25WS0005_-_Exhibits_A-E.pdf

California Department of Veterans Affairs Solicitation Number: 25WS0005 Exhibit A - Scope of Work Contractor Name: TBD

NON-EMERGENCY AMBULANCE TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

1. INTRODUCTION/SERVICES

A. Contractor shall provide non-emergency ambulance services to the California Department of Veterans

Affairs (CalVet) for the benefit and care of the residents at the Veterans Home of California - West Los Angeles (Home), located at 11500 Nimitz Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90049. Contractor shall provide all labor, materials, staff, license, permits, and every other item of expense necessary to perform services, unless otherwise stated. Services shall be provided upon request and in compliance with terms of this Agreement.

B. All work shall be coordinated and approved by the CalVet Contract Manager or designated representative. Any and all services performed outside the scope of this Agreement or not approved by the CalVet Contract Manager or designated representative, will be at the sole risk and expense of the Contractor.

C. Contractor/Provider must perform services under the scope of their license and in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations as well as CalVet policies and procedures.

D. The Contractor is not authorized to deliver or commence performance of services as described in the Agreement until written approval has been obtained from CalVet Contract Manager, or designated representative, and the Contractor has received an executed contract from CalVet. Any delivery or performance of service commenced prior to the Contractor obtaining all written approvals shall be considered voluntary on the part of the Contractor.

2. CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Contractor shall provide ground ambulance transportation of ill, disabled, or injured Home residents to

/or from local clinical/medical facilities, providing Basic Life Support while transporting, and until turned over to receiving medical staff. The most common receiving locations are:

1. West LA VA Medical Center (1 mile)

11301 Wilshire Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90073

2. Ronald Raegan UCLA Medical Center (2.5 miles)

757 Westwood Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90095

3. Providence Saint John's Health Center (3 miles)

2121 Santa Monica Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90401

B. Ambulance services shall be available twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week, as needed, and shall include one or more of the following categories:

1. Basic Life Support (BLS) Medical Transport; and

2. Bariatric BLS (add on for the transport of a bariatric patient) via bariatric gurney.

Non-emergent medical transport to include

a. Wait time – for wait and return appointment

b. Ground Mileage for mileage to and from the facility

1) BLS Medical Transport:

Basic Life Support: ground ambulance transportation and the provision of medically necessary supplies and services, including BLS ambulance services as defined by the State. The ambulance must be staffed by an individual who is qualified in accordance with State and local laws as an EMT- Basic. Basic Life Support services shall include first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedures to maintain life excluding invasive techniques.

2) Bariatric Transport:

Bariatric Transport: ground ambulance transportation via a specially equipped ambulance that provides same services as BLS with specialized equipment to accommodate residents who weigh over 300 pounds. Contractor shall ensure the safe transport and provide the correct level of service and care for these residents.

C. Contractor shall provide the minimum pre-hospital emergency care personnel per ambulance as required by the Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Agency (LACO EMS). Additionally, Contractor shall provide space within the vehicle for attendants, such as a registered nurse or physician, if necessary.

D. Contractor shall provide devices to maintain appropriate body position during the transfer of the Home’s residents with fractures or any other skeletal displacement.

E. Contractor shall provide care, mechanical and pharmacological means to maintain blood pressure and an open airway, provide direct administration of oxygen or air, and have the ability to defibrillate and administer emergency medications during an unfavorable medical cardiac event during transport.

F. Contractor shall respond to all requests for BLS, and bariatric medical transport within sixty (60) minutes of request. Contractor shall provide on-time compliance reports at agreed upon intervals while maintaining a ninety-two percent (92%) or greater on-time performance standard. Response time is the time elapsed between a call received by the Contractor’s dispatch center and arrival of medical transport service at the requested facility.

G. For all scheduled appointments, Contractor shall arrive at the pickup site within fifteen (15) minutes of the scheduled pick up appointment time. Contractor shall respond by the most direct route except if weather and/or traffic conditions dictate otherwise.

H. Contractor shall make every attempt to respond to all non-scheduled telephone requests for same day non-emergency transport. Contractor shall inform the Home immediately if Contractor is unable to respond to the Home’s request. The Home reserves the right to contact an alternate provider in the event the Contractor is unable to respond within the specified timeframes or is unable to provide services in accordance with the agreed upon terms of the Agreement.

I. Upon approval, the Contractor shall meet with the CalVet Contract Manager to review and implement policies and procedures for the administration of the Agreement. Contractor shall have a telephone number and a contact person or designee available by telephone twenty-four (24) hours a day for the duration of the Agreement.

J. Contractor and Provider shall ensure that all ordered services have prior authorization in accordance with the Home, and are mutually agreed upon between the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), the CalVet Contract Manager, or designee, and the Contractor.

K. The Contractor shall accurately submit insurance claims to the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) for medically-necessary services. The Contractor shall be responsible for requesting and acquiring from the Home any and all billing documentation that CMS requires the Contractor to maintain.

