CLT09 RFR_Amendment_12_6_2024 (2).pdf

Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published. Template v 4.1.0

COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

OPERATIONAL SERVICES DIVISION

Request for Response (RFR)

Document Title: Clothing, Uniforms, Footwear, Accessories, Personal Care Products, and Bedding

Agency Document Number: CLT09

COMMBUYS Bid#: BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399

November 4, 2024 Amended December 3, 2024 Amended December 6, 2024

Please Note: This is a single document associated with a complete Bid (also referred to as Solicitation) that can be found on www.COMMBUYS.com. Bidders are responsible for reviewing and complying with all Bid requirements. Bidders may contact the OSD Help Desk at OSDHelpdesk@mass.gov or at 1-888-MA-STATE for technical assistance with COMMBUYS. The Help Desk is staffed from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday Eastern time, as applicable, except on federal and state holidays.

Bidders with disabilities or hardships that seek reasonable accommodation, which may include the receipt of RFR information in an alternative format, must communicate such requests in writing to the contact person. Requests for accommodation will be addressed on a case-by-case basis. A Bidder requesting accommodation must submit a written statement which describes the Bidder’s disability and the requested accommodation to the contact person for the RFR. The SST reserves the right to reject unreasonable requests.

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/cis/cishol/holidx.htm https://www.sec.state.ma.us/cis/cishol/holidx.htm

REQUEST FOR RESPONSE CLT09

Revision History

Version Number

Date Author Brief Description

1.0 11/04/2024 K. Minichello Initial release

2.0 12/03/2024 K. Minichello Q&A & Bid Amendment Deadline Adjustment

Updates are highlighted in Turquoise

3.0 12/06/2024 K. Minichello Section 2.2.13: Category 13: Miscellaneous

Services Clarification Section 2.3: Sample Request Section 3.7: Letters of Authorization from Manufacturers Section 4.5: Ordering and Quotes (updated link) Glossary: Added Fulfillment Services Updates are highlighted in Yellow

Table of Contents Page i Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

SECTION 2.2.13: CATEGORY 13: MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES CLARIFICATION ............................................II SECTION 2.3: SAMPLE REQUEST ....................................................................................................................II SECTION 3.7: LETTERS OF AUTHORIZATION FROM MANUFACTURERS .........................................................II SECTION 4.5: ORDERING AND QUOTES (UPDATED LINK) ..............................................................................II

1 INTRODUCTION AND BID OVERVIEW

1.1 SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF PROCUREMENT

1.2 ESTIMATED PROCUREMENT CALENDAR

1.2.1 SUBMISSION OF BID QUESTIONS

1.2.2 BID AMENDMENT DEADLINE

1.2.3 BIDDERS CONFERENCE

1.2.4 LATE BIDS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

1.2.5 DEBRIEFING

1.3 ADDITIONAL BID INFORMATION

1.3.1 ANTICIPATED CONTRACT DURATION:

(REOPEN OPTION SEE: ADDING VENDORS AFTER INITIAL CONTRACT AWARD)

