AGAINST REQUIREMENTS

6.2.2. ERRORS IN THE FINAL PROPOSAL

6.2.2.1. BIDDER RESPONSE CLARIFICATION

6.3. ADMINISTRATIVE EVALUATION

6.4. QUALIFICATION EVALUATION

6.4.1. BIDDER QUALIFICATIONS EVALUATION

6.4.2. BIDDER REFERENCES EVALUATION

6.4.3. KEY STAFF QUALIFICATIONS EVALUATION

6.4.4. KEY STAFF REFERENCES EVALUATION

6.5. SOLUTION REQUIREMENTS EVALUATION

6.5.1. UNDERSTANDING AND APPROACH EVALUATION

6.6. COST EVALUATION

6.6.1. COST SCORE CALCULATION

6.7. SOCIOECONOMIC PROGRAMS EVALUATION

6.7.1. DVBE INCENTIVE EVALUATION

6.7.2. SMALL BUSINESS PREFERENCE EVALUATION

6.8. BIDDER FINAL SCORE CALCULATION

6.9. PROPOSAL RANK DETERMINATION

7. NEGOTIATIONS

7.1. PROCEEDING TO NEGOTIATIONS

7.2. NEGOTIATION INVITATION

7.3. BEST AND FINAL OFFER SUBMISSION (BAFO)

7.4. EVALUATION OF BAFO SUBMISSION

8. CONTRACT AWARD

9. DEBRIEFING

10. PROTESTS

ATTACHMENT 1: TEMPLATE FOR QUESTION SUBMITTAL/REQUEST FOR

CHANGES

ATTACHMENT 2: INTENT TO BID FORM

ATTACHMENT 3: FOLLOW-ON CONTRACT DISCLOSURE FORM

ATTACHMENT 4: COVER LETTER FORM

ATTACHMENT 5: RESPONSE TO ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS

ATTACHMENT 6: CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT FORM

ATTACHMENT 7: BIDDER DECLARATION GSPD 05-105

ATTACHMENT 8: WORKERS' COMPENSATION CERTIFICATION

ATTACHMENT 9: BOND AND OTHER SECURITY DOCUMENTS

ATTACHMENT 10: BIDDING PREFERENCES AND INCENTIVES

ATTACHMENT 11: DVBE DECLARATIONS

ATTACHMENT 12: COMMERCIALLY USEFUL FUNCTION (CUF)

CERTIFICATION

ATTACHMENT 13: BIDDER QUALIFICATIONS FORM - INSTRUCTIONS

ATTACHMENT 14: BIDDER QUALIFICATIONS FORM

ATTACHMENT 15: BIDDER REFERENCE FORM

ATTACHMENT 16: KEY STAFF QUALIFICATIONS FORM – INSTRUCTIONS

ATTACHMENT 16.1: KEY STAFF QUALIFICATIONS FORM

ATTACHMENT 16.2: KEY STAFF REFERENCE FORM

ATTACHMENT 17: NARRATIVE RESPONSE

ATTACHMENT 18: KEY STAFF REPLACEMENT FORM

ATTACHMENT 19: WORK AUTHORIZATION FORM

ATTACHMENT 20: DELIVERABLE ACCEPTANCE DOCUMENT

ATTACHMENT 21: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

ATTACHMENT 22: CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT FORM (POST AWARD) ... 110

ATTACHMENT 23: APPENDIX A - STATEMENT OF WORK

ATTACHMENT 24: TACPA PREFERENCE REQUEST FORMS

EXHIBIT A: COST WORKBOOK

EXHIBIT B: BUDGET DETAIL AND PAYMENT PROVISIONS

EXHIBIT C: INFORMTION SECURITY PROVISIONS

RFP

PART 1 – BIDDER INSTRUCTIONS

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026

1. INTRODUCTION

On behalf of the California Public Utilities Commission, this solicitation is being conducted under the authority of California Department of Technology (CDT) pursuant to Public Contract Code (PCC) §6611 which provides the authority to use a competitive negotiation process when the State’s business need or the purpose of a procurement or contract is known, but negotiation is necessary to ensure that the State is receiving the best value or the most cost-efficient goods, services, information technology, and telecommunications.

This solicitation contains the instructions governing the requirements for fixed-price deliverable-based proposals to be submitted by Bidders. Also included in this solicitation is the required format and materials all Bidders must follow when responding to this solicitation. This solicitation also addresses the requirements that Bidders must meet to be eligible for consideration, as well as Bidders’ responsibilities before and after award.

The following terms are used interchangeably throughout the solicitation documents: (1) “Contract” and “Agreement”; (2) “response” and “proposals”. For additional definitions, see ATTACHMENT 21:

GLOSSARY OF TERMS.

1.1. PURPOSE OF RFP

The purpose of this Request for Proposal (RFP) (hereafter referred to as "RFP" or “solicitation”) is to obtain proposals from qualified Bidders to provide California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and the State of California (hereafter referred to as “State”) with Consulting Services to meet the mandates of SB 156 (hereafter referred to as "BFAA").