L. Contractor shall ensure resident medical record information is maintained as “CONFIDENTIAL” and shall be held in trust and confidence. Information shall be used only for the purposes contemplated under this

M. Contractor shall verify the Resident’s Medicare, Medi-Cal, and private insurance eligibility and obtain any required Medicare, Medi-Cal, or private insurance authorization prior to invoicing. Contractor shall bill Medicare, Medi-Cal, or private insurance for authorized services performed prior to billing the Home.

Contractor shall prepare and submit such billings to the appropriate Medicare fiscal intermediary office, using Contractor’s Medicare/Medi-Cal Provider number. For non-insured residents, Contractor shall bill the Home according to prevailing Medicare rates.

N. The Contractor shall assume full responsibility for the provision of all prior authorized services, either directly or through delegates. As used in this paragraph, “full responsibility” means that the Contractor covenants to accept as payment in full for any and all health care services payments made by the Home pursuant to Exhibit B of this Agreement.

O. Invoices shall never be submitted to the Resident when a referral has been received from the Home or its designee. Contractor shall not, under any circumstances, including the Home’s non-payment, insolvency, breach or termination of this contract, seek compensation from, have any recourse against, or impose any additional charges on any resident. Contractor shall look only to the State for payment. If the State receives notice that the Contractor has billed or collected monies from a Home resident, the Contractor shall refund that amount to the resident within two (2) weeks or sooner.

P. Contractor or its agents, trustees, or assignees thereof shall not maintain any action at law against a Home resident to collect funds owed by the Home.

Q. Contractor further agrees that (a) these provisions shall survive the termination of this Agreement regardless of the cause giving rise to termination and shall be construed to be for the benefit of the Home resident, and that (b) these provisions supersede any oral or written contrary Agreement now existing or hereafter entered into between the Contractor and resident of the Home or person acting on behalf of the resident.

3. REPORTS

A. Upon resident drop off or pick up from the Home, Contractor shall leave an ambulance report or receipt to the Licensed Nurse on duty as proof of service. The reports shall also be submitted in electronic format and sent via electronic mail to the CalVet Contract Manager or designee as requested by CalVet. If electronic mail is not available, arrangements will be mutually agreed upon by the Contractor and the CalVet Contract Manager or designee. CalVet reserves the right to request Contractor provides additional reports or information as needed.

4. CONTRACTOR/PROVIDER’S QUALIFICATIONS

A. Contractor shall provide Paramedics or EMT’s licensed to provide Basic Life Support Services.

B. Resident health care is of paramount importance. Accuracy in communications is critical to ensure timely and correct non-emergency transportation services are provided. Therefore, Contractor(s) providing services through this Agreement must be able to communicate effectively with CalVet.

C. Contractor who fails to meet the qualifications shall not be permitted to perform service. The Home’s CMO, Skilled Nursing Facility Administrator, CalVet Contract Manager, or designee, shall state in writing the reason(s) the Provider does not meet qualifications. After notification of failure to meet qualifications has been provided, CalVet shall not pay the Contractor for additional services identified as not meeting the qualifications.

5. BUILDING SECURITY

A. The Contractor, Providers, and any representative staff shall follow all requirements and signage indicated by the Home for visitor procedures, security, and reporting.

B. All personnel entering the Home are required to sign in and sign out at the main lobby security desk, located in Building D.

C. All personnel shall wear the Home-issued visitor badge and either the company-issued badge with photo identification/company name or company-issued uniform bearing the company logo during the entire time the Contractor staff is on Home grounds.

6. HEALTH AND SAFETY

A. During times of pandemic (such as COVID-19) or other instances of widespread viral or bacterial infections, additional precautionary infection control steps may be implemented and required by the Home.

These may include, but are not limited to: wearing CalVet approved masks and/or face shields, extra or special cleanings, social distancing, partitions, adjusted hours and obtaining additional clearance certifications that may be required by local, state or federal health authorities.

B. Providers shall comply with the Home’s COVID-19 Mitigation Plan and follow all current COVID-19 guideline for precautions.

7. LICENSES, PERMITS, AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

A. Prior to providing services specified in this Agreement, Contractor shall possess and maintain throughout the term of this Agreement, all licenses, permits, and certification requirements. If, during the course of this Agreement, any of the licenses and/or requirements are found to be inactive or not in compliance, CalVet may withhold payment for services rendered during the expiration period and/or immediately terminate this Agreement.

B. Contractor shall assume responsibility for verifying, through the appropriate licensing boards, that no current or unresolved adverse actions have been taken by the State licensing authorities against any Contractor(s) assigned to CalVet, and that all licenses are active and void of misconduct. CalVet may, at its discretion, verify the current status of Contractor(s) assigned.

C. Contractor must meet the requirements and have the ability to adequately provide services to the Home’s residents. Contractor may use providers to perform services who meet the requirements specified in this Agreement. Contractor must provide the State with proof of any required training, licenses, permits, certifications and any other documents required by law including documents for each provider performing services under this Agreement.

