Attachment 1 IDIQ RFQ Body Solicitation Terms and Conditions.pdf

Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Sample Collection 12639526Q0055

Description - The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Veterinary Services (VS), in cooperation with the Food Safety and Inspection Service, (FSIS), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), conducts an ongoing Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Surveillance program in accordance with the Animal Health Protection Act (7 USC Ch. 109).

The ongoing surveillance program requires brain stem samples to be collected from cattle in the targeted populations geographically dispersed across the United States.

The targeted population includes cattle 12 months of age or older in any of the following surveillance streams as outlined in the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) Terrestrial Animal Health code: clinical suspect, disabled, and fallen stock.

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial service prepared in accordance with the format in FAR Part 12. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; offers are being requested, and a separate written solicitation will not be issued.

Solicitation number 12639526Q0055 is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Sample Collection.

This acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns. This solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference. The full text of provisions and clauses may be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov.

The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard Code is 561990 The small business size standard is $16.0 Million This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. All responsible sources may submit a quotation which will be considered by the agency.

See “Attachment 1 – IDIQ RFQ Body Solicitation Terms and Conditions” for applicable clauses, instructions, and evaluation criteria.

See “Attachment 2 – Pricing Schedule” for pricing information and what is to be used for quote submission.

See “Attachment 3 - VS Guidance 7800.1 Procedures for Sample Collection” http://www.acquisition.gov/

Statement of Work

1.1 Overview

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Veterinary Services (VS), in cooperation with the Food Safety and Inspection Service, (FSIS), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), conducts an ongoing Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Surveillance program in accordance with the Animal Health Protection Act (7 U.S.C. Ch. 109).

The ongoing surveillance program requires brain stem samples to be collected from cattle in the targeted populations geographically dispersed across the United States.

The targeted population includes cattle 12 months of age or older in any of the following surveillance streams as outlined in the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) Terrestrial Animal Health code: clinical suspect, disabled, and fallen stock.

1.2 Period of Performance

The intent of the Government is to issue a single award, fixed price Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with a length of 5 years.

POP: Date of Award – 1 Year

1.3 IDIQ Limitations

The minimum order amount guaranteed under this IDIQ is $1,000.00. The total cumulative value of task orders issued against this IDIQ shall not exceed $6,000,000.00.

The government requires samples from target populations across the United States. When multiple vendors service a specific area of need, orders will be placed first with the vendor with the lowest price. Vendors may lower their price at any time by requesting such in writing. Such requests should be directed to the Contracting Officer Mario Garcia at mario.garcia2@usda.gov.

1.4 Sample Collection

Contractors will identify the proper cattle to sample, collect the appropriate samples, document the samples collected, enter submission and surveillance data electronically into the Veterinary Services Laboratory Submissions (VSLS) system, or any successor submission system, and package and ship samples to designated laboratories in accordance with the objectives in this section. Contractors must provide personnel, labor, supervision, supplies, equipment and materials required to collect, identify, package and ship or hand deliver brain stem samples for BSE testing to designated labs.

mailto:mario.garcia2@usda.gov

1.4.1.1 Sample Selection and Quality

The Contractor shall collect the brain stem (including the obex) using a brain tissue spoon or other suitable device. Sampling spoons and tools will be provided by NVSL to sample collectors upon request at no cost to the contractor. Sampling spoons and tools shall be cleaned and disinfected between each sample collection to avoid cross-contamination of samples.

Contractors are responsible for collecting a testable tissue sample. Samples that are taken from the wrong location or that are significantly decomposed are not testable and shall not be submitted unless specific arrangements are made in advance and authorized by VS. The only exception to this is for samples taken from cattle that are condemned for CNS impairment, including suspicion of rabies, at ante-mortem inspection. Samples that do not meet VS criteria will not be tested and compensation for non-compliant samples will not be paid. (See VS Guidance 7800.2 included as attachment).

VS will provide sample collection training as needed to Contractor personnel prior to commencing sample collection activities. This training for Contractor personnel will be provided within 14 calendar days from date of award. Individuals previously trained and approved for these processes must be reapproved on an annual basis, unless otherwise authorized by the Area Veterinarian in Charge (AVIC). Additional instructions may be provided by the AVIC. This instruction could include the BSE Procedures Manual, VS Guidance 7800.2, cattle dentition charts or other guidance documents.

1.4.1.2 Target Populations

The Contractor shall collect brain stem samples from cattle that meet the definition for the targeted cattle populations per subsections A and B below. Sample allocations for both types of target populations will be determined by the Government, taking into consideration the geographical distribution of the cattle being sampled, and formalized by placing task orders. Sample allocations are subject to change based on the government’s priorities, needs and available resources.

