70T05026R5900N005 Questions and Answers Set 2.pdf

Question Number RFP Section RFP Paragraph RFP Page Number RFP Question TSA Response

1 52.212-2 52.212-2(a) 60

Please confirm the relative importance and weighting of Technical Capability, Past Performance, and Price factors. Is Technical/Past Performance significantly more important than Price, or are they approximately equal?

Technical factors are more important than price. Phase 1 is being assessed a single confidence rating for the entire Phase, there is no order of importance. The Phase 2 Track 2 are listed in order of importance with Factor 1 being a pass/fail and then Factors 2 through 5 being more important than the following factor and, when combined, are significantly more important than Factor 6: Price and Compliance. As the non-price merits of competing offerors’ proposals approach equal, Factor 6: Price and Compliance will become more important in the best value trade-off decision.

2 I.2.7 I.2.7 58 Please clarify the best value tradeoff methodology. Under what circumstances would TSA pay a price premium for superior technical capability or past performance?

TSA will conduct best value tradeoffs for each Phase 2 task order award in accordance with the request for proposal instructions. The order of importance is stated in 52.212-2 Evaluation—Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Aug 2025) (DEVIATION 25-

21) beginning on Page 60. It speaks to the best value tradeoff at the end of the Phase 2 Track 2 portion.

3 I.2.7.2 2 59 Does the FCE account for technology, staffing and maintenance?

The FCE is calculated based on the cost of security screening services as a whole and does not include technology; all technology costs, including procurement, maintenance, and upgrades, must be incorporated into the overall pricing for security screening services proposed by the contractor.

Section C, Attachment 1

Attachment 1,

1.5.2.1 Attach 1, pg. 8

Regarding the statement that "The Offeror shall deliver and install the necessary infrastructure required to support security screening equipment. This may include power ethernet cables, fiber cables , and other peripheral equipment in accordance with the Checkpoint Requirements Planning guide (CRPG)," this can be an extensive and time consuming effort, particularly at larger airports. Will TSA allow Offerors to do extensive airport site survey during their development of a Task Order proposal (particularly their pricing proposal)? Will TSA also ensure that airports accommodate such visits from potentially multiple IDIQ holders?

TSA will offer site visits at the task order level and will be available to all interested parties. Airport specific information will be provided at the task order level to further outline the specific requirement.

Attachment 1

(PWS)

1.5.2.6 Maintenance 11-Oct

The contractor takes on full responsibility for operating and maintaining TSA-owned equipment from the start of performance. Will TSA provide a complete inventory with age, maintenance history, and known deficiencies at or before task order award? If equipment is handed over in undisclosed poor condition, or fails because of a latent or pre-existing defect, what equitable-adjustment or liability framework applies?

Yes. TSA will provide the last 12 months of historical maintenance performance to include age, operational availability, number of relevant critical and non-critical failures, number of non relevant critical and non-critical failures and parts usage.

Attachment 1

(PWS)

1.7.1.1 / FAR

52.207-3 16

The PWS cites FAR 52.207-3, Right of First Refusal. Does this apply only to incumbent SPP contractor employees, or also to incumbent Federal TSOs at airports moving from Federal screening to Gold+? How will TSA support the volume of STA and suitability processing a large workforce transition will require, so coverage is not interrupted?

FAR 52.207-3 provides for a right of first refusal when contractors replace government personnel. Therefore this provision applies to incumbent Federal TSOs

Gold+ 70T05026R5900N005 Questions and Answers Set 2

NEPA Fact Sheet (file

022_OSHE);

Checkpoint R&R Airport- Sponsored (file

021); PWS

§1.5.2.3; TSA

Workplace Standards (file 022_workplace ) General General

The NEPA Fact Sheet (file 022) requires environmental review prior to any TSA construction. In a Gold+ turnkey project where the contractor builds or reconfigures a checkpoint, who is responsible for triggering and funding the NEPA review? Does a NEPA review delay affect the transition timeline?

In a Gold+ turnkey project, the contractor is responsible for notifying TSA of any planned construction or reconfiguration that may require a NEPA review. TSA is responsible for triggering and funding the NEPA review process.

Part III Attachments Attachment 35 NA

The SAFETY Act Block Designation Notice included as Document 35 states that the notice will expire on July 31, 2025, indicating that this may be a historical document. Can TSA please confirm that the services to be performed under Gold+ will be subject to an updated Block Designation Notice allowing for contractors to apply for SAFETY Act designation coverage?

For any questions related to SAFETY Action the vendors should reach out to DHS S&T directly. See link for contact information https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/safety-act

I.2.6.2 Volume II: Security Screening Operations;

Attachment 27/33

Attachment 1

PWS §1.6.2.1;

TSA-RTWT

Requirements 50; 84

Will the Contractor be permitted to staff mod-sets as appropriate, provided applicable wait time and throughput requirements are maintained, or will TSA assign the required number of FTE for each airport/task order?

TSA will not prescribe specific staffing numbers or FTEs; the Phase 2 solicitation will include supporting information attachments for the individual airports that contains an estimate head count of full-time and part-time employees that the Government estimates it takes to perform screening. Instead, the contractor is responsible for proposing a staffing plan that ensures all wait time and throughput requirements are met to include compliance withe the SOPs. TSA will assess the adequacy of the proposed staffing plan as part of the evaluation process for each airport or task order.

