RFI - GPS-Secure Communication.docx

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI)

Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) GPS Monitoring/Tracking Devices

15B70026PR000706

July 8, 2026

1. Purpose

The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice, is conducting market research to identify GPS‑enabled monitoring devices with integrated two‑way phone call capability and associated monitoring and data‑management services. Devices must be secure, tamper‑resistant, and physically removable only by authorized correctional staff. The purpose of this RFI is to gather information on industry capabilities, commercial product availability, technical approaches, pricing structures, and best practices to support future acquisition planning.

This RFI is issued solely for information and planning purposes and does not constitute a solicitation, a commitment to procure, or a guarantee that a solicitation will be issued. Responses are voluntary and will be treated as information only.

2. Agency Background

The BOP is responsible for the care, custody, and control of federal inmates. As part of its operational mission, the BOP evaluates technologies that enhance inmate accountability, improve institutional safety, and support effective management of inmate movement and monitoring. GPS monitoring/tracking devices may support these efforts through real‑time or periodic location tracking, tamper detection, and data reporting. Responses to this RFI will help the BOP assess current industry capabilities and determine whether commercial solutions can meet potential future operational needs.

3. Requested Information

The BOP requests that vendors address the following items. Responses may be structured in the order listed.

3.1 Company Information

· Company name, address, point of contact, email, and phone.

· UEI and CAGE code.

· Business size and socioeconomic status (Small, SDB, WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone, etc.)

· Relevant NAICS code(s) and recommended NAICS for this requirement.

· Summary of organizational capabilities and history providing GPS tracking, controlled‑communication devices, or electronic monitoring technologies.

· Description of any current or prior work with federal, state, or local correctional or law‑enforcement agencies.

3.2 Technical Capability Details

· Description of available device types (ankle‑worn, wrist‑worn, hybrid, or other form factors).

· Description of integrated phone‑call capabilities (e.g., one‑way, two‑way, call routing, call restrictions, call‑logging mechanisms).

· Technologies used: GPS, GNSS, cellular, RF, Wi‑Fi, hybrid systems.

· Location accuracy, update frequency, and data refresh rates.

· Tamper‑detection features (e.g., fiber‑optic, pressure sensors, environmental detection) and notification methods.

· Confirmation that devices cannot be removed without correctional‑staff tools or authorization; description of removal process.

· Battery life, charging method, physical durability, and environmental resistance.

· Performance in low‑signal or no‑signal environments.

· Software capabilities: dashboards, alerts, communication logs, location history, analytics, and audit logs.

· Data export options, system integration methods, and API availability.

· Encryption standards and cybersecurity protections.

· Compliance with federal requirements (TAA, FedRAMP, CJIS, etc.).

· Data‑storage location(s), retention policies, and chain‑of‑custody protections for communication and location metadata.

3.3 Operational and Support Capabilities

· Deployment and implementation process, including activation of communication features.

· Training approach for staff and administrators.

· Device repair, replacement, shipping, and logistics workflow.

· Customer support structure and service‑level expectations.

· Estimated production lead times and surge capacity to increase output.

3.4 Rough Order of Magnitude Pricing (Non‑Binding)

· Unit price for each device type.

· Monthly monitoring or service fee (if applicable).

· Software licensing fees or subscription costs.

· Training, implementation, or onboarding costs.

· Maintenance and support costs.

· Volume discounts or pricing tiers.

Note: Pricing is for informational planning only and will not be considered a proposal.

3.5 Industry Recommendations and Feedback

· Potential risks, constraints, or technical challenges associated with secure GPS-based monitoring and controlled device communications.

· Industry standards or certifications relevant to this requirement.

· Best practices the BOP should consider.

· Recommended contract types or procurement approaches.

· Suggested performance metrics.

· Any additional information industry believes would assist BOP planning.

4. Response Instructions

· Responses should be submitted electronically in PDF or Word format.

· Page limit: Recommended not to exceed 20 pages.

· Include the RFI number and company name in the subject line of the email.

· Responses are due no later than: July 24, 2026 11:00 am Eastern Time.

· Submit responses and questions to: msteiner@bop.gov.

5. Disclaimer

This RFI is for informational and market research purposes only. It is not a request for proposal or quote and does not constitute a commitment by the Government to procure any supplies or services. Respondents are solely responsible for all costs associated with preparing and submitting responses. The Government will not provide feedback or evaluations based on submissions.

6. Handling of Proprietary Information

Vendors should clearly mark any proprietary or business‑sensitive information. The BOP will treat such information in accordance with applicable regulations.