36C10D24Q0232.pdf

PAGE 1 OF 1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE 4. ORDER NO. 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls) 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: % FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR CODE FACILITY CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO. UEI: EFT:

PHONE: FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

ITEM NO. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION (REV. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

VA

F36BVRE-24-0000013

36C10D24Q0232 08-01-2024

Edward Bradford 254-371-5942 08-23-2024 12:00 pm CDT

00101 Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Benefits Administration Acquisition Directorate 1800 G Street NW Washington DC 20006

X 100

X

541930

$22.5 Million

N/A

X

00101

Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Benefits Administration Acquisition Division 1800 G Street NW Washington DC 20006

00101

Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Benefits Administration Acquisition Directorate

All invoices must be e-mailed to:

Tungsten; See Invoicing Instructions

See CONTINUATION Page

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is requesting a Contractor to provide ASL Interpreter Services for an employee.

Anticipated Period of Performance:

Base Year: 09/09/2024 to 09/08/2025 Option Year 1: 09/09/2025 to 09/08/2026

Option Year 2: 09/09/2026 to 09/08/2027

Questions must be submitted to Edward.Bradford@va.gov by

12:00pm CDT on 08/09/2024.

Quotes must be submitted to Edward.Bradford@va.gov by 12:00pm CDT on 08/23/2024.

See CONTINUATION Page

X X

Edward D. Bradford

VA-VBA-2024-0053

36C10D24Q0232

Table of Contents

SECTION A

A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

B.2 INVOICING INSTRUCTIONS

B.3 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

B.4 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

B.5 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2023)

C.2 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

C.3 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR 2000) ... 25

C.4 52.232-40 PROVIDING ACCELERATED PAYMENTS TO SMALL BUSINESS

SUBCONTRACTORS (MAR 2023)

C.5 52.233-1 DISPUTES (MAY 2014)

C.6 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

C.7 SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

C.8 VAAR 852.211-76 LIQUIDATED DAMAGES – REIMBURSEMENT FOR DATA

BREACH COSTS (FEB 2023) ALTERNATE I (FEB 2023)

C.9 VAAR 852.219-73 VA NOTICE OF TOTAL SET-ASIDE FOR CERTIFIED

SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES (JAN 2023)

(DEVIATION)

C.10 VAAR 852.219-74 VA NOTICE OF TOTAL SET-ASIDE FOR VERIFIED

VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES (NOV 2022)

C.11 VAAR 852.219-75 VA NOTICE OF LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING—

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FOR SERVICES AND CONSTRUCTION (JAN 2023)

(DEVIATION)

C.12 VAAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS

(NOV 2018)

C.13 VAAR 852.237-75 KEY PERSONNEL (OCT 2019)

C.14 VAAR 852.242-71 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACTING OFFICER (OCT 2020) . 38

C.15 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT

STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (MAY 2024)

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

D.1 WAGE DETERMINATION

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023)

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL

PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (MAR 2023)

E.2 52.212-2 EVALUATION— COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL

SERVICES (NOV 2021)

E.2 52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS

AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT (NOV 2021)

E.3 52.204-29 FEDERAL ACQUISITION SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY ACT

ORDERS—REPRESENTATION AND DISCLOSURES (DEC 2023)

E.4 52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (OCT 2018)

E.5 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006)

E.6 VAAR 852.233-71 ALTERNATE PROTEST PROCEDURE (OCT 2018)

E.7 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

E.2 52.212-2 EVALUATION— COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL

SERVICES (NOV 2021)

E.3 ADDENDUM to 52.212-2 EVALUATION- COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2021)

E.8 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS—

COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (MAY 2024)

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR: TBD

b. GOVERNMENT:Contracting Officer 36C10D Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Benefits Administration Acquisition Directorate

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

[X] 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System For Award Management, or

[] 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

a. Quarterly []

b. Semi-Annually []

c. Other [X] Payment provided under the terms of this order will be made within thirty (30) calendar days after receipt of a properly executed invoice. Invoice(s) shall be submitted monthly in areas.

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

AMENDMENT NO DATE

B.2 INVOICING INSTRUCTIONS

General invoicing instructions are included here.

Payment provided under the terms of this contract will be made Monthly in arrears for all services rendered and/or deliverables submitted and approved by the VA.

GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS:

TUNGSTEN (OB10) ELECTRONIC INVOICE SUBMISSION

FSC e-INVOICE PROGRAM THROUGH AUSTIN PORTAL

FSC MANDATORY ELECTRONIC INVOICE SUBMISSION FOR AUSTIN PAYMENTS

Please include in all invoices the Contract/Purchase Order Number, or Task/Delivery Order Number.