The Contract Award, if made, will be to the single Bidder in accordance with the methodology defined in

SECTION 6.2. PROPOSAL EVALUATION.

This RFP asks for consulting services to assist the CPUC in meeting the mandates of Senate Bill (SB)156 (Chapter 112, Statutes of 2021). See SECTION 9. Project Tasks/Deliverables in the Statement of Work for more information on the services to be procured through this RFP.

The consulting services will be to establish the cost model, work directly with the CPUC to analyze specific broadband funding areas, and to periodically update the cost model with new assumptions (i.e., changes in labor, materials, or situation-based analysis requiring an update to the model, such as a wildfire or other disaster destroying existing broadband infrastructure). The vendor will provide written work products that assist CPUC in developing future rule revisions for the program and CPUC will make the work products publicly available.

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

1.2. BACKGROUND

The Statutes of 2021 and subsequent rulemakings from the CPUC related to the Federal Funding Account and the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) programs guide the deliverables described in SECTION 9. Project Tasks/Deliverables. Deliverables 1 and 4 directly support Chapter 112, Section 7 of the Statutes of 2021. The Respondent who is awarded the Contract resulting from this RFO (Contractor) shall conduct analyses that utilize and update the California Broadband Cost Model and other criteria to develop proposed Last Mile Funding Areas that would provide service to a wider area. All deliverables directly support CPUC in “Assisting in preparing definitive plans for deploying necessary infrastructure in each county, including coordination across contiguous counties.” (See CPUC Public Utilities Code Section 281(5)(C))

The California Broadband Cost Model was developed in 2019 and is periodically updated by the CPUC.

The cost model is a tool to analyze the cost and revenue associated with broadband deployment throughout the state and for various analytical units (locations, census blocks, etc). The engineering-based bottom-up model considers factors such as housing density, materials cost, local labor costs, terrain, availability of existing infrastructure, among other factors to generate a figure for most locations in California. This model helps the CPUC and California policymakers evaluate the cost of policy proposals, and to evaluate the reasonableness of infrastructure cost estimates, bids, and contracts. The cost model can also be used to develop, in consultation with the vendor, bidding units or pre-packaged/presumed reasonable project areas, and to track and measure progress over time. Further, as needed, the vendor will assist broadband program applicants in understanding and using the cost model, assisting in the analysis of applications, and provide access to licensed data around the cost model, broadband locations, and other licensed datasets for the cost model.

On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed into law the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, also called the COVID-19 Stimulus Package or American Rescue Plan. In total, this law is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus plan that includes funds for states to deploy last-mile broadband Internet networks. Later in 2021, the California Legislature passed SB156, which combined Federal Funds from the American Rescue Plan and General Fund money to create the “Federal Funding Account,” a more-than $2 billion grant program to deploy broadband infrastructure in California. Governor Gavin Newsom signed broadband legislation in July 2021 to help bridge the digital divide and provide reliable and affordable internet access to all Californians. SB156 expands the State’s broadband fiber infrastructure and increases internet connectivity for families and businesses. This is the goal of Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.

The funding provides $3.25 billion dollars for an open-access statewide broadband middle-mile infrastructure, $2 billion for broadband last-mile infrastructure, and $750 million for a loan loss reserve to support local government broadband infrastructure development.

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB156 https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB156 https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB156 https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industries-and-topics/internet-and-phone/broadband-implementation-for-california https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/public-utilities-code/puc-sect-281/ https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/public-utilities-code/puc-sect-281/ https://www.gov.ca.gov/2021/07/20/governor-newsom-signs-historic-broadband-legislation-to-%20help-bridge-digital-divide/ https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB156

Among other actions, SB 156 creates a Federal Funding Account where these funds will be deposited and directs CPUC to allocate $2 million from this new account to implement a program to connect unserved and underserved communities by applicable federal deadlines. CPUC Decision 22-04-055 established the rules for use of these funds.

The BEAD Program is being implemented in California by the CPUC. Nationally, BEAD provides $42.45 billion to expand high-speed internet access by funding planning, infrastructure deployment and adoption programs in all 50 states and numerous territories. California has been allocated approximately $1.86 billion under BEAD based on the federal government's calculation of California's share of unserved locations nationally. The Governor designated the CPUC to serve as the recipient of and administering agent for the BEAD program for California.

1.3. TERM OF CONTRACT

Effective upon approval of CDT, Office of Statewide Technology Procurement (Effective Date), the base term of the Contract is one (1) year.

The State, at its sole discretion, may exercise its option to execute two (2), one (1) year extensions at the originally agreed-upon hourly rates specified in the Contract, for a maximum Contract term of three (3) years.

The Contractor shall not be authorized to deliver goods or commence performance of services described in this Agreement prior to the Effective Date. Any delivery of goods or performance of services by the Contractor that is commenced prior to the Effective Date shall be at no cost to the State.

