Draft PWS.docx

Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations 287(g) Program

Texas Transportation

PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

December 2025

Confidentiality Statement

WARNING: This document is FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY (FOUO). It contains information that may be exempt from public release under the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552). It is to be controlled, stored, handled, transmitted, distributed, and disposed of in accordance with DHS policy relating to FOUO information and is not to be released to the public or other personnel who do not have a valid “need-to-know” without prior approval of an authorized DHS official.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT

Enforcement and Removal Operations 287(g) Program

STATEWIDE GROUND TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

FOR INDIVIDUALS ARRESTED UNDER THE 287(g) PROGRAM – TEXAS

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

1.0 BACKGROUND

1.0.1 The Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Directorate of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) promotes public safety and national security by identifying, arresting, detaining, and removing aliens who undermine the integrity of U.S. immigration laws or pose a danger to communities.

1.0.2 The 287(g) Program, authorized under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), delegates specific immigration enforcement authority to trained and supervised state and local law enforcement officers (Designated Immigration Officers – DIOs). Texas maintains one of the largest and most active 287(g) programs in the nation, with more than thirteen thousand (13,000) credentialed DIOs.

1.0.3 To maximize the effectiveness of these partnerships and ensure the immediate transfer of custody for removable aliens identified through the program, ERO requires a dedicated, statewide, armed ground transportation capability that provides safe, secure, humane, and expeditious transport services 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year (24/7/365).

1.0.4 These contract transportation services are intended to provide pickup of individuals in the custody of state and local law enforcement partners under 287(g) provisions and delivery to ICE ERO offices within Texas and to ICE offices in the neighboring states of New Mexico and Oklahoma.

1.0.5 This PWS establishes the requirements for a single contractor to provide armed ground transportation services for individuals arrested under the 287(g) Program throughout the State of Texas, with centralized 24/7/365 dispatch operations collocated at the ICE 287(g) National Coordination Center in the greater Nashville, Tennessee area.

1.0.6 As the number of 287(g) partners grows, ICE ERO anticipates transportation needs in all 254 Texas counties. Response time is the key performance metric under this contract. The contractor shall staff and deploy a sufficient number of two-person armed transport teams in Texas to achieve a statewide average response time of 30 minutes or less from dispatch notification to arrival at the pickup location, as calculated on a monthly basis.

2.0 SCOPE OF WORK

2.0.1 The contractor shall provide all management, supervision, personnel, training, certifications, equipment, vehicles, facilities (except space for the dispatch center in the 287(g) National Coordination Center), materials, supplies, and quality control necessary to perform safe, secure, humane, and expeditious armed ground transportation services for individuals placed into ICE custody under the 287(g) Program.

2.0.2 Services shall be provided from any location within the state of Texas and shall include transportation to ICE designated locations, including facilities in Oklahoma and New Mexico, when directed.

2.0.3 Services shall be performed 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year (24/7/365), including all federal holidays and during any periods of lapsed appropriations, with no exceptions.

2.0.4 The Government shall not exercise supervision or control over the contractor’s performance of the services described herein. The contractor’s personnel shall remain accountable solely to the contractor, who, in turn, is responsible to the Government for ensuring that all tasks are performed in accordance with the requirements of this PWS.

2.1 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

2.1.1 The proposed period of performance is four and one-half (4.5) years, structured as:

2.1.1.1 Base Period: 12 months (includes 120-day transition in).

2.1.1.2 Option Period: 42 months.

2.2 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

2.2.1 Primary place of performance: State of Texas (all 254 counties).

2.2.2 Delivery locations: ICE facilities in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, as directed.

2.2.3 Dispatch Center: Space will be available within the ICE 287(g) National Coordination Center in the greater Nashville, Tennessee area. This Coordination Center is in the planning stages and is projected to become operational in Spring 2026.

2.3 TELEWORK ELIGIBILITY

2.3.1 Telework eligibility under this contract: None.

2.4 HOURS OF WORK

2.4.1 The contractor shall ensure adequate staffing coverage to meet operational requirements 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year (24/7/365).

2.4.2 The transportation and dispatch mission is critical law enforcement support and is exempt from planned and unplanned Government closures, including shutdowns due to lapses in funding.

2.4.3 The contractor shall remain flexible in allocating staffing resources to address fluctuations in transport volume.

2.4.4 Overtime shall not be authorized under this contract unless expressly approved in advance, in writing, by the COR.

3.0 REFERENCES AND APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

3.0.1 The contractor shall comply with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and standards, including but not limited to the following:

3.0.1.1 Immigration and Nationality Act § 287(g).

3.0.1.2 National Detention Standards (NDS) 2025.

3.0.1.3 ICE Family Residential Standards (latest version).

3.0.1.4 Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) Standards – 28 CFR Part 115.

3.0.1.5 DHS Instruction 121‑01‑007‑02 – The DHS Personnel Suitability and Security Program (or latest revision).

3.0.1.6 DHS Sensitive Systems Policy Directive 4300A.

3.0.1.7 Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) DHS Class Deviation 25‑28 for Part 46 – Quality Assurance.

3.0.1.8 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390–399).

3.0.1.9 OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030).

3.0.1.10 ICE Use of Force Policy (latest version).

3.0.1.11 ICE National Detention Standards 2025.

3.0.2 The contractor shall comply with all subsequent updates and revisions to the authorities and standards listed in Section 3.0.

