14-Open Enrollment (OE) for SKIP No. 3202600127.pdf

Joe Esparza, Chairman and Commissioner Representing Employers

Alberto Treviño III, Commissioner Representing Labor

Brent Connett, Commissioner Representing the Public

Steve Pier, Executive Director

Open Enrollment (OE) For

Senior Keys to Independence Program (SKIP)

Solicitation No. 3202600127

Date of Release: Monday, February 9, 2026

Responses Due: Monday, March 2, 2026, by 10:00 a.m. CST

952-72 Reading Services for the Blind

785-17 Blind Teaching and Training Equipment and Supplies

952-40 Elderly Assistance Services

Sole Point of Contact for this OE

Meghan Osborn, CTCD

TWC Procurement Portal https://twc-texas-gov.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

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Table of Contents Article I Purpose, Authority and Schedule of Events

1.1 Purpose

1.2 Authority

1.3 Schedule of Events

Article II Scope of Work

2.1 Overview/Background

2.2 Contractor Requirements, Responsibilities, and TWC Policies

2.3 VR Standards for Providers (VR-SFP) Manual

2.4 SKIP Scope of Work (SOW)

2.5 Service AREA

2.6 background checks

2.7 Transportation of TWC-VR CustomerS

2.8 Director

2.9 Staff providing services to TWC-VR CustomerS

2.10 Required Insurance

Article III General Information

3.1 Terms and Conditions

3.2 Contract Award

3.3 Contract Term

3.4 Payments

3.5 Contract Amendments

3.6 No Guarantee of Volume, Usage or Compensation

3.7 Governmental Entities

3.8 Offer Period

3.9 Costs Incurred

3.10 Public Information Act - Applicant Response

3.11 Public Information Action - Contract Award

3.12 Applicant Waiver-Intellectual Property

3.13 Change of Ownership or Financial Condition

3.14 General

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3.15 Assessment of Liquidated Damages

3.16 Severability

3.17 Franchise Tax-Right to Transact Business in Texas

3.18 Subcontractor Requirements

Article IV Application Process

4.1 Sole Point of Contact

4.2 Prohibited Communication

4.3 General Information

4.4 Changes, Modifications, and Cancellations of Solicitation

4.5 Certifications

4.6 Deadline

4.7 Submission Method

4.8 Ownership of Applications

4.9 Modifications and Withdrawals

4.10 Additional Information

4.11 Ambiguity, Conflict, or Discrepancy

Article V APPLICATION EVALUTION

5.1 Application Screening

5.2 Evaluation

Article VI Required Application Information

6.1 Completed Enrollment Packet

6.2 Certifications

6.3 Format

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Definitions Table 1: Definitions

Term/Acronym Definition

Addendum;

Addenda;

Amendment

A written addition, change, or supplement to this Solicitation that is posted to the ESBD and issued prior to the response due date.

Applicant An entity or individual who submits a Provider Enrollment Packet in response to this solicitation.

Business Day The day and hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Central Time) in which TWC is open for business.

TWC is closed for business on the scheduled holidays indicated by the State Auditor’s Office available at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/holidays/.

The terms “Working Day” and “Business Day” may be used interchangeably. All uncapitalized references to “day” shall mean calendar day.

https://hr.sao.texas.gov/holidays/

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Term/Acronym Definition

Confidential Information

Any communication or record (whether oral, written, electronically stored or transmitted, or in any other form) provided to or made available to Contractor or that Contractor may create, receive, maintain, use, disclose or have access to on behalf of TWC that consists of or includes any or all the following:

a. Customer Information;

b. Protected Health Information (PHI), in any form including, without limitation, Electronic Protected Health Information or Unsecured Protected Health Information;

c. Sensitive Personal Information, as defined by Texas Business and Commerce Code, § 521.002(a)(2);

d. Federal Tax Information;

e. Personally Identifiable Information (PII) as defined by Texas Business and Commerce Code § 521.002(a)(1);

f. Social Security Administration Data, including, without limitation, Medicaid information;

g. All privileged work product; all information designated as confidential under the constitution and laws of the State of Texas and of the United States, including the Texas Health and Safety Code and the Texas Public Information Act, Texas Government Code, Chapter 552;

h. Personally Identifiable Information defined by 2 CFR 200.1;

and

i. Information deemed confidential under The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. Chapter 16, as amended, and implementing regulations 34 C.F.R. Parts 361 through 396.

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Conflict of Interest

A situation that creates a risk that professional judgment or actions will be unduly influenced by a personal interest or relationship and creates substantial conflicts with the proper discharge of duties required by a contract and the public interest.

Each Applicant must comply with the content on Conflict of Interest located in the VR-SFP Chapter 3: Basic Standards.

Contract The written agreement entered into by TWC and Successful Respondent, which will incorporate the contents of this Solicitation and the Successful Respondent’s Response, except as may be provided in the Contract and any amendments thereto.

Contractor (also Provider)

A legal entity or individual who TWC is contracted with to provide goods and/or services for TWC Customers. Contractor can be used interchangeably with Provider, Service Provider, or Vendor.

Contract Term The definite period of time that the Contract will remain in effect, including all stated renewals and extensions.

Customer An individual that has met the TWC eligibility criteria and has been approved to receive TWC services.

CTCD Certified Texas Contract Developer.

CTCM Certified Texas Contract Manager.