The State is not obligated to exercise option year extensions. The Agreement and any optional extensions, will be of no effect unless approved by CDT.

1.4. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)

To comply with the nondiscrimination requirements of ADA, it is the policy of the State of California to make every effort to ensure that its programs, activities, and services are available to all persons, including persons with disabilities.

For persons with a disability needing a reasonable accommodation to participate in the procurement process or for persons having questions regarding reasonable accommodations of the procurement process, you may contact the Procurement Officers identified in SECTION 2.2.1. PROCUREMENT OFFICERS. You may also contact the State of California at the telephone numbers listed below.

Important: To ensure that we can meet your needs, it is best that we receive your request for reasonable accommodations at least ten (10) working days before the scheduled event, e.g., meeting, conference, State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 https://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/SearchRes.aspx?docformat=ALL&docid=470543650 workshop, etc., or deadline due date for procurement documents.

Table 1.4-1: The California Relay Service Telephone Numbers

RELAY SERVICE

DESCRIPTION

LANGUAGE TELEPHONE NUMBER

TTY/VCO/HCO to Voice

English

Spanish

1-800-735-2929

1-800-855-3000

Voice to TTY/VCO/HCO

English

Spanish

1-800-735-2922

1-800-855-3000

From or to Speech-to-Speech English & Spanish

1-800-854-7784

2. BIDDING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1. BIDDER ADMONISHMENT

This procurement will follow an approach designed to increase the likelihood of a successful proposal and Bidder eligibility for an invitation to negotiation.

The Bidder should refer to SECTION 2.4. BIDDING STEPS to understand the phases applicable to this solicitation and SECTION 6. EVALUATION to understand the evaluation process. It is the Bidder’s responsibility to:

1. Carefully read the entire solicitation.

2. Submit questions in a timely manner.

3. Submit all required responses by the required dates and times specified in SECTION 2.3. KEY

ACTION DATES .

4. Abide by all procedures and requirements of the solicitation.

5. Not include conditional statements, assumptions, or exception language with proposals.

6. Carefully review the solicitation requirements prior to submission of a proposal to ensure nothing has been overlooked.

2.2. COMMUNICATIONS AND CONTACTS

The State uses an online procurement system known as Cal eProcure to communicate with prospective

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

Bidders and suppliers. Information and ongoing communications for this solicitation will be posted by the State on the Cal eProcure website, www.caleprocure.ca.gov.

Oral communications by Agency/state entity officers and employees concerning this solicitation shall not be binding on the State and shall in no way excuse the Bidder of any obligations set forth in this solicitation.

2.2.1. PROCUREMENT OFFICERS

The Procurement Officers are the State’s designated authorized representatives regarding this procurement and are the sole point of contact.

Bidders are directed to communicate all correspondence regarding this procurement to both the Procurement Officer and the Secondary Procurement Officer at the contact information below.

Table 2.2.1-1: Procurement Officers

DESCRIPTION CONTACT INFORMATION

Department Name:

California Department of Technology (CDT), Office of Statewide Technology Procurement (OSTP)

Procurement Officer: Robert DeLeonardis

Email: robert.deleonardis@state.ca.gov

Phone: +1 916-532-6807

Secondary Procurement Officer: Madelynn Saechao

Email: Madelynn.Saechao@state.ca.gov

Phone: +1 916-460-9833

2.2.2. QUESTIONS REGARDING THE SOLICITATION DOCUMENT

Bidders requesting clarification of the intent, terms and conditions, content of this solicitation, or on procedural matters regarding the competitive bid process should submit ATTACHMENT 1: TEMPLATE FOR QUESTION SUBMITTAL/REQUEST FOR CHANGES via email addressed to the Procurement Officers listed in SECTION 2.2.1. PROCUREMENT OFFICERS.

If the Bidder believes that one or more of the solicitation requirements is onerous, unfair, or imposes unnecessary constraints on the Bidder proposing a less costly or an alternate solution, the Bidder may request a change to the solicitation by submitting, in writing, the recommended change(s) and the facts

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 http://www.caleprocure.ca.gov/ substantiating this belief and reasons for making the recommended change using ATTACHMENT 1:

TEMPLATE FOR QUESTION SUBMITTAL/REQUEST FOR CHANGES. Such request must be submitted to the Procurement Officers by the date specified in SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES .

Written questions and requests for changes must be submitted, using Microsoft Excel or Word only, by email to the Procurement Officers identified in SECTION 2.2.1. PROCUREMENT OFFICERS, using

ATTACHMENT 1: TEMPLATE FOR QUESTION SUBMITTAL/REQUEST FOR CHANGES.

The email must include the solicitation identification information from the solicitation title page in the subject line. To ensure a response, questions and/or requests for changes must be received in writing by the date(s) specified in SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES . Question and answer sets will be posted to Cal eProcure and will not identify the submitters. At the sole discretion of the State, questions may be paraphrased by the State for clarity.