All invoices need to also be submitted using the same line item format in the contract or order.

Vendor Electronic Invoice Submission Methods:

Fax, email and scanned documents are not acceptable forms of submission for payment requests. Electronic form means an automated system transmitting information electronically according to the accepted data transmissions below.

1. VA’s Electronic Invoice Presentment and Payment System – The Financial Services Center (FSC) in Austin, TX uses a third-party contractor, Tungsten, to transition vendors from paper to electronic invoice submission. Please go to this website: http://www.tungsten-network.com/US/en/veterans-affairs/ to begin submitting electronic invoices, free of charge.

2. A system that conforms to the X12 electronic data interchange (EDI) formats established by the Accredited Standards Center (ASC) chartered by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The X12 EDI Web site is http://www.x12.org.

Vendor e-Invoice Set-up Information:

Please contact Tungsten at the phone number or email address listed below to begin submitting your electronic invoices to the VA Financial Services Center in Austin, TX for payment processing. If you have questions about the payment status of a properly submitted invoice, the e-invoicing program, or Tungsten, please contact the FSC at the phone number or email address listed below.

• Tungsten e-Invoice setup information: 1-877-489-6135

• Tungsten e-Invoice email: VA.Registration@tungsten-network.com

• VA TUNGSTEN Number: AAA544240062

• FSC e-Invoice contact information: 1-877-353-9791

• FSC e-Invoice email: vafsccshd@va.gov

• FSC Internet: http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp http://www.tungsten-network.com/US/en/veterans-affairs/ http://www.tungsten-network.com/US/en/veterans-affairs/ http://www.x12.org/ mailto:VA.Registration@tungsten-network.com mailto:vafsccshd@va.gov http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp

B.3 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

1. BACKGROUND

a) The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has a requirement for on-site and virtual language services for meetings, training and other events for American Sign Language (ASL) Interpretation Services (spoken English into signed English and American Sign Language (ASL) and ASL or signed English back into spoken English). The frequency of services is estimated to be up to 3,276 hours during the performance period which includes an estimated 2,576 hours of virtual services and an estimated 700 hours of on-site services. There is a reasonable expectation that the on-site requirement could increase from one day per week to up to 2-3 days per week if the Department increases in-person work for employees. This Performance Work Statement is designed to obtain the services, labor, materials, travel, and equipment necessary for sign language interpretation services. The period of performance will consist of a base plus two option years.

b) The interpreter is responsible for reviewing and complying with all pertinent State and federal laws including, but not limited to, state and local taxes, the Fair Labor Standards Act, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Title II of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and all other applicable state and federal employment laws. Interpreter is responsible for reviewing and complying with all pertinent State and city ordinances.

c) Since this acquisition/ contract does not require services that involve the connection of one or more contractor-owned IT devices (such as a laptop computer or remote connection from a contractor system) to a VA internal trusted (i.e., non-public) network the C&A requirements do not apply, and that a Security Accreditation Package is not required.

2. SCOPE

Interpreter services shall be available for one deaf or hard of hearing employee to fulfill this reasonable accommodation requirement for the Veterans Health Administration, Lake Baldwin, 5201 Raymond, St., Building 500, Orlando, FL 32803 from 09/09/2024-09/08/2025 (base year).

This requirement includes on-site and virtual interpreting.

There is an annual training event that is held in a different location each year where services will be needed. This event and location is yet to be determined.

The services provided are for one Deaf professional in the workplace as well as a training environment. The Deaf professional is a national trainer responsible for presenting and fielding questions for four New Counselor Training sessions, four Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist (VRS) Training sessions, VR&E Officer’s Leadership Training Symposium (OLTS), New Division Leaders Training, and other national training events that come up throughout the year. The employee attends numerous planning meetings, team meetings and training rehearsals to ensure she is prepared. The employee’s essential functions dictate a heavy meeting and training schedule. These meetings may be scheduled in advance or may occur last minute, with little notice. These meetings may include the need for intensive interpreting services or may be light in nature. The nature of the employee’s work is fast-paced and highly visible. Therefore, the need for an assigned cadre of interpreters who are familiar with the employee’s type of work and the language of her profession are extremely important. It is preferred the assigned interpreters have experience working with VBA and understand the various acronyms and industry language used. Activities may include, but are not limited to intercepts, voiceovers, and sign language and other settings where a member or employee may require the services of an interpreter for the hearing impaired. In addition, interpreters may be asked to work in a different setting, such as the need to accompany/meet employees at outreach events and training facilities in the local area. Interpreters shall be able to interpret/transliterate fluently and understand the continuum of sign communication. Interpreters shall provide sign language and other communication services between people who are deaf or hard of hearing and people who hear, to interpret and translate in a work or training environment.