4.0 DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS

4.0.1 For the purposes of this PWS, the following definitions and acronyms apply:

4.0.1.1 287(g) Partner – A state or local law enforcement agency with an active Memorandum of Agreement under § 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

4.0.1.2 Designated Immigration Officer (DIO) – A state or local law enforcement officer trained and credentialed by ICE to perform limited immigration enforcement functions.

4.0.1.3 Detainee/Alien – Any individual in ICE custody under the authority of the 287(g) Program.

4.0.1.4 Transport Team – A minimum of two (2) armed, cross trained personnel consisting of one driver and one guard.

4.0.1.5 Response Time – The elapsed time from dispatch notification to arrival at the pickup location; shall not exceed a statewide average of thirty (30) minutes.

4.0.1.6 Armed – Carrying an approved duty firearm with a chambered round and the required spare magazines.

4.0.1.7 Form G‑391 – ICE Request for Transport / Detailed Manifest.

4.0.1.8 High Risk Detainee – A detainee with known violent criminal history, escape risk, or behavioral issues that require enhanced security measures.

5.0 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM STANDARDS

5.0.1 The contractor shall perform the seven primary task areas described in this section to meet the minimum required output for this contract. These task areas define the core services necessary for the successful execution of statewide 287(g) armed ground transportation operations.

5.0.2 While the minimum requirements are clearly stated, additional activities within the scope of this PWS may be required to ensure comprehensive mission support and operational success.

5.1 TASK 1 – STATEWIDE ARMED TRANSPORT OPERATIONS

5.1.1 The contractor shall provide safe, secure, humane, and expeditious armed ground transportation services for individuals being transferred from 287(g) partner agencies to ICE custody.

5.1.2 Each transport shall be conducted by a minimum two person armed team (one driver and one guard), both cross‑ ‑trained and capable of performing either role.

5.1.3 All detainees shall be thoroughly searched, restrained in accordance with NDS 2025, and seated in the secure compartment prior to movement.

5.1.4 Detainees shall remain under constant visual and/or video observation by at least one armed team member at all times while outside a secure facility.

5.1.5 The contractor shall ensure humane treatment at all times, including maintaining appropriate climate control within transport vehicles.

5.1.6 The contractor shall prevent unauthorized communication between detainees and the public and shall immediately report any attempted or successful escape, disturbance, or medical emergency to ICE in accordance with established procedures.

5.1.7 Deliverable: Demonstrated 100 percent compliance with transport requirements, verified through daily operational reports and random Government audits.

5.2 TASK 2 – GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE AND 30 ‑MINUTE RESPONSE CAPABILITY

5.2.1 The contractor shall maintain, at all times, a sufficient number of two-person armed transport teams to achieve a 30‑-‑minute statewide average response time to 287(g) transport requests anywhere in Texas.

5.2.2 Loiter (staging) locations used while awaiting transport requests shall be within the state of Texas and shall be identified, managed, and adjusted as needed by the contractor.

5.2.3 The maximum allowable response time is 30 minutes from dispatch notification to on scene‑ arrival at the pickup location, measured as a statewide average. Individual counties may exceed or fall below 30 minutes, but the calculated statewide average shall not exceed 30 minutes.

5.2.4 Response time performance shall be calculated on a monthly basis and shall reset at the beginning of each month.

5.2.5 The contractor shall continuously monitor demand and dynamically adjust the staging and deployment of transport teams to ensure compliance with the statewide 30 ‑minute average response requirement.

5.2.6 The 30 ‑minute response time requirement applies only to the time from dispatch notification to arrival at the pickup location. There is no contractual time standard for delivery of detainees to the receiving facility after pickup.

5.2.7 Based on operational needs and existing trends, ICE ERO may conduct surge operations in specific geographic areas that result in increased transport requests during defined periods. The contractor shall plan for and support such surge operations while maintaining compliance with response time requirements to the maximum extent practicable‑.

5.2.8 Deliverable: Daily Operational Report providing key details of all requests for transport, including request time, dispatch time, arrival time, calculated response time, pickup and delivery locations, and any response time‑ exceptions.

5.3 TASK 3 – 24/7/365 CENTRALIZED DISPATCH OPERATIONS

5.3.1 The contractor shall establish and continuously operate a centralized dispatch center serving as the single command and‑ control location for all contract transportation operations. The dispatch center shall be physically located‑ within the ICE 287(g) National Coordination Center in the greater Nashville, Tennessee area.

5.3.2 The dispatch center shall be staffed, at a minimum, with two fully trained dispatchers and one supervisor on duty at all times (24/7/365).

5.3.3 The dispatch center shall maintain:

a. Direct voice communication with every field team;

b. Realtime GPS tracking of all transport vehicles, with a ten‑ second‑ or less refresh rate;

c. Capability to electronically generate, transmit, and receive Form G‑391; and

d. Develop and host a secure website which houses and displays all key operational data in real time or near real time. ICE personnel shall have access to view the website and download data.

5.3.4 Upon receipt of a transport request, dispatch personnel shall:

a. Verify the identity and credentials of the caller;

b. Confirm or determine the appropriate delivery location with on duty‑ ICE ERO personnel or ICE representatives, as applicable;

c. Dispatch the nearest appropriate transport team;

d. Electronically transmit Form G‑391 to the assigned transport team; and

e. Maintain continuous tracking and communication with the transport team until delivery is acknowledged by the receiving ICE officer or facility.