D. Contractor shall maintain throughout the term of the Agreement a valid Department of Public Health ambulance service permit and a business license issued by the city or county where the business is being conducted. Contractor shall be in compliance with the State of California, California Highway Patrol, and Los Angeles County Ambulance Ordinance standards for operation of vehicles and maintenance of emergency care equipment and supplies. All services shall be provided in accordance with the Health and Safety Code, Division 2.5 (commencing with Section 1797).

8. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR STATUS

A. The Contractor/Providers shall be considered “Independent Contractors” in relation to CalVet and the

State. Therefore, the Contractor/Providers shall not be considered employee(s) of the Home and shall not be entitled to any employee benefits from the CalVet or the State including, but not limited to, the following:

1. Premium Pay, Overtime Pay, or Holiday Pay;

2. Medical Insurance;

3. Vacation or Sick Leave;

4. Worker’s Compensation, and

5. Other employee benefits.

9. CONTACT INFORMATION

A. The project representatives during the term of this Agreement will be:

1. CalVet Home Representative:

Veterans Home of California – West Los Angeles

TBD

TBD

TBD

Phone:

Cell:

Fax:

Email:

2. Contractor Representative:

Contractor: TBD Contractor Manager: TBD Address: TBD Phone: TBD Email: TBD

B. Project Representatives, addresses, and phone/fax numbers may be changed by issuing a twenty (20)-day prior written notification and shall not require a formal amendment to this Agreement. The notifying party shall provide complete contact information for the replacement Project Representative including, name, title, mailing address, phone/fax numbers, and email address. All other changes require a formal written amendment to this Agreement.

Exhibit B - Budget Detail and Payment Provisions TBD

1. STANDARD BUDGET DETAIL AND PAYMENT PROVISIONS

A. Invoicing and Payment

1. For services satisfactorily rendered, and upon receipt and approval of the invoices, the State agrees to compensate the Contractor for services rendered in accordance with the rates in Exhibit B-1.

2. Invoices shall include the Agreement Number and shall be submitted in not more frequently than monthly in arrears to:

Original Invoice Approval Copy Department of Veterans Affairs CalVet Accounting Office 1227 “O” Street Room 402 Sacramento, CA 95814 APInvoices@calvet.ca.gov

Veterans Home of California – West LA Attn: TBD Home Address Home City, State, Zip code

B. Budget Contingency Clause

1. It is mutually agreed that if the Budget Act of the current year and/or any subsequent years covered under this Agreement does not appropriate sufficient funds for the program, this Agreement shall be of no further form and effect. In this event, the State shall have no liability to pay any funds whatsoever to Contractor or to furnish any other considerations under this Agreement and Contractor shall not be obligated to perform any provisions of this Agreement.

2. If funding for any fiscal year is reduced or deleted by the Budget Act for purposes of this program, the State shall have the option to either cancel this Agreement with no liability occurring to the State, or offer an Agreement amendment to Contractor to reflect the reduced amount.

C. Prompt Payment Clause

Payment will be made in accordance with, and within the time specified in, Government Code, Chapter 4.5, commencing with Section 927.

2. SPECIAL BUDGET DETAIL AND PAYMENT PROVISIONS

Submissions of Invoices/Claims

A. All invoices/claims must be completed thoroughly and legibly, with all applicable fields completed.

Invoices/claims that are submitted to the appropriate location but have been altered, or are inaccurate, or do not provide all necessary information will not be accepted and will be returned to the Contractor for correction.

B. Any changes to this provision relating to the invoice/claim submittal process, including but not limited to an address, form, or process change, shall be an administrative change managed through the appropriate designated CalVet office and shall not require a contract amendment.

C. Contractor shall submit monthly invoices to the CalVet Contract Manager for approval and processing.

Invoices/claims submitted shall include the following information in order to be considered complete and acceptable for processing, or the invoice/claim will be returned:

1) Contractor’s Company name exactly as it appears on the Payee Data Record (STD.204)

2) Contractor’s Company address, phone number and e-mail

3) Date of invoice/claim

4) Invoice/claim number

5) CalVet location where services were performed

Exhibit B - Budget Detail and Payment Provisions TBD

6) Contract/Agreement Number

7) Date(s) of Service

8) Total dollar amount being billed

9) First and Last name of Contractor or Provider performing services, if applicable

10) Contractor’s or Provider’s Classification, whichever is applicable

11) Contractor’s final invoice must be clearly marked as “Final Invoice”

3. CONTRACTOR OVERPAYMENTS

A. If the State determines that an overpayment has been made to the Contractor, the State will seek recovery immediately upon discovery of the overpayment by: (a) calling the Contractor’s accounting office to request a refund of the overpayment amount, or (b) offsetting subsequent Contractor payments by the amount of the overpayment if Contractor repayment or credit is not received within thirty (30) days from the date of notice.

B. If Contractor discovers it has received an overpayment, Contractor must notify the State and refund the overpayment immediately.

4. DVBE Withhold

For contracts with DVBE subcontractors pursuant to Mil. & Vet. Code Section 999.7, ten thousand dollars ($10,000) will be withheld from the final payment, or the full final payment if less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000), until the prime contractor complies with the certification requirements of subdivision (d) of Mil.