Contractors may collect samples from one or both of these cattle population types (A or B);

however, VS requests that contractors prioritize samples from cattle in Section A.

A. All cattle that are 12 months of age and older that display central nervous system (CNS) impairment as indicated by VS Guidance 7800.2 (included as an attachment) This category includes:

• Cattle condemned by FSIS upon antemortem inspection for CNS signs; or rabies suspects and subsequently determined to be negative for rabies. [Note: Cattle “less than 12 months of age” are defined by dentition as “all teeth that have erupted, both incisors and cheek teeth, are deciduous (i.e. primary or baby teeth) and none are loose.

• Cattle highly suspicious for BSE as indicated by VS Guidance 7800.2, which includes:

i. cattle affected by illnesses that are refractory to treatment (including anorexia, loss of condition in spite of good appetite, pneumonia, decreased milk yield) and are displaying progressive behavioral changes that are not of an acute nature (including apprehension, nervousness, excitability, aggression, head shyness, https://usdagcc.sharepoint.com/sites/aphis-vs/guidancedocs/Current%20VS%20Guidance/Forms/AllItems.aspx?id=%2Fsites%2Faphis%2Dvs%2Fguidancedocs%2FCurrent%20VS%20Guidance%2FVSG%5F7800%2E2%5FProcedures%5Ffor%5FConducting%5Fthe%5FBSE%5FOngoing%5FSurveillance%5FProgram%2Epdf&parent=%2Fsites%2Faphis%2Dvs%2Fguidancedocs%2FCurrent%20VS%20Guidance https://usdagcc.sharepoint.com/sites/aphis-vs/guidancedocs/Current%20VS%20Guidance/Forms/AllItems.aspx?id=%2Fsites%2Faphis%2Dvs%2Fguidancedocs%2FCurrent%20VS%20Guidance%2FVSG%5F7800%2E2%5FProcedures%5Ffor%5FConducting%5Fthe%5FBSE%5FOngoing%5FSurveillance%5FProgram%2Epdf&parent=%2Fsites%2Faphis%2Dvs%2Fguidancedocs%2FCurrent%20VS%20Guidance hypermetria, kicking when milked, difficulty in rising, excessive nose scratching, or hesitation at gates/barriers);

ii. cattle displaying progressive neurological signs that cannot be attributed to infectious illness and are not responsive to treatment.

B. Cattle that are 30 months of age or older (as evidenced by the eruption of at least one of the second set of permanent incisors) that are condemned during antemortem inspection and thus are excluded from slaughter due to poor health status (non-ambulatory, unhealthy, or dead) at specified federally inspected slaughter plants.

This category includes:

• Cattle that are condemned by FSIS at antemortem inspection for any reason (other than

“CNS signs” or “rabies,” which are covered above under “Cattle of 12 months of age and older with CNS signs”).

• Cattle that have died, are non-ambulatory, or have other clinical signs that may be associated with BSE. For those cattle that are dead prior to arrival of sampling personnel, additional clinical history must be available other than “dead of unknown cause.” This can include animals from production facilities (farms), salvage slaughter facilities, rendering facilities, livestock markets, pet food plants, 3D-4D plants, and other animal disposal facilities.

• Dead: Any dead cattle where the specimen is of diagnostic quality and the cause of death and/or clinical signs prior to death, if known, do not preclude it from the targeted population.

• Samples are not to be collected from dead cattle with known cause of death and history that do not meet the criteria for targeted subpopulations (for example, acute deaths from lightning strike or other acts of nature, gunshot, fire, dystocia, hypothermia, and trauma).

• Non-ambulatory: Cattle that cannot rise from a recumbent position (downer) or that cannot walk including, but not limited to, those with broken appendages, severed tendons or ligaments, nerve paralysis, fractured vertebral columns, or metabolic conditions;

and/or cattle that are severely weakened though they may be able to stand and walk for brief periods of time.

1.4.2 Sample Packaging and Shipping

All shipping costs for BSE samples are prepaid by the government. Samples must remain refrigerated or stored on cool packs after collection. VS will furnish sample containers, cool packs, shipping containers, and exterior package labels to the Contractor. If samples are not shipped immediately, the samples need to be refrigerated prior to shipping. It is the contractor’s responsibility to ensure samples do not spoil prior to acceptance at the designated BSE testing laboratory. Packaging instructions are included in the packaging/shipping materials provided by VS.

Specific training for packaging and shipping is also available in AgLearn and upon request. Samples, sample containers, and shipping containers shall be properly labeled.