The interpreter shall provide interpreting services from American English as spoken language to American Sign Language using the mode or means of communication style that is most appropriate for the deaf/hard of hearing employee in the following modes: simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation, and sight translation as needed. The main responsibilities will be to translate the spoken word into sign language and vice versa.

Interpreter services may range from simple to complex and be sensitive. The interpreter should be able to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment and stay within the role of interpreter. In the performance of services under this contract, the interpreter shall adhere to the provisions of this contract.

The interpreter must be able to perform with general office equipment (i.e., computers, computer monitors, video screens, microphones, headphones, and broadband internet connection for remote and on-site interpreting) and provide interpreting services via computer microphone and/or telephone conversations. Interpreters should be technologically proficient and able to troubleshoot most of their own IT-related issues without relying on the employee client.

It is requested that the Contractor coordinator be ASL certified as then they can fully understand the requirements for interpreters, screen potential interpreters, anticipate the needs of the employee client, and on short notice provide interpreting services themself or provide a qualified substitute.

2.1 REQUIRED HOURS OF SERVICE AND SCHEDULING

Orlando: Services are normally required at the VHA Lake Baldwin, 5201 Raymond St., Building 500, Orlando, FL 32803 location on-site, but the work site location and hours are subject to change. On-site services are needed at a minimum of one day each week (Monday – Friday) during the business hours of 8:30AM-4:00PM or 9:00AM-4:30PM for a minimum of seven (7) hours. Virtual services are needed at a minimum of four days each week (Monday – Friday) during the business hours of 8:30AM-4:00PM or 9:00AM-4:30PM for a minimum of 28 hours.

These hours exclude all Federal holidays and days employee is not scheduled to work. The VA Orlando Office (employee client and employee client’s supervisor) will notify the Contractor of any needed schedule changes via email.

The Contractor will supply a Zoom (or similar video teleconferencing platform) account for the employee client and will also provide a shared calendar for use by the employee client and their interpreters to update in real time and adjust for different time zones if necessary.

The Contractor should have access to video teleconferencing platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom for remote sessions (or similar VA-approved video teleconferencing platform).

Multiple teleconferencing platforms will sometimes be used at the same time.

Due to potential training events, it is required that interpreter(s) be available beyond the minimum estimated 7 hours, these hours should be flexible. For these non-routine hours, when possible, the scheduler will be notified 48 hours in advance of the need for an interpreter. If an unforeseen urgent need is identified, the scheduler will provide an interpreter within 2-hours of notification of the urgent need. It is expected that the contractor can provide the required services if notified within the specified window. It should be noted that a change from a virtual setting to an in-person setting is not considered “non-routine” and should still be considered a contractual obligation. This can best be utilized by establishing a local “pool” of interpreters to assign to the employee client. It is requested that the “pool” of interpreters be within 50 miles of the employee’s duty station.

When possible, the VA Orlando Office will notify the coordinator of services requiring cancellation at a minimum of 48 hours in advance for services less than 90 days and up to two weeks for services beyond 90 days. If an unforeseen need is identified (such as employee illness) the coordinator will be provided a cancellation notification immediately.

In the event an Executive Order is issued by the President of the United States which declares Agencies of the Federal Government to close for a regularly scheduled workday, the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) will determine and advise the Contractor on whether services are required for that day.

3.0 GENERAL REQUIREMENT

Non-Personal Services: The Government shall neither supervise contractor employees nor control the method by which the contractor performs the required tasks. It shall be the responsibility of the contractor to manage its employees and to guard against any actions that are of the nature of personal services; or give the perception of personal services. If the contractor believes that any actions constitute, or are perceived to constitute personal services, it shall be the contractor's responsibility to notify the Contracting Officer (CO) immediately by email.

3.1 SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER (KEY PERSONNEL)

The Contractor shall provide qualified personnel to perform the requirements specified in this Performance Work Statement. Description of Work: The ASL interpreter shall provide support and assistance in sign language interpretation services. The ASL interpreter shall possess all the demonstrated knowledge requirements delineated throughout the Performance Work Statement and shall have and maintain minimum federal and state interpreter requirements.

3.2 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR A SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER

(EXPERIENCE)

The minimum requirements required are:

1. Possess strong listening, research, memory, and American Sign Language skills.

2. Experience and ability to sign in many various situations, including but not limited to meetings, small groups, large groups, and one-on-one, and national training events. The Deaf professional will provide the national training on various virtual platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Webex, and others as well as in-person.

3. Experience and ability to perform in a challenging, creative, formal working environment, and virtual working environment.

4. Experience and ability to sign in a work training environment that involves a variety of technical terms and acronyms specific to this government agency

(VA).

