DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING REQUEST FOR APPLICATION.pdf

Andrea Sanders

Commissioner

QUOTE REQUEST (QR)

DRUG & ALCOHOL TESTING SERVICES

QR No. 2026DATS001

RFx: 3160008065

Issue Date: May 19, 2026

MDCPS WELCOMES PARTICIPATION OF MINORITY BUSINESSES

Contact Person:

Latavia Coleman

Contracts@mdcps.ms.gov 750 N State Street

Jackson, MS 39202

(601) 359-4368

INVITATION: Subject to the attached and referenced terms and conditions, quotes for the acquisition of the products/services described in this QR will be received at this office until June 8, 2026, by 12:00 p.m., CT.

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1. PURPOSE

The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) is requesting quotes from qualified respondents to provide Drug & Alcohol Testing Services for agency employees, potential agency employees, and agency volunteers through the MDCPS Central Office and at various MDCPS locations throughout the state of Mississippi.

MDCPS intends to award one (1) contract for the services mentioned but reserves the right to reject any and all quotes during any stage of the procurement process.

2. TERM

The anticipated contract period will begin on July 1, 2026 and end on June 30, 2027.

3. COMPENSATION

Compensation for services will be in the form of a firm fixed-rate agreement. A unit price shall be given for each service requested with that unit price remaining unchanged throughout the contract.

Contractor shall be compensated on a monthly basis at the firm, fixed testing rate specified in the

Contractor’s quote. The testing rate shall remain firm for the duration of the one-year term of the resultant contract. The total compensation payable shall be based on the actual number of tests performed and properly invoiced at the agreed upon testing rate.

Payments shall be submitted on invoices in a format agreed upon by MDCPS and the Contractor. Invoices, at a minimum, shall include: contract number, invoice number, and itemization of each test performed

(inclusive of type of test, individual test performed, and quoted unit price per test).

4. SCOPE OF SERVICES

The selected Contractor shall perform drug and alcohol testing services using federally-mandated equipment, personnel, and methods for MDCPS employees, potential employees, interns, volunteers, and court-ordered MDCPS children and families as requested by the MDCPS Office of Human Capital. The

Contractor shall ensure that testing services comply with applicable regulations.

A. Contractor Responsibilities:

1. Provide drug and alcohol testing services that either meets or exceeds the Non-MDOT 9 Panel

+ MDMA (no synthetic opioids) requirements.

2. Provide drug and alcohol testing services on a statewide basis to any MDCPS employees, potential employees, interns, volunteers, and MDCPS children and families within a forty-five

(45) mile radius of the MDCPS employee, potential employee, and volunteer’s home address.

3. Complete specimen collection services to include, but not be limited to:

(a) Provision of personnel trained as Breath Alcohol Technicians and Collection Site Persons as required under federal law;

(b) Provide all required collection site materials and equipment required by the U.S.

Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and MDCPS;

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(c) Maintain network of laboratories that provide laboratory testing equipment in compliance with DHHS certification requirements; and

(d) Maintain and complete appropriate chain of custody protocols for transportation of all testing specimens to be tested at laboratories.

4. Complete Medical Officer services to include:

(a) Provide notification of testing results to MDCPS within 48 hours of conclusion of testing protocol. Results shall be sent to MDCPS Office of Human Capital and shall include: (1) the Controlled Substances Testing Report; and/or (2) the Breath Alcohol Testing Report.

(b) Any required follow-up with MDCPS employees, potential employees, interns, volunteers, and MDCPS children and families tested after test results are received.

5. MDCPS Testing Program Requirements – Contractor shall provide the following:

(a) Provide blind sampling to verify the accuracy of the laboratory analysis of MDCPS test specimens as required by DHHS and MDCPS;

(b) Provide annual statistical summary reports of MDCPS testing;

(c) Maintain a complete and confidential file on the MDCPS testing program that includes forms and other documents necessary to document the MDCPS testing program for compliance with all regulations; and

(d) Conduct a 3% sampling of current MDCPS employees at least twice a year throughout the state, as requested by MDCPS.

6. Provide secure method for transmission of results in accordance with applicable confidentiality requirements.

7. Provide prompt and courteous attention to the needs of MDCPS and MDCPS employees, potential employees, interns, volunteers, and MDCPS children and families, including assistance with any questions.