1.3.2 PERFORMANCE AND PAYMENT TIME FRAMES WHICH EXCEED CONTRACT DURATION

1.3.3 ESTIMATED VALUE OF THE CONTRACT

1.3.4 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF AWARDS

1.3.5 CONTRACT RENEWAL

1.3.6 ADDING VENDORS AFTER INITIAL CONTRACT AWARD

1.3.7 ACQUISITION METHOD(S):

1.3.8 ENTITIES ELIGIBLE TO USE THE RESULTING CONTRACT

2 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON PROCUREMENT SCOPE

2.1 PROCUREMENT EXCLUSIONS

2.2 CATEGORY OVERVIEW

2.2.1 CATEGORY 1: UNIFORMS

2.2.2 CATEGORY 2: FOOTWEAR

2.2.3 CATEGORY 3: ATHLETIC WEAR

2.2.4 CATEGORY 4: UNDERGARMENTS, HOSIERY, NIGHTWEAR

2.2.5 CATEGORY 5: OUTERWEAR

2.2.6 CATEGORY 6: INCARCERATED INDIVIDUALS CLOTHING

2.2.7 CATEGORY 7: ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE CLOTHING

2.2.8 CATEGORY 8: LINENS AND BEDDING

2.2.9 CATEGORY 9: PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS CLARIFICATION

2.2.10 CATEGORY 10: DOC UNIFORMS SPECIFICATIONS

2.2.11 CATEGORY 11: MSP UNIFORMS SPECIFICATIONS

2.2.12 CATEGORY 12: MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS CLARIFICATION

2.2.13 CATEGORY 13: MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES CLARIFICATION

2.3 SAMPLE REQUEST

3 BIDDER QUALIFICATIONS

3.1 COMPANY EXPERIENCE

3.1.1 BUSINESS BACKGROUND

3.1.2 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

Table of Contents Page ii Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

3.2 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS

3.3 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

3.4 EMERGENCY RESPONSE CAPABILITIES

3.5 FINANCIAL STABILITY INCLUDING BANKRUPTCY, LITIGATION AND CONTRACT DEFAULTS

3.5.1 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR 3 OF THE MOST RECENTLY COMPLETED FISCAL YEARS

3.5.2 CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING

3.5.3 BANKRUPTCY, LITIGATION, AND CONTRACT DEFAULTS

3.6 REFERENCES AND REFERENCE INFORMATION AND/OR REQUIREMENTS

3.7 LETTERS OF AUTHORIZATION FROM MANUFACTURERS

4 COMMODITY, SERVICE, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND COST SPECIFICATIONS

4.1 COMMODITY SPECIFICATIONS

4.1.1 COLORS

4.1.2 LABELS

4.1.3 DRY CLEAN ONLY

4.1.4 FLAME-RETARDANT

4.1.5 SIZES (PRE-PACKED)

4.1.6 APPROVALS AND STANDARDS

4.1.7 NEW PRODUCTS ONLY

4.1.8 OUT OF SEASON/DISCONTINUED PRODUCTS

4.1.9 DELIVERY TERMS

4.2 RETURNS/DISPOSAL

4.3 WARRANTIES

4.3.1 LENGTH OF WARRANTY

4.3.2 WARRANTY TYPES

4.3.3 WARRANTY PROCESS AND COVERAGE

4.4 GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE

4.5 ORDERING AND QUOTES

4.6 ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS

4.6.1 ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFIT CLAIMS/LABELING

4.6.2 REQUIRED ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS

4.6.3 DESIRABLE ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS

4.6.4 ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN

4.6.5 ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES FORM

4.7 COMPENSATION STRUCTURE/PRICING

4.7.1 COMMBUYS SETUP

4.7.2 VOLUME PURCHASE DISCOUNTS BASED ON A DOLLAR ($ USD) SPEND (VPD)

4.7.3 TIERED DISCOUNTS

4.7.4 DOCK DELIVERY DISCOUNTS (DDD)

4.7.5 TRAVEL EXPENSES AND ALL OTHER EXPENSES

4.7.6 PROMPT PAY DISCOUNT

4.7.7 AUTHORIZED PRICE CHANGES

5 SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PLAN (SDP)

5.1 PROGRAM BACKGROUND

5.2 FINANCIAL COMMITMENT REQUIREMENTS

5.3 ELIGIBLE SDP PARTNER CERTIFICATION CATEGORIES

5.4 ELIGIBLE TYPES OF BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS

Table of Contents Page iii Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

5.5 PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY

5.6 SDP PLAN FORM REQUIREMENTS

5.7 EVALUATION OF SDP FORMS

5.8 SDP SPENDING REPORTS AND COMPLIANCE

5.9 SDP SPENDING VERIFICATION

5.10 PROGRAM RESOURCES AND ASSISTANCE

6 EVALUATION CRITERIA

6.1 MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

6.2 ALTERNATIVES

6.3 EVALUATION COMPONENTS

6.3.1 PRICE COMPONENTS

6.3.2 SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PLAN

6.4 BEST VALUE SELECTION AND NEGOTIATION

7 INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMISSION OF RESPONSES

7.1 ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES

7.1.1 ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF SIGNATURE

7.2 LIMITS AND RESTRICTIONS

7.2.1 FILE SIZE LIMITS

7.2.2 FILE FORMAT RESTRICTIONS

7.2.3 FILE NAMING CONVENTIONS

7.3 GENERAL QUOTE REQUIREMENTS, PROVISIONS, AND PROHIBITIONS

7.3.1 QUOTE CONTENT

7.3.2 NON-COLLUSION

7.3.3 MULTIPLE QUOTES

7.3.4 MINIMUM QUOTE DURATION

7.3.5 BIDDER’S CONTACT INFORMATION

7.3.6 OWNERSHIP OF SUBMITTED QUOTES

7.3.7 PROHIBITIONS

7.3.8 PUBLIC RECORDS LAW

7.3.9 REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION

8 REQUIREMENTS FOR DOING BUSINESS AFTER CONTRACT AWARD

8.1 REQUIRED FORMS

8.2 USE OF COMMBUYS

8.3 STATEWIDE CONTRACT VENDOR COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL

8.3.1 CHANGES TO VENDOR’S INFORMATION

8.3.2 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT

8.3.3 REPLACEMENT OF VENDOR STAFF

8.4 VENDOR RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT

8.4.1 SUPPLIER BUSINESS REVIEWS

8.5 PERFORMANCE MEASURES

8.5.1 CONTINUED QUALIFICATION BASED ON PERFORMANCE

8.5.2 FAILURE TO PERFORM CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

8.5.3 CORRECTIVE ACTION, SUSPENSION AND TERMINATION

Table of Contents Page iv Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

8.6 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS AND DUE DATES

8.6.1 REPORTING AND PAYMENT DUE DATES

8.6.2 QUARTERLY SALES, SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM EXPENDITURE, AND ENVIRONMENTALLY

PREFERABLE PRODUCTS REPORT

8.6.3 STATEWIDE CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION QUARTERLY FEE PAYMENT AND REPORT

8.6.4 AUDIT

8.6.5 OTHER TERMS

8.6.6 AD HOC REPORTS

8.7 PAYMENT RELATED TERMS

8.7.1 BILL PAYMENT

8.7.2 LATE PAYMENT FEES

8.7.3 ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER (EFT)