A copy of the completed BSE Surveillance Submission Form, BSE Surveillance Submission Continuation Form (if used), and BSE Surveillance Data Collection Forms shall accompany the samples shipped to the designated laboratory. The Contractor shall hand deliver or ship samples using the designated overnight delivery service to the designated laboratory for testing. In addition to completing the required forms, the Contractor will communicate the following information to the designated laboratory if requested:

• the overnight contracted delivery service tracking number (if applicable);

• the collection site name and address;

• the unique BSE Referral Number of the submission; and

• the number of samples.

The Contractor will confirm with the overnight contracted delivery service that the samples were delivered to the laboratory. A tracking number from the delivery service will serve as sufficient documentation. A copy of the shipping label shall be retained with the records for the submission and shall be provided to the government upon request.

Samples must be shipped to the laboratory identified by the program. Additional testing laboratories may be authorized and redirection of samples to alternate labs may be necessary in some instances.

Contractors will be notified of changes related to designated laboratories.

1.4.3 Documentation/Reporting Requirements

Contractors shall accurately record all requested information on current versions of the:

1. USDA BSE Surveillance Submission Form (VS 17-146);

2. USDA BSE Surveillance Submission Continuation Form (VS 17-146a) (if used); and

3. USDA BSE Surveillance Data Collection Form (VS 17-131).

These forms are available online at: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/forms/ct_vs_forms

Up to four (4) copies of these completed forms should be made for further distribution and filing, each of these documents will include the BSE referral number:

• One copy of the completed forms shall accompany the samples shipped to the designated laboratory.

• One copy shall be retained onsite by the submitter and maintained in accordance with Federal recordkeeping requirements (See Records Retention).

• One copy shall be forwarded to the local VS office upon request.

• One copy should be kept with any cattle identification devices if applicable.

Contractor will ensure that surveillance information is properly entered into the VSLS system, or any successor submission system, and that results for samples have been posted by the testing laboratory. The Contractor shall enter information from these surveillance forms into the VSLS - BSE application. The Z-tag number must be recorded on the form and entered in the VSLS system on all samples collected from cattle that were condemned at slaughter. This information must be entered before samples arrive at the designated laboratory and preferably prior to shipping samples.

Surveillance data is not considered valid until it is entered into the VSLS - BSE application and results are posted by the testing laboratory.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/vs_17_146.pdf https://www.aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/VS_17_146a.pdf https://www.aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/vs_17_131.pdf https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/forms/ct_vs_forms

1.4.3.1 Technical Training/Security Clearance

Contractors or their employees that need access to the VSLS - BSE application will be required to complete and submit an APHIS Form 513.

Contractors or their employees that need access to the VSLS - BSE application will also be required to obtain and maintain a Level 2 eAuthentication account if they do not have an existing account.

Contractors or other non-VS personnel that will be entering submissions electronically into the VSLS - BSE application must satisfactorily complete the IT Security/ Privacy Basics training (available online) prior to utilizing APHIS VS Information Systems. This training must be completed annually to maintain access to APHIS VS IT applications.

1.4.3.2 Test Reporting

The designated laboratory will report “not detected”, “not detected/not obex”, or “not tested” screening test results back to the sample submitter, the AVIC, and any other parties approved by the

AVIC.

Contractors are responsible for ensuring that final test results for samples have been entered into VSLS by the testing laboratory, even if they have received notification of test results through other channels. Tests are not considered valid tests until results are posted in VSLS.

1.4.4 Carcass Identification, Storage and Disposal

Contractors will be responsible for transport, identification, storage and disposal of carcasses and carcass parts in accordance with this contract as well as all applicable Federal, State, and local requirements.

1.4.4.1 Animal Identification Requirements

If carcasses and heads are not retained, Contractors shall collect all animal identification devices, brands (via digital picture or drawing), and tattoos (refrigerate tissue containing tattoo) from each animal sampled. The Contractor shall bag these identification items, label them with the sample number and bar code sticker, attach a copy of the USDA BSE Surveillance Submission Form, and refrigerate the bag containing the identification until negative results are received. Identification devices should also include some attached tissue (at least dime-sized) if carcasses/heads are not retained.

If samples are obtained for other disease programs (e.g., tuberculosis) from the same animal, contractors shall record the animal identification on the appropriate submission form and indicate on the form where the identification items are stored.

When whole carcasses are held, the identification may be stored on the carcass until results are returned. All parts of a stored carcass should be identified with an appropriate device.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/emergency_management/downloads/aphis_513.pdf https://www.eauth.usda.gov/eauth/b/usda/login

1.4.4.2 Carcass Storage & Disposal

The storage and disposal of carcasses and offal must comply with applicable local, State, and Federal laws, regulations, and policies. Local and professional standards for the storage, disposal or further processing of animal carcasses, parts of dead animals, offal, and animal waste also apply and must be observed.