8. Provide consultation and assistance in responding to MDCPS audit inquiries.

B. Service Area

1. Contractor shall provide drug and alcohol testing services throughout the state of Mississippi.

Contractor shall be authorized to subcontract with other local hospitals or clinics to coordinate statewide efforts conditioned upon those subcontracted facilities maintaining proper certifications that are required of the Contractor.

2. Contractor shall provide MDCPS with a listing of testing locations available throughout the state where MDCPS employees, potential employees, interns, volunteers, and MDCPS children and families can report to complete required testing. This list shall be provided in Respondent’s response to this Quote Request as a separate addendum to Attachment A. Any updates to

Contractor’s list of testing locations shall be provided to MDCPS within 2 business days of such update.

C. Anticipated Testing Volumes

1. Contractor should anticipate the number of MDCPS drug and alcohol tests to be approximately

500 tests per year.

2. During the term of the contract, MDCPS and Contractor shall track and coordinate accordingly regarding testing numbers and testing needs.

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5. QR QUESTIONS

Questions shall be submitted no later than 12:00pm, CT on May 26, 2026, via email to contracts@mdcps.ms.gov.

MDCPS anticipates posting written responses to questions as an amendment to this Quote Request by

5:00pm, CT on Friday, May 29, 2026. If an amendment to this Quote Request is issued, Offerors must complete, sign, and include the Acknowledgement of Amendment form (Attachment H) as part of their

Quote Packet submission.

6. QUOTE PACKET SUBMISSION

Offeror’s quote, and all required attachments within this Quote Request, shall be completed, signed, and submitted to MDCPS by no later than June 8, 2026, at 12:00pm, CT.

Offeror’s quote packet shall be submitted to MDCPS via email to contracts@mdcps.ms.gov. The subject line of the submission email shall include the following:

[“Offeror’s Name] - QRDATS2026001 - MDCPS Drug & Alcohol Testing Services

Contracts@mdcps.ms.gov shall acknowledge receipt of a timely submitted email quote via a reply email.

Quotes received after the above deadline will not receive a reply email and shall be considered late and not accepted.

Timely submission of a quote packet is the responsibility of the Offeror. Quote packets received after the above specified time, shall be considered LATE and will be rejected. Late quote packets are deemed non-responsive and will not be considered for further evaluation but will be recorded as LATE and included in the agency procurement file.

A. Completed Quote Packet – In order for a Quote Packet to be considered responsive to the Quote

Request, Offeror’s shall properly complete, sign, and submit the following as QR Minimum

Requirements:

1) Completed and signed Quote Form (Attachment A) – inclusive of any addenda;

2) Certifications and Assurances (Attachment B)

3) Debarment Verification Form (Attachment C)

4) Proprietary Information Form (Attachment D)

5) Contract Draft Acknowledgment (Attachment E)

6) Acknowledgement of Amendment (Attachment H) – (as applicable)

B. Required Documentation PRIOR TO contract execution – The below information MUST be submitted prior to contract execution; HOWEVER Offerors are strongly encouraged to provide the below information as part of their Quote Packet submission:

1) Minority Vendor Self-Certification (Attachment F)

2) E-Verify documentation (if applicable)

3) Completed W-9 mailto:contracts@mdcps.ms.gov mailto:contracts@mdcps.ms.gov mailto:Contracts@mdcps.ms.gov

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4) Proof of registration with MS Secretary of State (if applicable)

5) Certificate of liability insurance

6) Workers' compensation, general liability, and fidelity bond insurance (MDCPS must be listed as an additional insured)

7) Registration in MAGIC (https://www.dfa.ms.gov/dfa-offices/mmrs/mississippi-suppliers-vendors/supplier-selfservice/)

7. AWARD

Award will be made to the vendor whose quote is determined, in writing, to be responsive, responsible, and offers the lowest, reasonable price. All Offerors will be notified of MDCPS’ intent to award.

8. CONTRACT TERMS & CONDITIONS

An awarded Offeror will be expected to execute a contract substantially similar to the draft contract without expectation of negotiation. A draft version of the MDCSP contract is attached and incorporated as

Attachment G to this Quote Request.