5.3.5 The contractor shall maintain an electronic master log of every transport request and completed transport. At a minimum, the log shall include date and time of request, requesting agency, pickup and delivery locations, assigned team, timestamps (dispatch, arrival, departure, and delivery), and any notable incidents.

5.3.6 For each transport request, the contractor shall coordinate with ICE field offices, sub‑offices, or ICE representatives at the National Coordination Center to confirm and document the designated delivery/end point.

5.3.7 Deliverable: Daily Dispatch Performance Report documenting, at a minimum, call volume, system uptime, response time‑ metrics, pickup and delivery locations, and identity/number of subjects transported.

5.4 TASK 4 – SECURE WEBSITE OF OPERATIONS

5.4.1 Contractor shall create, host, an allow access to ICE personnel a secure website which contains key operational data related to transportation operations (requests for transport, response time, individuals transported, delivery location, deployment location of transport teams, etc).

5.4.2 The secure website is intended to be an operational dashboard which allows both the contractor and ICE to maintain the highest levels of situational awareness. The website also serves as a historic record of operations with the ability to search and download data.

5.4.3 The secure website is a stand‑alone, contractor‑hosted website that does not connect to or integrate with any Government information system. ICE personnel will access the site via standard web browsers to view and download data.

5.4.3 Deliverable: Daily audit of the secure portal verified through daily access and random Government audits.

5.5 TASK 5 – USE OF ICE FORM G391 (CHAIN‑ OF‑ ‑CUSTODY DOCUMENTATION)

5.5.1 Form G‑391 shall be generated and electronically transmitted from the central dispatch center to the assigned transport team for each detainee transport.

5.5.2 Form G‑391 shall be completed for every detainee, shall include all required data fields, and shall be electronically signed by the receiving ICE officer. The completed form shall be uploaded to the secure portal within fifteen (15) minutes of delivery.

5.5.3 The contractor shall ensure 100 percent completion, accuracy, and timely submission of all Form G391 documents, and shall implement internal quality controls to promptly identify‑ and correct any deficiencies.

5.5.4 Deliverable: Daily audit of the secure portal confirming 100 percent compliance with Form G‑391 completion, accuracy, and upload requirements.

5.6 TASK 6 – VEHICLE STANDARDS, MAINTENANCE, SANITATION, AND OPERATIONAL READINESS

5.6.1 All transport vehicles used under this contract shall be current model full‑-‑size vans or large SUVs equipped with:

a. A minimum secure capacity of five (5) detainees; and

b. A full steel security partition separating detainees from staff.

5.6.2 The contractor shall maintain an average monthly fleet operational readiness rate of at least eighty percent (≥80 percent), defined as vehicles fully mission capable‑ and available for assignment.

5.6.3 After every transport, vehicles shall be cleaned and disinfected in accordance with current CDC guidelines and any applicable ICE policies or directives.

5.6.4 The contractor shall maintain electronic records of all preventive and corrective maintenance, sanitation events, and pre and post‑ trip‑ inspections for each vehicle, and shall make such records available to the COR upon request.

5.6.5 Deliverable: Monthly Fleet Readiness and Sanitation Report, including fleet status (operational, down for maintenance, or out of service), summary of maintenance actions, and sanitation/inspection logs.

5.7 TASK 7 – FIREARMS, AMMUNITION, LESS‑LETHAL WEAPONS, AND ARMING PROTOCOLS

5.7.1 Duty firearms carried by contractor personnel under this contract shall be 9mm handguns selected from the ICE approved‑ firearms list.

5.7.2 Ammunition shall be factory loaded hollow‑ point ammunition, replaced at least annually, and stored in climate‑-‑controlled armories or secure storage consistent with applicable law and ICE policy.

5.7.3 Each armed officer shall, at a minimum, carry:

a. One duty pistol (with a chambered round) and two spare magazines;

b. A Level III (or higher) retention holster;

c. Oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, as approved; and

d. A collapsible baton meeting applicable standards.

5.7.4 The contractor shall maintain daily firearms and less lethal weapons accountability logs, reconciled with dispatch records at each shift change. Any discrepancies, losses, or suspected thefts shall be reported to the COR and appropriate law‑ enforcement within one (1) hour of discovery.

5.7.5 All armed personnel shall successfully complete firearms qualification at least annually, using a course of fire administered by a state certified or nationally‑ certified firearms instructor, and shall maintain‑ documentation of such qualification.

5.7.6 Deliverable: Monthly arming compliance and qualification status report, submitted via the secure portal, documenting firearms and less lethal‑ weapons inventories, accountability results, and current qualification status for each armed employee.

6.0 SECURITY AND SUITABILITY REQUIREMENTS

6.0.1 The contractor shall comply with all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) security policies, directives, and standards in effect at the time of award and as updated during contract performance.

6.0.2 All positions under this contract are designated as high risk public trust positions in accordance with‑ 5 CFR Parts 731 and 1400 and DHS Instruction 121‑01‑007‑02, The DHS Personnel Suitability and Security Program (or latest revision).