The identity and location of tested animals and their parts must be documented and maintained throughout the entire sample collection, submission, and testing process until “not detected” (i.e., “negative”) test results are documented in VSLS. This identification must provide for the accurate trace back of the brain stem sample to the carcass, offal and head from which the sample was taken.

Carcasses and offal from sampled animals intended for further processing must be held until laboratory test results are received. After obtaining “not detected” test results, carcasses and offal may be rendered or otherwise processed in accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal laws, regulations, and policies.

Vendors must also comply with local, State, and Federal laws, regulations, and policies related to processing of animals and animal by-products for use in animal foods or feed, if processed for these purposes. No uncooked dead animals or uncooked dead animal parts, including offal of any description, shall be fed to domestic animals unless processed in accordance with all such laws and regulations.

Carcasses and offal from sampled animals not intended for further processing may be disposed of before receiving test results. Disposal in compliance with applicable local, State, and Federal laws, regulations, and policies may be completed by:

• Burial in an approved landfill

• Burial on the farm of immediate origin

• Rendering at a dedicated facility for nonanimal feed use, such as biofuel or cement

• Incineration

• Alkaline digestion

Hides of sampled animals do not require disposal and do not need to be held pending test results.

Transportation of carcasses and offal must comply with applicable local, State, and Federal laws, regulations, and policies. Local and professional standards for the transportation of animal carcasses, parts of dead animals, offal, and animal waste must be followed.

The carcasses and offal from sampled animals with inconclusive or positive test results will be disposed of under supervision of Federal and/or State incident personnel and in accordance with the guidelines in the current BSE Response Plan. If testing confirms an animal was infected with BSE, previously buried carcasses may be exhumed.

***Very important to mark the location where the animal/carcass was buried in case it needs to be exhumed.***

1.5 Standards for Collection Sites

• Table(s) and device(s) for holding the skull of the cattle must be able to accommodate work of two or more sample collectors

• Suitable location for completing required records

• Lighting adequate to identify the brain stem sample for collection

• Sink with warm running water and suitable drain

• A safe surface to stand on

• A dry area for storage of sample boxes and other materials/ supplies

ADs may approve alternative sample collection site arrangements as appropriate.

1.6 Humane Handling of Animals

The Contractor shall comply with local, State, and Federal laws, regulations, and policies, and local and professional standards for humane handling, and euthanasia of livestock in accordance with American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines.

1.7 Contractor Quality Control/Inspection System Requirements

The Contractor shall develop and maintain an effective proactive quality control and inspection system that will ensure services are performed in a manner that meets or exceeds the requirements of this contract. The system shall detect problems early to ensure proactive corrective measures are enacted promptly. Complete records shall be maintained for all work performed. This includes, but is not limited to, contractor quality control inspections, and hard copies of documentation submitted with samples (i.e., origin, condition of animal, etc.). All records related to quality control or inspection may be evaluated upon request.

1.8 Records Retention

Any records created or maintained which deal with BSE sampling or testing must be maintained as required by the APHIS record retention guidelines six (6) years for “not detected” or negative samples; indefinitely, or as directed by APHIS, for inconclusive or positive samples). The contractor must allow inspection of collection procedures and inspection and copying of records during ordinary business hours (8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday) upon request by any authorized employee of the United States Department of Agriculture or its representative, and presentation of his or her official credentials.

In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) part 52.212-4 (a) Inspection/Acceptance, the Government may periodically inspect and or test the contractor’s collection system to confirm that the services and records provided conform to the contract.

2.0 Price Schedule

See attachment 2 “Pricing Schedule”. That pricing schedule will be incorporated into the IDIQ on award.

3.0 Contract Administration

3.1 Invoicing

The vendor shall submit invoices electronically through IPP.gov no less than once per quarter if they have outstanding invoices. The government will not make manual bank to bank wire transfers. If your financial institution does not accept EFT (Direct deposit) transactions from the U.S. treasury, you will be required to use a financial institution that does. The government will not enter invoices on a vendor’s behalf. All payments will be direct deposited to the banking information provided in your Sam.gov registration.

Any invoicing questions shall be directed to the IPP.gov helpdesk 1-866-973-3131. The helpdesk will need the contract and order number the call is in reference to.

3.2 Individuals Authorized to Place Task Orders

The following individuals and/or organizational component are authorized to place delivery orders:

1. Contracting Officers and Purchasing Agents for APHIS, MRPBS, AAMD subject to the limitations of their warrant authority.