The resultant contract from this solicitation will be comprised of the following:

1) Base Contract – (included as Attachment G to this Quote Request);

2) Exhibit A – Scope of Services (as reflected within Section 4 of this Quote Request);

3) Exhibit B – 2nd Modified Mississippi Settlement Agreement and Reform Plan – available at

MDCPS website using https://www.mdcps.ms.gov/about/olivia-y-lawsuit/ (as referenced within Section 3 of Attachment G to this Quote Request); and

4) Exhibit C – Budget (based off of awarded vendor’s Attachment A - Quote Form submitted in response to this Quote Request)

9. QR ATTACHMENTS

1) Attachment A – Quote Form

2) Attachment B – Certifications and Assurances

3) Attachment C – Debarment Verification Form

4) Attachment D – Proprietary Information Form

5) Attachment E – Contract Draft Acknowledgement

6) Attachment F – Minority Vendor Self-Certification

7) Attachment G – MDCPS Contract Draft

8) Attachment H – Acknowledgement of Amendment

10. DISCLAIMER & RIGHTS RESERVED

MDCPS is not responsible for any costs incurred in the preparation or presentation of a quote. All such expenses are the sole responsibility of the respondent. MDCPS reserves the right to:

• Reject any and all quotes

• Disqualify respondents who take exception to required terms or fail to meet specifications

• Modify the RFQ schedule or scope as necessary https://www.dfa.ms.gov/dfa-offices/mmrs/mississippi-suppliers-vendors/supplier-selfservice/ https://www.dfa.ms.gov/dfa-offices/mmrs/mississippi-suppliers-vendors/supplier-selfservice/ https://www.mdcps.ms.gov/about/olivia-y-lawsuit/

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ATTACHMENT A

Quote Form

Date Submitted: Deadline Date: June 8, 2026

Respondent’s Organization Information:

Name of Organization: __________________________________________________________

Mailing Address: ______________________________________________________________

Authorized Official: ____________________________________________________________

Title: ________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ( )_________________________________________________________________

Email: _______________________________________________________________________

Tax I.D.#: _____________________________________________________________________

DUNS #: ______________________________________________________________________

BUSINESS ID# (Issued from Mississippi Secretary of State’s Office (Out-of-state corporations ONLY)): ______________________

Certificate of Liability Insurance Period of Coverage: ________________________________

Contact Person for Respondent:

Name: __________________________________________ Title: ________________________

Mailing Address:_______________________________________________________________

Phone: ( )_________________________________________________________________

Email: _______________________________________________________________________

Capability to Provide Services: Offerors shall include a narrative response describing and outlining

Contractor approaches and capabilities to meet the Scope of Services requirements within Section 4 of this Quote Request. Offeror’s narrative response should be enumerated according the sub-sections within

Section 4. The narrative response may be included as “Addendum 1” to this Attachment A and labeled as such with the sub-heading of “Narrative Response to Att. A Capability to Provide Services.”

[ATTACHMENT A continued on next page]

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Quote Form – (continued)

In addition to providing the above information, please answer the following questions:

How many years has the firm been in business to perform the services outlined in this

QR?____________________________________________________________________

Please provide the physical location and mailing address of your company’s home office, principal place of business, and place of incorporation.

If your company is not physically located in the region, how will you supply the services outlined in the

QR?

List all licenses or permits your company possess that are applicable to performing the services required in this QR.

Describe any specific services which your company offers along with any specialized experience, certification, and/or education of your current staff.

[ATTACHMENT A continued on next page]

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Quote Form – (continued)

Price Quote

Company Company Representative Email

Contract Term: July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027

Pursuant to Section 4.C of the QR, Offerors should utilize the anticipated volume of 500 tests per year in arriving at a proposed unit price per test.

Requirement: Offeror must provide pricing in the below requested format. All pricing should be based on description of services to be offered and include all associated costs with no additional or hidden fees.

Drug & Alcohol Testing Services

Test Description Unit Price

Drug Test (Non-Contracted Facility)

Drug Test (Contracted Facility)

Alcohol Test (Non-Contracted Facility)

Alcohol Test (Contracted Facility)

Annual Administration Fee (if applicable)

Offeror shall NOT include any additional charges or additional line items in this form. Any additional charges included on this form may result in the quote being deemed non-responsive, and the quote will be rejected.

By signing below, I certify that the above-mentioned information is true and complete, and I have the legal authority to bind the company. I understand that as a condition of award, I may be required to present documentation which verifies the accuracy of the information on this Quote Form, as well as, the required documents listed in this solicitation. Any incorrect and/or missing information is considered non-responsive and is subject to rejection. Modifications or additions to any portion of this Quote Request may be cause for rejection of the quote.

Company Name

Signature of Authorized Official Date

Printed Name and Title of Authorized Official

The Offeror agrees that submission of this signed form is certification that the Offeror will accept an award made to it as a result of the submission.