If a Bidder desires clarification or further information on the content of the solicitation, but whose questions relate to the proprietary aspect of its proposal and disclosure exposes its proposal to other Bidders, the question may be submitted using the same criteria above with the notation, “CONFIDENTIAL.” The Bidder must explain why the question is sensitive in nature. If the State concurs that the disclosure of the question or the answer would expose the proprietary nature of the proposal, the question will be answered and both the question and answer will be confidentially maintained. If the State does not concur with the proprietary nature of the question, the Bidder will be notified and may withdraw the question. If the question is not withdrawn, the question and response will not be confidentially maintained.

Only questions submitted in writing and answered in writing by the Procurement Officers shall be binding and official.

2.2.3. INTENT TO BID

Bidders that wish to participate in the solicitation should submit a completed ATTACHMENT 2: INTENT TO BID FORM by the date specified in SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES .

This document shall be sent by email to the Procurement Officers identified in SECTION 2.2.1.

PROCUREMENT OFFICERS.

It shall be the Bidder’s responsibility to notify the Procurement Officers regarding any change to its Intent to Bid or the contact information. The State shall not be responsible for proposal correspondence not received by the Bidder if the Bidder fails to notify the State, in writing, of any change pertaining to the designated contact person.

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 https://sb.cityinnovate.com/account/solicitations/documents/44067#section-207751

2.2.4. REQUEST INVITATION TO STATE'S FILE-SHARING SITE

The Bidder must email the Procurement Officers by the due date specified in SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES , no more than two (2) contacts who will have access to the State's file-sharing site to electronically upload Bidder’s proposal. Once provided, an invitation to the State's file-sharing site will be sent to those individuals. It is the Bidder's responsibility to confirm receipt of the invitation with the Procurement Officers.

To obtain access to the File Sharing Site, Bidders must email a request to the Procurement Officers listed in SECTION 2.2.1. PROCUREMENT OFFICERS and sign and submit ATTACHMENT 6:

CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT FORM. The email should include the names, titles, phone numbers, and email addresses of no more than two (2) contacts.

Access to the file-sharing site will be granted within three (3) working days after receiving the email request and ATTACHMENT 6: CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT FORM

Please refer to SECTION 5.3. DELIVERY OF SUBMITTALS for further instructions on how to submit your firm's proposal and instructions for the file-sharing site.

2.3. KEY ACTION DATES

Key Action Dates provides the key action dates and times by which actions must be taken or completed. If the State finds it necessary to change these dates or times, it will be accomplished via an addendum to this solicitation except for dates listed after the Bidder’s submission of the proposal. All dates listed after the Last Day to Submit Final Proposal and Last Day to be eVAQ approved by OSTP are estimated and may be adjusted without addendum to this solicitation. All times listed are for Pacific Time. Unless otherwise specified, all times are 5:00 PM Pacific Time.

Table 2.3-1: Key Action Dates (KAD)

ITEM ACTION DATE AND TIME

1. Release of Solicitation June 1, 2026

2. Last day to Submit Questions/ Request for Changes

ATTACHMENT 1: TEMPLATE FOR QUESTION

SUBMITTAL/REQUEST FOR CHANGES

June 15, 2026, 5:00 PM PST

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

ITEM ACTION DATE AND TIME

3. State Response to Bidder Questions/Request for Changes and

State Release of Potential Addendum1

June 19, 2026

4. Last Day to Submit Intent to Bid and Confidentiality Statement:

ATTACHMENT 2: INTENT TO BID FORM

and

ATTACHMENT 6: CONFIDENTIALITY

STATEMENT FORM

June 26, 2026, 5:00 PM PST

5. Last Day To Request Invitation to the State's File-Sharing Site

(Refer to SECTION 5.3. DELIVERY OF

SUBMITTALS SECTION 2.2.4. REQUEST

INVITATION TO STATE'S FILE-SHARING

SITE)

June 26, 2026, 5:00 PM PST

6. Last Day to Submit Final Proposal and Last Day to be eVAQ approved by OSTP.2 July 6, 2026, 5:00 PM PST

7. Final Proposal Evaluation Period TBD

8. Negotiations TBD

9. BAFO submission TBD

10. BAFO evaluations TBD

11. Notification of Award TBD

12. Contract Award TBD

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

1 Or five (5) working days following the last addendum that changes the requirements of the solicitation.

2 If Bidder does not have an approved eVAQ application on file with OSTP, it is recommended that Bidders allow a minimum of four weeks prior to proposal due date for the State to process and approve Bidder's eVAQ application.

2.4. BIDDING STEPS

The following instructions provide the steps to submit a response to this solicitation by interested Bidders.

Details surrounding proposals are described further in SECTION 3. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS.

