Attachment A - Ohio River Basin Invasive Carp Contract Fishing Program.pdf

ELECTRONIC BID SUBMISSION

Bid responses shall be received by electronic submission in the eProcurement system.

An electronic bid shall be authorized by the proper agent of the firm by the act of submitting it electronically through the eProcurement system.

Bid information MUST be completed online. Response must contain all required information for the Solicitation.

All bidders MUST be registered in the Commonwealth eProcurement System via the Vendor Self Service System at: https://vss.ky.gov

Allow 24 – 48 hours to complete Vendor Registration. Vendors must be logged in to their Vendor Self Service (VSS) account in order to submit a response. Registrations completed the day of bid closing must be completed by the Vendor in the VSS portal. The Customer Resource Center is not able to complete registrations and activate accounts on the same day. Closing dates will not be extended for Vendors not registered by the date/time of the bid closing. Vendor Self Service Registration Guides are provided at: https://vss.ky.gov

All bidders are cautioned to begin their electronic submission in sufficient time to complete before the closing date and time. Delays due to technical difficulties or document upload impediments shall not be justification for acceptance of a late bid or proposal. Vendor attention to this advisory is encouraged. If you need assistance, please contact the Customer Resource Center (CRC) by email at Finance.CRCGroup@ky.gov or phone 502-564-9641 or toll-free 877-973-HELP (4357).

Online bid responses must be in an “Accepted” status and shall be assigned a date and time stamp from the eProcurement system at the time of final acceptance and formal submission by the vendor. The system will not allow submission of an online response after the published date and time for closing.

An offer may be modified or withdrawn by electronic or written notice ONLY if received prior to the bid closing date and time. An electronic offer may be modified by applying the appropriate electronic signature and following the procedure in the state’s eProcurement system.

If the items highlighted below are not submitted with the proposal submission, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources MUST deem the proposal non-responsive and SHALL NOT consider for award.

_____ ENTER CONTACT PERSON, PHONE NUMBER AND EMAIL ON THE FACE

OF THE SOLICITATION.

https://vss.ky.gov/ https://vss.ky.gov/ mailto:Finance.CRCGroup@ky.gov

The following items MUST be submitted prior to award however; vendors are strongly encouraged to include with bid submission.

_____ ATTACHMENT D - SHORT-FORM APPLICATION FOR DETAILS AND

CHECKLIST

_____ REVENUE FORM 10A100 KENTUCKY TAX REGISTRATION APPLICATION

(see Section 36)

_____ REQUIRED AFFIDAVIT(S) (See Attachment B)

_____ PROOF OF ALL REQUIRED INSURANCES (See Section 46)

ATTACHMENT A

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Request for Bid (RFB)

For Ohio River Basin Invasive Carp Contract Fishing Program

RFB 660 2700000081

Release Date: September 1, 2026 Vendors’ Written Questions Due: September 8, 2026 by 12:00pm

KDFWR Response to Written Questions: September 11, 2026 CLOSING DATE AND TIME: September 23, 2026 by 12:00pm

(All times referenced are Eastern Time Zone)

KY Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Buyer:

Amy Akers

Purchasing Division #1 Sportsman’s Lane Frankfort, KY 40601

(502) 892-4538 Amy.akers@ky.gov mailto:Amy.akers@ky.gov

BID READINGS

Any person wishing to hear a bid reading may call the KDFWR conference line at 877-746-4263, Participant code 02 94 361# at 3:00pm, ET on the bid closing date.

PLEASE READ THIS SOLICITATION AND ITS INSTRUCTIONS IN ITS ENTIRETY.

This is a Request for Bid (RFB).

Vendors shall comply with the terms and conditions stated in the solicitation.

Any efforts to negotiate these terms and conditions SHALL NOT be accepted and SHALL cause the bid to be deemed non-responsive.

All proposed pricing shall remain valid for a minimum of sixty (60) calendar days after the bid due date.

This Contract shall be awarded as Group All. Vendors shall bid all line items, otherwise bid shall be deemed non-responsive.

The General Conditions and Instructions for Solicitations and Contracts shall be incorporated by reference in each solicitation and resulting contract.

Vendors should review and comply with the general bidding requirements listed under “Procurement Laws, Preference, Regulations and Policies” and “Response to Solicitation” located on the eProcurement Web page at https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/procurement-laws-regulations-and-policies.aspx and https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/doing-business-with-the-commonwealth.aspx respectively. The vendor must comply with all applicable statutes, regulations and policies related to this procurement.

Solicitation

Terms and Conditions

Master Agreement

Section 1 Scope of Contract The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) issues this https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/procurement-laws-regulations-and-policies.aspx https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/procurement-laws-regulations-and-policies.aspx https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/doing-business-with-the-commonwealth.aspx https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/doing-business-with-the-commonwealth.aspx solicitation to establish Master Agreement for: Ohio River Basin Invasive Carp Contract Fishing Program

KDFWR administers an Ohio River Basin Contract Fishing Program to help control the upstream expansion and establishment of Invasive Carp populations. Under this program, participating commercial fishermen will be compensated at a daily contractual rate for their efforts to harvest and remove Invasive Carp from designated waters.