& Vet. Code Section 999.5. Prime contractor shall be given 30 days’ notice to cure the defect. If, after 30 calendar days from the date of notice, the prime contractor refuses to comply with the certification requirements, CalVet shall permanently deduct ten thousand dollars ($10,000) from the final payment, or the full payment if less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000).

CalVet shall maintain all records of the information provided by the prime contractor pursuant to Section

999.5 and shall establish appropriate review procedures for those records to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the award amounts and paid amounts reported. The records shall be maintained in a manner that facilitates access and review by external auditors. Records collected pursuant to this section shall be retained for a minimum of six years after collection. (Mil. & Vet. Code Section 999.55)

Exhibit B-1, Rate Sheet TBD

RATE SHEET

The Contractor must be able to provide services listed below. Subcontractors may be used to comply with this requirement. Subcontractor Agreements may be used to comply with this requirement. Subcontractor(s) information must be identified on Bidder Declaration (GSPD-05-105). If additional Subcontractors are added during the term of the Agreement, an updated GSPD-05-105 must be submitted.

The rates listed below are in effect for the term of the Agreement, including any extension of the term through an amendment.

Description of Service Rates

[INSERT TYPE OF SERVICE] $

[INSERT TYPE OF SERVICE] $

[INSERT TYPE OF SERVICE] $

[ MATERIAL REIMBURSEMENT] $

Incidental Repairs - Normal Business Hours (Monday-Friday X:X0 a.m. - X:X0 p.m.) $ Incidental Repairs - After Normal Business Hours (Monday thru Friday, X:X0 p.m. - X:X0 a.m.) $ Emergency Services - Normal Business Hours (Monday-Friday X:X0 a.m. - X:X0 p.m.) $ Emergency Services - After Normal Business Hours (Monday-Friday X:X0 p.m. - X:X0 a.m.) $ Emergency Services - Weekends and Holiday $

Exhibit D – Special Terms and Conditions TBD

1. EXCISE TAX

The State of California is exempt from Federal Excise Taxes, and no payment will be made for any taxes levied on employees' wages. The State will pay for any applicable State of California or local sales or use taxes on the services rendered or equipment or parts supplied pursuant to this Contract. California may pay any applicable sales or use tax imposed by another state.

2. STATUTORY AND REGULATORY PROVISIONS

A. This Contract shall be governed and construed in accordance with all applicable statutory and regulatory provisions including, but not limited to:

1) Title XVIII of the Federal Social Security Act

2) Title XIX of the Federal Social Security Act

3) Chapters 7 and 8 (commencing with Section 14000), Part 3, Division 9, Welfare and Institutions Code

4) Division 3, Title 22, California Code of Regulations (CCR)

5) Health and Safety Code Section 1340 et seq.

6) All applicable Federal provisions which regulate the administration of health care programs and budget revisions, as contained in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 42, and Title 45, Part 74, Title 42 United States Code, Sections 1395 et seq. and 1396 et seq.

7) Sub-chapter 13 (commencing with Section 6800), Chapter 4, Part 1, Title 17, CCR; and

8) All other applicable laws and regulations.

B. Any provision of this Contract in conflict with the applicable laws and regulations is hereby amended to conform to the provisions of those laws and regulations. Such amendment of the Contract shall be effective on the effective date of the statutes or regulations necessitating it, and shall be binding on the parties even though the amendment may not have been reduced to writing and formally agreed upon and executed by the parties. If, due to amendment in laws of regulations, Contractor is unable or unwilling to comply with the provisions of the amendment(s), State or Contractor may terminate this Contract in accordance with the Termination provision of this Contract.

3. EXAMINATION AND AUDIT

A. Contractor shall allow the State and its related entities, the Comptroller General of the United States, Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud, or their duly authorized representatives, to inspect or otherwise evaluate the quality, appropriateness, and timeliness of services performed under this Contract, and to inspect, evaluate, and audit any and all books, records, and facilities maintained by the Contractor and Subcontractors pertaining to services under this Contract at any time during normal business hours.

B. Contractor shall be subject to the examination and audit of the State Auditor for a period of three (3) years after final payment under this Contract in accordance with Government Code, Section 85467.7. The examination and audit shall be confined to those matters directly connected with the performance of the contract, including, but not limited to, the costs of administering the Contract.

C. Books and records include, but are not limited to, all physical records originated or prepared pursuant to the performance under this Contract, including working papers, reports, financial records, and books of account, Medical Records, prescriptions files, Subcontracts, and any other documentation pertaining to medical and non-medical services for residents of the Home. Upon request, at any time during the term of this Contract, the Contractor shall furnish any record or copy.

4. RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES

A. The Contractor may dispute and appeal a decision or action by the State arising out of the Interpretation or administration of this Contract. A written dispute notice shall be submitted to the Contract Manager within thirty (30) calendar days from the date the Contractor receives notice of the decision or action in dispute.

The Contractor’s dispute notice shall state the following, based on the most accurate information available to the Contractor:

1) That it is a dispute pursuant to this Section.