8.7.4 CREDITWORTHINESS

8.7.5 TAX EXEMPTION

9 RFR APPENDICES

9.1 APPENDIX 1: REQUIRED TERMS FOR ALL STATEWIDE RFRS

9.1.1 APPLICABLE PROCUREMENT LAW

9.1.2 GENERAL PROCUREMENT INFORMATION

9.1.3 TERMS AND REQUIREMENTS PERTAINING TO AWARDED STATEWIDE CONTRACTS

9.2 APPENDIX 2: INSTRUCTIONS FOR VENDORS RESPONDING TO BIDS ELECTRONICALLY

THROUGH COMMBUYS

9.3 APPENDIX 3: SCOPE OF GOODS AND SERVICES FOR DOC UNIFORMS

9.3.1 DOC ITEM NO. 1 – UNIFORM OFFICER TROUSERS

9.3.2 DOC ITEM NO. 2 – CORRECTIONAL OFFICER LONG SLEEVE SHIRTS

9.3.3 DOC ITEM NO. 3 – CORRECTIONAL OFFICER SHORT SLEEVE SHIRTS

9.3.4 RESTRICTION ON OTHER ENTITIES

9.3.5 CHANGES TO DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION UNIFORMS SPECIFICATIONS

9.4 APPENDIX 4: SCOPE OF GOODS AND SERVICES FOR MSP UNIFORMS

9.4.1 OVERVIEW

9.4.2 MSP UNIFORMS SAMPLES

9.4.3 PRICE QUOTE FOR MSP UNIFORMS

9.4.4 CUSTOM MADE TO MEASURE OR CUSTOM MADE TO ORDER

9.4.5 RESTRICTION ON OTHER ENTITIES

9.4.6 MSP UNIFORMS DELIVERY SCHEDULE FOR MSP RECRUIT TRAINING CLASS

9.4.7 MSP ITEM NO. 1 – UNIFORM BLOUSE COAT

9.4.8 MSP ITEM NO. 2 – COMMISSIONED OFFICER BLOUSE COAT

9.4.9 MSP ITEM NO. 3 – UNIFORM BREECHES

9.4.10 MSP ITEM NO. 4 – COMMISSIONED OFFICER BREECHES

9.4.11 MSP ITEM NO. 5 – UNIFORM SLACKS

9.4.12 MSP ITEM NO. 6 – COMMISSIONED OFFICER SLACKS

9.4.13 MSP ITEM NO. 7 – STATE POLICE LONG SLEEVE WINTER SHIRTS

9.4.14 MSP ITEM NO. 8 – STATE POLICE SHORT SLEEVE SUMMER SHIRTS

9.4.15 MSP ITEM NO. 9 – STATE POLICE WINTER FIELD COAT

9.4.16 MSP ITEM NO. 10 – STATE POLICE FIELD JACKETS COAT

9.4.17 CHANGES TO MASSACHUSETTS STATE POLICE UNIFORMS SPECIFICATIONS

10 GLOSSARY

Table of Contents Page v Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 1 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

1 INTRODUCTION AND BID OVERVIEW

1.1 Summary Description of Procurement

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the CLT09 Strategic Sourcing Team (SST) are soliciting Bidders for the acquisition of Clothing, Uniforms, Footwear, Accessories, Personal Care Products, and Bedding. The resulting Contract will serve as the primary Statewide Contract used by Executive Agencies of the Commonwealth for the goods and services covered by the Contract. The resulting Contract will replace CLT08. The Contract will also be available for use by other Eligible Entities.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is committed to prioritizing and promoting Sustainable Products and Services in state contracting with both vendors and buyers. We aim to collaborate with businesses that embrace sustainable practices in their operations.

In support of EO604, EO595, EO515, Senate Bill 9: An Act Creating a Next Generation Roadmap for Massachusetts Climate Policy, and the Green Communities Act, and in its capacity as Massachusetts’ procurement agency, the Operational Services Division (OSD) will play a pivotal role in advancing climate-responsible purchasing. OSD is committed to partnering with our business community to offer more products and services that meet the goals of the Commonwealth, and in this contract that includes products that contain recycled content, have obtained third party environmental certifications and standards, and are sustainably and ethically manufactured.

The purpose of this Request for Response (RFR) is to award Statewide Contract CLT09 Clothing, Uniforms, Footwear, Accessories, Personal Care Products, and Bedding. This includes related clothing items. There will be at least two (2) awards made in each of the following thirteen (13) categories:

The Contract will include both Value Added Resellers and Distributors.

1. Uniforms

2. Footwear

3. Athletic Wear

4. Undergarments, Hosiery, and Nightwear

5. Outerwear

6. Incarcerated Individuals Clothing

7. Environmentally Preferable Clothing

8. Linens and Bedding

9. Personal Care Products

10. Department of Correction (DOC) Uniforms

11. Massachusetts State Police (MSP) Uniforms

12. Miscellaneous Items

13. Miscellaneous Services

1.2 Estimated Procurement Calendar

Action Date

Announcement of Intent to Procure 9/18/2024

Bid Release Date 11/04/2024

Bidders Conference (if applicable) 11/14/2024, 1:00-2:00 pm, Held on Zoom, please use this link to register:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/re gister/tZApcu6trjsiGNZGLkKjEAo_H RP4J8nsmhxc https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZApcu6trjsiGNZGLkKjEAo_HRP4J8nsmhxc https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZApcu6trjsiGNZGLkKjEAo_HRP4J8nsmhxc https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZApcu6trjsiGNZGLkKjEAo_HRP4J8nsmhxc https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZApcu6trjsiGNZGLkKjEAo_HRP4J8nsmhxc

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 2 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

Deadline for submission of written questions through COMMBUYS “Bid Q&A”

11/21/2024

Official answers for Bid Q&A published (Estimated)

12/06/2024

Dates and Times Available:

November 13, 2024, 1:00-2:00 PM EST, November 26, 2024, 10:00- 11:00 AM EST, December 10, 2024, 1:00-2:00 PM EST & January 8, 2025, 10:00-11:00 AM EST.

How to Locate and Respond to Bids in COMMBUYS

Training for Online Submission – Vendors that have not previously submitted electronic quotes via COMMBUYS are strongly encouraged to attend training.

Online Webinar:

This interactive webcast provides instructions on several activities:

Locating and responding to bids;

Using the bid Q&A feature; Creating a quote response; Revising a Quote response. Access the webcast here.

Bid Amendment Deadline. Bid documents will not be amended after this date.

12/06/2024

Deadline for Quotes/Bid Responses (“Bid Opening Date/Time” in COMMBUYS)

Late bids will not be considered.

1/9/2025 at 2:00 PM

Notification of Apparent Successful Bidder(s) (Estimated)

03/05/2025

Completion of Online Catalogs (Estimated) 04/22/2025

Estimated Contract Start Date (actual start date will be the contract effective date, which is the date the contract is executed by the parties)

05/1/2025

Note: See Appendix 2, "Instructions for Vendors Responding to Bids Electronically through COMMBUYS" for instructions on how to register for live webinar and additional trainings that may be helpful to prospective bidders.

Visit Vendor Training Catalog for additional Instructor-Led Training and Webinar dates.

Times are Eastern Time (US), as displayed on the COMMBUYS system clock after logging in. If there is a conflict between the dates in this Procurement Calendar and dates in the Bid’s Header, the dates in the Bid’s Header on COMMBUYS shall prevail. Bidders are responsible for checking the Bid record, including Bid Q & A, on COMMBUYS for Procurement Calendar updates.