Attachment 36 Estimated Consumables List; FAR 52.208-9 / 52.208-90

Estimated consumables;

vendor-specific consumables;

Contractor Use of Mandatory Sources of Supply or Services / Government Supply Sources 78; 84

For consumables that are vendor-specific (e.g., ETD swabs), are Contractors required to use the OEM/vendor source, and for all other consumables may Contractors use open-market commercial sourcing to achieve best value?

For vendor-specific consumables, such as ETD swabs, the contract requires the use of TSA-approved sources. Section 1.9 states: “The MSP shall provide only TSA-approved maintenance consumables and shall notify the designated TSA representative prior to providing alternative consumables.” Where consumables are vendor-specific and required by the OEM for proper operation or warranty compliance, the contractor must use the OEM or other TSA-approved source

Table I.2.5.3 on page 48 specifies the Phase 2 submission requirements. It states that Proposal Compliance Information—including the 1449/Amendments, Reps and Certs, HSAR OCI, Proof of American Ownership, and the Small Business Subcontracting Plan—must be submitted in Track 2, Volume VI. Please confirm that the Small Business Subcontracting/Utilization Plan and all other compliance information are due in Phase 2 (not in Phase 1), consistent with the table on page 48. Yes, the proposal compliance information is due in the Phase 2 not in Phase 1.8 I.2.5 and I.2.6.6

I.2.5 Proposal Format and Submission (Tables I.2.5.2 and I.2.5.3) and I.2.6.6 Financial Capability & Business Stability and Compliance (Volume VI) 45-48; 51-54

H.4 Continuity of Operations

(COOP);

Contingency and/or Continuity of Operations Support

COOP Plan;

Contractor shall establish a written continuity of operations plan;

H.4(a)-(b) 8; 28

Every airport currently has a COOP plan in place. Will the Contractor be permitted to assume responsibility for and maintain the existing airport COOP plan, or must the Contractor develop a new COOP plan from scratch?

Awardees will be required to develop a new COOP plan after award to align with the requirements in the solicitation, but they may leverage elements of the existing airport COOP. Contractors are expected to work with the FSD and FSD designee to ensure their COOP plan is tailored to how the airport operates.

13 Section I

I.2.5.2; FAR

52.219-9 48, 51

Is an Individual Small Business Subcontracting Plan required at IDIQ award, or established at the task-order level? Do the FY26 subcontracting goals (Small Business 26 percent, SDB/8(a) 14 percent, WOSB 5 percent, HUBZone 3 percent, SDVOSB 5 percent) apply at the IDIQ level or per task order?

A small business subcontracting plan is required for any large business offeror at the IDIQ award. The goals apply at the IDIQ level not per task order.

14 Section I

Small Business Subcontracting/ Utilization Plan

(FAR 52.219-9) 52

Are the subcontracting goals (26% SB, 14% SDB, etc.) applied to total subcontracted dollars only, or to total contract value? The RFP will be amended with clarifying information.

Attachment 1

(PWS)

1.7 Transition -

Transition-Out (180-day financial security) 18 (PWS)

The solicitation requires a 180-day financial security mechanism (escrow, ILOC, performance bond, or corporate guarantee) to fund continued screening during transition-out. At what point must this mechanism be established -- at task order award, task order start, or another defined time? At what point will this be released?

While financial information will be evaluated at the IDIQ stage as part of the Financial Capability & Business Stability factor, the specific 180-day operating capital reserve amount will be determined at the task order level based on the operating costs of each individual airport.

Attachment 1

(PWS)

1.4.2.2 (Key Personnel) 6 (PWS 1.4.2.2)

PWS Section 1.4.2.2 outlines the requirements for 2 Key Personnel at the IDIQ level; what Volume should offers use to provide KP Resumes?

Offerors should submit Key Personnel resumes in Phase 1, Volume III (Factor 3: Hiring and Transitioning). Resumes will not count against the page limit and should be kept relevant and concise, no more than two pages per resume. Additional or updated resumes may be provided, as applicable, in Phase 2.

Attachment 1

(PWS);

Attachment 13 (TSE Database)

1.5.2.2 (IT

Architecture and Technical Standards)

9 (PWS)

TSA has not provided the FISMA categorization for solutions. For example the TSE Database was a deliverable in other RFPs and the attachments included RFP Attachment D13 H_H_H - RTM 5May21 and also set the Categorization to Moderate High High. Without this information Offerors will not be able to accurately price the Sample Airport Task Order as there are significant difference in cost based on the complete cyber requirements.

TSA is providing a requirements traceability matrix (at the High High High (HHH) level).

HHH designation may change once the project enters Information Assurance Division risk management framework process. During this process IAD will review the FIPS 199 categorization which may require a lowering of the RTM “HHH” rating.

40 - DHS Form 700-23.pdf

DHS

Subcontracting Plan Review Checklist and Main Solicitation pp 1-4

What small business subcontracting goals (if any) apply at the IDIQ level versus per task order? Will small business utilization be an evaluation factor, and are there any mandatory flow-down or participation thresholds?