Contract fishing activities will take place within the Ohio River and its tributaries, including designated river pools and other approved fishing locations. Specific fishing locations will be coordinated and cleared in advance with the designated KDFWR point of contact (POC) to ensure activities are conducted in accordance with program objectives, applicable restrictions, and KDFWR requirements.

Access to restricted waters and permission to fish in designated areas will be at the discretion of KDFWR. Contract participants must obtain the appropriate authorization before accessing or fishing any restricted waters and must follow all instructions and requirements provided by KDFWR throughout the duration of the contract.

It is KDFWR’s intent to select multiple qualified commercial fishermen for contract participation. Selected contractors may be utilized by KDFWR on an as-needed basis throughout the contract period to support Invasive Carp removal efforts in designated waters.

Section 2 Bid Specifications (Requirements that include the words “Shall”, “Will”, “Must” indicate a mandatory requirement)

See Attachment D – Short-Form Application for Details and Checklist

Section 3 Purpose The purpose of this solicitation is to request vendor responses in order to provide these items under contract to agencies as needed.

Section 4 General This solicitation specifies requested items. It is not the intention of this solicitation to eliminate vendors or manufacturers of similar or equal equipment of the types specified.

It should be noted, however, that these requested items are written around specific needs of KDFWR. The KDFWR reserves the right to consider bids non-responsive if they do not comply with the specifications contained herein.

Section 5 Initial Contract Period The contract established from this solicitation shall be for the initial period of one (1) year from the date of award.

Section 6 Renewal Clause – Optional Renewal Period This contract may be extended at the completion of the initial contract period for four (4) additional one-year periods. This extension must have the written approval by all parties. If the contract resulting from this solicitation provides for an optional renewal period, the KDFWR reserves the right to renegotiate any terms and/or conditions as may be necessary to meet requirements for the extended period. The vendor will be advised of any proposed revisions prior to the renewal periods. In the event proposed revisions cannot be agreed upon, either party shall have the right to withdraw without prejudice from either exercising the option or continuing the contract in an extended period.

Extension Period This contract may be extended at the termination of all contract renewal periods for additional time not to exceed 90 days. This extension must be accompanied by the written approval of the vendor and the Purchasing Branch.

Section 7 Exceptions to Specifications Vendors are cautioned that changes made to the solicitation other than in the designated fields for response shall render the response invalid and result in a non-responsive bid. Otherwise, it will be considered that items/services offered are in strict compliance with these specifications, and the successful bidder shall be held responsible for delivering materials/services that meet these specifications. Any exceptions shall be marked as such within the body of the bid and explained on a separate page. The KDFWR is not bound to accept any exceptions.

Section 8 Alternate Brands/Specifications Not Applicable

Section 9 Recycle Requirements Prospective bidders are required to comply with Recycle Requirements for the purchase of goods, supplies, equipment, materials and printing with a minimum recycled content to the extent practicable per 200 KAR 5:330. This regulation can be viewed on the Internet at https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/200/005/330.pdf

Section 10 Acknowledgment of Addenda It is the vendor's responsibility to check the web site for any modifications to this solicitation. Electronic Bid submittal is the vendor’s agreement to be bound by the terms of all addenda issued.

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/200/005/330.pdf

Section 11 Agencies to be Served This contract shall be for use by the following agency of the Commonwealth of Kentucky:

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

Section 12 Solicitation Submission Requirements Paper Bids are NOT acceptable for this RFB and shall be considered non-responsive.

All electronic documents submitted in response to this RFB shall be submitted in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel or PDF format ONLY.

Section 13 Method of Award Best Value – Ranking Approach The KDFWR intends to award a contract to the vendor, whose offer, conforming to the solicitation, is the most advantageous on the basis of "best value" for all products, services, and requirements contained herein.

An evaluation committee, or a designated individual, will evaluate the information provided by the vendor in response to the established measurable criteria contained in the solicitation.

Measurable Criteria:

Pass/Fail for all required qualifications.

See Attachment D – Short-Form Application for details and checklist

Each vendor is responsible for submitting all relevant, factual and correct information with their offer to enable the evaluator(s) to afford each vendor the maximum score based on the available data submitted by the Vendor.

A bidder shall submit one (1) response to a solicitation and shall not propose more than one (1) model/brand for each item listed in the solicitation, except for requested tier pricing. Multiple or alternate bids offering more than one (1) bid price in total or by line item shall be rejected.

Vendors responding with the minimum Best Value requirements in this solicitation shall not be credited with Best Value points. Vendors responding with greater than the minimum requirements shall receive Best Value points. Failure to provide adequate information will impact the evaluated points awarded to the vendor.