6.1 POSITION RISK AND SENSITIVITY DESIGNATION

6.1.1 Every contractor and subcontractor employee who will have direct contact with detainees; operate transport vehicles; carry firearms; access ICE systems, facilities, or secure areas; or handle Personally Identifiable Information (PII), Alien Numbers (A numbers), or criminal history information shall be designated as High Risk‑ Public Trust.

6.1.2 No individual may begin performance of any kind under this contract, including training or onboarding activities, until the Government has completed a favorable suitability determination and issued written Entry on‑ ‑Duty (EOD) authorization.

6.2 PRE‑EMPLOYMENT SCREENING REQUIREMENTS

6.2.1 The contractor shall complete and submit the following for every candidate prior to any training or performance under this contract:

a. DHS Form 110006 – Non‑ Disclosure‑ Agreement (NDA).

b. FD258 fingerprint charts (two cards), with electronic submission via approved LiveScan‑ preferred.

c. Credit report from a national credit bureau covering the previous seven (7) years.

d. National Crime Information Center (NCIC)/Interstate Identification Index (III) check.

e. Local criminal history checks for every jurisdiction of residence and employment for the past ten (10) years.

f. Employment verification covering the previous seven (7) years.

g. Education, certification, and professional license verification, as applicable.

h. Ten ‑panel drug screening (urinalysis).

i. Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) questionnaire and self certification‑.

j. Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) authorization and disclosure forms.

6.2.2 The contractor shall ensure that all required forms and supporting documentation are accurate, complete, and submitted in accordance with ICE Personnel Security Division (PSD) requirements.

6.2.3 All screening and related costs shall be borne by the contractor and shall not be separately reimbursable.

6.3 ADJUDICATION STANDARDS

6.3.1 The Government retains sole authority for suitability determinations. The contractor shall not employ or assign personnel to this contract who have been determined unsuitable by the Government.

6.3.2 Automatic/Permanent Disqualifiers

The contractor shall not propose or retain, for work under this contract, any individual who meets any of the following criteria:

a. Any felony conviction, in any jurisdiction, at any time.

b. Any domestic violence conviction (including misdemeanors falling under the Lautenberg Amendment).

c. Any conviction involving moral turpitude, sexual misconduct, or crimes against children.

d. Current registration as a sex offender of any tier.

e. Dishonorable discharge from the armed forces.

f. Falsification or material misrepresentation on any security, suitability, or employment document.

6.3.3 Discretionary Disqualifiers

The following factors may result in disqualification based on case by‑ ‑case adjudication by the ICE Personnel Security Division (PSD):

a. One or more misdemeanor convictions within the past seven (7) years.

b. Evidence of a pattern of financial irresponsibility (e.g., repeated collections, charge offs‑, or unpaid judgments).

c. Illegal drug use or documented excessive alcohol abuse within the past five (5) years.

d. Any indication of unreliability, poor judgment, or conduct that could reasonably affect the performance of duties under this contract or pose a risk to safety, security, or the integrity of ICE operations.

6.3.4 The contractor shall promptly remove from consideration any individual who is determined unsuitable by ICE PSD and shall, at no additional cost to the Government, identify and process a replacement candidate.

6.4 PRISON RAPE ELIMINATION ACT (PREA) SCREENING

6.4.1 The contractor shall screen all personnel proposed for work under this contract against the following PREA criteria:

a. Whether the individual has ever engaged in sexual abuse in a prison, jail, lockup, community confinement facility, juvenile facility, or other institution.

b. Whether the individual has ever been convicted of engaging or attempting to engage in sexual activity in the community facilitated by force, overt or implied threats of force, or coercion.

c. Whether the individual has ever been civilly or administratively adjudicated to have engaged in such activity.

6.4.2 Any “yes” response to any PREA screening question shall constitute an automatic and permanent bar from performance under this contract.

6.4.3 The contractor shall retain documentation of PREA screening for each employee and shall provide such documentation to the Government upon request.

6.5 REINVESTIGATION AND CONTINUOUS EVALUATION

6.5.1 All individuals in High Risk Public Trust positions under this contract shall undergo a complete reinvestigation at least once every five (5) years, or more frequently if required by DHS or ICE policy. The cost of reinvestigations shall be borne by the contractor.

6.5.2 The contractor shall ensure that reinvestigation packages are submitted in a timely manner such that there is no lapse in clearance or suitability status.

6.5.3 The contractor shall notify the COR and the ICE Personnel Security Division in writing within twenty four‑ (24) hours of becoming aware of any of the following events involving any employee assigned to this contract:

a. Arrest or the filing of new criminal charges.

b. Issuance of a domestic violence restraining or protective order.

c. Any incident or information that may reasonably call into question the individual’s suitability, integrity, or reliability.

6.5.4 Upon notification, the Government may direct the immediate suspension or removal of the individual from contract performance pending review or adjudication.

6.6 INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY AND TRAINING

6.6.1 It is not anticipated that contract personnel will have access to DHS or ICE information systems. However, in the event access is needed, all contractor personnel who will access DHS or ICE information systems, networks, or applications shall complete the following, at a minimum:

a. Cybersecurity Awareness Training (CSAT) upon EOD and annually thereafter.

b. ICE Rules of Behavior acknowledgment prior to system access and annually thereafter.

c. Unauthorized Disclosure (UD) training annually.

d. Any role specific or system‑ specific‑ IT security training required by ICE OCIO or DHS.