ESBD The Electronic State Business Daily. An online platform administered by the Statewide Procurement Division (SPD) of the Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA). The ESBD may be accessed as http://www.txsmartbuy.com/esbd.

https://www.twc.texas.gov/sites/default/files/vr/policy/vr-sfp-03-twc.docx http://www.txsmartbuy.com/esbd

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Exhibit The scope of work for performing the services and includes:

a. staff qualification;

b. facility qualifications;

c. services descriptions;

d. processes and procedures;

e. outcomes required for payment; and

f. fees.

The Exhibit A SKIP SOW will be incorporated into all contracts awarded from the solicitation.

IFA or Invitation for Applications

This document including all exhibits, attachments, forms, and Addenda, if any.

Fiscal Year (FY) Texas State Fiscal Year, September 1 through August 31.

Older Individuals who are Blind

(OIB)

An individual age 55 or older whose significant visual impairment makes competitive employment extremely difficult to attain but for whom independent living goals are feasible.

PCS or Procurement and Contract Services

A department within TWC’s Business Operations division.

PHS Purchasing and HUB Services, a section within TWC.

Senior Keys to Independence Program (SKIP)

A SKIP Contract allows a Contractor to provide group skills training to Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB) when the Contractor has a valid service authorization to do so. The Scope of Work is found in the Exhibit A SKIP SOW to this Solicitation.

SME Subject Matter Expert https://www.twc.texas.gov/sites/default/files/vr/docs/skip-exhibit-twc.docx

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Solicitation This IFA (formerly Open Enrollment) includes all exhibits, attachments, forms, and Addenda, if any.

State The State of Texas and its instrumentalities, including TWC, its officers, employees, or authorized agents, and any other state agencies.

Subcontractor Any entity(ies) or person(s) providing goods or services under the Contract on Respondent’s behalf, whether or not the entity(ies) or person(s) has/have a written agreement with the Respondent. The term does not include a state agency; rather a subcontractor may be an officer or employee of a state agency when the officer or employee contracts with a vendor in a private capacity.

Successful Applicant

The Applicant(s) with whom TWC executes a Contract to provide the goods and/or services that this Solicitation requires.

TWC Texas Workforce Commission.

Vocational Rehabilitation Division (VRD)

The TWC Vocational Rehabilitation Division (VRD) administers the Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program, which is a joint state and federally funded program to assess, plan, develop, and provide VR services for eligible individuals with disabilities, consistent with their unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice so that these individuals can prepare for and engage in competitive integrated employment and achieve economic self-sufficiency. In accordance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by Title IV of WIOA (29 U.S.C. § 720 et seq.). VRD is the single designated state unit for the VR program.

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Vocational Rehabilitation Standards for Providers Manual (VRSFP)

The VR Standards for Providers (VR-SFP) Manual focuses on the business practices, processes, and policies that must be followed for TWC and the Contractor to comply with federal and state laws and TWC rules and requirements. The VR-SFP Manual ensures TWC-VR Customers receive quality services. Each Contractor should review the VR-SFP Manual and forms for changes every thirty (30) calendar days. Each Contractor is expected to be familiar with and comply with the most recently published VR- SFP Manual and use the most recently published forms applicable to their Contract.

VPTS Vendor Performance Tracking System, as described under Texas Government Code § 2262.055 and 34 TAC § 20.115. Reporting requirements and vendor performance factors considered in VPTS are described in Texas Government Code § 2155.089 and 34 TAC § 20.509. The VPTS is available at:

https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/vpts.

https://twc.texas.gov/partners/vocational-rehabilitation-standards-providers-manual http://www.texasworkforce.org/partners/vocational-rehabilitation-standards-providers-manual http://www.texasworkforce.org/partners/vocational-rehabilitation-standards-providers-manual http://www.texasworkforce.org/partners/vocational-rehabilitation-standards-providers-manual https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/vpts

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ARTICLE I PURPOSE, AUTHORITY AND

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

1.1 PURPOSE

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is seeking Applications from qualified Service Providers to deliver services for the Senior Keys to Independence Program (SKIP) to be provided to Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB) Customers served by the TWC-Vocational Rehabilitation (TWC-VR) division on behalf of TWC. This is an Open Enrollment opportunity.

Opportunities are available to provide SKIP services for TWC-VR Workforce

Solutions offices in all areas of the state. Applicants must meet all requirements and specifications outlined herein to be eligible to provide SKIP services.

1.2 AUTHORITY

TWC is soliciting the goods and/or services stated in this Solicitation under the statutory authority of Texas Labor Code §352.060.

1.3 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

The dates in this Schedule of Events are tentative, and TWC reserves the right to modify these dates at any time. At the sole discretion of TWC, events listed in the Schedule of Events are subject to changes and cancellation. Scheduling changes or cancellation made prior to the Deadline for Submission of Applications will be published as an Addendum posted to the Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) and the. TWC Procurement Portal

Applicant is required to sign and return all Addenda related to the Open

Enrollment Solicitation.

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Table 2: Schedule of Events

EVENT DATE and TIME

Open Enrollment Period Start Date: Monday, February 9, 2026

End Date: Monday, March 2, 2026, by 10 a.m. CST

Applicant must submit their Application to TWC within the open enrollment period in accordance with Schedule of Events shown above, or as changed via a notification of an Addendum posted to the ESBD.