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ATTACHEMENT B

CERTIFICATIONS AND ASSURANCES

I/We make the following certifications and assurances as a required element of the quote to which it is attached, of the understanding that the truthfulness of the facts affirmed here and the continued compliance with these requirements are conditions precedent to the award or continuation of the related contract(s) by circling the applicable word or words in each paragraph below:

1. REPRESENTATION REGARDING CONTINGENT FEES

Contractor represents that it HAS/HAS NOT (please circle applicable word or words) retained a person to solicit or secure a state contract upon an agreement or understanding for a commission, percentage, brokerage, or contingent fee, except as disclosed in Contractor’s quote.

2. REPRESENTATION REGARDING GRATUITIES

The respondent or Contractor represents that it HAS/HAS NOT (please circle applicable word or words) violated, is not violating, and promises that it will not violate the prohibition against gratuities set forth in

Section 6-204 (Gratuities) of the Mississippi Public Procurement Review Board Office of Personal Service

Contract Review Rules and Regulations.

3. CERTIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT PRICE DETERMINATION

The respondent certifies that the prices submitted in response to the solicitation HAVE/HAVE NOT (please circle applicable word or words) been arrived at independently and without, for the purpose of restricting competition, any consultation, communication, or agreement with any other respondent or competitor relating to those prices, the intention to submit a quote, or the methods or factors used to calculate price.

4. PROSPECTIVE CONTRACTOR’S REPRESENTATION REGARDING CONTINGENT FEES

The prospective Contractor represents as a part of such Contractor’s quote that such Contractor HAS/HAS

NOT (please circle applicable word or words) retained any person or agency on a percentage, commission, or other contingent arrangement to secure this contract.

Note: Please be sure to CIRCLE THE APPLICABLE WORD OR WORDS provided above. Failure to circle the applicable word or words and/or to sign the bid form may result in the quote being rejected as nonresponsive. Modifications or additions to any portion of this bid document may be cause for rejection of the quote.

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ATTACHEMENT C

DEBARMENT VERIFICATION FORM

Please Print/Type Clearly

Subgrantee’s/Contractor’s Name

Authorized Official’s Name

DUNS Number

Address

Phone Number

Are you currently registered with www.sam.gov (Respond Yes or No)

Registration Status (Type Active or

Inactive)

Active Exclusions (Type Yes or No)

Federal Debarment Certification:

By signing below, I hereby certify that ______________________________ is not on the list for

Subgrantee’s Name/Contractor’s Name federal debarment on www.sam.gov –System for Award Management (SAM).

State of Mississippi Debarment Certification:

By signing below, I hereby certify that ______________________________is not on the list for

Subgrantee’s Name/Contractor’s Name debarment for doing business within the State of Mississippi or with any Mississippi State Agencies.

Partnership Debarment Certification:

By signing below, I hereby certify that all entities who are in partnership through this contract with MDCPS

(subcontractors, subrecipients, et al.) are not on the federal debarment list on www.sam.gov – System for Award

Management or the State of Mississippi debarment list. Proof of documentation of partnership verification with

SAM shall be kept on file and the debarment status shall be checked prior to submission of every contract/subgrant and modification to MDCPS.

http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/

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ATTACHMENT D

Proprietary Information Form

The Respondent should mark any and all pages of this response considered to contain proprietary information.

Such pages may remain confidential in accordance with Mississippi Code Annotated §§25-61-9 and 79-23-1

(1972, as amended). Each page of this response considered, by the Respondent, to contain trade secrets or other confidential commercial/financial information should be marked in the upper right hand corner with the word

“CONFIDENTIAL.” Any pages not marked accordingly will be subject to review by the general public after the award of the contract. Requests to review the proprietary information will be handled in accordance with applicable legal procedures. Failure to clearly identify trade secrets or other confidential commercial/financial information may result in that information being released in a public records request.

For all procurement contracts awarded by state agencies, the provisions of the contract which contain the personal or professional services provided, the price to be paid, and the term of the contract shall not be deemed to be a trade secret, or confidential commercial or financial information, and shall be available for examination, copying, or reproduction.

If applicable, please indicate which parts/pages below that the contractor wishes to designate as proprietary. In addition, provide the specific statutory authority for the exemption. If this is not applicable, please indicate with

“N/A” below.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

By signing below, I understand failure to clearly mark proprietary information as identified above may result in disclosure of such information as it will be subject to review by the general public after the award of the contract.