5. Excellent customer service skills. Experience and ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships (to include but not limited to) Veterans, leadership, stakeholders, and peers.

3.3 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS (EDUCATION)

The American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter shall possess: an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited college or university with a major study in a field related to either interpretation or American Sign Language (ASL) studies; or be able to provide sufficient assurances that the interpreter has the required knowledge and skills necessary to act as a competent interpreter. The interpreter must have a demonstrated knowledge and understanding of American Sign Language and Deaf Culture. In lieu of a degree, the interpreter may hold current generalist (or higher) licensure by either the National Association of the Deaf or the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.

3.4 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

The Contractor shall provide American Sign Language Interpretation services for the VA Orlando Office in accordance with the requirements listed herein. Additional required knowledge and skills: In addition to the experience and educational requirements described above, the ASL interpreter shall clearly possess the following knowledge and skills:

1. Ability to voice to sign.

2. Ability to sign to voice.

3. Developed interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact with members from a variety of backgrounds.

4. Ability to thrive in a challenging, creative, and informal working environment.

5. Ability to work within a changing schedule if the need arises.

6. Excellent customer service skills.

7. Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.

4.0 TASKS

The Contractor shall perform the following tasks.

a) The Contractor shall accomplish the assigned work by employing and utilizing qualified personnel with appropriate combinations of education, training, and experience.

Interpreters need to be nationally certified by either NAD (National Association of the Deaf), RID (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf), ASLPI (American Sign Language Proficiency Interview), or an equivalent certification program.

b) The Contractor shall ensure interpreters are familiar with VA jargon and technical language used along with a basic knowledge of what the employee client does in her position.

c) The Contractor shall provide American Sign Language interpreter services.

d) The Contractor shall provide language services at a minimum of two (2) hours per event.

For the ease and effectiveness of the employee client, a pool of preferred interpreters shall be available both on-site and virtually (remotely).

e) The Contractor shall respond to service calls during normal working hours, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays observed by the Federal Government. The contractor shall respond to verbal service calls and is expected to initiate the language services within 24 hours of the contracted 48-hour notification provided by the Orlando VA office.

Contractor personnel shall report to the service requests and notify of his/her arrival at the Reception Desk/Guard Station of the VA Orlando office.

f) While performing on-site services, the contractor personnel shall always be escorted by a VA designated employee.

g) The Contractor shall be required to provide fully qualified and trained or certified service and management personnel based on industry standard to actively and efficiently service and support the requested sign language interpretation services during the contract period.

h) Contractors shall keep all VA records and related information strictly confidential.

5.0 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE AND TRAVEL

a) The interpreter shall perform the majority of on-site language services at the Veterans Health Administration, Lake Baldwin, 5201 Raymond, St., Building 500, Orlando, FL

32803. The VA Orlando Office will be the primary location to provide ASL services, but the interpreter may be required for on-site services at alternate locations within 50 miles if the employee client needs IT support, etc. A 48-hours’ notice will be sent for these events.

b) There is an expectation for a weeklong (Monday - Friday) training event to take place at a location in CONUS. The Department will pay to cover the travel expenses and per diem of up to two interpreters to assist the employee with the event.

c) All travel details must be provided to and approved by the CO’s Representative (COR) or the Government designee prior to the commencement of travel. All travel shall be in accordance with the Federal Travel Regulations (FTR), FAR 31.205-46.

6.0 DELIVERABLES

a) The Contractor shall provide an invoice in arrears that includes the following information:

1. Purchase Order Number

2. Company Name, Address, and phone number

3. Invoice Date

4. Invoice Number

5. Total number of language service hours provided

6. Date and time language service was provided

7.0 GENERAL VA SECURITY AND SYSTEM INFORMATION TRAINING

a) All Contractor and subcontractor personnel requiring access to VA information and VA information systems shall complete the following before being granted access to VA information and networks:

b) Sign and acknowledge understanding of and responsibilities for compliance with the National Rules of Behavior related to access to VA information and information systems, and Contractor Rules of Behavior (supplement),

c) Successfully complete VA Cybersecurity Awareness training and annual refresher training as required

d) Successfully complete VA General Privacy training and annual refresher training as required, and

e) Successfully complete any additional cybersecurity or privacy training as required for VA personnel with equivalent information system access.

f) The Contractor shall provide the COR with a copy of the training certificates and signed Rules of Behavior for each applicable interpreter within one week of the initiation of the contract and annually thereafter, as required. New interpreters who start after the contract has begun shall provide the COR with a copy of the training certificates and signed Rules of Behavior within one week of starting.