1.2.1 Submission of Bid Questions

The “Bid Q & A” function in COMMBUYS allows Bidders to ask written questions and receive written answers regarding this Bid. To locate the Bid Q & A, log into COMMBUYS, locate the Bid, acknowledge receipt of the Bid, and scroll down to the bottom of the Bid Header page. The “Bid Q & A” button allows Bidder’s access to the Bid Q & A page.

All questions must be submitted through the Bid Q & A page. Questions must be asked prior to the Deadline stated in the Estimated Procurement Calendar. The Strategic Sourcing Team (SST) reserves the right not to https://attendee.gototraining.com/957t1/rt/900380584172631809?tz=America/New_York https://attendee.gototraining.com/957t1/rt/900380584172631809?tz=America/New_York https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vendor-webinar-how-to-locate-and-respond-to-bids-in-commbuys-online-training-tickets-49997979302 https://attendee.gototraining.com/957t1/catalog/894414649161911296?tz=America/New_York

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 3 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

respond to late questions. Bidders are responsible for verifying that their questions are recorded in COMMBUYS and appear on the Bid Q & A page.

Questions submitted to the SST outside of COMMBUYS will not be answered.

Content entered must be suitable for public viewing. Bidders must not include inappropriate content, including but not limited to, information that could be considered personal, security sensitive, inflammatory, incorrect, or collusory. The SST reserves the right to edit or delete any inappropriate content.

All answers are final when posted. Any subsequent revisions to previously provided answers will be dated.

1.2.2 Bid Amendment Deadline

Although Bidders may submit quotes any time after the Bid Release Date and prior to the Bid Opening Date, Bidders should ensure that their quotes are based upon the final versions of the RFR and its attachments. Final versions of the RFR and its attachments are available after the Bid Amendment Deadline date.

The SST reserves the right to make amendments to the Bid after initial publication. It is each Bidder’s responsibility to check COMMBUYS for any amendments, addenda or modifications to this Bid, and any Bid Q & A records related to this Bid. The SST and the Commonwealth accept no responsibility and will provide no accommodation to Bidders who submit a Quote based on an out-of-date Bid or on information received from a source other than COMMBUYS. At the SST’s discretion, the Bid Amendment Deadline may be extended. As stated above, it is the responsibility of the bidder for checking the Bid record in COMMBUYS for revisions and updates.

1.2.3 Bidders Conference

The Bidders Conference is a physical, web or telephone conference conducted by the SST for the purpose of informing prospective Bidders about general Bid information. All questions related to the scope and technical requirements should be submitted using the Bid Q and A module in COMMBUYS.

Attendance to the Bidders Conference is optional but highly encouraged. Please refer to the Bidders Conference section of the Header Information for this Bid in COMMBUYS for any updated information, including registration, location, time, and date of the Bidders’ Conference.

1.2.4 Late Bids will not be Considered

Bid responses must be received in full by the bid opening date and time shown on COMMBUYS ("Bid Opening Date/Time", i.e., the Deadline for Quotes/Bid Responses). Proposals received after the deadline will be ineligible for consideration and deemed non-responsive. Each bidder must submit all required bid response forms electronically through COMMBUYS. When submitting a quote electronically through COMMBUYS, please allow sufficient time to complete any online forms and upload documents. If you are in the middle of uploading your proposal when the deadline is reached, the system will stop the process, and you will be unable to submit your Bid. It is recommended that Bids be submitted as far in advance as possible before the deadline to allow time to obtain assistance from the OSD Help Desk if needed.

1.2.5 Debriefing

The SST will conduct debriefings for unsuccessful Bidders, if requested within 14 calendar days of notification that your Bid has not been selected for an award. Debriefing guidelines will be provided in advance prior to the debriefing.

1.3 Additional Bid Information

1.3.1 Anticipated Contract Duration:

The initial term of this Contract is 4 (four) years with one (1) option to renew of 6 (six) years 5 (five) months.

In addition, this Contract has 2 (two) reopen options. Reopen Option #1: OSD may reopen the contract during the last quarter of year two. Additional vendors would be contracted for the period of May 1, 2027 - April 30, 2029;

Reopen Option #2: OSD may reopen the contract during the last quarter of year three of the renewal period.

Additional vendors would be contracted for the period of May 1, 2032 - Sept. 30, 2035. The reopen options are at the discretion of the OSD and the Strategic Sourcing Team. See Reopen Options chart below.

(Reopen Option See: Adding Vendors after initial Contract Award)

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 4 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

Contract Duration Number of Years / Months Contract Dates

Initial Duration Four (4) May 1, 2025 -April 30, 2029

Renewal Option Six (6) Years Five (5) Months May 1, 2029 - Sept. 30, 2035

Total Maximum Contract Duration Ten (10) Years Five (5) Months May 1, 2025 - Sept. 30, 2035

Reopen Options Number of Years Contract Duration (for added vendors)

Reopen Option #1 Announcement Nov 2026 – Jan 2027 Two (2) Years May 1, 2027 - April 30, 2029

Reopen Option #2 Announcement Nov 2031 – Jan 2032 Three (3) Years Five (5) Months May 1, 2032 - Sept. 30, 2035

1.3.2 Performance and payment time frames which exceed Contract duration All term leases, rentals, maintenance or other agreements for services entered into during the duration of this Contract and whose performance and payment time frames extend beyond the duration of this Contract shall remain in effect for performance and payment purposes (limited to the time frame and services established per each written agreement). No written agreement shall extend more than three (3) months beyond the final termination date of this Statewide Contract. No new leases, rentals, maintenance, or other agreements for services may be executed after the Contract has expired. Any Vendor entering new engagements with eligible entities after contract expiration will be subject to remedial measures, which may include but are not limited to mandatory point deduction for future bid submissions and suspension of other contracts with OSD.