The small business subcontracting goals apply at the IDIQ level not per task order. The goals included in the Attachment 42 Small Business Subcontracting Plan will be monitored against during the life of the IDIQ contract. Small Business utilization will not be an evaluation factor.

PWS Section 1.4.2.3.Vii Financial Viability p. 7

How does the USG define “sufficient capitalization” to support integrated staffing, technology deployment? What metrics are to be used to define success?

“Sufficient capitalization” refers to the vendor’s demonstrated financial capacity to invest in and sustain all aspects of checkpoint modernization—including staffing, technology deployment, and ongoing operations—without disruption. The Government expects vendors to present a robust financial model that clearly supports their proposed modernization approach and investment needs.

20 SF1449 Block 20 3

Please clarify how TSA expects the maintenance costs associated with existing TSA-owned TSE to be managed under Gold+ task orders. Will these costs be included within the FCE baseline? Or, is the Gold+ Prime expected to absorb these costs through reduced screening operator labor, and other savings? Or, does TSA plan to continue to contract with existing OEMs for maintenance of existing TSE until it is removed or replaced? If this treatment differs by airport or task order, please describe how it will be communicated to offerors for pricing purposes.

The FCE is calculated to represent the full scope of screening services. Under Gold+ task orders, the contractor is expected to assume responsibility for maintenance of existing TSA-owned TSE. TSA will not continue separate OEM maintenance contracts for equipment covered by the task order. Each vendor’s approach to managing maintenance—whether through operational efficiencies, technology upgrades, or other means—will be evaluated as part of the proposal. The transition period will provide flexibility for planning and coordination, and clear maintenance requirements for each airport will be communicated in the task order package to ensure offerors can accurately price their proposals. Strong proposals that demonstrate effective maintenance strategies and operational integration will be viewed favorably.

21 52.212-52 Options 64 Please clarify whether option-year pricing for Gold+ task orders will be fixed at award, subject to repricing, or include any sharing of cost savings. How will this approach be communicated to offerors? All firm fixed pricing, to include option year pricing will be determined at time of award.

I.2 HSAR

Clauses

3052.209-72 Organizational Conflicts of Interest 82

May a subcontractor participate on multiple offerors' (Primes) IDIQ proposals , provided there are no Organizational Conflict of Interest concerns? Yes.

23 I.2.6.5 I.2.6.5(a)-(c) 51

Can TSA clarify whether airport operations firms with extensive experience supporting TSA checkpoint operations under airport authority contracts, but without direct responsibility for passenger screening, are considered relevant teaming partners for Gold+ offerors?

For evaluation purposes, TSA will look to the solicitation’s stated criteria and instructions, including how the offeror and its teaming partners collectively demonstrate relevant experience, past performance, and the ability to perform the required functions. Offerors should ensure their proposal clearly describes the scope of the airport operations firm’s prior work, the nature of its support to checkpoint operations, and its specific role in the proposed Gold+ solution so TSA can assess relevance in accordance with the evaluation factors.

I.2.7.7 and 52.212-2 Evaluation Track 2 Factor 6 60, 64

For the sample task order and future airport task orders, will TSA provide estimated full-time equivalent staffing requirements by labor category, including screening personnel, supervisory personnel, management personnel, and operational support personnel?

At the airport task order level, TSA will provide historical and projected screening operations data needed to develop staffing and capacity models.

25 I.2.6.5 I.2.6.5(c) 51 Will incumbent screening personnel be offered right of first refusal, and what level of contractor staffing is expected during transition? Under FAR 52.207-3, federal employees are to be given the right of first refusal.

26 H.6 H.6(C) 29

The RFP states that the period of performance should not begin until 60 days after contract award to allow for Enter On Duty Fitness Determination. Does TSA anticipate a standard 60-day transition period between task order award and full operational responsibility at each airport?

Transition period is dependent on airport size and complexity and is generally between four and six months.

27 H.13

Interrelationship of Associate Contractors 39

Where a prime contractor uses subcontractors or must coordinate with associate contractors, will TSA provide guidance on operational interfaces, roles, communication channels, and responsibilities at each airport?

TSA will provide guidance on operational interfaces, roles, communication channels, and responsibilities at each airport as part of the task order package and during the transition in period. However, TSA will not provide or manage operational interfaces or communication channels between the prime contractor and its subcontractors; it is the responsibility of the prime contractor to coordinate and manage these relationships to ensure all contract requirements are met.

RFP 1.2.5

Proposal Format and Submission Table 1.2.5.3 48

Table 1.2.5.3 includes a Small Business Subcontracting Plan in the submission requirements for Track 2 Volume VI – Price and Compliance for Airport-Specific Solution. Please confirm this Small Business Subcontracting Plan is specifically for the Phase 2 Track 2 Airport task order and is only required if the offeror proposes on this first awardable order. Confirmed.

29 PWS 1.4.2.3 7-Jun

Will the government provide additional details regarding TSA's process for review and approval of proposals surrounding innovation and continuous improvement on awarded airport task orders? Specific details requested include what content TSA requires in these proposals, TSA review steps, clarity on TSA decision maker(s), and timeline expectations. This clarity will be important for all proposers to confidently respond to numerous sections of the PWS, including satisfying provisions of the Operations Management Plan (page 6-7, Par 1.4.2.3 vii and viii dealing with Financial Viability and Continuous Improvement/Optimization). More broadly, TSA's review and approval process will be critical to proposers' ability to achieve the TSA Gold+ objectives listed in1.2 Overview (page 1-2), specifically Elevate Customer Experience, Accelerate Innovation, and Drive Investment. Understanding the process will be critical for offerors to price innovations into a fixed price proposal.