g) These online courses will need to be taken through the VA’s Talent Management System (TMS). To self-enroll, click the “Create New User” button on the red bar and complete the assigned training. The COR will provide the contractor with the appropriate information to complete self-enrollment. Technical issues with TMS should be directed to the TMS help desk at vatmshelp@va.gov or 1-888-496-0463.

h) Failure to complete this mandatory training within the timeframe required will be grounds https://www.tms.va.gov/SecureAuth35/ https://www.tms.va.gov/SecureAuth35/ mailto:vatmshelp@va.gov for suspension or termination of all physical and/or electronic access privileges and removal from work on the contract until such time as the training is completed.

i) The Contractor will also complete VA Form 20-0344 Annual Certification of Veteran Status and Veteran-Relatives upon starting, and annually thereafter for the duration of the contract. If the Contractor or immediate relative is a Veteran, the file will be sensitized for the duration of the contract.

7.1 BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION

The contract employee level of background investigation and clearance required for this effort is NACI. The appropriate background investigation is required, and all required documentation must be submitted at the time of fingerprinting.

a) CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES

1. The VA shall bear the expense of obtaining background investigations.

2. Immediately after contract or task order award, the Contractor must submit a completed Attachment C form (VBA Contractor Background Investigation Request Worksheet) for all contract employees working the contract, who have access to VA facilities, VA systems, or privacy data, to the COR.

3. The Contractor and Contractor point of contact (POC) will receive an email notification from SIC identifying the website link that includes detailed instructions regarding completion of the background clearance application process and what level of background was requested. Reminder notifications will be sent if the complete package is not submitted by the due date.

4. The Contractor shall prescreen all personnel who require access to VA site(s) and/or access to VA LAN systems to ensure they maintain a U.S. citizenship or Alien Registration that authorizes them to work in the U.S. and are able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language.

5. Contractors who have current favorable background investigation conducted by OPM or Defense Security Service (DSS) may be accepted through reciprocation.

However, it does not preclude the Contractor from submitting a completed Attachment C form immediately after contract or task order award for all contract employees working the contract to the COR.

6. Contract performance shall not commence before SIC confirmation that it received the investigative documents, that they are complete, and that the background investigation has begun. Once the Contractor’s background investigation has been initiated, contract performance may commence. The COR will notify and forward the Contractor a copy of the Certificate of Eligibility (VA Form 4236) to the Contractor when the investigation has been favorably completed and adjudicated.

The Contractor, if notified of an unfavorable adjudication by the Government, shall withdraw the employee from consideration from working under the contract. Failure to comply with the Contractor personnel security requirements may result in termination of the contract for default.

7. If the security clearance investigation is not completed prior to the start date of the contract, the contract employee may work on the contract with an initiated status while the security clearance is being processed. However, the Contractor will be responsible for the actions of those contract and subcontract employees they provide to perform work for VA. In the event damage arises from work performed https://www.veterans.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/resource/VA%20Form%2020-0344.pdf https://www.veterans.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/resource/VA%20Form%2020-0344.pdf by Contractor personnel, under the auspices of the contract, the Contractor will be responsible for resources necessary to remedy the incident.

8. Should the Contractor use a vendor other than OPM or DSS to conduct investigations, the investigative company must be certified by OPM/DSS to conduct Contractor investigations. The Vendor Cage Code number must be provided to the VA SIC, which will verify the information and conclude whether access to the Government’s site(s) and/or VA LAN systems can be.

9. The investigative history for Contractor personnel working under this contract must be maintained in the databases of either OPM or the Defense Industrial Security Clearance Organization (DISCO).

7.2 GOVERNMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

a) After the COR has received Attachment C form(s) from the Contractor, SIC will send an e-mail notification to the Contractor and their POC identifying the website link that includes detailed instructions regarding completion of the background clearance application process and what level of background was requested. SIC will also send reminder notifications to the Contractor and their POC if the complete package is not submitted by the due date.

b) Upon receipt of required investigative documents, SIC will review the investigative documents for completion and initiate the background investigation by forwarding the investigative documents to OPM to conduct the background investigation. If the investigative documents are not complete, SIC will return the package to the Contractor with corrective instructions.

c) VA will pay for investigations processed through the VA SIC and conducted by OPM.

d) The COR will notify and forward the Contractor a copy of the Certificate of Eligibility (VA

Form 4236) when the investigation has been favorably completed and adjudicated. The COR will also notify the Contractor of an unfavorable adjudication by the Government.