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ATTACHMENT E

Contract Draft Acknowledgment

Offer hereby signs and submits this formal acknowledgment confirming their receipt, review, and full understanding of the draft contract provided as Attachment G to this Quote Request. Offeror’s signature below affirms acceptance of the terms, conditions, and obligations contained within the draft contract (Attachment G), and represents Offeror’s agreement to be bound by the provisions of the contract once finalized.

Title of Authorized Official

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ATTACHMENT F

STATE OF MISSISSIPPI MINORITY VENDOR SELF CERTIFICATION FORM

Please complete the following information on this form and return immediately to the Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration, Attention: Vendor File Maintenance, P.O. Box 1060, Jackson, Mississippi 39215.

Forms may also be faxed to (601) 359-5525.

Name of Business: _____________________________________________

Address: ________________________ Post Office Box: _______________

City: ___________________ State: ________________ Zip: ____________

Telephone: _____________ Tax I.D.: ______________________________

SAAS Vendor #s (if known): _____________________________________

MINORITY STATUS

As used in this provision, means a business concern that (1) is at least 51% minority-owned by one or more individuals, or minority business enterprises that are both socially and economically disadvantaged and (2) have its management and daily business controlled by one or more such individuals as ascribed under the

Minority Business Enterprise Act 57-69 and the Small Business Act 15 USCS, Section 637 (a). See back of form for more information. Should you require additional information regarding your Minority Status, or need assistance in completing this form please call the Mississippi Development Authority, Minority Business

Enterprise Division at 601-359-3448.

___Applicable ____Not Applicable

IF MINORITY STATUS IS APPLICABLE, PLEASE CHECK APPROPRIATE CODE BELOW:

Minority Business Enterprise Women Business Enterprise ____A (Asian Indian) ____M (Asian Indian) ____B (Asian Pacific) ____N (Asian Pacific) ____C (Black American) ____O (Black American) ____D (Hispanic American ____P (Hispanic American) ____E (Native American) ____Q (Native American)

____R (Other) Non Ethnic Women

The undersigned certifies under the penalties (administrative suspension and/or ineligibility for participation) set forth in the Minority Business Enterprise Act 57-69, and the Small Business Act 15 USCS, Section 637 (a), that the company classification and selected information above is true and correct. The undersigned will advise of any change in such classification at once.

Business: ______________________________________ Signature: ___________________________________

Date: ________________ Title: ____________________ Name Printed: _________________________________

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ATTACHMENT G

DRAFT CONTRACT

STATE OF MISSISSIPPI

MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF CHILD PROTECTION SERVICES

CONTRACT FOR DRUG & ALCOHOL TESTING SERVICES

1. Parties. The parties to this contract are the Mississippi Department of Child Protection

Services (hereinafter “MDCPS”) and [Insert Vendor Name] (hereinafter “Independent

Contractor”).

2. Purpose. The purpose of this contract is for MDCPS to engage Independent Contractor for statewide Drug & Alcohol Testing Services for MDCPS employees, potential employees, and volunteers. Independent Contractor hereby agrees to render certain professional services described in Paragraph 3, “Scope of Services.”

3. Scope of Services. Independent Contractor will perform and complete Drug & Alcohol

Testing Services in a timely and satisfactory manner as further detailed in the Scope of

Services, attached hereto as Exhibit A, and in accordance with the “2nd Modified

Mississippi Settlement Agreement and Reform Plan”, attached hereto as Exhibit B, and incorporated herein by reference.

4. Consideration. As consideration for the performance of this Contract, Independent

Contractor shall be paid a total fee not to exceed [Contract Amount] ($__________) in accordance with rates, volumes, and frequencies as outlined in the budget attached hereto as Exhibit C.

5. Period of Performance. This contract will become effective for the period beginning July

1, 2026, and ending on June 30, 2027, upon the approval and signature of both parties hereto.

6. Renewal of Contract. The contract may be renewed at the discretion of MDCPS for a period one (1) successive one-year period at the same rates, prices, terms, and conditions as in the original contract. Any renewal exercised under this provision shall extend the contract beyond the date of June 30, 2028.

7. Method of Payment & Billing. Independent Contractor shall be compensated on a monthly basis at the firm, fixed testing rate specified within Exhibit C. The testing rate shall remain firm for the duration of the one-year term of the resultant contract or any renewal periods.