TSA will provide additional, airport-specific details on the review and approval process for innovation and continuous improvement proposals at the Task Order level and during transition-in. At the IDIQ stage, offerors should describe their overall approach in the Operations Management Plan, understanding that proposals will be reviewed by the FSD, COR, and supporting HQ teams, along with cross-functional subject matter experts in innovation and technology development, with decisions made on timelines appropriate to the complexity of the change.

30 1449 Continuation of SF 1449, Block 20 3

Page 3 of the RFP states the contract type is "Multi-award Indefinite-Delivery Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ), commercial services, fixed-price task orders and Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPA’s)". Please clarify if this contract is an IDIQ or a BPA? Contract is an IDIQ. Airport specific awards have the option of being a task order or BPA.

Section B.1 General of the RFP states "(a) The Contractor shall provide airport security screening services and related program management support on an IDIQ basis as described in Attachment 1, TSA Gold +Performance Work Statement (PWS), and any task order or BPA issued under this contract.

(b) Task orders and BPA’s may be issued as: (1) Firm fixed price". Will the government clarify how BPA's will be structured if they are released under this IDIQ?

31 General n/a n/a Does TSA expect to release additional airport task orders simultaneously? Will not responding to Phase 2 prohibit offerors from competing on future task orders?

TSA expects to issue additional task order RFPs in the future. Award of an IDIQ contract will permit vendors to submit proposals in response to any future task orders for which they are eligible (small business, etc.) issued under that vehicle.

32 PWS 1.4.2.3 7-Jun How will TSA coordinate with local FSD teams to ensure appropriate collaboration and buy-in on new screening optimization concepts? Will the Gold+ office and Innovation team have decision authority?

The local FSD team is an integral part of the Gold+ model and will lead contract oversight and operational collaboration at each airport. The Gold+ modernization office and other HQ cross-functional teams will provide support, resources, and guidance, but decision authority for screening optimization concepts will rest with the local FSD in coordination with TSA headquarters. This ensures local expertise and national priorities are reflected in implementation and program oversight.

Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary

Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary

Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary

Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample provides baseline data (FCE, equipment, manpower, throughput) but lacks specific operational requirements. Please clarify if offerors must use Document 42 as the actual Sample Task Order for Phase 2 (Tracks 1 and 2) responses, or if it is purely representative?

The sample data is provided only as baseline information. Phase 2 will furnish task order and airport specific details required for proposal submissions.

TSA may issue task orders and establish blanket purchase agreements (BPAs) under the indefinite‑delivery indefinite‑quantity (IDIQ) contract. TSA will identify and describe the selected procurement strategy for each requirement at the time of task order release.

RFP - Section B - Supplies or Services and Prices B.1 General 430

Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary

Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary

Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary

Please clarify if Document 42 is the actual Sample Task Order for Phase 2 (Tracks 1 & 2) responses, or just a representative example. Currently, it provides baseline data but lacks specific requirements. Proposing a Firm Fixed Price solution without defined requirements introduces high risk for offerors and prevents the Government from conducting a fair value, apples-to-apples comparison. Will specific requirements be provided prior to the deadline?

The sample data is provided only as baseline information. Phase 2 will furnish task order and airport specific details required for proposal submissions.

On page 63 it states "Track 2 First Task order: Airport 1 (not mandatory but only way to win first order, airport

TBD)". Is this requirement in the solicitation just representative of what to expect for future task orders or is the offeror supposed to provide a response based on "Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample"? Additionally, does "airport TBD" mean that the information provided in Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample is not from an actual airport, and only representative in nature? It is assumed that a sample task order would be a specific airport to which bidders can develop tailored solutions and pricing. Is it the government's intention to have bidders propose a solution on a sample task order that has a different set of requirements than the actual airport to be awarded in the first Task Order? A bidder could decide to pass on proposing a solution for the sample task order due to any number of reasons, only to find out that a different airport is actually the first airport to be released. The phrase "airport TBD" inserts tremendous ambiguity for a vendor and complicates the development of a tailored solution.

RFP 52.212-2

Evaluation Phase 2 63

The phrase "airport TBD" (p. 63) introduces significant ambiguity regarding the target environment. As vendors may decline to submit a Phase 2 response due to the risk of pricing the generic "Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample" only to face different actual requirements upon award, please clarify if and when the government will provide the specific, real airport details for Phase 2 submission.

The sample data is provided only as baseline information. Phase 2 will furnish task order and airport specific details required for proposal submissions.

RFP 52.212-2

Evaluation Phase 2 63

On page 63 it states "Track 2 First Task order: Airport 1 (not mandatory but only way to win first order, airport TBD)." Will the government clarify what "TBD" means? Does this mean the first airport TO has been determined by TSA but not revealed yet, or is Phase 2 Track 2 simply representative and the actual first airport TO could be different?

The airport for the initial task order will be finalized and included in the release of Phase 2.