Best Value scoring is subject to Reciprocal preference for Kentucky resident bidders and Preferences for a Qualified Bidder or the Department of Corrections, Division of Prison Industries.

KRS 45A.490 Definitions for KRS 45A.490 to 45A.494.

As used in KRS 45A.490 to 45A.494:

(1) "Contract" means any agreement of a public agency, including grants and orders, for the purchase or disposal of supplies, services, construction, or any other item; and

(2) "Public agency" has the same meaning as in KRS 61.805.

KRS 45A.492 Legislative declarations.

The General Assembly declares:

(1) A public purpose of the Commonwealth is served by providing preference to Kentucky residents in contracts by public agencies; and

(2) Providing preference to Kentucky residents equalizes the competition with other states that provide preference to their residents.

KRS 45A.494 Reciprocal preference to be given by public agencies to resident bidders -- List of states -- Administrative regulations.

(1) Prior to a contract being awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder on a contract by a public agency, a resident bidder of the Commonwealth shall be given a preference against a nonresident bidder registered in any state that gives or requires a preference to bidders from that state. The preference shall be equal to the preference given or required by the state of the nonresident bidder.

(2) A resident bidder is an individual, partnership, association, corporation, or other business entity that, on the date the contract is first advertised or announced as available for bidding:

(a) Is authorized to transact business in the Commonwealth; and

(b) Has for one (1) year prior to and through the date of the advertisement, filed Kentucky corporate income taxes, made payments to the Kentucky unemployment insurance fund established in KRS 341.490, and maintained a Kentucky workers' compensation policy in effect.

(3) A nonresident bidder is an individual, partnership, association, corporation, or other business entity that does not meet the requirements of subsection (2) of this section.

(4) If a procurement determination results in a tie between a resident bidder and a nonresident bidder, preference shall be given to the resident bidder.

(5) This section shall apply to all contracts funded or controlled in whole or in part by a public agency.

(6) The Finance and Administration Cabinet shall maintain a list of states that give to or require a preference for their own resident bidders, including details of the preference given to such bidders, to be used by public agencies in determining resident bidder preferences. The cabinet shall also promulgate administrative regulations in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A establishing the procedure by which the preferences required by this section shall be given.

(7) The preference for resident bidders shall not be given if the preference conflicts with federal law.

(8) Any public agency soliciting or advertising for bids for contracts shall make KRS 45A.490 to 45A.494 part of the solicitation or advertisement for bids.

The reciprocal preference as described in KRS 45A.490-494 above shall be applied in accordance with 200 KAR 5:400.

Determining the residency of a bidder for purposes of applying a reciprocal preference Any individual, partnership, association, corporation, or other business entity claiming resident bidder status shall submit along with its response the attached Required Annual Affidavit for Bidders, Offerors, and Contractors Claiming Resident Bidder Status, unless a valid, Annual Affidavit is already on file with the Commonwealth. The BIDDING AGENCY reserves the right to request documentation supporting a bidder’s claim of resident bidder status. Failure to provide such documentation upon request shall result in disqualification of the bidder or contract termination.

A nonresident bidder shall submit, along with its response, its certificate of authority to transact business in the Commonwealth as filed with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Secretary of State. The location of the principal office identified therein shall be deemed the state of residency for that bidder. If the bidder is not required by law to obtain said certificate, the state of residency for that bidder shall be deemed to be that which is identified in its mailing address as provided in its bid.

A nonresident bidder shall submit, along with its response, its certificate of authority to transact business in the Commonwealth as filed with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Secretary of State. The location of the principal office identified therein shall be deemed the state of residency for that bidder. If the bidder is not required by law to obtain said certificate, the state of residency for that bidder shall be deemed to be that which is identified in its mailing address as provided in its bid.

Preferences for a Qualified Bidder or the Department of Corrections, Division of Prison Industries (KAR 200 5:410).

Pursuant to 200 KAR 5:410, and KRS 45A.470, Kentucky Correctional Industries will receive a preference equal to twenty (20) percent of the maximum points awarded to a bidder in a solicitation. In addition, the following “qualified bidders” will receive a preference equal to fifteen (15) percent of the maximum points awarded to a bidder in a solicitation: Kentucky Industries for the Blind, any nonprofit corporation that furthers the purposes of KRS Chapter 163 and any qualified nonprofit agencies for individuals with severe disabilities as defined in KRS 45A.465(3). Other than Kentucky Industries for the Blind, a bidder claiming “qualified bidder” status shall submit along with its response to the solicitation a notarized annual affidavit, which affirms that it meets the requirements to be considered a qualified bidder- annual affidavit form included. The annual affidavit form is not required if a valid, annual affidavit is already on file with the Commonwealth.

If requested, failure to provide documentation to a public agency proving qualified bidder status may result in disqualification of the bidder or contract termination.

Past Vendor Performance may be considered in the award of this Contract. Vendors with a record of poor performance in the last 12 months may be found non-responsible and ineligible for award.