2) The date, nature, and circumstances of the conduct, which is the subject of dispute.

3) The names, telephone numbers, function, and activity of each contractor, subcontractor, State official, or employee involved in or knowledgeable about the conduct.

4) The identification of any documents and the substance of any oral communications involved in the conduct. Copies of all identified documents shall be attached.

5) The reason why the Contractor is disputing the conduct.

6) The cost impact to the Contractor directly attributable to the alleged conduct, if any.

7) The Contractor’s desired remedy.

B. The State and the Contractor agree to try to resolve all contractual issues by negotiation and mutual agreement at the Contract Manager level. The parties recognize that the implementation of this policy depends on open-mindedness, and the need for both sides to present adequate supporting information on matters in question. The Contract Manager, in a written decision stating the factual basis for the decision, will decide any disputes concerning performance of this Contract. Before issuance of the Contract Manager’s decision, informal discussions between the parties by the individuals who have not participated substantially in the matter in dispute will be considered by the parties in efforts to reach mutual agreement.

C. The Contract Manager will render a decision or request additional substantiating documentation from the

Contractor within thirty (30) days of receipt of the Contractor’s appeal. A copy of the decision will be provided to the Contractor. The decision shall be final and conclusive unless, within thirty (30) days from the date of the decision, the Contractor files a written appeal addressed to the Undersecretary, California Department of Veterans Affairs.

D. The Undersecretary’s decision shall be final and conclusive unless the decision is arbitrary, capricious, grossly erroneous or if any determination of fact is unsupported by substantiating evidence. The Undersecretary’s decision will be in writing and may encompass facts, interpretations of the Contract, and determination or application of law. The Contractor may, prior to the Undersecretary’s decision, present oral or documentary evidence, and arguments in support of the Contractor’s appeal. The decision will either:

1) Find in favor of the Contractor, in which case the Undersecretary may:

a) Countermand the earlier conduct which caused the Contractor to file a dispute; or

b) Reaffirm the conduct and, if there is a cost impact sufficient to constitute a change in obligations pursuant to the payment provisions, direct the State to comply with that Section.

2) Deny the Contractor’s dispute and, where necessary, direct the manner of future performance; or

3) Request additional substantiating documentation in the event the information in the Contractor’s dispute or appeal is inadequate to permit a decision to be made under paragraphs (1) or (2) above, advise the Contractor as to what additional information is required, and establish how that information will be furnished. The Contractor shall have thirty (30) days to respond to the Undersecretary’s request for further information. Upon receipt of this additional requested information, the

Undersecretary will have thirty (30) days to respond with a decision. Failure to supply additional information required by the Undersecretary within the time period specified above shall constitute waiver by the Contractor of all claims.

E. Attorney’s fees and costs for any dispute or subsequent trial shall be borne by the respective parties.

Both parties waive trial by jury, and any trial in superior or municipal court shall be by a judge alone. Any litigation arising out of this Contract shall be conducted in a California Court pursuant to California law.

F. Contractor shall continue with the responsibilities under this Contract during any dispute.

5. AGENCY LIABILITY (Applies only to Federally Funded Contracts)

The Contractor warrants by execution of this Contract, that no person or selling agency has been employed or retained to solicit or secure this Contract upon Contract or understanding for a commission, percentage, brokerage, or contingent fee, excepting bona fide employees or bona fide established commercial or selling agencies maintained by the Contractor for the purpose of securing business. For breach or violation of this warranty, the State shall, in addition to other remedies provided by law, have the right to annul this Contract without liability, paying only for the value of the work actually performed, or otherwise recover the full amount of such commission, percentage, brokerage, or contingent fee.

6. POTENTIAL SUBCONTRACTORS

For all Agreements, with the exception of Interagency Agreements and other governmental entities/auxiliaries exempt from bidding, nothing contained in this Contract or otherwise shall create any contractual relation between the State and any subcontractors, and no subcontract shall relieve the Contractor of Contractor’s responsibilities and obligations hereunder. The Contractor agrees to be as fully responsible to the State for the acts and omissions of its subcontractors and of persons either directly or indirectly employed by any of them, as it is for the acts and omissions of persons directly employed by the Contractor.

The Contractor's obligation to pay its subcontractors is an independent obligation from the State’s obligation to make payments to the Contractor. As a result, the State shall have no obligation to pay or enforce the payment of any moneys to any subcontractor.

7. REPORTING SMALL BUSINESS (SB)/MICRO BUSINESS (MB) AND /OR DISABLED VETERANS

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DVBE) UTILIZATION

A. If SB/MB and/or DVBE Subcontractor participation is a requirement on this Agreement, the Contractor must report the actual amount paid to certified Subcontractors. The Contractor must comply with Government Code Section 14841 and Military and Veterans Code Section 999.5(d) by reporting the actual utilization of certified Subcontractor(s) during the performance of this Agreement. The Contractor shall prepare and submit the report to the Contract Manager within 60 days from receipt of final payment.