RFP 52.212-2

Evaluation Phase 2 63

Page 63 states the First Task Order is "airport TBD," creating ambiguity around whether offerors are bidding on the "Document 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample" or the actual first task order under the IDIQ. Because companies may pass on bidding rather than risk proposing a solution and pricing for an unknown or hypothetical airport, will the government release the actual airport requirements prior to the deadline? Sample is not to be used. Phase 2 will include task order and airport specific information.

RFP 1.2.5

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.5.1 General 45

The submission instructions state "The offeror shall submit one e-mail copy of each volume." Will the government clarify if they want one email for each volume (13 total emails [1 email for each volume] if including Phase 2 submission), or if they want one email for each Phase submission? For example, Phase 1 submission would be 1 email and would contain 6 attachments (Volumes 1-6 for Phase 1). Email structure is up to the offerors discretion.

40 SF 1449 I.2.5.1 45 of 84 Are offerors permitted to submit multiple emails or is our total file size limitation 50 MB? Multiple emails are acceptable if needed.

41 SF 1449 I.2.5.1 45 of 84

Are all Phases (Phase 1 Volumes 1-6, Phase 2 Track 1, and Phase 2 Track 2 Volumes 1-6) due on 23 July 2026 ? The industry slides seemed to indicate that there would be two separate submissions however the RFP document is not clear about when Phase 2 is due. As this impacts what documents we need to prepare to deliver by 23 JUL 26 would you be able to expedite the answer to this question. Phase 2 is not due on 6/23/2026. Phase 2 will be released after 6/23/2026.

RFP 52.212-2

Evaluation Phase 2 6335

The sample data is provided only as baseline information. Phase 2 will furnish task order and airport specific details required for proposal submissions.

42 SF 1449 I.2.7.1 58 of 84

2nd Paragraph states Track 1 pricing will be decision point for IDIQ award. .” Will the government please provide the sample pricing models for both Phase II Tracks 1 and 2 in order to ensure consistency among evaluated offerors ?

Additional detail on this topic will be provided in Phase 2 for industry review and proposal submission.

43 SF 1449 I.2.7.1 58 of 84 Will the Government provide a detailed Scope of Work (SOW) for the tasks that are required to be priced for each task order ? This information will be released in Phase 2.

44 SF 1449 B.2 4 of 84 Quantity is identified as 1 Lot can you provide additional explanation as to the definition of what intended to be covered in a Lot ? This information will be released in Phase 2.

45 SF 1449 Section C 6 of 84 Do all current TSA employees have a PIV Card ? Yes.

46 SF 1449 Section C 6 of 84 Is there a percentage of PIV card holders we should anticipate at every location ?

Anticipate 100% at each airport. Additional information will be included at the Task Order Level

47 SF 1449 Section C 6 of 84 Will the Government provide the number of PIV card holders we need to include in our pricing models for the Phase 2 requirements ?

The number of PIV card holders should be based on the contractor personnel required to perform under the contract; contractors are responsible for determining and proposing the appropriate number needed to fulfill contract requirements.

48 SF 1449 Section C 6 of 84 As equipment and systems are transitioned to the Contractor/Airport to own and operate does the Government anticipate PIV cards being an ongoing requirement for future operations ? Yes.

49 SF 1449 Section C 6 of 84 What is TSA's typical review, adjudication, and issue timeline for their employees ? Does this differ or do they anticipate a difference with Contractors ?

TSA’s review, adjudication, and issuance timelines are expected to be similar for employees and contractors, with no anticipated differences, and contractor cases will be processed during the transition period.

50 SF 1449 Section C 7 of 84 Will the SIDA badge be issued by the Airport or TSA ? SIDA badges will be issued at airport(s).

51 SF 1449 Section C 7 of 84 can you share the current cost for issuing and replacing SIDA badges ? This information will be released in Phase 2.

52 SF 1449 Section E.2 14 of 84 Does the Contractor need to be prepared to support Audits after the period of performance of the Task Order or IDIQ ? Both as applicable.

53 SF 1449 Section F 16 of 84

Will the Government confirm that the reporting requirements identified in pgs 16 and 17 are only for Government Furnished Property (GFP) and not a requirement for Contractor Owned equipment and property.

Reporting requirements applies to both TSA owned equipment and contractor owned equipment.

54 SF 1449 Section G 21 of 84 Will the Government provide information on their current average approval cycle time for invoices ? TSA follows FAR 52.232-25 prompt pay included in IDIQ.

55 SF 1449 Section H.3 27 of 84 Will the Government provide seniority rosters or other information to allow contractors to accurately price Task Orders ? Yes. TSA will provide this information at the task order level.

56 SF 1449 Section H.5 28 of 84

Will the Government provide information on the number of daily occurrences by category for lost, unclaimed, voluntarily abandoned, and hazardous property incidents on a TO by TO basis to allow for proper pricing of these requirements ? Yes.

57 SF 1449 Section H.5 28 of 84 Will lost, unclaimed, or abandoned items be expected to be turned over to the Government or is a Contractor eligible to offset their costs from the revenue of this activity ?