ARTICLE II SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 OVERVIEW/BACKGROUND

TWC’s mission is to promote and support a workforce system that creates value and offers employers, families, individuals and communities the opportunity to achieve and sustain economic prosperity.

This solicitation is for the Senior Keys to Independence Program (SKIP) — Group Skills Training for Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB).

2.2 CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND TWC

POLICIES

Contractors must be knowledgeable about their responsibilities, the service requirements, and TWC policies applicable to them.

2.3 VR STANDARDS FOR PROVIDERS (VR-SFP) MANUAL

The VR Standards for Providers (VR-SFP) Manual focuses on the business practices, processes, and policies that must be followed for TWC and the Contractor to comply with federal and state laws and TWC rules and requirements. Contractors must adhere to the current VR-SFP Manual when providing services to VR Customers.

An Applicant applying for a contract must comply with the following VR-SFP Manual chapters in addition to the SKIP SOW.

• Chapter 1: Introduction to Vocational Rehabilitation https://twc.texas.gov/partners/vocational-rehabilitation-standards-providers-manual https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/vocational-rehabilitation/sfp http://www.twc.state.tx.us/partners/vocational-rehabilitation-standards-providers-manual

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• Chapter 2: Obtaining a Contract for Goods and Services

• Chapter 3: Basic Standards

Notice of upcoming changes to the VR-SFP Manual are published on the Vocational Rehabilitation Providers’ Resources page at least thirty (30) calendar days in advance of the effective date of the changes. Each Contractor is contractually responsible for maintaining compliance with the most current VR-SFP Manual.

A revision list that summarizes any formal changes to the VR-SFP Manual can be found on the Vocational Rehabilitation Standards for Providers Revision Log.

TWC GovDelivery notifies Contractors every time revisions are posted to the VR-SFP Manual and other important information. All Contractors should subscribe to TWC GovDelivery list to gain these notifications. Visit the TWC GovDelivery website, enter an email address, and select the topic “Vocational Rehabilitation Contractors and Providers News” to subscribe.

For questions about the content in the VR-SFP email, contact vr.standards@twc.texas.gov.

2.4 SKIP SCOPE OF WORK (SOW)

TWC Contractors must adhere to the SKIP Scope of Work as presented in Exhibit A SKIP SOW which includes:

a. staff qualifications:

b. facility qualifications;

c. services descriptions;

d. processes and procedures;

e. outcomes required for payment; and

f. fees.

2.5 SERVICE AREA

This is a statewide open enrollment solicitation. All Texas counties are included in this solicitation. If awarded a contract for these services, the contractor may serve customers throughout the state of Texas upon receipt of an approved service authorization issued on behalf of a TWC-VR customer.

https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/vocational-rehabilitation/sfp https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/vocational-rehabilitation/provider-resources https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/vocational-rehabilitation/sfp https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/vocational-rehabilitation/sfp/log http://www.texasworkforce.org/partners/vocational-rehabilitation-standards-providers-manual https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/txwc/subscriber/new https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/txwc/subscriber/new mailto:vr.standards@twc.texas.gov

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2.6 BACKGROUND CHECKS

VR-SFP Manual Chapter 3: Basic Standards requires each contractor to run background checks on each staff member who will interact with any VR customer. This includes any staff who have any communication or other contact whether in person, on paper, by voice, by sign language, electronically or any other method. The only exception is for staff who never communicate with or are physically present with a VR customer. Background checks must be completed by the contractor before the employee interacts with any VR customer.

Applicants and Contractors are responsible for purchasing and conducting a background check. A background check consists of running a name-based search from the Texas Department of Public Safety and checking the National Public Sex Offender public website.

For more information on required background checks refer to the following resources:

• SFP Chapter 3, Section 2.18 Background Checks

• Form VR1307 Background Checks Attestation and Release Form

• Convictions Barring Contractor Staff from Performing Services for TWC

• Contracted Service Exempt from Background Checks

• Exception to Background Check Instructions

• Background Check FAQ

• Webinar: Background and National Public Sex Offender Requirements

2.7 TRANSPORTATION OF TWC-VR CUSTOMERS

Transportation of VR customers by a contractor or their employees is not required. However, if a contractor or their employees or subcontractors do transport a customer in the contractor’s vehicle or their personal vehicle, they must meet the minimum liability requirements of the Texas Department of Insurance. The contractor must maintain current proof of insurance for any staff member who transports customers. When a staff person will be transporting VR Customers in personal vehicles, the staff person must submit to TWC-VR proof of auto liability insurance as required by the Texas Department of Insurance with Form VR3455.

https://publicsite.dps.texas.gov/ConvictionNameSearch/ https://www.nsopw.gov/?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1 https://www.nsopw.gov/?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=ehh1h4_GeFY&feature=youtu.be

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Verification statements on Form VR3455 must be signed by the staff person represented on the form and the Director appointed by the legal authorized representative.

2.8 DIRECTOR

Each Entity must have a Director who meets the qualification as stated in the VR-SFP Manual, Chapter 3 Basic Standards. The Entity’s legally authorized representative must appoint the Director using Form VR3441A. The Director must also have a VR 3455 included in the Application. Anytime the VR3455 is completed and/or updated the Contractor must keep a copy on file and submit it to TWC-VR. For additional information refer to TWC-VR Chapter 3.