The Bidder is expected to follow the format requirements and utilize all forms included in this solicitation necessary for its response. This solicitation also addresses the Bidder responsibilities and requirements it must meet to be eligible for consideration. If the Bidder fails to follow the provided instructions, the Bidder may be disqualified from the solicitation process.

Refer to SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES to determine which phases and mandatory steps are included in this solicitation. SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES lists milestones, mandatory steps, and due dates for deliverables in this solicitation. Bidders must submit a pre-qualified Electronic Vendor Application of Qualifications (eVAQ) as detailed in SECTION 3.1.1. ELECTRONIC VENDOR

APPLICATION OF QUALIFICATIONS (EVAQ)(M).

2.4.1. FINAL PHASE

The final phase consists of a proposal (Mandatory) and, if requested by the State, a Best and Final Offer

(BAFO).

The purpose of the final phase is to obtain proposals that are responsive in every respect. The proposal is a mandatory step for all Bidders; all other steps are optional unless otherwise stated in SECTION 2.3.

KEY ACTION DATES .

The proposal must be complete, and include all cost information, required signatures, contract changes issued by the State via an addendum and corrections made to those defects noted by the State in its review of the draft proposal, if any. Bidders that submitted proposals meeting the criteria identified in SECTION 7. NEGOTIATIONS, will be eligible to receive an invitation to negotiate with the State.

The State, at its sole discretion, may request a BAFO from those Bidders that participated in the Negotiation Process as identified in SECTION 7. NEGOTIATIONS.

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 https://sb.cityinnovate.com/account/solicitations/documents/44067#section-206346

2.4.2. WITHDRAWAL AND RESUBMISSION/MODIFICATION OF PROPOSALS

A Bidder may withdraw its proposal at any time prior to the proposal submission date by submitting a written notification of withdrawal signed by an authorized representative of the Bidder in accordance with SECTION 3.2.1. COVER LETTER (M). The Bidder may thereafter submit a new or modified proposal prior to the submission date and time specified in SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES . Modification offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered. Other than as allowed by law, proposals cannot be changed after the deadline date and time designated for receipt, except as provided in the solicitation.

2.4.3. DISPOSITION OF PROPOSALS

All materials submitted in response to this solicitation will become the property of the State of California.

All phases of the proposal shall be retained for official files and will become a public record after the Notification of Award is posted.

2.5. RULES GOVERNING COMPETITION

This solicitation, the evaluation of responses, and the award of any resultant Contract shall be made in conformance with current competitive bidding procedures as they relate to the procurement of IT goods and services or telecommunications by public bodies in the State of California.

2.5.1. IDENTIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF SOLICITATION

REQUIREMENTS

The State has established certain requirements with respect to proposals to be submitted by prospective Contractors. The use of “shall,” “must,” or “will” (except to indicate simple futurity) in the solicitation indicates a requirement or condition which is mandatory.

Non-compliance with any mandatory requirement may disqualify a Bidder from further participating in Evaluation, Negotiations and Contract Award.

The words “should” or “may” in the solicitation indicate desirable attributes or conditions, but are non-mandatory in nature.

2.5.2. SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS

This solicitation document includes, in addition to an explanation of the State’s requirements which must be met, instructions which prescribe the format and content of proposals to be submitted and the model of

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 https://sb.cityinnovate.com/account/solicitations/documents/44067#section-206331 the Contract to be executed between the State and the successful Bidder.

If a Bidder discovers any ambiguity, conflict, discrepancy, omission, or other error in this solicitation document, the Bidder shall immediately notify the Procurement Officers identified in SECTION 2.2.1.

PROCUREMENT OFFICERS, of such error in writing and request clarification or modification of the document.

If the solicitation document contains an error known to the Bidder, or an error that reasonably should have been known, the Bidder shall bid at its own risk. If the Bidder fails to notify the State of the error prior to the date fixed for submission of proposals, and is awarded the Contract, the Bidder shall not be entitled to additional compensation or time by reason of the error or its later correction. Modifications will be made by addenda issued pursuant to SECTION 2.5.7. ADDENDA.

2.5.3. EXAMINATION OF THE WORK

The Bidder should carefully examine the entire solicitation document and any addenda thereto, and all related materials and data referenced in the solicitation document or otherwise available to the Bidder, and should become fully aware of the nature and location of the work, the quantities of the work, and the conditions to be encountered in performing the work.

2.5.4. EXCLUSION FOR CONFLICT OF INTEREST

No consultant shall be paid out of State funds for developing recommendations on the acquisition of telecommunication, information technology (IT) products or services or assisting in the preparation of the project approval lifecycle documents (stages 2, 3, or 4), while in effect, if that consultant is to be a source of such acquisition or could otherwise directly and/or materially benefit from State adoption of such recommendations or the course of action recommended in the project approval lifecycle documents (stages 2, 3, or 4). Further, no consultant shall be paid out of State funds for developing recommendations on the disposal of State surplus IT products if that consultant would directly and/or materially benefit from State adoption of such recommendations.