7.3 CONFIDENTIALITY AND NONDISCLOSURE

It is agreed that:

a) The preliminary and final deliverables and all associated working papers, application source code, and other material deemed relevant by the VA which have been generated by the contractor in the performance of this contract are the exclusive property of the U.S. Government and shall be submitted to the COR at the conclusion of the contract.

b) The Contracting Officer (CO) will be the sole authorized official to release verbally or in writing, any data, the draft deliverables, the final deliverables, or any other written or printed materials pertaining to this contract. No information shall be released by the contractor. Any request for information relating to this contract presented to the contractor shall be submitted to the CO for response.

c) Press releases, marketing material or any other printed or electronic documentation related to this project, shall not be publicized without the written approval of the CO.

8.0 WORK AND HOLIDAYS:

a) All work is to be performed during weekdays, from 8:30 AM to 4:00PM EST/EDT or 9:00AM to 4:30PM EST/EDT, excluding Government holidays. Our eleven official holidays are New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, 4th of July, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans’ Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The employee client’s supervisor or COR will notify the contractor of any changes as soon as possible but within 48 hours.

9.0 SAFETY REGULATIONS

a) All work performed under this contract shall comply with health and safety regulations to include but not limited OSHA requirements.

10.0 POINT OF CONTACT:

Name: Peter Granato, COR Phone: 202-341-5921 Email Address: Peter.Granato@va.gov

Name: DeAnna DeVos, National Training Supervisor Phone: 407-646-5500 X 26465 Ofc.

Phone: 407-664-7760 Wk. cell

Email Address: Deanna.Devos@va.gov

11.0 CHANGES TO PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT Any changes to this PWS shall be authorized and approved only through written correspondence from the Contracting Officer.

Costs incurred by the contractor through the actions of parties other than the Contracting Officer shall be borne by the contractor.

mailto:Peter.Granato@va.gov mailto:Deanna.Devos@va.gov

B.4 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBE

R

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVI

CES

QUANTI

TY

UNI

T UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

3,276.00 HR _______________

ASL Interpreter Services IAW the SOW:

These Services will be provided Virtually (Remote) and In- Person at locations identified in the SOW.

This is a bulk-funded order for ASL Interpreter services, not to exceed $ TBD. The amount obligated is based on an estimated annual quantity of hours needed. The contractor shall only invoice for the actual number of hours of ASL Interpreter services provided. The final annual total will be reflected via a bilateral modification based on actual usage.

Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 09-09-2024 POP End: 09-08-2025 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 541930 - Translation and Interpretation Services PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: R608 - Support - Administrative: Translation and Interpreting

1.00 EA _______________

Interpreter travel: Travel details must be provided to and approved by the CO's Representative (COR) or the Government designee prior to the commencement of travel.

Al travel shall be in accordance with the Federal Travel Regulations (FTR). FAR 31.205-46 Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 09-09-2024 POP End: 09-08-2025 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 541930 - Translation and Interpretation Services

ASL Interpreter Services IAW the SOW:

These Services will be provided Virtually (Remote) and In- Person at locations identified in the SOW.

This is a bulk-funded order for ASL Interpreter services, not to exceed $ TBD. The amount obligated is based on an estimated annual quantity of hours needed. The contractor shall only invoice for the actual number of hours of ASL Interpreter services provided. The final annual total will be reflected via a bilateral modification based on actual usage.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 09-09-2025 POP End: 09-08-2026 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 541930 - Translation and Interpretation Services

Interpreter travel: Travel details must be provided to and approved by the CO's Representative (COR) or the Government designee prior to the commencement of travel.

Al travel shall be in accordance with the Federal Travel Regulations (FTR). FAR 31.205-46 Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 09-09-2025 POP End: 09-08-2026 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 541930 - Translation and Interpretation Services

ASL Interpreter Services IAW the SOW:

These Services will be provided Virtually (Remote) and In- Person at locations identified in the SOW.

This is a bulk-funded order for ASL Interpreter services, not to exceed $ TBD. The amount obligated is based on an estimated annual quantity of hours needed. The contractor shall only invoice for the actual number of hours of ASL Interpreter services provided. The final annual total will be reflected via a bilateral modification based on actual usage.

Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 09-09-2026 POP End: 09-08-2027 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 541930 - Translation and Interpretation Services

Interpreter travel: Travel details must be provided to and approved by the CO's Representative (COR) or the Government designee prior to the commencement of travel.