B. Withhold: Pursuant to Mil. & Vet. Code Section 999.7, ten thousand dollars ($10,000) will be withheld from the final payment, or the full final payment if less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000), until the prime contractor complies with the certification requirements of subdivision (d) of Mil. & Vet. Code Section

999.5. Prime contractor shall be given 30 days’ notice to cure the defect. If, after 30 calendar days from the date of notice, the prime contractor refuses to comply with the certification requirements, CalVet shall permanently deduct ten thousand dollars ($10,000) from the final payment, or the full payment if less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000).

8. DISABLED VETERANS BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DVBE) PARTICIPATION (WITH GOALS)

A. The Contractor has complied with the requirements of Public Contract Code Section 10115 et seq. DVBE goals achieved are expressed as a percentage of the estimated dollar value of this contract, and are identified on the Bidder Declaration, GSPD-05-105, attached to and made a part hereof.

B. The following goals are the Contractor’s commitment set forth in this contract based upon the estimated total dollar mount to be expended:

1) 3% of work for DVBE(s)

2) If this contract is amended and the additional work can be included in the subcontracted work, the goals shall be amended to reflect this change.

9. SUBSTITUTION OF DVBEs

A. DVBE subcontractors shall be used per the California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 2 § 1896.70 unless a substitution is approved in writing by the Department of General Services (DGS),Office of Small Business & Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (OSDS). A DVBE subcontractor shall be replaced by another DVBE to perform the work originally stated. The substitution shall maintain, at minimum, the level of participation goal stated in the bid.

1) The Contractor shall simultaneously notify the DVBE and the CalVet Contract Manager of the intended substitution. The written notice shall contain the reasons for the substitution and be sent by certified mail. The Contractor shall submit the following to the CalVet Contract Manager:

i. A copy of the written notice issued to the DVBE with proof of delivery. In the absence of proof of delivery, provide the certified mail receipts.

ii. A copy of the DVBE’s consent or opposition to the substitution. In the absence of the consent or opposition, provide the returned and unopened certified mail.

iii. The name and supplier number of the business being substituted and the name and supplier number of the proposed replacement. If a DVBE cannot be identified as a replacement, the Contractor shall document the absence of DVBEs. This documentation shall include but is not limited to:

1. Contact CalVet’ SB/DVBE Coordinator regarding the absence of DVBEs to perform the specific work.

2. Search results from the DGS website for DVBEs to perform the specific work.

3. Communication with a DVBE Community Organization nearest the worksite regarding the absence of DVBEs, if applicable.

4. Documented communication with DVBEs describing the work to be performed, its percentage of the overall contract, the corresponding dollar amount, and their responses to the request.

2) The DVBE shall have up to five (5) business days from the postmark date to consent or oppose the substitution. A copy of the DVBE’s reply shall be sent simultaneously by certified mail to the Contractor and the CalVet Contract Manager.

3) When written oppositions to a substitution are filed, CalVet shall grant the DVBE a hearing. The hearing notice shall be issued within five (5) business days from receipt of the opposition. If CalVet grants the substitution, continue to G, below.

4) The CalVet Contract Manager shall submit the substitution request to the DGS, OSDS:

i. The request must meet the criteria as specified above or § 4107 of the Public Contract Code for

Public Works.

ii. The substitution request shall be accompanied by the hearing decision, when applicable.

5) The OSDS will respond to substitution requests within three (3) business days. The OSDS shall consent to the substitution of another DVBE in any of the following situations:

i. When the DVBE becomes bankrupt, insolvent or goes out of business.

ii. When the DVBE does not perform as listed in the Bidder Declaration.

iii. When the DVBE does not meet the bond requirements of the contractor.

iv. When the DVBE’s name is incorrect due to an inadvertent clerical error. In the case of public works contracts, compliance with § 4107.5 of the Public Contract Code is required.

v. When the DVBE is not licensed as required by any State of California regulatory agency.

vi. When CalVet, or its duly authorized officer, determines that the DVBE:

1. Did not perform in accordance with the plans and specifications; or,

2. Has delayed or disrupted the progress of the work.

6) The DVBE substitution process shall not be used as an excuse for noncompliance with any provision of law. This includes, but is not limited to, the Subletting and Subcontracting Fair Practices Act (§ 4100 et seq., Public Contract Code) or any Agreement requirements relating to substitution of subcontractors.

7) Contractors who proceed with work pending a substitution decision may be subject to contract termination, recovery of damages under rights, remedies and penalties. This is outlined in § 999.9 of the Military and Veterans Code, § 10115.10 of the Public Contract Code or § 4110 of the Public Contract Code (applies to public works only). Failure to adhere to the DVBE participation in the performance of the Agreement may be cause for Agreement termination and recovery of damages under the rights and remedies due CalVet.

8) Any DVBE firm acting/working under subcontract must be responsible for providing materials, supplies, equipment or services and must carry out its responsibility by actually performing, managing, or supervising the work involved that is normal for its business services and functions.