A consultant shall not be eligible to serve as the Prime Contractor or subcontractor pursuant to this solicitation if the Contractor/subcontractor is currently working on the solicitation in an Independent Verification and Validation (IV & V) role.

The Bidder must complete and submit ATTACHMENT 3: FOLLOW-ON CONTRACT DISCLOSURE FORM with its proposal.

2.5.5. CONFIDENTIALITY

Bidder material becomes public only after the Notification of Award is released. If material marked

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

“confidential,” “proprietary,” or “trade secret” is requested pursuant to the Public Records Act, the State will make an independent assessment whether it is exempt from disclosure. If the State disagrees with the Bidder, the State will notify the Bidder and give them a reasonable opportunity to justify their position or obtain a court order protecting the material from disclosure.

The Bidder should be aware that marking a document “confidential” or “proprietary” in a proposal may exclude it from consideration for award and will not keep that document from being released after notice of award as part of the public record, unless a court has ordered the State not to release the document.

The content of all working papers and discussions relating to the Bidder’s proposal shall be held in confidence indefinitely, unless the public interest is best served by an item’s disclosure because of its direct pertinence to a decision, agreement or the evaluation of the proposal.

Any disclosure of confidential information by the Bidder may be the basis for rejecting the Bidder’s proposal and ruling the Bidder ineligible to further participate. Any disclosure of confidential information by a State employee is a basis for disciplinary action, including dismissal from State employment, as provided by Government Code §19570 et seq. Total confidentiality is paramount; it cannot be over emphasized.

2.5.6. BONDS

The State reserves the right to require a performance bond or other security document as specified in the solicitation from the Bidder in an amount not to exceed the amount of the Contract. In the event the State requires a surety bond that has not been expressly required by the solicitation, the State will reimburse the Bidder as an addition to the purchase price in an amount not exceeding the standard premium on such bond.

2.5.7. ADDENDA

The State may modify the solicitation at any time prior to submission of proposal by issuing an addendum.

Addenda will be numbered consecutively and released to all Bidders via Cal eProcure.

2.5.8. COST FOR DEVELOPING PROPOSAL

Costs for developing proposals are the responsibility entirely of the Bidder and shall not be chargeable to the State.

2.5.9. IRREVOCABLE OFFER

Bidder’s response to this solicitation shall constitute a firm offer, which shall remain irrevocable for not

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions less than 120 calendar days following the Contract Award date specified in SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES . In the event of a delay in Contract Award, a Bidder may extend the expiration date of its firm offer an additional 30 calendar days by written notice to the State.

This expiration date may be further extended by mutual agreement between the State and the Bidder, in order to accommodate processing time for required approvals and other solicitation-related reviews.

2.5.10. FALSE OR MISLEADING STATEMENTS

Proposals that contain false or misleading statements, or provide references that do not support an attribute or condition claimed by the Bidder, may be the basis for rejecting the Bidder's proposal. If, in the opinion of the State, such information was intended to mislead the State in its evaluation of the proposal, and the attribute, condition, or capability is a requirement of this solicitation document, such information may be the basis for rejecting the Bidder’s proposal.

3. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

This section contains the mandatory and desirable scored proposal requirements that must be met in order to be considered responsive to this solicitation.

The documents that must be submitted with the Bidder’s proposal are noted as “Mandatory”, “(M)” "Mandatory Scored" "(MS)", or "Mandatory Optional" "(MO)", in this section. Items labeled "Desirable Scored" "(DS)" or "Optional" "(O)" are optional.

The proposal requirements listed in this section are denoted as follows:

1. (M) Sections labeled as “Mandatory”, “M”, Mandatory Scored, or "MS" are not negotiable. To be considered responsive to these requirements, all such requirements must receive a response from the Bidder. Failure to respond to any Mandatory or Mandatory Scored requirement where indicated shall result in a “fail” for that requirement.

2. (DS) Sections labeled “Desirable Scored” or "DS" are not required to be offered by the Bidder in order to be responsive with the solicitation requirements. The Bidder may choose whether to meet requirements labeled as (DS). However, if a Bidder offers any of these (DS) requirements, the Bidder must meet the minimum requirements as stated in the section. The State will review responses to (DS) requirements and apply points, if applicable, per criteria stated in SECTION 6.

EVALUATION.

3. (MO) Sections labeled “Mandatory Optional” or “MO” are not negotiable. To be considered responsive to these requirements, all requirements identified as (MO) must receive a response.

Failure to respond to any (MO) requirement where indicated shall result in a “fail” and

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 https://sb.cityinnovate.com/account/solicitations/documents/404039#section-862887 disqualification of the proposal. It is at the State’s option/discretion on whether to utilize the option in the Contract.