Section 14 Tax Exempt Status Do not include Federal Excise Tax, Kentucky Sales or Use Tax in prices quoted in response to this solicitation.

Section 15 Basis of Price Revisions Not Applicable

Section 16 Vendor Terms and Conditions Solicitation or quotation forms that include terms and conditions not in conformity with the terms and conditions of this solicitation or the Statutes of the Commonwealth of Kentucky may be deemed non-responsive.

The KDFWR shall not be bound by any part(s) of the bidder’s response to this solicitation that contains information, options, conditions, terms, or prices neither requested nor required in the solicitation. In the event of any conflicts between the specifications, terms and conditions indicated by the KDFWR and those indicated by the contractor, those of the KDFWR take precedence. The contract supersedes all bids or other prior agreements, oral or written, and all other communications between the parties relating to this subject.

Section 17 Post Contract Agreements The resulting contract shall constitute the entire agreement between the KDFWR and awarded contractor. Unless contractually provided, State agencies utilizing this contract will not be required to enter into nor sign further agreements, leases, company orders or other documents to complete or initiate the terms of a contract resulting from this solicitation or offer. Any such documents so obtained will be non-binding on the State and agents of the State and will be cause for breach of contract.

Section 18 Equipment Not Applicable

Section 19 Quantity Basis of Contract – Estimated Quantities

Section 20 Manuals and Distribution of Literature

Section 21 Vendor’s Report The vendor(s) may be asked to furnish the buyer, KDFWR, a report showing volume which has been sold to the Commonwealth and its using agencies each six (6) months of the contract period. The report will include political subdivisions and university purchases. This report may be the vendor’s computer printout sheet or form. This shall apply to all items, which are to become a part of this contract. This report must reference usage by brief description, product number or other format designated by the

KDFWR.

Section 22 FOB Basis of Shipment – Vendor Responsible Not Applicable

Section 23 Cancellation Clause – 30 Days Notice The KDFWR may cancel the contract established from this solicitation by giving written notice thirty (30) days prior to effective cancellation date. In the event such action is taken, the contract shall be null and void upon receipt of a Modification from the KDFWR canceling the contract.

Section 24 Exception to Required Use of Contract The establishment of this Master Agreement is not intended to preclude the use of similar products when requested by the agency. The KDFWR reserves the right to contract for large requirements by using a separate solicitation.

Section 25 Service Performance All services performed under this contract, if applicable, shall be in accordance with the terms and provisions of the contract. It will be the agency’s responsibility to ensure that such services rendered are performed and are acceptable.

The relationship between the State and the Contractor is that of client and independent contractor. No agent, employee, or servant of the contractor or any of its subcontractors shall be or shall be deemed to be an employee, agent, or servant of the State for any reason. The contractor will be solely and entirely responsible for its acts and the acts of its agents, employees, servants and subcontractors during the performance of this contract.

Major deviations of services performed will not be made without the written approval of the KDFWR. Problems that arise under any aspect of performance should first be resolved between the vendor and the KDFWR. Either party should refer in writing any such problems and/or disagreements that cannot be resolved to the Chief Procurement Officer of KDFWR for settlement.

Section 26 Addition or Deletion of Items or Services The KDFWR reserves the right to add new and similar items, with the consent of the vendor, to any contract awarded from this solicitation. The KDFWR to effect this change will issue a contract Modification. Until such time as the vendor receives a Modification, the vendor shall not accept Delivery Orders from KDFWR referencing such items or services.

Section 27 Agreement between Parties By submitting a bid, the bidder acknowledges and agrees to be bound by the terms and conditions of the solicitation.

The bidder agrees that a resulting contract is the complete and exclusive statement of the agreement between the parties, which supersedes all prior agreements, oral or written, and all other communications between the parties relating to the subject matter of this solicitation. It is further agreed between the parties, that any valid modification of contractual agreement must be formalized by issuance of a Contract Modification from the KDFWR.

Purchase or Sales Agreements, supplied by the bidder making an offer, in reply to the solicitation, will not be accepted. The only terms and conditions acceptable to the KDFWR are as outlined in the solicitation. Bids not conforming will be considered as non-responsive.

Section 28 Governmental Restrictions In the event any Governmental restrictions may be imposed which would necessitate alteration of the material, quality, workmanship, or performance of the items offered on this proposal prior to delivery, it shall be the responsibility of the successful bidder to notify the KDFWR in writing, indicating the specific regulation which requires such alterations. The KDFWR reserves the right to accept any such alterations, including any subsequent price adjustments, or to cancel the contract.

Section 29 Payments The KDFWR will make payment within thirty (30) working days of receipt of contractor's invoice or of acceptance of goods and/or services except when the agency has transmitted a rejection notice to the vendor in accordance with KRS 45.453 and KRS

45.454. For the purpose of this provision, a working day is any weekday except for Commonwealth employee holidays up to the agency close of business. The KDFWR may make a partial payment of goods or services that it has received according to the terms of the contract.