2.9 STAFF PROVIDING SERVICES TO TWC-VR CUSTOMERS

For any service selected by the Applicant on VR3441B, the Applicant must have at least one (1) person who meets the qualifications to provide the service(s) as described in in the EXHIBIT A SKIP SOW.

Each staff person must have VR3455 with the supporting documentation (resumes, transcripts, proof of insurance, and credentials) included in the Application.

After contract award, a VR3455 with supporting documentation must be submitted for each person who will be providing services under the Contract.

Each Contractor must submit Form VR3455 and the supporting evidence that the staff member meets the required qualifications within 30 days of:

• hiring new staff member;

• making a significant change to a staff member's job duties such as fundamentally altering the nature of the job, requiring new skills, responsibilities, or a substantial time commitment;

• changing staff qualifications and/or credentials; or

• terminating a staff member.

For additional information refer to the VR-SFP Manual.

2.10 REQUIRED INSURANCE

Contractors are responsible for their actions and the actions of their employees https://www.twc.texas.gov/sites/default/files/vr/policy/vr-sfp-03-twc.docx

Open Enrollment No 3202600127 SKIP Page 15 of 32 and subcontractors. Insurance can provide protection to Contractors from claims of negligence made by Customers.

Contractors must maintain insurance as described in VR-SFP Chapter 3 when insurance requirements are applicable. Insurance requirements are subject to change after proposed changes have been posted at least 30 days on the

Vocational Rehabilitation Providers’ Resources page.

Transportation of VR Customers is not required, but if done, Contractors must meet the minimum liability automobile insurance requirements required by

Texas law and keep proof of insurance for any staff member who transports

Customers in vehicles.

ARTICLE III GENERAL INFORMATION

3.1 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The Terms and Conditions identified in the Solicitation and Attachment1 -

Vendor OE T&Cs (12-18-2025) are applicable to this Solicitation and any

Contract resulting from this Solicitation. TWC reserves the right to incorporate additional provisions in the Contract in the best interest of TWC.

In the event of a conflict between this Solicitation and applicable laws and regulations, precedence shall be given to the laws and regulations.

3.2 CONTRACT AWARD

TWC intends to award Contract(s) to qualified Applicants throughout the enrollment period and may award multiple Contracts within individual counties or groups of counties.

Entities, Applicants, and/or individuals that are debarred or excluded by the federal government are excluded from receiving federal contracts or certain subcontracts, and certain types of financial and nonfinancial assistance and benefits. Entities, Applicants and/or individuals that are debarred or excluded by the State of Texas are excluded from doing business with the

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TWC may consider past performance, or any other factor it deems to be in the best interest of TWC or the State of Texas, when determining whether to award a contract to an Applicant.

Participation in a post-award orientation will be required before any services related to the awarded Contract can be performed.

3.3 CONTRACT TERM

The Contract is contingent upon the continued availability of funding. If funds become unavailable through lack of appropriations, legislative budget cuts, amendment of the General Appropriations Act, TWC consolidation of offices, or any other disruption of current appropriations, Termination provisions of

Attachment 1 Vendor OE T&Cs (12-18-2025) shall apply.

3.4 PAYMENTS

Contractor(s) must comply with the EXHIBIT A SKIP SOW, VR-SFP Chapter 3:

Basic Standards and any other applicable sections of the VR-SFP Manual.

Payments made to Contractor(s) will be based on the Fee Schedule shown in EXHIBIT A SKIP SOW when all requirements have been achieved.

3.5 CONTRACT AMENDMENTS

The Contract may be amended only by written agreement signed by both the Successful Applicant and TWC.

3.6 NO GUARANTEE OF VOLUME, USAGE OR COMPENSATION

TWC makes no guarantee of volume, usage, or total compensation to be paid to an Applicant under an awarded Contract, if any, resulting from this

Solicitation.

TWC reserves the right to cancel or decline to award a Contract under this

Solicitation at any time at its sole discretion.

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3.7 GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES

If Applicant is responding to this Solicitation in its capacity as a governmental entity, certain Terms and Conditions found in this Solicitation, including exhibits and attachments, may not be applicable. Furthermore, to the extent permitted by law, if an Application is received from a governmental entity, TWC reserves the right to enter into an interagency or interlocal agreement with the governmental entity.

3.8 OFFER PERIOD

Applications shall be binding for a period of one hundred eighty (180) days after the Application due date. An Applicant may extend the time for which its Application will be honored.

3.9 COSTS INCURRED

Applicant understands that issuance of this Solicitation in no way constitutes a commitment by TWC to award a Contract. Additionally, TWC is not liable for any costs incurred by an Applicant in the preparation of an Application to this

Solicitation. Costs of developing Applications, preparing for, or participating in Oral Presentations and Site Visits, or any other similar expenses incurred by an Applicant are entirely the responsibility of the Applicant, and will not be reimbursed in any manner by the State of Texas.

3.10 PUBLIC INFORMATION ACT - APPLICANT RESPONSE

Information, documentation, and other materials submitted in connection with this Solicitation or resulting Contract may be subject to public disclosure pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act, Texas Government

Code, Chapter 552. See Attachment1 - Vendor OE T&Cs (12-18-2025)

If Applicant asserts that information provided in its Application is exempt from disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act, Applicant must mark and submit two separate, searchable Portable Document Format (PDF)

Open Enrollment No 3202600127 SKIP Page 18 of 32 copies (Original Application and “Public Information Act Copy,” including attachments, of the Original Application) as identified below. This copy is in addition to the original and all copies otherwise required under the provisions of this Solicitation.