The total compensation payable (as reflected in Section 4 of this contract) shall be based on the actual number of tests performed and properly invoiced at the agreed upon testing rate. Payments shall be submitted on invoices in a format agreed upon by MDCPS and the

Independent Contractor. Invoices, at a minimum, shall include: contract number, invoice

QR No. 2026DATS001Rfx:3160008065 Page 15 of 21 number, and itemization of each test performed (inclusive of type of test, individual test performed, and quoted unit price per test). As requested by MDCPS, Independent

Contractor hereby agrees to provide supporting documentation for submitted invoices.

The final invoice is to be submitted no later than fifteen (15) days after the contract end date. Independent Contractor is classified as an independent contractor and not a contractual employee of MDCPS. As such, any compensation due and payable to

Independent Contractor will be paid as gross amounts. Independent Contractor invoices shall submit invoices in the manner and frequency required by MDCPS. Independent

Contractor invoices shall be submitted to MDCPS at contract.invoices@mdcps.ms.gov by the 10th day of each month following completion.

8. Coordination of Services. Independent Contractor shall coordinate the performance of services provided hereunder with and through the MDCPS Office of Human Capital, and consult with said Office on specific courses of action throughout the life of the contract.

9. Applicable Law. The contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Mississippi, excluding its conflicts of laws provisions, and any litigation with respect thereto shall be brought in the courts of Mississippi.

10. Availability of Funds. It is expressly understood and agreed that the obligation of MDCPS to proceed under this agreement is conditioned upon the appropriation of funds by the

Mississippi State Legislature and the receipt the appropriated funds. If the funds anticipated for the continuing time fulfillment of the agreement are, at any time, not forthcoming or insufficient, regardless of the source of funding, MDCPS shall have the right upon 10 business days written notice to Contractor, to terminate this agreement without damage, penalty, cost or expense to the MDCPS of any kind whatsoever. The effective date of termination shall be as specified in the notice of termination.

11. Representation Regarding Contingent Fees. By executing the contract the Independent

Contractor represents that it has not retained any person or agency on a percentage, commission, or other contingent arrangement to secure this contract. If the Independent

Contractor cannot make such a representation, a full and complete explanation shall be submitted in writing to the MDCPS prior to contract execution.

12. Representation Regarding Gratuities. Independent Contractor represents that it has not, is not, and will not offer, give, or agree to give any employee or former employee of MDCPS a gratuity or offer of employment in connection with any approval, disapproval, recommendation, development, or any other action or decision related to the solicitation and resulting contract. Independent Contractor further represents that no employee or former employee of MDCPS has or is soliciting, demanding, accepting, or agreeing to accept a gratuity or offer of employment for the reasons previously stated; any such action by an employee or former employee in the future, if any, will be rejected by Independent

Contractor. Independent Contractor further represents that it is in compliance with the

Mississippi Ethics in Government laws, codified at Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 25-4-

101 through 25-4-121, and has not solicited any employee or former employee to act in mailto:contract.invoices@mdcps.ms.gov

QR No. 2026DATS001Rfx:3160008065 Page 16 of 21 violation of said law.

13. Compliance with Laws. Independent Contractor shall comply with, and all activities under this agreement shall be subject to, all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, as now existing and as may be amended or modified.

14. Insurance. Independent Contractor represents that it will maintain workers’ compensation insurance as required by the State of Mississippi which shall inure to the benefit of all the

Independent Contractor’s personnel provided hereunder; comprehensive general liability or professional liability insurance, and employee dishonesty insurance or fidelity bond insurance with third party liability coverage. All general liability, professional liability, employee dishonesty, and fidelity bond insurance will provide coverage MDCPS as an additional insured. MDCPS reserves the right to request from carriers, certificates of insurance regarding the required coverage. Insurance carriers must be licensed or hold a

Certificate of Authority from the Mississippi Department of Insurance.

15. Indemnification. To the fullest extent allowed by law, Independent Contractor shall indemnify, defend, save and hold harmless, protect, and exonerate the MDCPS its commissioners, board members, officers, employees, agents, and representatives, and the

State of Mississippi from and against all claims, demands, liabilities, suits, actions, damages, losses, and costs of every kind and nature whatsoever including, without limitation, court costs, investigative fees and expenses, and attorneys’ fees, arising out of or caused by Independent Contractor and/or its partners, principals, agents, employees and/or subcontractors in the performance of or failure to perform this agreement.