6.6.2 The contractor shall ensure that no individual is granted access to ICE or DHS systems until all required security and training prerequisites are satisfied.

6.6.3 The contractor shall maintain complete training and access records for all personnel and shall report training completion status to the Government on at least a quarterly basis or as otherwise directed.

6.7 SECURITY INCIDENTS AND REPORTING

6.7.1 The contractor shall immediately take appropriate action to contain, mitigate, and document any actual or suspected security incident, including but not limited to:

a. Loss, theft, or compromise of PII, Sensitive Security Information (SSI), or other sensitive data.

b. Unauthorized access to, or disclosure of, DHS or ICE information.

c. Loss or compromise of access credentials, badges, tokens, or authentication devices.

d. Any suspected or confirmed cyber incident affecting systems used to process, transmit, or store Government information.

6.7.2 The contractor shall report any such incident to the COR and the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility (or other designated point of contact) within one (1) hour of discovery, and shall cooperate fully with any ensuing inquiry, investigation, or forensic activity.

6.7.3 The contractor shall provide written follow up reports, including root‑ cause analysis and corrective actions, in the format and within the timeframes‑ specified by the Government.

6.8 REMOVAL FROM DUTY

6.8.1 The Government may, at its sole discretion, direct the contractor to immediately remove from contract performance any individual who:

a. Fails to maintain a favorable suitability determination or required clearance;

b. Is found to have provided false or misleading information during the screening or reinvestigation process;

c. Violates PREA standards or any applicable DHS/ICE policy;

d. Engages in misconduct, negligence, or behavior inconsistent with the safety, security, or integrity of ICE operations; or

e. Otherwise presents a risk, in the judgment of the Government, to detainees, staff, or mission execution.

6.8.2 Upon notification by the Government, the contractor shall ensure the individual is immediately removed from all duties under this contract and from access to ICE facilities, systems, and information.

6.8.3 The contractor shall notify the COR in writing within four (4) hours of any such removal and shall provide, at no additional cost to the Government, a fully screened and EOD authorized‑ replacement within ten (10) calendar days, unless otherwise directed by the Government.

6.8.4 Removal of a contractor employee under this section shall not relieve the contractor of its responsibility to meet all contract requirements, including staffing and performance standards.

7.0 PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS AND KEY PERSONNEL

7.0.1 The contractor shall ensure that all personnel (including subcontractor personnel) assigned to this contract meet the minimum qualifications, professional standards, and training requirements specified in this section.

7.0.2 The contractor shall maintain sufficient staffing levels to meet all operational and performance requirements of this PWS at all times.

7.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (ALL PERSONNEL)

7.1.1 Every individual performing work under this contract, including subcontractor personnel, shall meet or exceed the following minimum qualifications:

a. U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status with valid work authorization.

b. Minimum age of eighteen (18) years on date of hire.

c. High school diploma or state accredited‑ General Educational Development (GED) certificate.

d. Valid driver’s license; Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with passenger endorsement is preferred for driving assignments.

e. Fluency in English (read, write, speak, and understand).

f. Ability to qualify with an approved duty pistol in accordance with Section 5.6 and applicable law and policy.

g. Possession of a valid Texas Level III Commissioned Armed Security Officer license (or recognized reciprocal license), obtained no later than sixty (60) days after contract award or date of hire, as applicable.

h. Physical capability to perform required duties, including defensive tactics, detainee control, and operation of vehicles and equipment, with or without reasonable accommodation.

7.1.2 The contractor shall ensure that all personnel maintain required licenses, certifications, and qualifications throughout the period of performance.

7.1.3 The contractor shall promptly remove from contract performance any individual who no longer meets the minimum qualifications or who loses any required license or certification.

7.2 KEY PERSONNEL

7.2.1 The following positions are designated as Key Personnel under this contract:

a. Program Manager.

b. Deputy Program Manager.

c. Operations Manager.

d. Training Manager.

e. Fleet Manager.

7.2.2 The contractor shall designate qualified individuals for each Key Personnel position and shall submit résumés and full background packages for Government review and approval prior to assignment.

7.2.3 Replacement of any Key Personnel shall require prior written approval by the Contracting Officer (CO), in coordination with the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

7.2.4 Proposed replacement Key Personnel shall meet or exceed the qualifications and experience of the individual being replaced and shall be fully capable of performing all duties associated with the position.

7.2.5 The contractor shall ensure that each individual serving in a Key Personnel role provides at least thirty (30) calendar days written notice of resignation, to the extent practicable. The contractor shall promptly propose a qualified replacement to avoid gaps in coverage.

7.2.6 The contractor shall ensure continuous coverage of Key Personnel functions and shall not leave any Key Personnel position vacant for more than thirty (30) calendar days without written Government approval.

7.3 UNIFORMS, IDENTIFICATION, GROOMING, AND PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

7.3.1 Uniform Requirements

7.3.1.1 The contractor shall provide and require the wear of a standardized uniform for all transport and security personnel, which shall include:

a. Tactical ‑style trousers and polo shirt or Battle Dress Uniform (BDU)‑style shirt in navy blue, gray, black, or other subdued color.

b. Clear identification of “TRANSPORT OFFICER” and the company name, embroidered or affixed in a visible location on the shirt or outer garment.

c. External soft body armor carrier (Level IIIA minimum) with identification panels on the front and back displaying “TRANSPORT OFFICER” in reflective letters at least three (3) inches in height.

d. Duty belt with approved holster, magazine pouches, and carriers for less ‑lethal devices and other required equipment.

e. Appropriate footwear (closed ‑toe, supportive, professional in appearance) suitable for armed transport duties.

f. Weather appropriate‑ outerwear (e.g., jacket or rain gear) that is consistent with the uniform and does not obscure identification.