Payments are predicated upon successful completion and acceptance of the described work, services, supplies, or commodities, and delivery of the required documentation.

Invoices for payment shall be submitted to the KDFWR contact person except Personal Service Contract invoices, shall include the following information, as applicable:

(1) Contract and/or delivery order number;

(2) Name of Contractor Entity or Individual;

(3) Contractor designated point of contact;

(4) Unique Invoice Number;

(5) Invoice Date;

(6) Item numbers;

(7) Descriptions of goods or services provided;

(8) Sizes of goods provided;

(9) Quantities provided;

(10) Unit prices; and

(11) Extended totals (unit price x quantity) for invoiced line items.

For Personal Service Contracts, invoices must be submitted on the Personal Service Contract Invoice form established by the Government Contract Review Committee, available at:

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/moreinfo/contracts/PSC%20INVOICE%20FORM.pdf The KDFWR will make a good faith effort to notify the Contractor within fifteen (15) working days of the Contractor’s failure to submit a proper invoice or a dispute of the goods or services provided. The Contractor shall address the KDFWR’s concerns within ten (10) calendar days and resubmit a corrected invoice with a new invoice number for payment. If the Contractor has not rectified the problem with the invoice or the good or service within the ten (10) calendar day correction period, any revised submitted invoice shall be considered a new invoice with a new date of submission for calculation of any late payment penalty.

If the KDFWR contact person has not notified the Contractor of any issue with the invoice or the goods and/or services and the Contractor has not received payment by the twenty-fifth (25th) business day after the Contractor submitted the invoice, the Contractor should notify its KDFWR contract representative that its invoice is still pending payment.

Except as otherwise explicitly provided in the contract, payments shall be issued to the Contractor within thirty (30) working days of receipt of Contractor's invoice or of acceptance of goods and/or services. In the event of an invoice payment dispute between the Contractor and KDFWR, the Contractor shall submit any payment dispute to KDFWR for resolution in accordance with the payment resolution process established in KRS 45A.137 and the administrative regulations promulgated thereunder.

If submission to the KDFWR contact person does not resolve the payment dispute, the https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/moreinfo/contracts/PSC%20INVOICE%20FORM.pdf

Contractor may submit a contract dispute regarding payment to the Director of the Administrative Services Division of KDFWR for resolution by a Hearing Officer appointed by the Attorney General's Office, or the Attorney General's designee. In accordance with KRS 45.454, and except as provided by KRS 371.405, the KDFWR shall pay the Contractor a penalty of one percent (1%) per month, or fraction thereof, on any undisputed amount owed to the Contractor that remains unpaid after thirty (30) working days following receipt of the goods or services and receipt of a proper invoice, unless otherwise agreed upon by the KDFWR and the Contractor. If a payment dispute is resolved in favor of the Contractor, the KDFWR shall assess any applicable penalties from the date they began to accrue and remit both the penalty and any undisputed amount due to the Contractor within ten (10) working days after the resolution of the dispute.

Section 30 Inspection All supplies, equipment and services shall be subject to inspection or tests by the KDFWR prior to acceptance. In the event supplies, equipment or services are defective in material or workmanship or otherwise not in conformity with specified requirements, the KDFWR shall have the right to reject the items or services or require acceptable correction at the Vendor’s expense.

KDFWR will monitor fishing operations.

Section 31 Inquiries All questions shall be submitted in writing by the scheduled date & time to the KDFWR buyer listed below. No questions shall be accepted after the date(s) listed unless the question(s) is considered material to the procurement. The KDFWR shall respond to salient questions in writing by issuing an addendum to the solicitation. The addendum shall be posted to the Kentucky Vendor Self Service site.

Sole Point of Contact – KDFWR Buyer The KDFWR Buyer listed below shall be the sole point of contact throughout the procurement process. All communications, oral and written (regular, express, or electronic mail), concerning this procurement shall be addressed to the Buyer.

KY Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Buyer:

Amy Akers

Purchasing Division #1 Sportsman’s Lane Frankfort, KY 40601

(502) 892-4538 Amy.akers@ky.gov

Restrictions on Communications

From the issue date of this solicitation until a contractor(s) is selected and the selection is announced, offerors are not allowed to communicate with any KDFWR Staff concerning this solicitation except:

-The KDFWR Buyer cited in this solicitation -Via written questions submitted to the KDFWR Buyer

Potential bidders should clearly understand that any verbal representatives made or assumed to be made during any oral discussions held between representatives of potential bidders and any state employee or official are not binding on the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

For violation of this provision, the KDFWR shall reserve the right to disqualify the bid/proposal.

After the award of a contract, all programmatic communications are to be made to the KDFWR Contact Person identified in the contract document with a copy to the KDFWR Buyer.

Section 32 Subcontracts The contractor is permitted to make subcontract(s) with any other party for furnishing any of the work or services herein. The contractor shall be solely responsible for performance of the entire contract whether or not subcontractors are used. The KDFWR shall not be involved in the relationship between the prime contractor and the subcontractor. Any issues that arise as a result of this relationship shall be resolved by the prime contractor.