TSA policy requires that all lost, unclaimed, or voluntarily abandoned items found at screening checkpoints be turned over to the Government or handled in accordance with TSA’s established procedures; contractors are not permitted to retain or offset costs from the revenue of these items. All such property must be processed and disposed of following TSA Management Directive 200.52 (August 29, 2016) and applicable local airport procedures.

58 SF 1449 Section H.5 28 of 84 Can the government share any information on the amount of cost they are able to offset through the sales of these items in the TO solicitation or in general ?

TSA does not sell lost, unclaimed, or abandoned items for its own benefit. Instead, such property is processed and disposed of in accordance with federal regulations and TSA Management Directive 200.52 (August 29, 2016), which typically requires transfer to the General Services Administration (GSA) or other authorized government channels for final disposition. TSA does not use the sale of these items to offset costs, and no revenue from such sales is applied to TSA operations or included in task order solicitations.

59 SF 1449 Section H.6 28 of 84 Will TSA be able to commit to a general timeline for fitness determination for Contractor personnel requiring access to TSA Facilities, information systems, and or CUI ?

While the standard goal for TSA Pre-Hire Suitability Determinations is typically 30 to 60 days, actual processing times can be much longer in some cases due to factors such as incomplete or inaccurate submissions, additional background checks, or security clearance requirements.

60 SF 1449

Section H.6 Bullet G 30 of 84

Failure of any Contractor personnel to pass a background investigation, without timely substitution that meets the Contract requirements may be grounds for termination of the contract. This Contract clause is extremely broad with far reaching Contract implications in order to prevent an occurrence of this type will Contractor be permitted to submit multiple candidates for the same positions in order to have a pool of candidates that are eligible for the position ? Offeror may submit multiple candidates as they deem necessary.

61 SF 1449

Section H.6 Bullet I 30 of 84

Will the Government confirm that completion of the Computer Access Agreement is just for employees who are anticipated to use TSA provided equipment ?

Access agreements will be required for each of the employees who access TSA information systems, these would include offeror systems under specific task orders, which will be assessed and approved by TSA. Further information will be provided at the task order level for each individual airport, detailed by equipment types and by location.

62 SF 1449

Section H.6 Bullet J 2 30 of 84

Will the Government confirm that or consider a change to include HR in the definition of personnel responsible for conducting an exit interview ? No change will be made to the provision.

63 SF 1449

Section H.6 Bullet J 1-3 31 of 84 Are electronic records acceptable for the requirements of Bullet J items (1-3) ?

Electronic records may be acceptable, subject to review and approval by the contracting officer representative and contracting officer on a case-by-case basis.

64 SF 1449 H.11 36 of 84

No form of holiday or other premium compensation will be considered as either as a direct or indirect cost, other than their normal compensation for the time worked . Will the Government consider the removal of this language compensation for this type is normal and customary in order to ensure normal operations during holiday periods. In addition this requirement appears to conflict with the requirements for Federal Holidays earlier in Section H.11. No change will be made to the provision.

65 SF 1449 H.11 36 of 84

No form of holiday or other premium compensation will be considered as either as a direct or indirect cost, other than their normal compensation for the time worked . What if a CBA or Wage determination requires the payment of Holiday pay or Overtime Pay for working these days ?

Offeror is to submit a firm fixed price proposal. The terms of any present or future CBA are between the offeror and the union representing the employees.

66 SF 1449 H.11 36 of 84

The Contractor understands that its Contract will be with and between the USG and the Contractor. It is also our understanding that the individual airports are private entities within which the screening and other current TSA activities take place. Are we to interpret this language that screening locations and other current TSA locations residing within the Airport are Government Facilities ? Screening areas within an airport are not Government facilities.

67 SF 1449 I.2.7.1 58 of 84

Will the government provide current benefits plan information in addition to the compensation information provided so that we can comply with "based on TSA's interpretation of this statute, screening companies are required to provide compensation (direct wages and other benefits) to all private security screeners that is not less than the compensation afforded to federal security screeners by TSA. "

TSA will provide in each task order RFP the minimum compensation requirements for each screening position, as well as any applicable Department of Labor Wage Determinations.

68 SF 1449 I.2.7.1 58 of 84 based on TSA's interpretation of this statute, screening companies are required to provide compensation (direct wages and other benefits) to all private security screeners that is not less than the compensation afforded to federal security screeners by TSA. Given these requirements and the current inability of Contractors to match these plan directly how will the Government ensure there is parity among the offerors plans as well as compliance with this requirement ?

TSA will ensure parity and compliance by evaluating each offeror’s proposed compensation package against the statutory requirement that total compensation (wages and other benefits) for private screeners is not less than that afforded to federal screeners. Contractors are not required to match the federal plan structure exactly, but must demonstrate equivalent or greater overall compensation value; TSA will apply the same standard to all proposals.

69 SF 1449 I.2.7.2 59 of 84 based on TSA's interpretation of this statute, screening companies are required to provide compensation (direct wages and other benefits) to all private security screeners that is not less than the compensation afforded to federal security screeners by TSA. "ATSA also requires that the offered contract price be equal to or less than the cost to the Federal Government to provide screening services at the airport. The Federal Cost Estimate (FCE) is specific to each individual airport and developed just prior to solicitation release for the entire potential period of performance for the upcoming task order. A proposed total price that is higher than the FCE will receive an unacceptable rating for the Price factor and will be ineligible for award. " Given these conflicting requirements are we allowed to propose reductions in staff at both the operational and management levels through more efficient use of technology in order to achieve the savings required by this paragraph ?