Al travel shall be in accordance with the Federal Travel

Regulations (FTR). FAR 31.205-46 Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 09-09-2026 POP End: 09-08-2027 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 541930 - Translation and Interpretation Services

GRAND TOTAL _______________

B.5 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

ITEM

NUMBER SHIPPING INFORMATION QUANTITY

DELIVERY

DATE

0001 SHIP TO: Department of Veterans Affairs VHA Lake Baldwin 5201 Raymond St., Building Orlando, FL 32803

USA

3,276.00 9/9/2024 to 9/8/2025

0002 SHIP TO: Department of Veterans Affairs VHA Lake Baldwin 5201 Raymond St., building

1.00 9/9/2024 to 9/8/2025

1001 SHIP TO: Department of Veterans

VHA Lake Baldwin 5201 Raymond St., Building

3,276.00 9/9/2025 to 9/8/2026

1002 SHIP TO: Department of Veterans

VHA Lake Baldwin 5201 Raymond St., Building

1.00 9/9/2025 to 9/8/2026

2001 SHIP TO: Department of Veterans

VHA Lake Baldwin 5201 Raymond St., Building

3,276.00 9/9/2026 to 9/8/2027

2002 SHIP TO: Department of Veterans

VHA Lake Baldwin 5201 Raymond St., Building

1.00 9/9/2026 to 9/8/2027

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL

PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2023)

(a) Inspection/Acceptance. The Contractor shall only tender for acceptance those items that conform to the requirements of this contract. The Government reserves the right to inspect or test any supplies or services that have been tendered for acceptance. The Government may require repair or replacement of nonconforming supplies or reperformance of nonconforming services at no increase in contract price. If repair/replacement or reperformance will not correct the defects or is not possible, the Government may seek an equitable price reduction or adequate consideration for acceptance of nonconforming supplies or services. The Government must exercise its post-acceptance rights—

(1) Within a reasonable time after the defect was discovered or should have been discovered;

and

(2) Before any substantial change occurs in the condition of the item, unless the change is due to the defect in the item.

(b) Assignment. The Contractor or its assignee may assign its rights to receive payment due as a result of performance of this contract to a bank, trust company, or other financing institution, including any Federal lending agency in accordance with the Assignment of Claims Act (31 U.S.C. 3727). However, when a third party makes payment (e.g., use of the Governmentwide commercial purchase card), the Contractor may not assign its rights to receive payment under this contract.

(c) Changes. Changes in the terms and conditions of this contract may be made only by written agreement of the parties.

(d) Disputes. This contract is subject to 41 U.S.C. chapter 71, Contract Disputes. Failure of the parties to this contract to reach agreement on any request for equitable adjustment, claim, appeal or action arising under or relating to this contract shall be a dispute to be resolved in accordance with the clause at Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.233-1, Disputes, which is incorporated herein by reference. The Contractor shall proceed diligently with performance of this contract, pending final resolution of any dispute arising under the contract.

(e) Definitions. The clause at FAR 52.202-1, Definitions, is incorporated herein by reference.

(f) Excusable delays. The Contractor shall be liable for default unless nonperformance is caused by an occurrence beyond the reasonable control of the Contractor and without its fault or negligence such as, acts of God or the public enemy, acts of the Government in either its sovereign or contractual capacity, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, unusually severe weather, and delays of common carriers. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer in writing as soon as it is reasonably possible after the commencement of any excusable delay, setting forth the full particulars in connection therewith, shall remedy such occurrence with all reasonable dispatch, and shall promptly give written notice to the Contracting Officer of the cessation of such occurrence.

(g) Invoice.

(1) The Contractor shall submit an original invoice and three copies (or electronic invoice, if authorized) to the address designated in the contract to receive invoices. An invoice must include—

(i) Name and address of the Contractor;

(ii) Invoice date and number;

(iii) Contract number, line item number and, if applicable, the order number;

(iv) Description, quantity, unit of measure, unit price and extended price of the items delivered;

(v) Shipping number and date of shipment, including the bill of lading number and weight of shipment if shipped on Government bill of lading;

(vi) Terms of any discount for prompt payment offered;

(vii) Name and address of official to whom payment is to be sent;

(viii) Name, title, and phone number of person to notify in event of defective invoice; and

(ix) Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). The Contractor shall include its TIN on the invoice only if required elsewhere in this contract.

(x) Electronic funds transfer (EFT) banking information.

(A) The Contractor shall include EFT banking information on the invoice only if required elsewhere in this contract.

(B) If EFT banking information is not required to be on the invoice, in order for the invoice to be a proper invoice, the Contractor shall have submitted correct EFT banking information in accordance with the applicable solicitation provision, contract clause (e.g., 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System for Award Management, or 52.232-34, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—Other Than System for Award Management), or applicable agency procedures.

(C) EFT banking information is not required if the Government waived the requirement to pay by EFT.

(2) Invoices will be handled in accordance with the Prompt Payment Act (31 U.S.C. 3903) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) prompt payment regulations at 5 CFR part 1315.

(h) Patent indemnity. The Contractor shall indemnify the Government and its officers, employees and agents against liability, including costs, for actual or alleged direct or contributory infringement of, or inducement to infringe, any United States or foreign patent, trademark or copyright, arising out of the performance of this contract, provided the Contractor is reasonably notified of such claims and proceedings.