All references to the contractor shall be construed to encompass both the contractor and any subcontractors of the contractor.

Section 33 Federal Tax Exempt Purchases by the Commonwealth of Kentucky Contracts Direct With Manufacturer: In the event a manufacturer bids direct and is awarded a contract, the KDFWR shall request the contractor to furnish evidence of registration with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. This registration shall be in accordance with the “Temporary Rules, 1958 Excise Tax Act”. After such registration, individual Excise Tax Exemption Certificates are not necessary on each individual order issued against the contract by the KDFWR. Therefore, quoted prices must be exclusive of Federal Excise Taxes.

Contract With Other Than Manufacturer: If successful bidder is other than the manufacturer, the KDFWR will furnish a Tax Exemption Certificate with each individual order issued against this contract. Therefore, quoted prices must be exclusive of Federal Excise Taxes.

Section 34 Governing Law This contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Any action brought against the KDFWR on the contract, including but not limited to actions either for breach of contract or for enforcement of the contract, shall be brought in Franklin Circuit Court, Franklin County, Kentucky in accordance with KRS 45A.245.

Section 35 Protest Any actual or prospective Contractor, who is aggrieved in connection with the RFB or selection for award of a Contract, may file a protest with the KDFWR Division of Administrative Services. A protest or notice of other controversy must be filed promptly and in any event within two (2) calendar weeks after such aggrieved person knows or should have known of the facts giving rise thereto. A bidder is presumed to have knowledge of the award of contract on the date of the email KDFWR Division of Administrative Services from advising that the contract has been awarded. Bidders who require additional information about the award of the bid or bid documents must contact Melissa Trent at melissa.trent@ky.gov or:

Division of Administrative Services, Purchasing Branch Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources #1 Sportsman’s Lane Frankfort, KY 40601

Only a Hearing Officer appointed by the Attorney General’s Office, or designee, has authority to determine protests and other controversies of actual or prospective Contractors in connection with the RFB or selection for award of a Contract. The Hearing Officer, appointed by the Attorney General’s Office, will promptly issue a decision in writing. A copy of that decision will be mailed or otherwise furnished to the aggrieved party and shall state the reasons for the action taken.

The decision by the Hearing Officer, appointed by the Attorney General’s Office, shall be final and conclusive.

Section 36 Kentucky Tax Registration Application Revenue Form 10A100, Kentucky Tax Registration Application effective July 2008, is a form to be completed by any person or entity wishing to contract with the Commonwealth to provide goods or services subject to sales and use tax pursuant to KRS 139.200. The form is located at the following link:

https://revenue.ky.gov/Forms/10A100(P)(4-25)_FINAL_locked%20Fill-in.pdf

This form has to be completed and submitted, before a contract can be awarded. Failure to submit the required documentation or to remain registered and in compliance with the mailto:melissa.trent@ky.gov https://revenue.ky.gov/Forms/10A100(P)(4-25)_FINAL_locked%20Fill-in.pdf sales and use tax filing and remittance requirements of KRS 139.540 and KRS 139.550 throughout the duration of the contract shall constitute a material breach of the contract and the contract may be terminated.

Section 37 Access to Records The state agency certifies that it is in compliance with the provisions of KRS 45A.695, "Access to contractor's books, documents, papers, records, or other evidence directly pertinent to the contract." The Contractor, as defined in KRS 45A.030, agrees that the contracting agency, the Finance and Administration Cabinet, the Auditor of Public Accounts, and the Legislative Research Commission, or their duly authorized representatives, shall have access to any books, documents, papers, records, or other evidence, which are directly pertinent to this agreement for the purpose of financial audit or program review. The Contractor also recognizes that any books, documents, papers, records, or other evidence, received during a financial audit or program review shall be subject to the Kentucky Open Records Act, KRS 61.870 to 61.884. Records and other prequalification information confidentially disclosed as part of the bid process shall not be deemed as directly pertinent to the agreement and shall be exempt from disclosure as provided in KRS 61.878(1)(c).

Section 38 Registration with the Secretary of State by a Foreign Entity Pursuant to KRS 45A.480(1)(b), an agency, department, office, or political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Kentucky shall not award a state contract to a person that is a foreign entity required by KRS 14A.9-010:

to obtain a certificate of authority to transact business in the Commonwealth (“certificate”) from the Secretary of State under KRS 14A.9-030:

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=40424 therefore, foreign entities should submit a copy of their certificate with their solicitation response. If the foreign entity is not required to obtain a certificate as provided in KRS 14A.9-010:

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=44318, the foreign entity should identify the applicable exception in its solicitation response. Foreign entity is defined within KRS 14A.1-070:

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=50474

Businesses can register with the Secretary of State at:

https://www.sos.ky.gov/bus/business-filings/Pages/default.aspx

Section 39 Accessibility Vendor hereby warrants that the products or services to be provided under this contract comply with the accessibility requirements of section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. § 794d), and its implementing regulations set forth at Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, part 1194. Vendor further warrants that the products or services to be provided under this contract comply with existing federal standards established under Section 255 of the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 (47 U.S.C. § 255), and its implementing regulations set forth at Title 36, Code of Federal https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=40424 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=44318 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=50474 https://www.sos.ky.gov/bus/business-filings/Pages/default.aspx

Regulations, part 1193, to the extent the vendor's products or services may be covered by that act. Vendor agrees to promptly respond to and resolve any complaint regarding accessibility of its products or services which is brought to its attention.