3.11 PUBLIC INFORMATION ACTION - CONTRACT AWARD

Within five (5) Business Days from Contract execution, if the Successful

Applicant is asserting that certain information in the application is exempt from public disclosure, the Successful Applicant must submit a “Public

Information Act Copy” of the Original Executed Contract (in addition to the

Original Executed Contract) to the TWC Contract Manager by email. The

Public Information Act Copy must meet the following requirements:

a. The copy must be clearly marked as “Public Information Act Copy” on the front page in large, bold, capitalized letters (the size of, or equivalent to, 12-point Arial font or larger).

b. Each portion Successful Applicant claims are exempt from public disclosure must be redacted (blacked out); and

c. Successful Applicant must identify, adjacent to each redaction, the claimed exemption from disclosure. Each identification provided as required in Subsection b of this section must be identical to those set forth in the Original Application. The only difference in required markings and information between the Original Contract and the

“Public Information Act Copy” of the contract will be redactions, which can only be included in the “Public Information Act Copy.” There must be no redactions in the Original Executed Contract.

3.12 APPLICANT WAIVER-INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

SUBMISSION OF ANY DOCUMENT TO TWC IN RESPONSE TO THIS

SOLICITATION CONSTITUTES AN IRREVOCABLE WAIVER AND

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AGREEMENT BY APPLICANT TO FULLY INDEMNIFY THE STATE OF

TEXAS AND TWC FROM ANY CLAIM OF INFRINGEMENT AGAINST THE

STATE OF TEXAS AND TWC REGARDING THE INTELLECTUAL

PROPERTY RIGHTS OF APPLICANT OR ANY THIRD PARTY FOR ANY

MATERIALS SUBMITTED TO TWC BY APPLICANT.

3.13 CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP OR FINANCIAL CONDITION

During the term of the Contract or any extension or renewal thereof, the

Successful Applicant shall notify TWC in writing of any substantial change in the ownership or control of the Successful Applicant as soon as possible, but no later than thirty (30) days prior to its occurrence. Successful Applicant must also notify TWC in writing of any change in financial condition as soon as possible, but no later than ten (10) days after its occurrence.

The failure to notify TWC of a change of ownership or control or change in financial condition will be sufficient grounds for rejecting the Application or terminating the Contract. For the purposes of this section, examples of a substantial change in financial condition are events such as insolvency, bankruptcy, or receivership.

3.14 GENERAL

It is agreed by TWC and the Successful Applicant that:

a. If the Successful Applicant does not provide or perform the requirements referred to or listed in this Solicitation or fulfill the obligations of the

Contract, damage to TWC will result;

b. establishing the precise measure of damages in the event of default by the Successful Applicant may be (i) costly, (ii) time consuming, or (iii) difficult or impossible to calculate;

c. the liquidated damage assessments contained herein represent a good faith effort to quantify the damages that could reasonably be anticipated

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d. the damages set forth herein are just and reasonable;

e. nothing contained in this section shall be construed as relieving the

Successful Applicant from performing all Contract requirements whether or not said requirements are set forth herein; and

f. TWC may, therefore, in its sole discretion, deduct damages from the compensation otherwise due to the Successful Applicant, an amount equivalent to two percent (2%) of the total cost. All assessments of damages shall be within the sole discretion of TWC.

3.15 ASSESSMENT OF LIQUIDATED DAMAGES

a. Once TWC has determined that liquidated damages are to be assessed, the TWC shall notify the Successful Applicant of the assessment(s).

b. Upon receipt of written notice, the Successful Applicant will have ten

(10) days to provide a written explanation of any justification that may be applicable to the liquidated damages being considered and a corrective action plan for bringing the operations within the specified standards.

c. TWC has the right to amend the corrective action plan submitted by the Successful Applicant.

d. In all cases, the corrective action plan must be approved by TWC in writing prior to implementation. The corrective action plan must be implemented by the Successful Applicant at no cost to and upon approval by the TWC Contract Manager.

e. Liquidated damages will not be assessed during the specified cure period for the activity in question.

f. If the breach is not cured or the Successful Applicant does not provide

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Applicant, or, if no payments have been made, TWC will make demand of payment of liquidated damages.

g. The Successful Applicant must make payment within thirty (30) days of TWC’s demand.

h. In the event the Successful Applicant fails to pay within the thirty (30) day period, TWC may utilize the option to withhold any additional payments.

i. Failure to pay assessed liquidated damages within the designated time frame may be deemed by TWC to be a breach of contract.

3.16 SEVERABILITY

If any provision or portion of this Solicitation is illegal, void, or unenforceable, the other provisions will not be affected.

3.17 FRANCHISE TAX-RIGHT TO TRANSACT BUSINESS IN TEXAS

If applicable, the Texas franchise tax is imposed on each taxable entity formed or organized in Texas or doing business in Texas.

Applicant must be set up in the Texas franchise tax system prior to Contract award if applicable. Texas franchise tax information can be accessed at https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/franchise/.