(i) Payment.—

(1) Items accepted. Payment shall be made for items accepted by the Government that have been delivered to the delivery destinations set forth in this contract.

(2) Prompt payment. The Government will make payment in accordance with the Prompt Payment Act (31 U.S.C. 3903) and prompt payment regulations at 5 CFR part 1315.

(3) Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). If the Government makes payment by EFT, see 52.212- 5(b) for the appropriate EFT clause.

(4) Discount. In connection with any discount offered for early payment, time shall be computed from the date of the invoice. For the purpose of computing the discount earned, payment shall be considered to have been made on the date which appears on the payment check or the specified payment date if an electronic funds transfer payment is made.

(5) Overpayments. If the Contractor becomes aware of a duplicate contract financing or invoice payment or that the Government has otherwise overpaid on a contract financing or invoice payment, the Contractor shall—

(i) Remit the overpayment amount to the payment office cited in the contract along with a description of the overpayment including the—

(A) Circumstances of the overpayment (e.g., duplicate payment, erroneous payment, liquidation errors, date(s) of overpayment);

(B) Affected contract number and delivery order number, if applicable;

(C) Affected line item or subline item, if applicable; and

(D) Contractor point of contact.

(ii) Provide a copy of the remittance and supporting documentation to the Contracting Officer.

(6) Interest.

(i) All amounts that become payable by the Contractor to the Government under this contract shall bear simple interest from the date due until paid unless paid within 30 days of becoming due. The interest rate shall be the interest rate established by the Secretary of the Treasury as provided in 41 U.S.C. 7109, which is applicable to the period in which the amount becomes due, as provided in (i)(6)(v) of this clause, and then at the rate applicable for each six-month period as fixed by the Secretary until the amount is paid.

(ii) The Government may issue a demand for payment to the Contractor upon finding a debt is due under the contract.

(iii) Final decisions. The Contracting Officer will issue a final decision as required by 33.211 if—

(A) The Contracting Officer and the Contractor are unable to reach agreement on the existence or amount of a debt within 30 days;

(B) The Contractor fails to liquidate a debt previously demanded by the Contracting Officer within the timeline specified in the demand for payment unless the amounts were not repaid because the Contractor has requested an installment payment agreement; or

(C) The Contractor requests a deferment of collection on a debt previously demanded by the Contracting Officer (see 32.607-2).

(iv) If a demand for payment was previously issued for the debt, the demand for payment included in the final decision shall identify the same due date as the original demand for payment.

(v) Amounts shall be due at the earliest of the following dates:

(A) The date fixed under this contract.

(B) The date of the first written demand for payment, including any demand for payment resulting from a default termination.

(vi) The interest charge shall be computed for the actual number of calendar days involved beginning on the due date and ending on—

(A) The date on which the designated office receives payment from the Contractor;

(B) The date of issuance of a Government check to the Contractor from which an amount otherwise payable has been withheld as a credit against the contract debt; or

(C) The date on which an amount withheld and applied to the contract debt would otherwise have become payable to the Contractor.

(vii) The interest charge made under this clause may be reduced under the procedures prescribed in FAR 32.608-2 in effect on the date of this contract.

(j) Risk of loss. Unless the contract specifically provides otherwise, risk of loss or damage to the supplies provided under this contract shall remain with the Contractor until, and shall pass to the Government upon:

(1) Delivery of the supplies to a carrier, if transportation is f.o.b. origin; or

(2) Delivery of the supplies to the Government at the destination specified in the contract, if transportation is f.o.b. destination.

(k) Taxes. The contract price includes all applicable Federal, State, and local taxes and duties.

(l) Termination for the Government's convenience. The Government reserves the right to terminate this contract, or any part hereof, for its sole convenience. In the event of such termination, the Contractor shall immediately stop all work hereunder and shall immediately cause any and all of its suppliers and subcontractors to cease work. Subject to the terms of this contract, the Contractor shall be paid a percentage of the contract price reflecting the percentage of the work performed prior to the notice of termination, plus reasonable charges the Contractor can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Government using its standard record keeping system, have resulted from the termination. The Contractor shall not be required to comply with the cost accounting standards or contract cost principles for this purpose. This paragraph does not give the Government any right to audit the Contractor's records. The Contractor shall not be paid for any work performed or costs incurred which reasonably could have been avoided.

(m) Termination for cause. The Government may terminate this contract, or any part hereof, for cause in the event of any default by the Contractor, or if the Contractor fails to comply with any contract terms and conditions, or fails to provide the Government, upon request, with adequate assurances of future performance.