1.3.3 Estimated Value of the Contract

The estimated value of purchase(s) resulting from this Bid is $9.9 million FY2023. The Commonwealth makes no guarantee that any commodities or services will be purchased from any Contract resulting from this Bid. Any estimates or past procurement volumes referenced in this Bid are included only for the convenience of Bidders and are not to be relied upon as any indication of future purchase levels.

This Estimated Value was derived by reviewing Vendor sales reports indicating sales to Commonwealth of Massachusetts eligible entities for FY2023.

1.3.4 Estimated Number of Awards

The target minimum number of Vendors is at least two (2) per category. The SST may award more or fewer contracts, if it is in the best interests of the Commonwealth to do so.

1.3.5 Contract Renewal

Contract renewals will be offered at the sole discretion of OSD. At a minimum, offers to renew will be contingent upon satisfactory vendor performance, compliance with reporting requirements, meeting agreed upon key performance indicators and other performance measures, and adequate sales volume.

1.3.6 Adding Vendors after initial Contract Award

OSD and the SST may determine during the life of this contract that additional Vendors are necessary to meet Eligible Entity’s needs and/or to obtain additional products or services. Additional Vendors may first be drawn from qualified Bidders which responded to this Bid but were not awarded contracts and/or the Bid may be reopened to obtain Quotes from additional Bidders. Contract reopening will be offered at the sole discretion of

OSD.

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 5 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

1.3.7 Acquisition Method(s):

Check All Applicable (“X”):

Category

X Fee-For-Service X Outright Purchase

Rental (not to exceed 6 months) Term Lease License Other:

1.3.8 Entities Eligible to Use the Resulting Contract

Any Contract(s) resulting from this Bid will be open for use by the following entities:

Cities, towns, districts, counties, and other political subdivisions

Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches, including all Departments and elected offices therein

Independent public authorities, commissions, and quasi-public agencies

Local public libraries, public school districts and charter schools

Public hospitals owned by the Commonwealth

Public institutions of higher education

Public purchasing cooperatives

Non-profit organizations that are doing business with the Commonwealth;

Other states and territories and their cities, towns, districts, counties, other political subdivisions, and public institutions of higher education with no prior approval by the State Purchasing Agent; and

Other entities when designated in writing by the State Purchasing Agent.

Each Eligible Entity is responsible for executing its own purchase orders and paying its own invoices for goods and/or services acquired from this Contract. Vendors will be responsible for marketing their goods and/or services to Commonwealth Agencies and other eligible entities.

2 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON PROCUREMENT SCOPE

See section 1.1 Summary Description of Procurement

2.1 Procurement Exclusions

The following items are not allowed to be sold on this contract but may be purchased through the noted Statewide Contracts or their successors:

Rental of clothing & uniforms: FAC111: Facilities and Uniforms Management Services Promotional purposes clothing: OFF48: Print, Copy & Mail Services, and Printed Promotional Products

2.2 Category Overview

2.2.1 Category 1: Uniforms

Products in this category pertain to the distinctive clothing worn by members of the same body or organization, with the exception of the Department of Correction (DOC), Massachusetts State Police (MSP), and incarcerated individuals residing in DOC facilities.

2.2.2 Category 2: Footwear

Products in this category pertain to all coverings for the feet, including shoes, boots and/or sandals

2.2.3 Category 3: Athletic Wear

Products in this category include all attire worn for sport, or other physical activities.

https://www.mass.gov/service-details/non-profit-purchasing-programs

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 6 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

2.2.4 Category 4: Undergarments, Hosiery, Nightwear

Products in this category include clothing meant to be worn under another, such as intimate clothing, stockings, and other forms of underwear.

2.2.5 Category 5: Outerwear

Products in this category pertain to clothes such as sweaters, coats, or jackets that you wear over other clothing when outside.

2.2.6 Category 6: Incarcerated individuals Clothing

Products in this category pertain to all clothing relegated and reserved for incarcerated individuals. This would include uniforms, undergarments, socks, etc.

2.2.7 Category 7: Environmentally Preferable Clothing

Products in this category must be made with recycled content or appear on the PFAS Central PFAS-Free Products List or are made with repurposed fibers in the manufacturing process. Products may also have achieved an environmental third-party certifications or standard. Such standards include, but are not limited to:

USDA Certified Organic Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) OKEO -Tex 100 Standard OEKO-TEX STeP Standard

BLUESIGN

EcoCert Fairtrade Certified Clothing & Textiles Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) - Made without Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl

Substances (PFAS), including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) - Made without added antimicrobial treatments.

Such products typically represent significant energy savings in the manufacturing process and sometimes may not require dry cleaning.

2.2.8 Category 8: Linens and Bedding

Products in this category include but are not limited to fabric-woven household goods intended for daily use, such as bedding, tablecloths, and towel.

2.2.9 Category 9: Personal Care Products Clarification

Personal Care Products include, but are not limited to, soaps, hair care products, feminine care products, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and grooming products. It is desirable to offer personal care products that are certified by US EPA Safer Choice, UL Ecologo and GreenSeal.

2.2.10 Category 10: DOC Uniforms Specifications

Specifications for the DOC Uniform category appear as an appendix within this RFR. DOC Uniforms is Appendix

3. All interested Bidders for this category must review the specifications and respond accordingly on the Bidder Response Form and Price and Qualifications Sheet.

2.2.11 Category 11: MSP Uniforms Specifications

Specifications for the MSP Uniforms category appear as an appendix within this RFR. MSP Uniforms is Appendix

4. All interested Bidders for this category must review the specifications and respond accordingly on the Bidder Response Form and Price and Qualifications Sheet.

2.2.12 Category 12: Miscellaneous Items Clarification

Miscellaneous Items include, but are not limited to, badges, pins, collar ornaments, patches, hand cuff buckles, whistle chains, field scarf retaining pins, duty belts, holsters, cuff cases, cloth ranks, Velcro rank badges/bars, hats, mourning pins, and mourning bands.