In the MDCPS’ sole discretion, upon approval of the Office of the Mississippi Attorney

General and the MDCPS, Independent Contractor may be allowed to control the defense of any such claim, suit, etc. In the event Independent Contractor defends said claim, suit, etc., Independent Contractor shall use legal counsel acceptable to the Office of the

Mississippi Attorney General and the MDCPS. Independent Contractor shall be solely responsible for all costs and/or expenses associated with such defense, and the MDCPS shall be entitled to participate in said defense. Independent Contractor shall not settle any claim, suit, etc. without the concurrence of the Office of the Mississippi Attorney General and the MDCPS, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.

16. Stop Work Order. The MDCPS may, by written order to Independent Contractor at any time, require Independent Contractor to stop all or any part of the work called for by this contract. This order shall be for a period of time specified by the MDCPS. Upon receipt of such an order, Independent Contractor shall forthwith comply with its terms and take all reasonable steps to minimize any further cost to the MDCPS. Upon expiration of the stop work order, Independent Contractor shall resume providing the services which were subject to the stop work order, unless the MDCPS has terminated that part of the agreement or terminated the agreement in its entirety. The MDCPS is not liable for payment for services which were not rendered due to the stop work order.

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17. Severability. If any part of this agreement is declared to be invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision of the agreement that can be given effect without the invalid or unenforceable provision, and to this end the provisions hereof are severable. In such event, the parties shall amend the agreement as necessary to reflect the original intent of the parties and to bring any invalid or unenforceable provisions in compliance with applicable law.

18. Termination.

1) Termination for Convenience. The MDCPS may, when the interests of the Agency so require, terminate this contract in whole or in part, for the convenience of the

Agency. The MDCPS shall give written notice of the termination to Independent

Contractor specifying the part of the contract terminated and when termination becomes effective. Independent Contractor shall incur no further obligations in connection with the terminated work and on the date set in the notice of termination

Independent Contractor will stop work to the extent specified. Indpendent

Contractor shall complete the work not terminated by the notice of termination and may incur obligations as are necessary to do so.

2) Termination for Default. If the MDCPS gives the Independent Contractor a notice that the personal or professional services are being provided in a manner that is deficient, the Independent Contractor shall have 30 days to cure the deficiency. If the Independent Contractor fails to cure the deficiency, the MDCPS may terminate the contract for default and the Independent Contractor will be liable for the additional cost to the MDCPS to procure the personal and professional services from another source. Termination under this paragraph could result in Independent

Contractor being excluded from future contract awards pursuant to Chapter 15 of the Public Procurement Review Board Office of Personal Service Contract Review

Rules and Regulations. Any termination wrongly labelled termination for default shall be deemed a termination for convenience.

19. Termination Upon Bankruptcy. This contract may be terminated in whole or in part by

MDCPS upon written notice to Independent Contractor, if Independent Contractor should become the subject of bankruptcy or receivership proceedings, whether voluntary or involuntary, or upon the execution by Independent Contractor of an assignment for the benefit of its creditors. In the event of such termination, Independent Contractor shall be entitled to recover just and equitable compensation for satisfactory work performed under this contract, but in no case shall said compensation exceed the total contract price.

20. Compliance with Equal Opportunity In Employment Policy. Independent Contractor understands that the MDCPS is an equal opportunity employer and therefore, maintains a policy which prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, sex, age, national origin, physical handicap, disability, genetic information, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. All such discrimination is unlawful, and Independent Contractor agrees during the term of the agreement that

QR No. 2026DATS001Rfx:3160008065 Page 18 of 21

Independent Contractor will strictly adhere to this policy in its employment practices and provision of services.

21. Modification or Renegotiation. This agreement may be modified only by written agreement signed by the parties hereto. The parties agree to renegotiate the agreement if federal and/or state revisions of any applicable laws or regulations make changes in this agreement necessary. Modifications shall not be initiated by the Independent Contractor within the last 90 days of the contract period, without prior approval from the Commissioner’s Office.

22. Contract Assignment and Subcontracting. Contractor acknowledges that it was selected by the State to perform the services required hereunder based, in part, upon Contractor’s special skills and expertise. Contractor shall not assign, subcontract, or otherwise transfer this agreement, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the State, which the State may, in its sole discretion, approve or deny without reason. Any attempted assignment or transfer of its obligations without such consent shall be null and void. No such approval by the State of any subcontractor relationship shall be deemed in any way to provide for the incurrence of any obligation of the State in addition to the total fixed price agreed upon in this agreement. Subcontracts shall be subject to the terms and conditions of this agreement and to any conditions of approval that the State may deem necessary.

