35290_Apr_27_26_solicitation_doc.pdf

This is a Request for Proposal (RFP) solicitation issued by the Connecticut Department of Correction seeking qualified organizations to provide legal assistance services through the Inmate Legal Assistance Program (ILAP). The program serves approximately 11,049 inmates across thirteen correctional facilities and aims to ensure meaningful access to courts for indigent inmates as mandated by state statute and federal law. Required services include pre-packaged legal form packages, paralegal support under attorney supervision, family law seminars at each facility at least annually, federal habeas corpus assistance under 28 U.S.C. § 2254, and limited services for Connecticut inmates housed in other states. A Letter of Intent is due March 20, 2026, with a vendor question and answer period running from March 26 through April 3, 2026. Proposals must be submitted by April 27, 2026, at 3:00 PM EDT. The anticipated contract start date is July 1, 2026, with an initial two-year term and three optional one-year renewals at the Department's discretion.

Eligible proposers must be private nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, or state agencies and must demonstrate the ability to employ at least one full-time Connecticut-licensed attorney and one attorney admitted to the United States District Court, provide audited financial statements or documentation demonstrating solvency, and submit detailed budgets with all startup costs clearly identified and staffing plans demonstrating efficient personnel utilization. Evaluation criteria include organizational profile (10%), scope of services (20%), staffing plan (10%), data and technology capabilities (10%), work plan (15%), financial profile (10%), budget and narrative (15%), and compliance with required appendices (10%). The program may not assess fees to inmates, and services must exclude assistance to inmates already represented by public defenders or assigned counsel. Total funding available and specific contract cost are contingent upon state budget appropriations and have not been determined. No incumbent vendor information has been disclosed. Inquiries should be directed to Maria Antoniou at 860-692-6837 or Maria.Antoniou@ct.gov.