2.2.13 Category 13: Miscellaneous Services Clarification

Miscellaneous Services include, but are not limited to, sizing and fitting, tailoring, embroidering, screening, adding patches/logos, dry cleaning, laundry services and fulfillment services. Fulfillment Services, also known as Pick and Pack Services, may include the aggregation of several clothing categories and personal care products into one packaged bundle. Packaged bundles may require distribution including but not limited to care shelters, group homes, new mothers and at-risk children and adults.

https://massgov.sharepoint.com/sites/OSD-TEAMS-RFRReview/Shared%20Documents/General/CLT09%20RFR%202024/CLT09%20RFR_Review_2024.docx https://massgov.sharepoint.com/sites/OSD-TEAMS-RFRReview/Shared%20Documents/General/CLT09%20RFR%202024/CLT09%20RFR_Review_2024.docx https://massgov.sharepoint.com/sites/OSD-TEAMS-RFRReview/Shared%20Documents/General/CLT09%20RFR%202024/CLT09%20RFR_Review_2024.docx https://massgov.sharepoint.com/sites/OSD-TEAMS-RFRReview/Shared%20Documents/General/CLT09%20RFR%202024/CLT09%20RFR_Review_2024.docx https://massgov.sharepoint.com/sites/OSD-TEAMS-RFRReview/Shared%20Documents/General/CLT09%20RFR%202024/CLT09%20RFR_Review_2024.docx https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-standard-100 https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-standard-100 https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-step https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-step https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.bluesign.com/en/ https://www.ecocert.com/en https://www.ecocert.com/en https://www.ecocert.com/en https://www.ecocert.com/en https://www.ecocert.com/en https://www.ecocert.com/en https://www.ecocert.com/en https://www.ecocert.com/en https://www.fairtradeamerica.org/shop-fairtrade/fairtrade-products/clothing-textiles/ https://www.fairtradeamerica.org/shop-fairtrade/fairtrade-products/clothing-textiles/ https://massgov.sharepoint.com/sites/OSD-TEAMS-RFRReview/Shared%20Documents/General/CLT09%20RFR%202024/CLT09%20RFR_Review_2024.docx

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 7 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

2.3 Sample Request

Eligible entities can request samples after contract award for all categories at any time throughout the life of Statewide Contract.

Purchasing Entities may request product samples from Awarded Contractors to assist in the quoting process after

CLT09 award. Awarded Contractors may not charge a Purchasing Entity for product samples.

Any products provided as a sample will be retained by the Purchasing Entity unless otherwise specified by

Contractor.

3 BIDDER QUALIFICATIONS

3.1 Company Experience

3.1.1 Business background

Bidders are required to submit a short business profile outlining the bidder’s overall operations related to providing goods and services offered under this bid. Bidders must provide detailed information regarding a Bidder’s experience servicing government and/or commercial accounts, including the number of years working with each account. Bidders must also include the number of years in business or number of years of experience of the principal(s) of the company.

3.1.2 Years in the Industry

Bidders must have been in the business of providing goods and services covered in this Contract for at least three (3) of the most recent consecutive years prior to the RFR submission deadline. See RFR Section 1.2:

Estimated Procurement Calendar.

In the case of companies formed fewer than 3 years prior to this date via merger, acquisition or some other means, the SST may consider the experience of all companies involved in the merger or acquisition.

3.2 Regulatory Requirements

Vendor certifies that all manufacturers shall comply in all respects with M.G.L. c. 7, s. 22 (19). See RFR Section 3.7: Letters of Authorization from Manufacturers

Vendor further certifies that all clothing or apparel to be sold to eligible entities pursuant to this contract are manufactured in facilities that produce sewn goods under lawful, humane conditions. During the contract term, including any renewals, Vendor shall comply with any request by OSD or its designated agent to demonstrate compliance with this condition is current. Vendor shall be responsible for demonstrating through an independent body that they have satisfied the requirement of producing goods under lawful, humane conditions. See RFR Section 9.1.3.1.1: Human Trafficking and Forced Labor Prohibition

Vendor acknowledges the Commonwealth requires as a term of this Agreement that the Vendor complies fully with all State and Federal laws and regulations regarding human trafficking and forced labor.

3.3 Insurance Requirements

All Bidders must carry insurance for General Liability, Auto, Property, Personal Injury, and Worker’s Compensation. Bidder must certify in the Bidder Response Form that they carry each of the required insurances.

The CLT09 SST and OSD may require proof of insurances. The CLT09 SST and OSD reserve the right to impose a minimum requirement for insurance coverage value.

3.4 Emergency Response Capabilities

Bidder are required to proved contact details on the Bidder Response Form for an individual who can be reached 24 hours a day, or as near to 24 hours as possible, in case of emergency purchasing requirements.

3.5 Financial stability including bankruptcy, litigation and contract defaults Bidder must supply and detail financial stability see RFR Sections 3.5.1, 3.5.2 and 3.5.3 below, as well as any previous bankruptcies, litigation and contract defaults. No exceptions.

https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleII/Chapter7/Section22

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 8 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

3.5.1 Financial statements for 3 of the most recently completed fiscal years Bidders must provide Gross Annual Revenue for each of the last 3 completed fiscal years.

3.5.2 Certificate of Good Standing

Bidders must provide a Certificate of Good Standing from the Department of Revenue (DOR). Visit DOR website https://www.mass.gov/info-details/faqs-dor-certificate-of-good-standing-or-corporate-tax-lien-waiver for more information.

For out of state Bidder: if a certificate from DOR is not available, Bidder must provide a suitable alternative to be reviewed by the SST. The SST reserves the right to request additional information/clarification.

3.5.3 Bankruptcy, litigation, and contract defaults

Bidders must provide a list of any outstanding contingencies, such as lawsuits or other claims or charges, against the Bidder related to performance of the services sought under this RFR from the last 5 years.

No contract will be awarded without a statement of financial stability.