3.18 SUBCONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS

Applicant must indicate whether or not it holds any financial interest in any

Subcontractor. As a condition of award, an authorized officer or agent of each proposed Subcontractor may be required to sign a statement to the effect that the Subcontractor has read and will agree to application by

Applicant’s obligations under any Contract awarded pursuant to this https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/franchise/

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Solicitation.

The Successful Applicant must obtain prior written approval from TWC if any part of the Contract between TWC and the Successful Applicant is to be subcontracted, and the Subcontractor must comply with all applicable requirements of TWC. TWC reserves the sole right to require the Successful

Applicant to terminate any Subcontractor with or without cause.

In the event TWC approves of the use of any Subcontractor, the Successful

Applicant is not relieved of its responsibility and obligation to meet all the requirements of this Solicitation.

TWC will incur no additional obligations, and the obligations of the

Successful Applicant will not be reduced as a result of any such subcontracts.

The Successful Applicant’s obligation to pay Subcontractors is governed by

Texas Government Code § 2251.022 (Time for Payment by Vendor), and any amendments thereto.

ARTICLE IV APPLICATION PROCESS

4.1 SOLE POINT OF CONTACT

The Sole Point of Contact for this Solicitation is:

Meghan Osborn, CTCD

Email: TWC Procurement Portal

All requests, questions, or other communication about this OE must be submitted through the TWC Procurement Portal and will be directed to the Sole Point of Contact.

4.2 PROHIBITED COMMUNICATION

Except as provided in Section 4.2 (Sole Point of Contact), a potential

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Applicant and Applicant that has submitted an Application is prohibited from any communication with TWC regarding the Solicitation. Unless allowable, TWC, its representative(s), and partners will not answer any questions or otherwise discuss the contents of this Solicitation with any potential Applicant or its representative(s). Attempts to ask questions by phone or in person will not be allowed or recognized as valid. Applicants shall rely only on written statements issued by or through TWC designated staff as provided by the Sole

Point of Contact in Section 4.2. Failure to comply with these restrictions may result in disqualification of Applicant's Application. These restrictions do not preclude discussions between affected parties for the purposes of conducting business unrelated to this Solicitation.

4.3 GENERAL INFORMATION

Applicants must fully and completely address all requirements described in this Solicitation. Incomplete or partial Applications will not be considered. The

Applicant must provide all information that is required per the List of Forms.

Applicant shall prepare an Application that clearly and concisely represents its qualifications.

4.4 CHANGES, MODIFICATIONS, AND CANCELLATIONS OF

SOLICITATION

TWC reserves the right to make changes to or cancel this Solicitation. TWC will post all changes and modifications, whether made as a result of a potential

Applicant’s written inquiries or otherwise, and cancellation notices to the ESBD.

4.5 CERTIFICATIONS

By signing and submitting the Execution of Offer form with the Provider

Enrollment Packet, Applicant attests to its compliance with the Certifications provided in Section 3 of Attachment 1 - Vendor OE T&Cs (12-18-2025)

4.6 DEADLINE

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Applications must be received by TWC as prescribed no later than date and time specified in Section 1.3 Schedule of Events.

4.7 SUBMISSION METHOD

TWC has implemented the eProcurement platform referred to as the TWC Procurement Portal. Respondent must upload all documentation indicated to the TWC Procurement Portal link on the “Open Opportunities” tab.

Submissions by any other method will not be accepted.

To respond to this Solicitation, Respondents must register through the TWC Procurement Portal website. There is no charge to register.

Step-by-step instructions are available at:

Vendor Registration

For step-by-step instructions about the submission process visit:, visit:

Creating and Uploading a Submission.

Any issues with uploading must first be addressed with the TWC Procurement Portal Technical Support at the contact information included in the Procurement Information Summary and TWC Procurement Portal Instructions to Respondents document.

Respondents must contact the Sole Point of Contact (Section 4.2) prior to the deadline if there are issues with using the TWC Procurement Portal and an alternative submission method may be required. Failure to contact the Sole Point of Contact (Section 4.2) well before the deadline to make alternative arrangements will disqualify any subsequent Response submission.

Hard copies received will not be accepted or reviewed.

It is the Respondent’s responsibility to appropriately mark and upload the Proposal to the TWC Procurement Portal by the specified date. Each Respondent is solely responsible for ensuring its Proposal is submitted in accordance with all Solicitation requirements and ensuring timely receipt by TWC. TWC is not responsible for electronic submissions that are captured, blocked, filtered, quarantined or otherwise prevented from reaching the proper destination server by any TWC anti-virus or other security software. To confirm receipt of all electronic submissions, Respondent should request a confirmation https://twc-texas-gov.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities https://customer.eunasolutions.com/public/s/article/vendor-registration https://vendorsupport.gobonfire.com/hc/en-us/articles/6832869814551-Creating-and-Uploading-a-Submission#%3A%7E%3Atext%3DTo%20begin%20uploading%20your%20submission%2Cthe%20Complete%20Your%20Submission%20page https://vendorsupport.gobonfire.com/hc/en-us/articles/6832869814551-Creating-and-Uploading-a-Submission#%3A%7E%3Atext%3DTo%20begin%20uploading%20your%20submission%2Cthe%20Complete%20Your%20Submission%20page https://customer.eunasolutions.com/public/s/article/creating-and-uploading-a-submission

Open Enrollment No 3202600127 SKIP Page 25 of 32 by e-mail.