7.3.2 Identification Requirements

7.3.2.1 The contractor shall issue a photo identification (ID) badge to each employee assigned to this contract.

7.3.2.2 The ID badge shall, at a minimum, display the individual’s full name, photograph, company name, unique employee number, and expiration date.

7.3.2.3 The ID badge shall be worn visibly on the outermost garment at all times while on duty, unless specifically exempted for safety or operational reasons by ICE.

7.3.3 Grooming Standards

7.3.3.1 The contractor shall establish and enforce grooming standards that promote a professional and disciplined appearance and support officer safety.

a. Male personnel: Hair shall be neat, clean, and not extend below the top of the collar. Sideburns shall not extend below the bottom of the ear. Facial hair, if worn, shall be neatly trimmed and generally not exceed one half‑ (½) inch in length.

b. Female personnel: Hair shall be neat, clean, and secured in a manner that does not interfere with the proper wear of headgear or body armor or with the safe performance of duties.

c. Tattoos and body markings: No visible tattoos on the face, neck, or hands shall depict content that is extremist, indecent, or racially or ethnically derogatory. The contractor shall ensure that any such tattoos are appropriately covered while on duty.

7.3.4 Professional Conduct

7.3.4.1 All personnel shall conduct themselves in a professional, courteous, and respectful manner when interacting with detainees, ICE personnel, 287(g) partners, and members of the public.

7.3.4.2 Prohibited conduct (subject to immediate removal from contract performance) includes, but is not limited to:

a. Fraternization or any personal, romantic, or financial relationship with detainees or their family members.

b. Accepting gifts, money, favors, or other items of value from detainees, detainee family members, or representatives.

c. Use of profanity, slurs, or derogatory language directed at detainees, coworkers, or Government personnel.

d. Unauthorized photography, video recording, or audio recording of detainees, ICE operations, or secure areas.

e. Sleeping or inattentiveness while on duty.

f. Use, possession, or influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while on duty or within eight (8) hours prior to reporting for duty.

g. Unauthorized or excessive use of force or failure to report a use of‑ force incident in accordance with‑ policy.

h. Any form of sexual contact, harassment, or abuse involving detainees, coworkers, or others encountered in the performance of contract duties.

7.3.4.3 The contractor shall ensure that personnel understand their obligation to report any observed or suspected misconduct, including violations of this PWS, ICE policy, or applicable law. Reports shall be made to the Program Manager and the COR as soon as practicable.

7.4 STAFFING CONTINUITY

7.4.1 The contractor shall maintain 100 percent of required staffing levels, including sufficient transport teams to meet performance standards under Section 5.2 throughout the state of Texas.

7.4.2 The contractor shall develop and maintain contingency plans to mitigate the impact of turnover, extended absences, or sudden loss of personnel, including cross training‑, relief personnel, and surge staffing options.

7.4.3 Replacement of any employee (including non Key personnel) shall occur within ten (10) calendar days of vacancy, with a fully qualified and EOD‑ approved‑ individual, unless otherwise authorized in writing by the COR.

7.4.4 Staffing adjustments, reassignments, or reductions that may impact the contractor’s ability to meet contractual performance requirements shall be communicated to the COR in advance, along with a mitigation plan.

8.0 TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

8.0.1 The contractor shall develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive training program that ensures all personnel are fully qualified to perform their assigned duties in accordance with this PWS and all applicable DHS/ICE policies and standards.

8.0.2 The contractor’s training program shall, at a minimum, meet or exceed the requirements contained in ICE National Detention Standards (NDS) 2025, applicable PREA standards, and any other training requirements specified by ICE for contract personnel.

8.0.3 The contractor shall ensure that no individual performs unsupervised duties under this contract until all required initial training and certifications for that position have been successfully completed and documented.

8.1 INITIAL TRAINING PROGRAM

8.1.1 The contractor shall provide an initial training program for all newly assigned personnel (including subcontractor personnel) of not less than forty (40) hours in duration, unless otherwise approved in writing by the Government.

8.1.2 The initial training program shall be documented in a written curriculum and shall include, at a minimum, the following topics:

a. Overview of DHS and ICE missions, with emphasis on ERO and the 287(g) Program.

b. Legal authorities and limitations relevant to detainee transportation and contractor personnel.

c. Use of‑ force‑ policy, continuum, and reporting requirements, consistent with ICE Use of Force Policy.

d. Defensive tactics, detainee control techniques, and officer safety.

e. Firearms safety, handling, and qualification requirements, consistent with Section 5.6.

f. PREA standards and sexual abuse prevention, reporting, and response.

g. Professional conduct, ethics, and standards of behavior under this PWS.

h. First Aid/CPR/AED and Bloodborne Pathogens awareness (OSHA ‑compliant).

i. Infectious disease prevention and biohazard response, including current CDC and ICE guidance.

j. Vehicle operations, safe driving practices, and emergency vehicle procedures.

k. Radio procedures, communications protocols, and use of GPS and dispatch systems.

l. ICE Form G391 procedures and any other applicable chain‑ of‑ ‑custody and documentation requirements.

m. Emergency response and contingency operations (e.g., vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, disturbances).

n. Confidentiality, privacy, and handling of PII and other sensitive information.