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and United States Department of Aquiculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) Clauses and Provisions

The clauses and provisions contained herein are applicable to any order awarded as a result of this solicitation. The terms and conditions set forth herein supersede all other terms and conditions.

Acceptance of the order in accordance with (IAW) FAR 12.201-1(b)(2) constitutes acceptance of all terms and conditions contained herein.

As part of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), system updates may lag policy updates. The System for Award Management (SAM) may continue to require entities to complete representations based on provisions that are not included in this solicitation. Contracting officers will rely on representations from offers based on provisions in the solicitation. Entities are not required to, nor are they able to, update their entity registration to remove these representations in SAM.

52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by Reference Feb 1998 This solicitation incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also the full text of the clause may be accessed electronically at Internet address https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-4 Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.212-4 52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (Nov 2023) 52.203-19 Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) 52.222-50 Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.222-50 52.226-8 Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Text Messaging While Driving (May 2024) 52.232-40 Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (Mar 2023) 52.233-3 Protest After Award (Sep 2025) 52.233-4 Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (Sep 2025) 52.240-91 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.240-91 52.244-6 Subcontracts for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025)

The following clauses are applicable if checked: Marked clauses apply.

☒ 52.203-6 Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (Jun 2020) with Alternate I (Nov 2021) of 52.203-6 ☐ 52.203-13 Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Nov 2021) ☐ 52.204-9 Personal Identity Verification of Contractor Personnel Jan 2011 ☒ 52.204-13 System for Award Management—Maintenance (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.204-91 Contractor identification (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.209-6 Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment (Sep 2025) https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

☒ 52.209-9 Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (Sep 2025) ☒ 52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Sep 2025) ☐ 52.219-4 Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.219-6 Notice of Total Small Business Aside (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Mar 2020).

☒ 52.219-8 Utilization of Small Business Concerns (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-9 Small Business Subcontracting Plan (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate III (Nov 2025) of 52.219-9.

☐ Alternate IV (Nov 2025) of 52.219-9

☐ 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.219-16 Liquidated Damages—Subcontracting Plan(Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-33 Nonmanufacturer Rule (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-3 Convict Labor (June 2003) ☒ 52.222-19 Child Labor—Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-35 Equal Opportunity for Veterans (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-35 ☒ 52.222-36 Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-36 ☒ 52.222-37 Employment Reports on Veterans (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-40 Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (Dec 2010) ☒ 52.222-54 Employment Eligibility Verification (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) ☐ 52.223-9 Estimate of Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated Items (May 2008)

☐ Alternate I (May 2008) of 52.223-9 ☐ 52.223-11 Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential Hydrofluorocarbons (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.223-12 Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.223-23 Sustainable Products and Services ☐ 52.224-3 Privacy Training (Jan 2017)

☐ Alternate I (Jan 2017) of 52.224-3 ☐ 52.225-1 Buy American-Supplies (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Oct 2022) of 52.225-1 ☐ 52.225-3 Buy American--Free Trade Agreements--Israeli Trade Act (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate II (Nov 2025) of 52.225-3.

☐ Alternate III (Nov 2025) of 52.225-3.

☐ Alternate IV (Oct 2022) of 52.225-3

☐ 52.225-5 Trade Agreements (Nov 2023)

☐ 52.225-19 Contractor Personnel in a Designated Operational Area or Supporting a Diplomatic or Consular Mission outside the United States (May 2020) ☐ 52.225-26 Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (Oct 2016) ☐ 52.226-4 Notice of Disaster or Emergency Area Set-Aside (Nov 2007) ☐ 52.226-5 Restrictions on Subcontracting Outside Disaster or Emergency Area (Aug 2025) ☐ 52.229-12 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements ☐ 52.232-29 Terms for Financing of Purchases of Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ☐ 52.232-30 Installment Payments for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ☒ 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer— System for Award Management (Oct 2018) ☐ 52.232-34 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—Other Than System for Award Management (Jul 2013) ☐ 52.232-36 Payment by Third Party (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.240-92 Security Requirements (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.240-93 Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems (No 2025) ☐ 52.247-64 Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Apr 2023) of 52.247-64.

☐ Alternate II (Nov 2021) of 52.247-64

The Contractor shall comply with the following FAR Clauses for Commercial Services.

☒ 52.222-41 Service Contract Labor Standards (Aug 2018)

This Statement is for Information Only:

Please visit www.sam.gov to pull up wage determination applicable to contractor’s place of performance. More than one wage determination may apply if collections are being performed at multiple different city/state.