In no event will TWC be responsible or liable for any delay or error in delivery. Response must be RECEIVED by TWC by the Response Deadline identified in Section 1.3 Schedule of Events.

4.8 OWNERSHIP OF APPLICATIONS

All materials submitted by an Applicant will become the property of

TWC and may be used as TWC deems appropriate. An Application will not be returned to the Applicant after the Application due date and time.

4.9 MODIFICATIONS AND WITHDRAWALS

Prior to the Application submission deadline in Section 1.3 (Schedule of Events), Applicant may: (1) withdraw its Application by submitting a written request to the Sole Point of Contact identified in Section 4.2 (Sole Point of Contact); or (2) modify its Application by submitting a written amendment to the Sole Point of Contact identified in Section 4.2 (Sole Point of Contact).

When amending its Application, Applicant must include, in writing, the section(s) of its submission that will be replaced or removed by the amendment.

4.10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

By submitting an Application, the Applicant grants TWC the right to obtain any information from any lawful source, including the Comptroller’s VPTS, regarding the past history, practices, conduct, ability, and eligibility of the Applicant to supply goods and/or services and to fulfill requirements under this Solicitation, and the past history, practices, conduct, ability and eligibility of any director, officer, or key employee of the Applicant. By submitting an Application, the Applicant releases from liability and waives all claims against any party providing information about the Applicant at the request of TWC.

TWC may contact references provided in response to this Solicitation. TWC may contact Applicant’s clients or solicit information from any available source, including the Comptroller’s VPTS.

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Any information received may be grounds for disqualification if that information, in TWC’s sole discretion, suggests that the Respondent may perform poorly if selected.

4.11 AMBIGUITY, CONFLICT, OR DISCREPANCY

Applicants must notify the Sole Point of Contact, Section 4.2, of any ambiguity, conflict, discrepancy, exclusionary specification, omission, or other error in the OE.

If Applicant fails to properly and timely notify the Sole Point of Contact, Section 4.2, of any ambiguity, conflict, discrepancy, exclusionary specification, omission or other error in the IFB, the Applicant, whether awarded a Contract or not:

a. Waives any claim of error or ambiguity in the Solicitation and any resulting Contract;

b. Submits an Application at its own risk;

c. May not contest the interpretation by TWC of such provision(s); and

d. Is not entitled to additional compensation, relief, or time by reason of ambiguity, conflict, discrepancy, exclusionary specification, omission, or other error or its later correction.

ARTICLE V APPLICATION EVALUTION

5.1 APPLICATION SCREENING

An administrative screening of Responses timely received will be conducted by TWC PCS to determine which Responses meet all IFA (OE) minimum requirements and are deemed responsive and qualified for further consideration. In accordance with Texas Government Code § 2262.055(d), TWC will consider Respondent performance as recorded in the CPA Texas

Vendor Performance Tracking System (VPTS), described in Texas

Administrative Code, 34 TAC § 20.115.

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TWC reserves the right to ask questions or request clarification from any

Applicant at any time during the screening process.

5.2 EVALUATION

TWC will determine whether the Applicant meets all requirements of this OE. To be considered responsive, the Applicant must apply to all line items listed in the list of attachments and forms at the end of this OE solicitation.

ARTICLE VI REQUIRED APPLICATION

INFORMATION

6.1 COMPLETED ENROLLMENT PACKET

The Completed Enrollment Packets may be submitted at any time during the enrollment period. All forms must be completed in their entirety. For qualified

Applicants that submit complete applications, Contracts will be developed as they are approved. The volume of applications may vary during the enrollment period, and Contracts may take three (3) months or more to be finalized, depending upon volume and workload.

6.2 CERTIFICATIONS

By signing and submitting the Execution of Offer form with the Provider

Enrollment Packet, Applicant attests to its compliance with the Certifications provided in Section 3 of the Attachment 1, Vendor OE T&Cs (12-18-

2025).

Enrollment Packets can only be submitted electronically to the TWC

Procurement Portal at TWC Procurement Portal. TWC will not accept emailed, mailed, or hand-delivered applications or those that are sent to another email address.

Applications received after the deadline specified in Article I, Section 1.3 will

Open Enrollment No 3202600127 SKIP Page 28 of 32 be rejected and will not be evaluated or considered for acceptance in the

Open Enrollment. TWC is not responsible for Open Enrollment applications that are submitted or received late, illegible, incomplete, or otherwise disqualified due to failure of electronic equipment or operator error.

Disqualification of an application can occur when an applicant fails to:

a) submit an application in accordance with the requirements of the solicitation; or

b) submit requested corrections or additional documentation within fourteen (14) days unless another timeframe is specified by TWC.

6.3 FORMAT

Important:

No emailed, mailed, nor hand delivered Application will be accepted.

All submissions must be received by TWC through the TWC Procurement

Portal.

Your Enrollment Packet must include all documents listed below in the List of

Attachments and Forms. Upload each document/form to your Application as a separate document. Each documents/form requiring signatures must be properly signed and dated.

The application will be rejected if the Applicant does not submit each document/form as a separate document with required signatures.

Organize and name each document as described in the List of Attachments and

Forms .

Note: TWC-VR will reject the Enrollment Packet if its documents are not submitted in the PDF format and name convention as described in this notice.