4. (O) Sections labeled as “Optional” or “O” are not required to be offered by the Bidder in order to be responsive to the solicitation requirements. A Bidder may choose whether to meet administrative requirements labeled as (O) such as those relating to preference points. However, if a Bidder offers any of these (O) requirements, the Bidder must meet the minimum requirements as stated in the section. The State will review responses to optional requirements and apply points, if applicable, in accordance with SECTION 6. EVALUATION.

3.1. PREQUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

This section details the requirements necessary for Bidders to qualify for contract award. Failure to complete or comply will disqualify Bidder(s) and the State will not move forward with evaluating the proposal, conducting negotiations and contract award. The State will not seek modifications or clarifications after proposal submission due date for any prequalification requirements.

3.1.1. ELECTRONIC VENDOR APPLICATION OF QUALIFICATIONS (EVAQ)(M)

It is the responsibility of the Bidder to ensure they have an OSTP-approved eVAQ and all applicable requirements and provisions for this solicitation are met. Failure to have an OSTP-approved eVAQ prior to proposal submission due date will disqualify Bidder(s) and the State will not move forward with evaluating the proposal, conducting negotiations and contract award. The State will not seek eVAQ modifications or clarifications after proposal submission due date.

The State’s eVAQ is an external process to this solicitation. The intent of the pre-qualification is to process as much of the administrative requirements required to do business in the State of California in advance to streamline the solicitation process. Bidders are required to have an OSTP-approved eVAQ application on file prior to the Key Action Date for the Last day to submit proposal (refer to SECTION 2.3.

KEY ACTION DATES ) in order for your proposal to be accepted for evaluations.

The application can be accessed at https://cadtprod.service-now.com/vendor.

If the Bidder's firm is new to the eVAQ process, account registration is necessary and free of charge.

If a Bidder has an approved eVAQ on file, it is the Bidder’s responsibility to ensure:

1. The eVAQ is a CDT OSTP-approved eVAQ (not a Department of General Services (DGS) eVAQ)).

2. All information required to be submitted with the eVAQ is up to date and valid.

All questions related to the eVAQ should be addressed to the Procurement Officers.

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 https://cadtprod.service-now.com/vendor

3.1.1.1. INCORPORATION OF EVAQ REQUIREMENTS

The Contract awarded as a result of the solicitation shall incorporate by reference all the requirements of the solicitation and the terms and conditions of the eVAQ. The Bidder’s eVAQ shall remain in effect throughout the life of the Contract, including all optional years.

In the event there is inconsistent requirements between the solicitation and the Bidder's OSTP approved eVAQ documents, the solicitation documents shall take precedence.

3.2. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS

This section contains the mandatory and optional administrative requirements that must be met in order to be considered responsive to this solicitation. Additional administrative requirements for this solicitation are being processed through the electronic Vendor Application of Qualifications (eVAQ). Please refer to SECTION 3.1.1. ELECTRONIC VENDOR APPLICATION OF QUALIFICATIONS (EVAQ)(M)for more information.

3.2.1. COVER LETTER (M)

The Bidder must complete and submit ATTACHMENT 4: COVER LETTER FORM with their proposal.

A cover letter shall be considered an integral part of the proposal and any proposal form requiring signature, must be signed by an individual who is authorized to bind the bidding firm contractually. The signature block must indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the firm. An unsigned proposal may be considered non-responsive and may be the basis for rejecting the Bidder's proposal.

The draft proposal, if applicable, must also contain the cover letter, including the title of the person who will sign, but need not contain the signature.

3.2.2. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT (M)

The Bidder must complete and submit ATTACHMENT 5: RESPONSE TO ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS. The Bidder must indicate its willingness and ability to satisfy these requirements by responding “Yes” in the “Bidder Agrees Yes/No” column. A “No” response to any of the mandatory administrative requirements may be considered non-responsive and may be the basis for rejecting the Bidder's proposal.

3.2.3. CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT (M)

The Bidder must agree to the State’s confidentiality requirements by submitting a signed ATTACHMENT 6: CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT FORM, for the Bidder’s company. The completed confidentiality statement must be submitted as indicated in SECTION 2.3. KEY ACTION DATES .

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

The Bidder engaging in services pertaining to this solicitation, requiring contact with confidential State information or State customer information will be required to exercise security precautions for all such data that is made available and must accept full legal responsibility for the protection of this confidential information. This includes all statistical, personal, technical, and/or other confidential personal data and information relating to the State’s operations that are designated confidential by the State.

The Bidder will also be required, upon Contract award, to submit a signed confidentiality statement from all personnel, agents, and subcontractors assigned to the awarded Contract.

3.2.4. ABILITY TO PERFORM

Prior to award of the Contract, the State must be assured that the Bidder selected has all of the resources to successfully perform under the Contract. This includes, but is not limited to, personnel in the quantity and with the skills required; equipment of appropriate type and in sufficient quantity; financial resources sufficient to complete performance under the Contract; and experience in similar endeavors. If, during the evaluation process, the State is unable to assure itself of the Bidder’s ability to perform under the Contract if awarded, the State has the option of requesting from the Bidder any information that the State deems necessary to determine the Bidder’s responsibility. If such information is required, the Bidder will be so notified and will be permitted five (5) working days to submit the information requested in writing.