Wage Determination No. 2015-5269 Wage Determination No. 2015-5457

☒ 52.222-42 Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (May 2014) ☒ 52.222-43 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts) (Aug 2018) ☐ 52.222-44 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (May 2014) ☐ 52.222-51 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment-Requirements (May 2014) ☐ 52.222-53 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services-Requirements (Nov 2025)

Other Applicable Clauses

52.216-18 Ordering (Aug 2020)

(a) Any supplies and services to be furnished under this contract shall be ordered by issuance of delivery orders or task orders by the individuals or activities designated in the Schedule. Such orders may be issued from ___TBD_______ through _____TBD_______ .

(b) All delivery orders or task orders are subject to the terms and conditions of this contract. In the event of conflict between a delivery order or task order and this contract, the contract shall control.

(c) A delivery order or task order is considered "issued" when—

(1) If sent by mail (includes transmittal by U.S. mail or private delivery service), the Government deposits the order in the mail;

(2) If sent by fax, the Government transmits the order to the Contractor's fax number; or

(3) If sent electronically, the Government either—

(i) Posts a copy of the delivery order or task order to a Government document access system, and notice is sent to the Contractor; or

(ii) Distributes the delivery order or task order via email to the Contractor's email address.

(d) Orders may be issued by methods other than those enumerated in this clause only if authorized in the contract.

(End of clause)

52.216-19 Order Limitations (Oct 1995)

(a) Minimum order. When the Government requires supplies or services covered by this contract in an amount of less than $1,000.00, the Government is not obligated to purchase, nor is the Contractor obligated to furnish those supplies or services under the contract.

(b) Maximum order. The Contractor is not obligated to honor-

(1) Any order for a single item in excess of $500,000.00;

(2) Any order for a combination of items in excess of $500,000.00; or

(3) A series of orders from the same ordering office within 30 days that together call for quantities exceeding the limitation in paragraph (b)(1) or (2) of this section.

(c) If this is a requirements contract (i.e., includes the Requirements clause at subsection 52.216-21 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)), the Government is not required to order a part of any one requirement from the Contractor if that requirement exceeds the maximum-order limitations in paragraph (b) of this section.

(d) Notwithstanding paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, the Contractor shall honor any order exceeding the maximum order limitations in paragraph (b), unless that order (or orders) is returned to the ordering office within 30 days after issuance, with written notice stating the Contractor’s intent not to ship the item (or items) called for and the reasons. Upon receiving this notice, the Government may acquire the supplies or services from another source.

52.216-22 Indefinite Quantity (Nov 2025)

(a) This is an indefinite-quantity contract for the supplies or services specified, and effective for the period stated, in the Schedule. The quantities of supplies and services specified in the Schedule are estimates only and are not purchased by this contract.

(b) Delivery or performance shall be made only as authorized by orders issued in accordance with the Ordering clause. The Contractor shall furnish to the Government, when and if ordered, the supplies or services specified in the Schedule up to and including the quantity designated in the Schedule as the "maximum." The Government shall order at least the quantity of supplies or services designated in the Schedule as the "minimum."

(c) Except for any limitations on quantities in the Order Limitations clause or in the Schedule, there is no limit on the number of orders that may be issued. The Government may issue orders requiring delivery to multiple destinations or performance at multiple locations.

(d) Any order issued during the ordering period of this contract and not completed within that period shall be completed by the Contractor within the time specified in the order, which may include order options to be exercised after the ordering period of this contract but before the end of the period of performance of the order. The contract shall govern the Contractor's and Government's rights and obligations with respect to that order, including options exercised, to the same extent as if the order were completed during the contract's ordering period; provided, that the Contractor shall not be required to make any deliveries under this contract after TBD.

52.246-4 Inspection of Services-Fixed-Price (Aug 1996)

(a) Definition. "Services," as used in this clause, includes services performed, workmanship, and material furnished or utilized in the performance of services.

(b) The Contractor shall provide and maintain an inspection system acceptable to the Government covering the services under this contract. Complete records of all inspection work performed by the Contractor shall be maintained and made available to the Government during contract performance and for as long afterwards as the contract requires.

(c) The Government has the right to inspect and test all services called for by the contract, to the extent practicable at all times and places during the term of the contract. The Government shall perform inspections and tests in a manner that will not unduly delay the work.

(d) If the Government performs inspections or tests on the premises of the Contractor or a subcontractor, the Contractor shall furnish, and shall require subcontractors to furnish, at no increase in contract price, all reasonable facilities and assistance for the safe and convenient performance of these duties.