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List of Attachments and Forms Attachment 1 Vendor OE T&Cs (12-18-2025)

Attachment 2 Application Submission Checklist

Form 1 Execution of Offer

Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_Execution of

Offer

Form 2 W-9 and Direct Deposit Form (VR 1020)

Important: Alternative W-9 forms will not be accepted.

• Complete the Form VR1020, TWC Substitute W-9 and Direct Deposit.

• Refer to the VR1020 instructions and to TWC Substitute W-9 and Direct Deposit Form video for guidance.

• If the TWC1020 shows a “Business Name” (DBA) designation in Box 2, include a copy of County DBA registry letter.

• If the TWC1020 uses an “EIN” in box 6, include a copy of IRS letter assigning Employer Identification Number.

• Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_W-

Form 3 Child Support Certification (VR 1305)

• Complete Form VR1305, Child Support Certification.

• Refer to the VR1305 instructions for additional guidance.

• Provide the name and social security number (SSN) of the individual or sole proprietor, or if not a sole proprietorship, of each partner, shareholder, or owner with an ownership interest of at least 25 percent of the business entity.

• If no one person owns 25 percent or more of the business, state “Not Applicable (N/A)” in the Name/SSN field and complete the remaining sections.

• Form VR1305 must be signed by the entity’s legal authorized representative.

https://www.twc.texas.gov/sites/default/files/vr/forms/vr1020-twc.pdf https://www.twc.texas.gov/sites/default/files/vr/forms/vr1020-twc.pdf https://www.twc.texas.gov/sites/default/files/vr/forms/twc1020INST-twc.pdf https://youtu.be/wtHUyJgHfVE https://youtu.be/wtHUyJgHfVE

Open Enrollment No 3202600127 SKIP Page 30 of 32

• Name convention for submission:

APPLICANTName_VR1305

Form 4 TWC VR Standards for Provider Certification (VR 3443)

• Complete Form VR3443, TWC VR Standards for Provider Certification.

• Form VR3443 must be signed by the entity’s legally authorized representative.

• Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_VR3443

Form 5 Conflict of Interest Certification (VR 3444)

• Complete the Form VR3444, Conflict of Interest Certification.

• Form VR3444 must be signed by the entity’s legally authorized representative.

• Name convention for submission: Applicant’s Name_VR3444

Form 6 Provider Insurance Certification (VR 3445)

• Applicants with or without insurance must complete the form VR3445, Provider Insurance Certification.

• When the Applicant has insurance, a current and accurate certificate of insurance from the Association for Cooperative Operations Research and Development (ACORD) or its equivalent must be attached to Form

VR3445.

Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_VR3445

Form 7 Entity Headquarters Information Management Form (VR

3441A)

• Complete the Form VR3441A Entity Headquarters Information Management Team to record the Applicant’s management team information.

• Name convention for submission: Applicant’s Legal Name_VR3441A

Form 8 Entity Headquarters Information - Services (VR 3441B)

• Complete Form VR3441B, Entity Headquarters

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Information- Part B-Services form to describe the Applicant’s staff experience and to indicate what services the Applicant is applying for to gain a contract.

• To be eligible to apply for a service the Applicant must have at least one (1) person who meets the qualifications to provide the service at application

• Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_VR3441B

Form 9 Entity Headquarters Information – Location(s) (VR 3441C)

• Complete Form VR3441C, Entity Headquarters Information - Location(s) form.

• Form VR3441C must be completed by all Applicants to record the counties where the Applicant is able to provide services with the staff currently hired. Counties can be added and removed without amending the contract as staff availability changes by completing and submitting a new Form VR3441C to the assigned regional quality assurance specialist.

• Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_VR3441C

Form 10 Entity’s Physical Location(s) – Part A – Service Contracts

Certification (VR 3442A)

• Complete the Form VR3442 A, Entity’s Physical Location(s)- Part A- Service Contracts Certification Statement.

• Form VR3442A must be completed by the Applicant to indicate if the Applicant has a physical location. The VR3442A form must be submitted even if the Provider does not have a physical location.

• Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_VR3442A

Form 11 Entity’s Physical Location(s) – Part B – General Information

Service Contracts (VR3442B)

• Complete Form VR3442 B - Entity’s Physical Location(s)- Part B- General Information Service Contracts when applicable.

• Form VR3442B must be completed for each physical location the entity has. If the entity does not have any

Open Enrollment No 3202600127 SKIP Page 32 of 32 physical locations, the Form VR3442B is not required.

• Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_VR3442B

Form 12 Provider Staff Information Form(s) with Supporting

Documentation (VR 3455)

• Complete a Form VR3455, Provider Staff Information and attach required supporting documentation (resumes, transcripts, proof of insurance, and credentials) to demonstrate the staff person, including the Director, meets the required qualifications as stated in the VR-SFP Manual.

• When a staff person will be transporting VR customers in personal vehicles, the staff person must submit proof of auto liability insurance as required by the Texas Department of Insurance with Form VR3455.

• Verification statements on Form VR3455 must be signed by the staff person represented on the form and the Director appointed by the legal authorized representative.

• Name convention for submission: APPLICANT Name_ Staff Legal Last Name_VR3455

Form 13 SKIP Curriculum

• The applicant must submit a basic curriculum that describes the learning outcomes, learning objectives, teaching and learning strategies as well as resources to be provided in the delivery of the SKIP program

Naming Convention T13_APPLICANT Name SKIP Curriculum.