8.1.3 The contractor shall tailor initial training content by position (e.g., transport officers, dispatchers, supervisors) to ensure that each role receives the specific knowledge and skills required for successful performance.

8.2 ANNUAL REFRESHER TRAINING AND RE‑QUALIFICATION

8.2.1 The contractor shall provide annual refresher training to all personnel performing work under this contract. Annual refresher training shall be not less than sixteen (16) hours in duration per year, unless otherwise approved by the Government.

8.2.2 Annual refresher training shall, at a minimum:

a. Reinforce key policies and procedures, including use of force, PREA, emergency response, and detainee handling.

b. Address any policy changes, lessons learned, or recurring deficiencies identified through quality assurance reviews, incident reports, or Government feedback.

c. Include updates on infectious disease protocols, safety requirements, and any new ICE or DHS directives affecting contract performance.

8.2.3 All armed personnel shall complete firearms re‑qualification at least annually, using a course of fire approved by ICE and administered by a state or nationally‑ certified‑ firearms instructor.

8.2.4 The contractor shall ensure that any personnel whose firearms qualification or other critical certification has lapsed are immediately removed from duties requiring that qualification until it is restored.

8.3 SPECIALIZED AND ADVANCED TRAINING

8.3.1 The contractor shall provide specialized training, as needed, for personnel assigned to high risk‑ or specialized duties, which may include, but are not limited to:

a. High ‑risk detainee transport (e.g., violent offenders, escape risks, special handling cases).

b. Mass arrest/mass movement operations and surge support.

c. Operation in adverse environments (e.g., severe weather, disaster areas).

d. Supervisory and leadership responsibilities for Key Personnel and field supervisors.

8.3.2 The contractor shall promptly provide additional training when new policies, procedures, systems, or equipment are introduced that materially affect how personnel perform their duties.

8.3.3 The contractor shall coordinate with the COR to ensure that any specialized training is aligned with ICE standards and operational needs.

8.4 TRAINING DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS

8.4.1 The contractor shall establish and maintain an individual training file for each employee assigned to this contract. At a minimum, each file shall include:

a. Records of all initial training completed, including dates, topics, hours, and instructor names.

b. Records of all annual refresher training, specialized training, and any remedial training completed.

c. Documentation of firearms qualification and re‑qualification, including course, score, and date.

d. Certificates or proof of completion for First Aid/CPR/AED, PREA training, and any other required certifications.

e. Records of required DHS/ICE trainings (e.g., Cybersecurity Awareness, Privacy, Unauthorized Disclosure).

8.4.2 Training records shall be maintained electronically in a manner that allows near real time‑ access and retrieval by the contractor and, upon request, by the Government.

8.4.3 The contractor shall ensure that training records are retained for the duration of the contract and for any additional period required by applicable record r‑etention policies or contract clauses.

8.4.4 The contractor shall submit a Monthly Personnel and Training Status Report to the COR no later than the fifth (5th) calendar day of each month. At a minimum, the report shall include:

a. A complete roster of all personnel assigned to the contract (including name, position, duty location/county, and hire date).

b. Current status of background/suitability, licenses, and certifications for each individual.

c. Training completed during the reporting period, by employee and topic.

d. Upcoming expirations (within ninety (90) days) for licenses, certifications, and critical training.

e. Any training deficiencies and planned corrective actions.

8.4.5 The contractor shall ensure all mandatory DHS/ICE trainings (e.g., Cybersecurity Awareness, Privacy, Unauthorized Disclosure) are completed at the required frequency and are reflected in the training records and monthly reports.

9.0 FACILITY, EQUIPMENT, AND SUPPLIES

9.0.1 The contractor shall furnish, operate, and maintain all facilities, vehicles, equipment, and supplies necessary to perform the requirements of this PWS, except where explicitly provided as Government furnished‑ property or space.

9.0.2 All contractor furnished‑ facilities, vehicles, equipment, and supplies shall meet applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, as well as all applicable DHS/ICE standards and policies.

9.1 DISPATCH CENTER – ICE 287(g) NATIONAL COORDINATION CENTER

9.1.1 The Government will make space available within the ICE 287(g) National Coordination Center in the greater Nashville, Tennessee area for the contractor’s 24/7 dispatch operations.

9.1.2 The contractor shall be responsible, at its own expense, for equipping, furnishing, and maintaining the assigned dispatch space and for ensuring it is adequate to support continuous operations (24/7/365).

9.1.3 The contractor shall not establish alternate or backup dispatch locations without prior written approval from the COR and the CO. Any approved alternate or backup dispatch locations shall meet the same security, technical, and operational standards as the primary dispatch center.

9.1.4 The dispatch center shall provide, at a minimum, the following technical capabilities:

a. Creating and hosting a secure website which contains and displays operational data.

b. Reliable voice and data communications with all field teams and relevant ICE points of contact.

c. Real‑time GPS tracking of every transport vehicle with a refresh rate of ten (10) seconds or less.

d. Computer aided‑ dispatch (CAD) or equivalent system capable of logging all requests, assignments, and status changes.

e. Capability to electronically generate, transmit, receive, and archive ICE Form G‑391 and related documentation.

f. Call recording and storage for all incoming and outgoing dispatch communications, retained in accordance with contract and legal requirements.

g. While it is not anticipated that the contractor will need access to DHS/ICE information systems, the contractor shall ensure that its own systems and networks used to support dispatch operations implement appropriate security controls for safeguarding ICE data and comply with all applicable contract security and privacy requirements.