TSA will evaluate each offeror’s proposed approach, including the use of technology and staffing efficiencies, to ensure all RFP requirements are met; however, TSA will not prescribe a specific staffing model, allowing offerors flexibility in how they achieve required outcomes within the FCE and compensation guidelines.

70 SF 1449 I.2.7.2 59 of 84 based on TSA's interpretation of this statute, screening companies are required to provide compensation (direct wages and other benefits) to all private security screeners that is not less than the compensation afforded to federal security screeners by TSA. "ATSA also requires that the offered contract price be equal to or less than the cost to the Federal Government to provide screening services at the airport. The Federal Cost Estimate (FCE) is specific to each individual airport and developed just prior to solicitation release for the entire potential period of performance for the upcoming task order. A proposed total price that is higher than the FCE will receive an unacceptable rating for the Price factor and will be ineligible for award. " Given the requirements we have to meet in order to achieve an acceptable outcome how and how much of TSA management structure will be included in the buildup of the FCE in order to generate a relevant and accurate comparison to the Contractor's proposed price?

The FCE represents the Government's cost to provide screening at the relevant airport, to include the scope of work the screening company will provide, and does not include the Government's cost of the staff it will continue to provide at the airport during the Gold+ contract.

71 SF 1449 I.2.7.7 63 of 84 What if no offeror's proposal is determined acceptable based upon meeting the ATSA compliance requirements ? No awards will be made.

72 SF 1449 I.2.7.7 63 of 84 What is the Government's process or mechanism to ensure that the FCE is an accurate and complete comparison to offerors proposals ?

During evaluation, offerors’ proposals are compared against the FCE to confirm that all required elements are included and priced appropriately, and that the offerors price does not exceed the FCE, as required by law.

73 SF 1449 I.2.7.7 63 of 84 Will the evaluation process consider a six month extension period in its overall pricing evaluation and if so how will the Government calculate the extension costs ? Yes. This will be calculated using a pricing template provided at the task order level

Attachment 1 PWS 1.4.2 5 of 23

The Offeror shall provide program management support that meets or exceeds the performance requirements in this action Can the Government provide the current metrics they utilize to measure current management performance and historical data about achievement of these metrics?

Contractors are required to meet or exceed the performance requirements specified in the IDIQ and further detailed in each task order; any relevant historical operational information will be provided at the task order level to assist with proposal development.

Attachment 1 PWS 1.4.2 5 of 23

The Offeror shall provide program management support that meets or exceeds the performance requirements in this action. Would reducing labor costs and thereby driving cost savings through the implementation of better processes and equipment be considered a measured item under section 1.4.2 Performance Requirements ?

Reducing labor costs through better processes and equipment is acceptable, and can be beneficial, as long as you still meet or exceed all performance requirements and metrics defined in section 1.4.2 of the PWS and related attachments (e.g., security effectiveness, throughput, service levels, COOP, etc.). Labor cost savings themselves are not typically a direct “performance requirement” metric, but the resulting improvements in efficiency, reliability, and quality can be reflected in those measured items and in the cost efficiency and incentive structures, provided ATSA compensation and DOL wage determinations are fully satisfied.

36 Estimated Consumables List

1.4.2.3 Operations Management Plan (Equipment Management – consumables) 7 of 23 Please provide the average annual usage for each consumables. Detailed consumables list will be provided at the task order level.

37 Training Requirements

1.4.2.2 Key

Personnel 6 of 23

What are the required training hours for initial, OJT, recurrent, administrative, return-to-duty, and screener recertification?

TSA MD 1900.8 TSO Training and Certification identifies the requirements/hours for each of these questions.

37 Training Requirements

1.4.2.2 Key

Personnel 6 of 23

What is the average representative amount of remedial training due to failed covert test conducted by

TSA?

Remedial training can be completed in less that one hour or more depending upon what is required for the testing element.

37 Training Requirements

1.4.2.2 Key

Personnel 6 of 23

The STI is considered key personnel. Are resumes required at proposal submission or after contract award? Resume are required with proposal submission.

38 Suitability Determination s

1.3.1.2 Security

Clearance and Sensitive Security Information (SSI) 3 of 23

What is the average representative time for TSA to complete Pre-Hire Suitability Determination for screeners and non-screeners?

While the standard goal for TSA Pre-Hire Suitability Determinations is typically 30 to 60 days, actual processing times can be much longer in some cases due to factors such as incomplete or inaccurate submissions, additional background checks, or security clearance requirements.

Attachment 1

PWS

1.3.1.2 Security

Clearance and Sensitive Security Information (SSI)

3 of 23 What is the contractor's required FCL level?

An FCL would only be needed if TSA explicitly adds classified work to a task order; absent that, the contract’s focus on SSI/CUI, suitability, and badging does not itself trigger an FCL requirement.

Attachment 1

PWS

1.3.1.4 Subcontractor Management 3 of 23

Is a subcontracting plan required if bidding as a small business or as a joint venture where primary member is a small business? No.