Examples of the type of financial responsibility information requested may include annual reports and current audited balance sheets for the Bidder’s firm.

3.2.5. PRIMARY BIDDER

An award, if made, will be to a primary Bidder. The awarded primary Bidder will be responsible for successful performance of all subcontractors and support services offered in response to this solicitation.

All State policies, guidelines, and requirements that apply to the primary Bidder also apply to subcontractors, as applicable to the products and services they provide and to their role as a subcontractor. Furthermore, the State will consider the primary Bidder to be the sole point of contact regarding contractual matters for the term of the resulting Contract. The Bidder shall not assign financial documents to a third-party without prior written approval by the State, and an amendment to the resulting Contract.

3.2.6. SUBCONTRACTORS

Nothing contained in the resulting Contract shall create any relationship between the State and any subcontractors, and no subcontract shall relieve the Contractor of its responsibilities and obligations. The Contractor is fully responsible to the State for the acts and omissions of the Contractor's subcontractors and of persons either directly or indirectly employed by the Contractor.

The Contractor shall not change subcontractor(s) and/or DVBE subcontractor(s) if such changes conflict

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions with the work to be performed under this Contract. For DVBE subcontractor changes, the Contractor shall utilize another DVBE subcontractor. The State recognizes that changes to subcontractor(s) may be necessary and in the best interests of the State, however, advance notification of a contemplated change and the reasons for such change must be made to the State no less than seven (7) working days prior to the existing subcontractor’s termination. If this should occur, the Contractor should be aware that the State Contract administrator or designee must approve any changes to the subcontractor(s) prior to the termination of the existing subcontractor(s). This also includes any changes made between submittal of the proposal and actual start of the Contract.

Contractor understands and agrees to comply with the requirements set forth in Military and Veterans Code, Section 999 et seq. that should award of this contract be based in part on their commitment to use the Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) subcontractor(s) identified in their bid or offer, per Military and Veterans Code, Section 999.5(f), a DVBE subcontractor may only be replaced by another DVBE subcontractor and must be approved by both the awarding department and the Department of General Services (DGS) prior to the commencement of any work by the proposed subcontractor.

Changes to the scope of work that impact the DVBE subcontractor(s) identified in the bid or offer and approved DVBE substitutions will be documented by contract amendment.

Failure of Contractor to seek substitution and adhere to the DVBE participation level identified in the bid or offer may be cause for contract termination, recovery of damages under rights and remedies due to the State, and penalties as outlined in MVC, Section 999.9; Public Contract Code (PCC), Section 10115.10.

The State will not compensate the Contractor for any of the Contractor’s time or effort to educate or otherwise make the new subcontractor(s) ready to begin work on the contract.

The Contractor’s obligation to pay its subcontractors is independent of the State’s obligation to make payments to the Contractor. Contractor is solely responsible for any payments to or claims made by subcontractors. As a result, the State shall have no obligation to pay or to enforce the payment of any monies to any subcontractor.

3.2.6.1. BIDDER DECLARATION FORM (M)

The Bidder must complete and submit ATTACHMENT 7: BIDDER DECLARATION GSPD 05-105, with its proposal. When completing the declaration, the Bidder must identify all subcontractors proposed for participation in the Contract. The Bidder awarded the Contract is contractually obligated to use the subcontractors for the corresponding work identified, unless the Agency/state entity agrees to a substitution and it is incorporated, in writing. If the Bidder is not using subcontractors, the Bidder must still complete ATTACHMENT 7: BIDDER DECLARATION GSPD 05-105 answering the applicable questions on the form, and submit it with its proposal. The form is available at:

https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/gspd05-105.pdf

State of California California Public Utilities Commission

RFP 23ITS0639

Part 1 - Bidder Instructions

June 1, 2026 https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=999.&lawCode=MVC https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=999.5.&lawCode=MVC https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=999.9.&lawCode=MVC https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=10115.10.&lawCode=PCC https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/gspd05-105.pdf

3.2.7. AMENDMENT

Any Contract executed as a result of this solicitation may be amended consistent with the terms and conditions of the Contract and by mutual consent of both parties, subject to approval by the OSTP.

3.2.8. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY INFORMATION

In order to minimize the potential risk of default due to financial issues, the State reserves the right to request additional documentation throughout the life of the awarded Contract.

The State must be assured that the Contractor continues to have the financial resources to sustain its operations during the term of the Contract.

3.2.9. GENERAL PROVISIONS

The Contract awarded as a result of this solicitation shall automatically incorporate by reference the following:

• General Provisions - Telecommunications (Revised and Effective 6/6/2025)

As a condition of submitting a response to this solicitation, the Bidder…