3.6 References and reference information and/or requirements

Bidders must submit a minimum of three (3) business references. See below for additional information:

o This can be in the form of names and contact information.

o At least one (1) reference should be reflective of a high volume order, similar in scope and size as

CLT09.

o No more than one (1) reference may be a Commonwealth of MA Agency.

o Under no circumstance may a bidder use a CLT09 SST member as a reference. Any references submitted with a CLT09 SST member will not be considered.

3.7 Letters of Authorization from Manufacturers

All Bidders must respond “YES” to the Question regarding “Letters of Authorization from Manufacturers Requirements” in the Bidder Response Form to acknowledge these requirements. Any Bidder who does not answer “YES” may be disqualified.

Letters of authorization must be submitted, for each manufacturer, on the manufacturer’s letter head, for each category as a condition of award. Each authorization letter is proof that the Bidder has an active relationship with the manufacturer to sell each manufacturer’s product(s). If any manufacturer, in a Bidder’s response is not confirmed by a letter of authorization, that manufacturer will not be evaluated. Vendors may request to add new manufacturers two (2) times per year, August 15 and February 15 annually. See RFR Section 4.7.7 Authorized Price Changes for more details.

Letters of authorization must certify that the manufacturer shall comply in all respects with M.G.L. c.

7, s. 22 (19). Please reference Section 3.2 Regulatory Requirements.

In addition, for Bidders responding to the following categories for Category 10:DOC Uniform Specifications and/or Category 11:MSP Uniform Specifications must submit a letter of authorization from each original garment manufacturer. Specifically, within the uniform’s construction industry.

Letters of authorization must be scanned into PDF format and submitted as one (1) document (maximum 10 MB; if larger, Bidder must separate into multiple documents so that all files are less than 10 MB in size).

4 COMMODITY, SERVICE, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND COST SPECIFICATIONS

4.1 Commodity Specifications

4.1.1 Colors

All clothing items must be machine washable and color fast, unless specified as Dry Clean Only. An assortment of colors must be available for all items listed unless otherwise stated. Delivered items must be the colors stated on the purchase order, substitute colors will be returned at the Vendor’s expense.

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/faqs-dor-certificate-of-good-standing-or-corporate-tax-lien-waiver

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 9 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

4.1.2 Labels

All items must have original labels sewn in, stating the following: contents, size, care instructions, country of origin and brand name. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts reserves the right to reject any item(s) delivered without the proper labeling.

4.1.3 Dry Clean Only

Awarded Vendors must clearly identify and label products that are Dry Clean Only. Any damages associated to a Vendor’s failure to properly identify a product as Dry Clean Only will be reimbursed by the Vendor to the Purchasing Entity.

4.1.4 Flame-retardant

All clothing must comply with General Law – Part I, Title II, Chapter 21A, Section 28. If an item requires flame retardants, it should be disclosed to buyers in all catalogs or price files.

4.1.5 Sizes (Pre-Packed)

Purchasing Entities will only accept pre-packed items of the same size. Pre-packed items that are delivered in a variety of sizes will not be accepted. All sizes are to be true to size (i.e. XL 44-46) and must be in accordance with established industry standards.

4.1.6 Approvals and Standards

All products must meet or exceed current applicable UL, ASTM, and ANSI/ISEA standards.

4.1.7 New Products Only

All goods sold through CLT09 must be new products only. Awarded Vendors are not permitted to sell used, refurbished, or repurposed products. This requirement does not restrict the Environmentally Preferable Clothing category from using repurposed materials in the manufacturing of new products from recycled goods.

4.1.8 Out of Season/Discontinued Products

Awarded Vendor’s must notify the requesting Purchasing Entity in writing if any products are out of season or discontinued. Out of season products must be delivered within 60 business days or within a timeframe negotiated between the Purchasing Entity and Vendor.

4.1.9 Delivery Terms

All goods and services acquired through CLT09 are F.O.B. (Free on Board) Destination. Awarded Vendor(s) may not charge additional freight, delivery or fuel charges.

All goods delivered must be new and first-quality. Any item(s) that are determined to not be new or first-quality may be rejected by the Purchasing Entity and returned at the Vendor’s expense.

Awarded Vendors must deliver products to the requesting Commonwealth Agency or Eligible Entity within 30 business days after receipt of order or within a timeframe negotiated between the Purchasing Entity and Vendor.

Products delivered after 30 business days may be deemed unacceptable by the Purchasing Entity and returned to the Vendor at no cost to the Purchasing Entity. Repeated failure to deliver products within 30 business days may result in suspension and/or termination from the contract based on the Category Manager’s discretion.

It is desired that Awarded Vendors are able to provide delivery for non-customized products within ten (10) business days of order confirmation. Bidders may respond with their ability to offer Expedited or Express Delivery in the Bidder’s Response Form.

It is desired that Awarded Vendors are able to provide Expedited Delivery options. Expedited Delivery constitutes a delivery that is faster than standard or Express Delivery timeframes and is expected to range from one (1) day to five (5) days. Awarded Vendors may not charge additional fees for expedited delivery unless given written authorization from the Purchasing Entity. Bidders may respond with their ability to offer Expedited Delivery in the Bidder’s Response Form.

4.2 Returns/Disposal

If any product is damaged or deemed unacceptable by the Purchasing Entity, Awarded Vendor will offer a full refund or replacement product at no additional cost based on the request of the Purchasing Entity. Awarded Vendor will have ten (10) business days to pick up and replace products. If after ten (10) business days, the product has not been picked up it will become the property of the Purchasing Entity at no cost to them.

https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleII/Chapter21A/Section28

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 10 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

If any uniforms, patches, badges, or any related security clothing and/or accessory items are deemed unacceptable by the Purchasing Entity, the Vendor must properly dispose of the unused products based on the requirement(s) of the Purchasing Entity. Certificate of disposal must be given to the Purchasing Entity after disposal is completed. The Purchasing Entity will not pay a fee for disposal of unaccepted products.