(e) If any of the services do not conform with contract requirements, the Government may require the Contractor to perform the services again in conformity with contract requirements, at no increase in contract amount. When the defects in services cannot be corrected by reperformance, the Government may-

(1) Require the Contractor to take necessary action to ensure that future performance conforms to contract requirements; and

(2) Reduce the contract price to reflect the reduced value of the services performed.

(f) If the Contractor fails to promptly perform the services again or to take the necessary action to ensure future performance in conformity with contract requirements, the Government may-

(1) By contract or otherwise, perform the services and charge to the Contractor any cost incurred by the Government that is directly related to the performance of such service; or

(2) Terminate the contract for default.

52.217-8 Option to Extend Services (Nov 1999)

The Government may require continued performance of any services within the limits and at the rates specified in the contract. These rates may be adjusted only as a result of revisions to prevailing labor rates provided by the Secretary of Labor. The option provision may be exercised more than once, but the total extension of performance hereunder shall not exceed 6 months. The Contracting Officer may exercise the option by written notice to the Contractor within 30 days.

AGAR Clauses

452.203-71 Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Compliance (Dec 2025)

(a) By entering into this contract, the Contractor certifies that:

(1) It is compliant with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws and the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution, and it will remain compliant for the duration of the contract.

(2) Neither it nor any subcontractor or teaming partner operates or funds any program, policy, or initiative that promotes DEI in a manner that violates any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws, including but not limited to Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution, and the Contractor and any subcontractor or teaming partner will not do so for the duration of the contract.

(b) If the Contractor participates in, facilitates, or funds programs that implicate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, including but not limited to grants to or for schools, colleges, universities, 4-H programs, non-governmental organization (NGO) programs, sports programs, and education-related grants to prisons or other detention facilities, the Contractor certifies that it will remain compliant with those laws, including the requirements set forth in Executive Order 14168, Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government, and Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.

(c) The Contractor affirms that the above requirements are conditions of payment that go to the essence of the contract and are therefore material terms of the contract. Payments under the contract are predicated on compliance with the above requirements, and therefore the Contractor is not eligible for funding under the contract or to retain any funding under the contract absent compliance with the above requirements.

(d) This certification reflects a change in the Government’s position regarding the materiality of the foregoing requirements and therefore any prior payment of similar claims does not reflect the materiality of the foregoing requirements to this contract.

(e) Submission of a knowing false statement relating to Contractor’s compliance with the above requirements and/or eligibility for the contract may subject the Contractor to liability under the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, and/or criminal liability, including under 18 U.S.C. §§ 287 and 1001.

(f) The Contractor must include the provisions of this clause in all subcontract solicitations.

(g) Failure on the part of the Contractor or its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this clause may be grounds for the Contracting Officer to terminate this contract for default.

(End of Clause)

452.204–70 Modification for Contract Closeout (Nov 2025)

(a) If unliquidated funds in the amount of $1000 or less remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer (Contracting Officer) shall issue a unilateral modification for deobligation. The contractor will receive a copy of the modification but will not be required to provide a signature. The Contracting Officer shall immediately proceed with contract closeout upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(b) Upon contract closeout for contracts utilizing SAP: if unliquidated funds of more than $1000 remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer shall issue a bilateral modification for deobligation.

The contractor will receive a copy of the modification and will be required to provide a signature.

(The Contracting Officer may also request a “Contractor Release of Claims” be completed by the contractor, although not required for contracts and orders using SAP.) If the bilateral modification and Release of Claims are not returned to the Contracting Officer within 60 days, the Contracting Officer shall release the modification as unilateral and proceed with contract closeout upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(c) Upon contract closeout for contracts utilizing anything other than cost reimbursement, if unliquidated funds of more than $1000 remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer shall issue a bilateral modification for deobligation. The contractor will receive a copy of the modification and a ‘‘Contractor Release of Claims’’ and will be required to provide a signature on both forms. If the bilateral modification and Release of Claims are not returned to the Contracting Officer within 120 days, the Contracting Officer shall release the modification as unilateral and proceed with contract closeout upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(End of Clause)

Solicitation Information

Award Type

It is anticipated that a Firm Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) with a length of 5 Ordering Periods will be awarded as a result of this synopsis/solicitation.

The Government intends to make one award from this solicitation. Therefore, to be considered responsive, contractors must submit pricing for all items.

The Government reserves the right to make more than one award (multiple awards) for different line items, if, after considering the additional administrative cost to the Government of awarding and administering separate purchase orders, it is determined that the multiple awards will result in the best value to the Government. For purposes of evaluating the cost of making multiple awards, it is assumed that the administrative cost of awarding and administering a purchase order is $500.