Attachment 1

PWS

3 Performance Requirements Summary (Performance Metrics table) 21 of 23

What is the average representative annual performance metrics non-compliance by compliance objective?

Vendors are expected to meet the TSA standards listed in Attachment 41 Gold+ Performance Metrics; please refer to the compliance objectives table, including column F, for details. There is no acceptable average for non-compliance.

Attachment 1

PWS

1.3.1.2 Security

Clearance and Sensitive Security Information 3 of 23

What is the average representative number of contractor personnel requiring a SECRET clearance? What position title is required to have this clearance level?

At a high level, only a limited number of contractor personnel—typically those in key management or specialized technical roles who require access to classified detection standards or sensitive information—will require a SECRET clearance. The specific position titles and number of clearances needed will be determined by the contract requirements and TSA direction, and access to detection standards at this level will only be granted to individuals with the appropriate clearance.

Attachment 1

PWS

1.4.2.2 Key

Personnel 6 of 23

Are resumes required for the Operations/Program Manager and Deputy Operations/Program Manager at proposal submission? Are resumes required for additional key personnel/potential key personnel? Yes.

Attachment 1

PWS

1.4.2.2 Key

Personnel 6 of 23

In 37 Training Requirement document, the STI is considered key personnel. Please clarify discrepancy between PWS and 37 Training Requirements documents. STI are considered key personnel.

Attachment 1

PWS

1.7.1.1 Transition

In 17 of 23 What is the number of days for transition? Specific to each task order anywhere from three to six months.

70T05026R590 0N005

H.8 Requirements for Handling Sensitive Security Information (SSI) (June 2024) (i.e., H.8.C. Training and Certification

What is the average representative number of personnel classified as "covered persons" and the number of training hours per person? Is the training course taught on-line, in-person, or both and by TSA or contractor?

The number of personnel classified as "covered persons" will depend on the contractor’s staffing model and the number of individuals requiring access to Sensitive Security Information (SSI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) under the contract. Training requirements for covered persons generally include annual SSI Awareness Training, which is typically completed online via the TSA Online Learning Center (OLC), though in-person options may also be available. The training is provided by TSA, and contractors are responsible for ensuring all covered personnel complete the required training and maintain compliance throughout the contract period. The specific number of training hours per person is usually minimal—often one to two hours annually for SSI Awareness Training—but may be supplemented by additional TSA-mandated or contract-specific training as needed.

89 Section I 52.212-2 44 Does TSA have a target or minimum number of IDIQ awardees in mind, and will awards be structured by capability area (e.g., testing, SI, TSO staffing, O&M)? No target is set.

90 Section I 52.212-2 44 Will TSA distinguish between awardees based on capability specialization, or will all awardees be eligible to compete on all Task Orders?

All IDIQ holders will be eligible to compete on all task orders to which they are eligible (i.e.

small business set-aside, etc.)

91 Section I 52.212-2 44 What criteria will TSA use to determine the "mix of awardees most advantageous to its mission"? No specific criteria.

92 Section I I.2.5.1 31 Will the on-ramp/re-opener provision have a defined schedule or will it be triggered by specific events?

Any on‑ramp or re‑opener will be initiated by TSA when it determines it is needed, and details would be issued via separate notice or amendment.

93 Section I 52.212-2 44 Can an offeror submit a proposal focused on a specific capability area (e.g., testing only) rather than the full PWS scope, and will that be evaluated favorably or unfavorably? TSA requests a complete proposal that addresses the outlined PWS.

94 PWS Section 1.7.1.1 17 How will TSA handle Task Orders at airports where an existing SPP contract is in place — will Gold+ TOs replace or supplement existing SPP work? At this time, there is no plan to modify the current contracts at SPP airports.

95 Section I I.2.7.1 62 Will TSA provide the Federal Cost Estimate for the sample Task Order prior to proposal submission so offerors can calibrate their pricing? Yes.

96 Section H H.3 27 Will TSA provide wage determinations applicable to Gold+ airports prior to proposal submission? Yes.

97 Section I I.2.7.1 62 How will TSA evaluate pricing for Task Orders that include both labor and technology components — will they be evaluated separately or as a combined total?

TSA will evaluate pricing for task orders as a combined total for all security screening services, including both labor and technology components, consistent with the federal cost estimate (FCE) which reflects the integrated cost for the full scope of security screening operations.

98 Section I I.2.7.1 62 What is TSA's definition of "significantly unbalanced" pricing, and will TSA provide guidance on acceptable pricing structures?

TSA defines "significantly unbalanced" pricing as a proposal that contains pricing for one or more contract line items that is substantially overstated or understated in relation to the cost of performance and the overall price. Such pricing may pose an unacceptable risk to the Government.

99 Section I I.2.6.5 44 Will IDIQ holders need to have current or previous past performance in everything Gold+ offers in scope with TSA?

IDIQ holders are not required to have direct past performance in every area of the Gold+ scope with TSA; however, their proposals may demonstrate relevant experience through partnership agreements with experts, subcontractors, OEMs, or other specialized providers. Such partnerships and teaming arrangements will be considered as part of the offeror’s overall past performance and capability to fulfill the full scope of requirements.

100 PWS Section 1.6.2.3 15 What specific metrics will be used to evaluate "equal to or…