9.2 CONTRACTOR ADMINISTRATIVE AND STAGING FACILITIES

9.2.1 The contractor shall provide, at no cost to the Government, any administrative offices, armories, vehicle staging areas, training facilities, and maintenance facilities required to support operations in the State of Texas.

9.2.2 Administrative and staging facilities shall be located and managed in a manner that supports the response time‑ requirements and geographic coverage standards outlined in Section 5.0.

9.2.3 All armories and weapons storage locations shall meet applicable federal, state, and local requirements, as well as ICE and DHS standards, for physical security and access control.

9.2.4 The contractor shall ensure that all facilities used to support this contract are clean, safe, and maintained in a condition appropriate for law enforcement‑ support operations.

9.3 VEHICLES (CONTRACTOR ‑FURNISHED)

9.3.1 The contractor shall provide, at its own expense, all vehicles necessary to meet the performance requirements of this contract.

9.3.2 All transport vehicles shall, at a minimum:

a. Be current model (or recent‑ model) full‑ ‑size vans or large SUVs.

b. Provide secure seating capacity for at least five (5) detainees.

c. Be equipped with a full steel security partition separating detainees from staff.

d. Be equipped with appropriate safety restraints for detainees and staff in accordance with applicable law and policy.

e. Be equipped with forward and rear‑ facing cameras capable of recording transport operations, with video retention in accordance with‑ ICE requirements.

f. Include secure weapon storage/lockers that are not accessible to detainees.

g. Include panic/duress capability (e.g., emergency signaling or alert system) that can notify dispatch or emergency services.

9.3.3 Vehicles shall comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390–399), applicable state motor vehicle requirements, and any ICE transportation standards referenced in this PWS.

9.3.4 The contractor shall ensure that all vehicles are maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition at all times and that required inspections, registrations, and insurance are current.

9.4 PORTABLE FIELD EQUIPMENT

9.4.1 The contractor shall issue to every transport team, at a minimum, the following operational equipment:

a. Ruggedized portable thermal printer capable of printing Forms G‑391 and other required documents.

b. Rugged laptop or tablet with cellular connectivity capable of accessing the secure web portal and dispatch systems.

c. Encrypted two way‑ radios and/or secure cell phones for continuous communication with dispatch and, when necessary, ICE personnel.

d. Restraint equipment, such as steel handcuffs, leg irons, and waist chains, consistent with ICE standards.

e. Detainee restraint chair capability, if required by ICE policy or specific operational needs.

f. STOP‑THE‑BLEED or equivalent trauma kit, including tourniquets, chest seals, hemostatic gauze, and other critical items.

g. Biohazard and infectious disease kits, including nitrile gloves, N95 or equivalent masks, face shields or eye protection, disinfectant, and red biohazard waste bags.

h. Flashlights or other suitable portable lighting equipment, as appropriate for operating conditions.

9.4.2 All portable equipment shall be maintained in 100 percent operational condition. The contractor shall implement daily checks and document any deficiencies and corrective actions.

9.4.3 The contractor shall promptly repair or replace damaged, lost, or inoperable equipment to ensure no degradation in mission capability.

9.5 EQUIPMENT ACCOUNTABILITY AND REPORTING

9.5.1 The contractor shall establish and maintain an inventory and accountability system for all vehicles, weapons, communications devices, protective gear, and other equipment used to support performance under this contract.

9.5.2 The inventory system shall be capable of identifying, at a minimum, the item, serial number (if applicable), assigned location or individual, status (in service/out of service), and any loss or damage history.

9.5.3 The contractor shall conduct periodic (at least quarterly) physical inventories of critical equipment (e.g., firearms, less lethal weapons, radios, laptops/tablets, body armor) and shall reconcile any discrepancies. Losses, thefts, or unexplained discrepancies shall be reported to the COR and, where appropriate, to law enforcement, in accordance with‑ Section 6.7.

9.5.4 The contractor shall submit a Quarterly Equipment Inventory and Armory Reconciliation Report to the COR no later than the fifteenth (15th) calendar day after the end of each fiscal quarter, or as otherwise directed by the COR. At a minimum, the report shall include:

a. Current inventory of firearms, ammunition, and less lethal‑ weapons by type and count.

b. Summary of any equipment loss, damage, or discrepancy identified during the reporting period and associated corrective actions.

c. Status of critical equipment (e.g., radios, laptops/tablets, body armor, trauma kits) by location or team.

9.5.5 The contractor shall retain equipment and inventory records for the duration of the contract and any additional period required by applicable record retention‑ requirements.

10.0 HEALTH, SAFETY, AND EMERGENCY STANDARDS

10.0.1 The contractor shall establish, implement, and maintain comprehensive health, safety, and emergency protocols that fully comply with ICE National Detention Standards (NDS) 2025, PREA standards, ICE Use of Force Policy, ICE transportation standards, CDC guidelines, and all applicable federal,…