Section 40 Funding Limitations If any or all responses received exceed the amount of funding available, then the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, reserves the right to cancel this

RFB.

Section 41 Provisions for Termination of the Contract Any contract resulting from this solicitation shall be subject to the termination provisions set forth in KRS Chapter 45A.

Section 42 Disclosure of Violation of Statutes Pursuant to KRS 45A.485, contractors are required to reveal final determinations of violation of certain statutes incurred within the last five (5) years and be in continuous compliance with those statutes during the contract. Where applicable, the vendor is required to complete and submit Report of Prior Violations of Tax and Employment Laws.

Section 43 Nondiscrimination The Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1978 (the “Act”), KRS 45.560 to 45.640, applies to all State government contracts or subcontracts in an amount exceeding $500,000. The contractor shall comply with all terms and conditions of the Act.

During the performance of this contract, the Contractor agrees as follows:

(a) The Contractor shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, age forty (40) and over, disability, veteran status, or national origin or.

(b) The Contractor shall take affirmative action in regard to employment, upgrading, demotion or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training, so as to ensure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, age forty (40) and over, disability, veteran status, and national origin. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following:;

(c) The Contractor shall state in all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or on behalf of the Contractor that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age forty (40) and over, disability, veteran status, or national origin.

(d) The Contractor shall post notices in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, setting forth the provisions of this non-discrimination clause.

The Contractor shall send a notice to each labor union or representative of workers with which he/she has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding advising the said labor union or workers' representative of the Contractor's commitments under this nondiscrimination clause.

The Contractor's noncompliance with the nondiscrimination clauses of this contract shall constitute a material breach of the contract.

Each Contractor shall, for the length of the contract or at the point at which the contract is covered by this Act and until its conclusion, furnish such information as required by the Act and any rules, regulations and orders issued pursuant thereto and permit access to all books and records pertaining to his employment practices and work sites by the contracting agency and the Cabinet to ascertain compliance with the Act.

This section applies to agreements disbursing federal funds, in whole or part, only when the terms for receiving those funds mandate its inclusion.

Section 44 All provisions of this solicitation and the provisions of FWP-110-10-00 shall be part of any resulting contract.

Section 45 Bidder, Offeror, or Contractor Mandatory Representations Compliance with

Commonwealth Law

The contractor represents that, pursuant to KRS 45A.485, they and any subcontractor performing work under the contract will be in continuous compliance with the KRS chapters listed below and have revealed to the Commonwealth any violation determinations within the previous five (5) years:

KRS Chapter 136 (CORPORATION AND UTILITY TAXES) KRS Chapter 139 (SALES AND USE TAXES) KRS Chapter 141 (INCOME TAXES) KRS Chapter 337 (WAGES AND HOURS) KRS Chapter 338 (OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH OF EMPLOYEES) KRS Chapter 341 (UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION) KRS Chapter 342 (WORKERS' COMPENSATION)

Boycott Provisions If applicable, the contractor represents that, pursuant to KRS 45A.607, they are not currently engaged in, and will not for the duration of the contract engage in, the boycott of a person or an entity based in or doing business with a jurisdiction with which Kentucky can enjoy open trade. Note: The term Boycott does not include actions taken for bona fide business or economic reasons, or actions specifically required by federal or state law.

If applicable, the contractor verifies that, pursuant to KRS 41.480, they do not engage in, https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=22431 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=37644 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=37663 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=37674 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38890 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38899 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38902 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38914 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=48539 and will not for the duration of the contract engage in, in energy company boycotts as defined by KRS 41.472.

Lobbying Prohibitions The contractor represents that they, and any subcontractor performing work under the contract, have not violated the agency restrictions contained in KRS 11A.236 during the previous ten (10) years, and pledges to abide by the restrictions set forth in such statute for the duration of the contract awarded.

The contractor further represents that, pursuant to KRS 45A.328, they have not procured an original, subsequent, or similar contract while employing an executive agency lobbyist who was convicted of a crime related to the original, subsequent, or similar contract within five (5) years of the conviction of the lobbyist.