9) The Contractor shall maintain records of all subcontracts entered into with DVBE Subcontractors including records of materials purchased from DVBE suppliers. Such records shall show the name and address of each DVBE Subcontractor or supplier and the total dollar amount paid to each one.

Upon completion of the Agreement, a summary of these records shall be prepared and certified correct by the Contractor or his authorized representative and the summary shall be furnished to the CalVet Contract Manager.

10. SMALL BUSINESS OR DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE CERTIFICATION

A. Contractor shall maintain its status as a Department of General Services (DGS) certified Small Business

(SB)/Microbusiness (MB) or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE), as applicable, throughout the term of this Agreement.

B. Subcontractor must also maintain its certification with the DGS Office of Small Business & Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services as a SB/MB or DVBE, as applicable, for the duration of this

11. INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

A. Upon contract award, contractor must furnish to the State an original certificate(s) of insurance stating that the contractor has the following types of coverage, if applicable:

1) Commercial General Liability: Combined Single Limit (CSL) for no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and property damage. The policy must include coverage for liabilities arising out of premises, operations, independent contractors, products/completed operations, personal & advertising injury, and liability assumed under an insured contract. This insurance shall apply separately to each insured against whom claim is made or suit is brought subject to the contractor’s limit of liability.

2) Professional Liability: (Applies to any contract in which the work is of a professional nature such as, but not limited to, physicians, architects, engineers, accountants, or consultants) Covering any damages caused by an error, omission, or any negligent acts. Limits of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate.

3) Automobile Liability (Applies to any contract in which the contractor will likely use a vehicle to complete the project or drive a vehicle onto State property): Limits of not less than $1,000,000 per accident. Such insurance shall cover liability arising out of an automobile including owned, hired, and non-owned autos.

a) MCS90 endorsement on the Automobile policy (required whenever contractor will be transporting Hazardous materials i.e. Pest Control and Waste contracts.)

4) Pollution Liability/Environmental Impairment Liability (Applies only to Pollution Contracts – i.e. Pest Control and Waste Contracts): In addition, the certificate evidencing general liability must include evidence of one of the following if applicable to the service:

a) Pesticide/Herbicide Endorsement, OR

b) An endorsement deleting the general liability pollution exclusion, OR

c) A separate environmental/pollution liability policy with limits not less than $1,000,000 covering bodily injury and property damage from pollution and related clean up costs incurred arising out of the work or services to be performed under this contract.

5) Workers’ Compensation (Mandatory for all Contractors who have at least one employee): Contractor shall maintain workers’ compensation and employer’s liability coverage for all its employees who will be engaged in the performance of the contract, including special coverage extensions where applicable. Contractor shall furnish a certificate for Workers’ Compensation issued by an insurance carrier licensed to write Workers’ Compensation insurance in the State of California, including the name of the carrier and the date of expiration of insurance, or a Certificate of Consent to Self-Insure issued by the Department of Industrial Relations.

6) Fidelity Bond/Crime Insurance: (Applies only to contracts handling State money or securities – i.e.

Armored Car Service Contracts) Contractor shall maintain Employee Dishonesty and, when applicable, Inside/Outside Money & Securities coverages for state-owned property in the care, custody and control of the Contractor. Coverage limits shall not be less than the amount scheduled in the contract. The policy shall include as Contractor. Coverage limits shall not be less than the amount scheduled in the contract. The policy shall include as loss payee the California Department of Veterans Affairs

7) The certificate(s) of insurance shall be on an ACORD form, or equivalent, and must show

“occurrence” coverage. The certificates of insurance must also contain all of the following provisions:

a) Name and address of the insurance company, policy number, and beginning and ending dates of the policy.

b) Statement that the insurer will not cancel the insured’s coverage without 30 days prior written notice to the State.

c) Statement that the State of California, its officers, agents, employees, and servants are included as additional insured on the policy, but only insofar as the operations under this contract.

8) Contractor agrees that any insurance herein provided shall be in full force and effect at all times during the term of the contract. In the event said insurance coverage expires at any time during the term of this contract, Contractor agrees to provide, at least ten (10) days prior to said expiration date, a new certificate of insurance evidencing insurance coverage as provided for herein for not less than the remainder of the term of the contract, or for a period of not less than one (1) year. In the event contractor fails to keep in effect at all times insurance coverage herein provided, State may, in addition to any other remedies it may have, terminate the contract upon the occurrence of such event, subject to the provisions of the contract.

9) Contractor shall notify the State within five (5) days if any insurance coverage identified in the contract is altered in any way.

12. RIGHT TO TERMINATE

A. The State reserves the right to terminate this Contract subject to thirty (30) days written notice to the

Contractor. Contractor may submit a written request to terminate this Contract only if the State should substantially fail to perform its responsibilities as provided herein. However, the Contract can be immediately terminated for cause. The term “for cause” shall mean that the Contractor fails to meet the terms, conditions, and/or responsibilities of the contract. In this instance, the contract termination shall be effective as of the date indicated on the State’s notification to the Contractor.