4.3 Warranties

All Vendors should always operate in “good faith” under CLT09, which includes not willfully shipping defective or damaged items and being responsive to the needs and interests of eligible entities.

4.3.1 Length of warranty

All products sold through CLT09 must carry a warranty from the manufacturer and be covered for manufacturer defects for one (1) year. All awarded Vendors are responsible for ensuring that product(s) received that do not meet the written guarantees and/or warranties published by the manufacturer are replaced within 30 days of notification by the Purchasing Entity, or within a timeframe negotiated between the Vendor and Purchasing Entity.

The return/exchange/cancellation of any defective product(s) will be done at the Vendor’s expense.

4.3.2 Warranty types

There will be two types of warranties offered, warranties related to defects in materials and workmanship under normal conditions of use, handling, and storage, and warranties related to “non-defect” quality issues. All products and services sold through CLT09 must meet the quality expectations of the Purchasing Entity. Any product(s) that involve Vendor-added services, such as embroidering, tailoring, screening, laundering, or dry cleaning, must meet the quality expectations of the Purchasing Entity when received. If the Purchasing Entity determines that the product(s) they received are below quality expectations, those product(s) may be returned, exchanged, or cancelled at the expense of the Vendor. Any returns, exchanges, or cancellations based on quality issues must be rectified by the Vendor within 30 days of notification by the Purchasing Entity, or within a timeframe negotiated between the Vendor and Purchasing Entity.

4.3.3 Warranty process and coverage

Upon discovery of an issue, the Eligible Entity must contact the Vendor via telephone or email to inform and provide details on the problem. The Vendor will be allotted 7 days to respond. Upon responding, a timeline for return/exchange/cancellation must be established. All returns/exchanges/cancellations must be conducted within thirty (30) days unless otherwise negotiated between the Vendor and the Purchasing Entity.

4.4 Geographic coverage

Though there is no requirement to provide “Statewide” coverage, the ability to do so is highly encouraged.

4.5 Ordering and Quotes

Responding to Eligible Entity’s quote requests is a requirement of this contract. Vendors choosing not to bid must respond to COMMBUYS quote requests with a “no bid” by selecting the “Is No Bid” checkbox on the General tab of the quote. Similarly, Vendors choosing not to bid on quote requests received outside of COMMBUYS must respond with a “no bid”.

Vendors must provide a quote that clearly identifies all commodities, materials, services and/or requirements which may incur costs for the Eligible Entity. All quotes must be for only products and/or services that Vendor is awarded to sell under this Statewide Contract. Furthermore, Vendors may not bill Eligible Entities for costs not identified in the quote or agreed to by the Eligible Entity unless otherwise specified. Only Category Manager approved items can be sold under CLT09, for additional information on adding items please see Section 4.7.7 Authorized Price Changes.

4.6 Environmental Specifications

OSD seeks to enhance climate and environmental practices to assist the Commonwealth in achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 and furthers the Commonwealth’s efforts to combat climate change and protect human health and vulnerable communities.

The SST intends to attract Bidders and partner with vendors capable of providing a robust selection of products and services that include options that are climate and environmentally preferable. These includes products and services that improve energy and water efficiency, accelerate decarbonization of fuels, reduce toxicity, promotes non-ozone depleting and biobased products, promote sustainable manufacturing that includes recycled content and make recycling of products and supplies easier to meet these goals and requirements.

RFR CLT09 COMMBUYS BID NUMBER BD-25-1080-OSD03-OSD03-107399 Page 11 Document Sensitivity Level: High during development; Low once published.

OSD intends to create statewide contracts that promote the goals of the following regulations, policies and executive orders:

Executive Order 515: establishing an Environmental Purchasing Policy for Executive Departments: This EO establishes specifications for sustainable and climate preferable products and services on SWC’s, fosters cost-effective responsible purchasing choices that help reduce impacts on the climate, public health and the environment, and works with agencies, departments, and others to encourage their use in public operations.

View the Environmentally Preferable Products (EPPs) Procurement Program General Information, Requirements and Guidance for detailed information about the program at https://www.mass.gov/doc/epp-general-information-requirements-and-guidance/download.

Executive Order 604 - Establishing the Office Of Climate Innovation and Resilience Within the Office Of the Governor: This EO establishes the first ever Climate Chief cabinet-level position tasked with implementing a whole-of-government approach to addressing climate change. The Office of Climate Innovation & Resilience offers recommendations to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, to build resilient infrastructure and communities, to expand climate workforce development, and to encourage the Commonwealth to become a hub for climate innovation.

Senate Bill 9 - An Act Creating a Next Generation Roadmap for Massachusetts Climate Policy was signed to achieve Net Zero emissions in 2050 and furthers the Commonwealth’s efforts to combat climate change and protect vulnerable communities. The full Act may be viewed at https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S9.

Executive Order 594, Leading By Example: Decarbonizing and Minimizing Environmental Impacts of State Government. EO594 requires all eligible state agencies to assess and implement strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts when planning for and executing projects related to the design, construction, operations, and maintenance of state facilities, and the procurement of goods and services. View EO594: Leading By Example requirements at https://www.mass.gov/executive-orders/no-594-leading-by-example-decarbonizing-and-minimizing-environmental-impacts-of-state-government.

Green Communities Act: The Green Communities Act created the Green Communities Division which provides grants, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators to help municipalities reduce energy use and costs by implementing clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools.

4.6.1 Environmental Benefit Claims/Labeling

Environmental benefit claims concerning products or services must be consistent with the Federal Trade Commissions’ Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Terms. Product environmental claims are to include the industry standard the product meets and certifier. Vendors must agree to offer and clearly label products with sustainability certifications and attributes, when available, within specific product categories. Documentation of the certification claimed by the Vendor must be supplied upon request if it is not publicly available for verification (on either the Vendor’s or certifier’s website).

Vendors claiming environmental benefits of their products shall list the appropriate benefits or industry…