Section 46 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Vendor agrees to adhere to CIO-126 Artificial Intelligence Policy.pdf, which includes but is not limited to, the required written disclosure, in advance, of every use of generative AI and/or integrations with generative AI system. Vendor agrees to disclose all parts of contracted work that is expected to be or will be performed with the assistance of AI. Further, Vendor understands and agrees to take appropriate measures to ensure Generative AI shall not be used for any activities that are illegal or in violation of state policy, COT policy, or agency policy per CIO-126. Vendors may not use Commonwealth confidential or internal data in generative AI queries or for building or training proprietary generative AI programs unless explicitly approved in writing by the agency head with consultation from the COT Chief Information Officer. Vendor agrees to provide reasonable written notice of any issue of noncompliance with these requirements.

Section 47 Insurance Requirements

** Proof of all required insurances should be provided prior to award**

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) on an ACORD form is required unless approved by the KDFWR’s Buyer.

A. Required Coverage The awarded vendor(s) shall be responsible for maintaining, and not reducing, the following insurance coverages, types, and limits of liability. Further awarded vendor shall be able to produce evidence of insurance in compliance with 47 (C) through the entire contract:

Commercial General Liability Insurance in accordance with minimum limits of liability of $1,000,000.00 per occurrence, $2,000,000.00 aggregate. The KDFWR, in the Request for Solicitation, may require higher limits depending on the type of https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=50541 https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=52935 https://technology.ky.gov/policies-and-procedures/PoliciesProcedures/CIO-126%20Artificial%20Intelligence%20Policy.pdf solicitation.

B. Additional Types of Insurance (*The KDFWR reserves the right to require higher coverage amounts if needed based on the type of contract and associated risk)

1. Automobile Liability Insurance (If Applicable)

Automobile Liability Insurance is required for delivery, onsite training, services or events in all situations where the Contractor must drive to any property where KDFWR operations occur. With regard to delivery, if the items requested in this solicitation will be delivered by the awarded Contractor or Subcontractor, proof of Automobile Liability Insurance must be provided prior to award. If items will be delivered by common courier (USPS, FedEx, UPS, Old Dominion Freight Line, etc.), this requirement does not apply.

The Contractor or Subcontractor must provide a certificate of insurance coverage for any vehicle used in performance of this contract, whether owned, non-owned, or hired, or other vehicles utilized by the Contractor or Subcontractor. Said policy of insurance to have a minimum coverage limit of $1,000,000.00 per occurrence combined single limit for bodily injury, including death, and property damage.

This requirement does not apply if the Contractor does not own, lease, or hire any automobiles to be used in connection with performance under any Contract resulting from this Solicitation.

2. Professional Liability Insurance (If Applicable)

Professional Liability (Error & Omissions) Insurance shall be required for all professional services performed by licensed or certificated individuals or individuals working on behalf of licensed or certificated individuals. The required Professional Liability Insurance shall have a minimum limit of liability of $1,000,000.00 per claim for damages arising out of negligent acts, errors, and/or omissions in the performance of services.

C. Evidence of Insurance Coverage

The successful bidder shall provide evidence of insurance coverage as required.

Failure to do so shall constitute a material breach of this Contract and may result in immediate cancellation of the Contract.

For all required insurance coverages, during the course of the Contract, the awarded vendor shall not be self-insured or utilize a Captive Insurer or a fronting policy that shifts risk back to the awarded vendor without prior written approval by the KDFWR.

Further, the awarded vendor shall not utilize an insurer or similar entity not in good standing with the Insurance Commissioner to fulfill the insurance requirements of the contract without prior written approval by the KDFWR.

Such approvals may require additional financial review, proof of funds, or bonding requirements sufficient for the risk associated with the services covered by the Contract, and approval or rejection is within the sole discretion of the

KDFWR.

Contractor shall furnish the Certificate of Insurance prior to award and shall, upon request of the KDFWR at any time during the contract term, provide a current, valid Certificate of Insurance.

Contractor and/or its insurer shall provide immediate notice of nonrenewal or cancellation of coverage during the course of the Contract.

All Certificates of Insurance must be signed by an authorized representative of the insurance agency, shall be in compliance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and shall be placed with a licensed resident or non-resident agent who represents insurance companies authorized to do business in Kentucky.

The insurer shall have an AM Best rating of B+ or higher. Visit www.ambest.com for verification. Failure to meet this requirement may result in the bid being deemed non-responsive. A list of authorized companies can be found at https://insurance.ky.gov/ppc/Company/Default.aspx.

The certificate holder shall be listed as:

KY Dept of Fish and Wildlife Resources Purchasing Branch #1 Sportsman’s Lane Frankfort, KY 40601

Endorsement of Additional Insured. Certificate of Insurance must contain the following language in the Description of Operations box:

“The KDFWR and its agents as an Additional Insured for the contract resulting from the solicitation. Additional insured protection afforded is on a primary and non-contributory basis.”

A copy of the Endorsement of Additional Insured must be submitted with the Certificate of Insurance.

D. Subcontractors

If the contract allows for Subcontractors and utilizes Subcontractors, prior to the commencement of any work by a Subcontractor.

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