B. This Contract may be suspended or cancelled without notice, at the option of the Contractor, if the

Contractor or State’s premises or equipment are destroyed by fire or other catastrophe, or so substantially damaged that it is impractical to continue service, or in the event the Contractor is unable to render service as a result of any action by any governmental authority.

13. FORCE MAJEURE

Neither party shall be liable to the other for any delay in or failure of performance, nor shall any such delay in or failure of, performance constitute default, if such delay or failure is caused by “Force Majeure.” As used in this section, “Force Majeure” is defined as follows: Acts of war and acts of god such as earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters such that performance is impossible.

14. EVALUATION OF CONTRACTOR

Performance of the Contractor under this Agreement will be evaluated. The evaluation shall be prepared on Contract/Contractor Evaluation Sheet (STD 4), and maintained in the Agreement file. For consultant agreements, a copy of the evaluation will be sent to the Department of General Services, Office of Legal Services, if it is negative and over $5,000.

15. SB/DVBE PARTICIPATION

In accordance with requirements set forth by the State, the CalVet shall enforce all laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to this program. It is the Contractors responsibility to provide CalVet with all required documents as outlined in this agreement. The CalVet reserves the right to contact each SB and DVBE identified by the Contractor to verify compliance. Failure to meet SB/DVBE requirements under Exhibit B, and Exhibit C (GTC 04/2017), paragraphs 19.a and 19.b. may deem the Contractor to be non-responsible and rejected from future bid and contract opportunities with the CalVet.

16. LICENSES AND PERMITS

The Contractor shall be an individual or firm licensed to do business in California and shall obtain at his/her expense all license(s) and permit(s) required by law for accomplishing any work required in connection with this contract.

If you are a Contractor located within the State of California, a business license from the city/county in which you are headquartered is necessary; however, if you are a corporation, a copy of your incorporation documents/letter from the Secretary of State’s Office can be submitted. If you are a Contractor outside the State of California, you will need to submit to the California Department of Veterans Affairs a copy of your business license or incorporation papers for your respective State showing that your company is in good standing in that state.

In the event any license(s) and/or permit(s) expire at any time during the term of this contract, Contractor agrees to provide agency a copy of the renewed license(s) and/or permit(s) within 30 days following the expiration date. In the event the Contractor fails to keep in effect at all times all required license(s) and permit(s), the State may, in addition to any other remedies it may have, terminate this contract upon occurrence of such event.

17. CONSULTANT – STAFF EXPENSES

The Contractor represents that it has or shall secure at its own expense, all staff required to perform the services described in this Agreement. Such personnel shall not be employees of or have any contractual relationship with any governmental entity.

18. HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT (HIPAA) STANDARDS FOR

PRIVACY OF INDIVIDUALLY IDENTIFIABLE HEALTH INFORMATION

For the purpose of this contract, contractor shall comply with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), as well as State and Federal requirements for privacy protection. The definitions and obligations required by the HIPAA Standards for Privacy of Individually Identified Health Information (U.S.C. 1320d et seq.), and implementing regulations including but not limited to 45 Code of Federal Regulations parts 142, 160, 162, and 164, hereinafter referred to as the Privacy Rule, remain enforce and applicable for access to protected health information, including electronic protected health information.

19. Executive Order N-6-22 – Russia Sanctions

On March 4, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-6-22 (the EO) regarding Economic Sanctions against Russia and Russian entities and individuals. “Economic Sanctions” refers to sanctions imposed by the U.S. government in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as well as any sanctions imposed under state law. The EO directs state agencies to terminate contracts with, and to refrain from entering any new contracts with, individuals or entities that are determined to be a target of Economic Sanctions.

Accordingly, should the State determine Contractor is a target of Economic Sanctions or is conducting prohibited transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, that shall be grounds for termination of this agreement. The State shall provide Contractor advance written notice of such termination, allowing Contractor at least 30 calendar days to provide a written response. Termination shall be at the sole discretion of the State.

20. LEGAL CONTRACTS (applies only to Legal Services Contracts)

In accordance with (Public Contract Code Section (10353.5) The Contractor shall:

A. Agree to adhere to legal cost and billing guidelines designated by the State.

B. Adhere to litigation plans designated by the state agency.

C. Adhere to case phasing of activities designated by the state agency.

D. Submit and adhere to legal budgets as designated by the state agency.

E. Maintain legal malpractice insurance in an amount not less than the amount designated by the state agency.

F. Submit to legal bill audits and law firm audits if requested by the state agency. The audits may be conducted by employees and designees of the state agency or by any legal cost control providers retained by the state agency for purpose.

G. Submit to a legal cost and utilization review, as determined by the state agency.

21. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Use and Reporting

The State of California seeks to realize the potential benefits of GenAI, through the development and deployment of GenAI tools, while balancing the risks of these new technologies.

During the term of the contract, Contractor must notify the State in writing if their services or any work under this contract includes, or makes available, any previously unreported GenAI technology, including GenAI from third parties or subcontractors. Contractor shall immediately complete the GenAI Reporting and Factsheet (STD 1000) to notify the State of any new or previously unreported GenAI technology.