Evaluation and Basis for Award

The provision at FAR 52.212-2, Evaluation—Commercial Products and Commercial Services is not applicable to this solicitation. In lieu of this provision, quotes will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 12.203 based on the criteria listed below. Award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government.

Price:

The offeror’s quotation will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 12.204, to determine if it is fair and reasonable.

Technical Acceptability:

Technical Acceptability will be evaluated to receive an overall rating of "acceptable" or "unacceptable." This will be based on the offeror's ability to provide a sound and compliant approach that meets all requirements and shows a thorough understanding of them. It is the contractor's responsibility to ensure their quotation clearly demonstrates their capability to meet these requirements. All offerors must provide the following minimum information and documentation with their quotations to be considered responsive and have their offers evaluated:

• Detailed explanation of the offeror’s ability to perform the required services. A simple statement of capabilities will not suffice. The offeror must address how they will accomplish the requirements of all sections listed in the Statement of Work.

• Detailed explanation of any requirement listed in the SOW that cannot be successfully accomplished by the offeror. Offerors are advised that the USDA intends to award without discussions so any exceptions may cause the quotation to be found technically unacceptable.

Past Performance:

The Government may utilize any references provided by the Contractor, along with information available from past contracts/orders with the USDA and any information found using sources such as Federal Government sources or the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) to determine if the Contractor has acceptable or neutral Past Performance. Past Performance will be evaluated using the following rating system:

• Acceptable: The contractor shows a demonstrated ability to meet contract requirements in prior or current contracts, including quality of work, timeliness, cost control, business relations, and adherence to contract terms.

• Neutral: Offeror does not have a past performance record.

• Unacceptable: The contractor has a documented history of failing to meet contract requirements, including poor quality, missed deadlines, cost overruns, lack of responsiveness, or unethical behavior.

Evaluation Method The Government will evaluate quotations based on the lowest price technically acceptable criteria.

Only the lowest priced offer will be evaluated for Technical Acceptability. Should the lowest priced offer not receive an acceptable technical or past performance rating, the process will continue in order of lowest priced offer until the lowest price, technically acceptable offer with acceptable or neutral past performance is identified.

Delivery Information

F.o.b. destination, is requested as the F.O.B. point for all deliverables.

All offers will be considered F.O.B. Destination unless F.O.B. origin is specified AND estimated shipping costs are included.

Shipping Instructions:

Shipping must be done in accordance with instructions listed above in Statement of Work.

Service Contract Labor Standards -

The Service Contract Labor Standards could apply to any contracts awarded through this solicitation.

In accordance with (IAW) FAR 22.1002-3(a)(2), the place of performance for this contract is currently unknown. The Contracting Officer has determined New Mexico and Texas.

possible places of performance and has included Wage Determinations for each place as an attachment to this solicitation. The Contracting Officer will obtain wage determinations for additional possible places of performance if asked to do so in writing at mario.garcia2@usda.gov.

Offerors must request additional wage determinations no later than two days before solicitation close. Offerors who intend to perform in a place or area of performance for which a wage determination has not been attached or requested may nevertheless submit proposals. However, a wage determination shall be incorporated in the resultant contract, and there shall be no adjustment to the contract price.

Qualification Requirements

Vendors are instructed to thoroughly review the Statement of Requirement listed above to ensure they adhere to the requirements listed above and are able to provide the service requested.

52.252-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference Feb 1998 This solicitation incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cautioned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submitted with its quotation or offer. In lieu of submitting the full text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es): https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors - Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025)

Period for acceptance of offers.

The Offeror agrees to hold the prices in its offer firm for 90 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

Questions Questions shall be submitted via email to Mario.Garcia2@usda.gov and are due no later than March 24, 2026, at 1700 (5 PM) Eastern Time. This will ensure enough time to respond before the solicitation period ends. Please include the solicitation name and number as the subject line of the email. Failure to add the solicitation name and number in the subject line may result in missed questions and may not be considered.

52.203-18 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements-Representation (Jan 2017) 52.240-90 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions Representations and Certifications (Nov 2025)

The following provisions are applicable if checked: Only checked will apply.

☒ 52.203-11 Certification and Disclosure Regarding Payments to Influence Certain Federal Transactions (Sep 2024) ☒ 52.204-7 System for Award Management—Registration (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) to 52.204-7 ☐ 52.204-90 Offeror Identification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.207-6 Solicitation of Offers from Small Business Concerns and Small Business Teaming Arrangements or Joint Ventures (Multiple-Award Contracts) (Aug 2024) ☐ 52.209-12 Certification Regarding Tax Matters (Oct 2025) ☐ 52.219-2 Equal Low Bids (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-18 Certification Regarding Knowledge of Child…