Subject to the foregoing, this agreement shall be binding upon the respective successors and assigns of the parties.

23. Non-Solicitation of Employees. Each party to this agreement agrees not to employ or to solicit for employment, directly or indirectly, any persons in the full-time or part-time employment of the other party until at least six (6) months after this agreement terminates unless mutually agreed to in writing by the State or Contractor.

24. Waiver. No delay or omission by either party to this agreement in exercising any right, power, or remedy hereunder or otherwise afforded by contract, at law, or in equity shall constitute an acquiescence therein, impair any other right, power or remedy hereunder or otherwise afforded by any means, or operate as a waiver of such right, power, or remedy.

No waiver by either party to this agreement shall be valid unless set forth in writing by the party making said waiver. No waiver of or modification to any term or condition of this agreement will void, waive, or change any other term or condition. No waiver by one party to this agreement of a default by the other party will imply, be construed as, or require waiver of future or other defaults.

25. E-Payment. Contractor agrees to accept all payments in United States currency via the State of Mississippi’s electronic payment and remittance vehicle. The Agency agrees to make payment in accordance with Mississippi “Timely Payments for Purchases by Public

Bodies” laws, which generally provide for payment of undisputed amounts by the Agency within 45 calendar days of receipt of invoice. Mississippi Code Annotated § 31-7-301, et seq.

26. E-Verification. If applicable, Independent Contractor represents and warrants that it will ensure its compliance with the Mississippi Employment Protection Act and will register

QR No. 2026DATS001Rfx:3160008065 Page 19 of 21 and participate in the status verification system for all newly hired employees. Mississippi

Code Annotated §§ 71-11-1 and 71-11-3. Independent Contractor agrees to provide a copy of each verification upon request of the MDCPS subject to approval by any agencies of the

United States Government. Independent Contractor further represents and warrants that any person assigned to perform services hereafter meets the employment eligibility requirements of all immigration laws.

The breach of this clause may subject Independent Contractor to the following: (1) termination of this contract and exclusion pursuant to Chapter 15 of the Public

Procurement Review Board Office of Personal Service Contract Review Rules and

Regulations; (2) the loss of any license, permit, certification or other document granted to

Independent Contractor by an agency, department, or governmental entity for the right to do business in Mississippi; or (3) both. In the event of such termination, Independent

Contractor would also be liable for any additional costs incurred by the Agency due to

Contract cancellation or loss of license or permit to do business in the state.

27. Required Public Records and Transparency. Upon execution of a contract, the provisions of the contract which contain the personal or professional services provided, the unit prices, the overall price to be paid, and the term of the contract shall not be deemed to be a trade secret or confidential commercial or financial information pursuant to Mississippi Code

Annotated § 25-61-9(7). The contract shall be posted publicly on www.transparency.ms.gov and shall be made available at the Agency for examination, inspection, or reproduction by the public. The Independent Contractor acknowledges and agrees that the MDCPS and this contract are subject to the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983 codified at Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 25-61-1, et seq. and its exceptions, Mississippi Code Annotated § 79-23-1, and the Mississippi Accountability and

Transparency Act of 2008, codified at Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 27-104-151, et seq.

28. Paymode. Payments by MDCPS using the state’s accounting system shall be made and remittance information provided electronically as directed by the state and deposited into the bank account of Independent Contractor’s choice. The MDCPS may, at its sole discretion, require Independent Contractor to electronically submit invoices and supporting documentation at any time during the term of this Agreement. Independent Contractor understands and agrees that the Agency is exempt from the payment of Mississippi taxes.

All payments shall be in United States currency.

29. Notices. Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Agreement shall be in writing and personally delivered or sent by electronic means provided that the original of such notice is sent by certified United States mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, or overnight courier with signed receipt, to the party to whom the notice should be given at their business listed herein. Notice shall be deemed given when actually received or when refused. MDCPS and Independent Contractor agree to promptly notify each other in writing of any change of address.

http://www.transparency.ms.gov/

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For the Agency: For Contractor:

Mississippi Department of Child Protection

Services Attn: Office of Contracts

[Independent Contractor Name] [Individual to Receive Notice]

750 N. State Street Street Address

Jackson, MS 39202 City, State Zip

30. Procurement Regulations. The contract shall be governed by the applicable provisions of the Mississippi Public Procurement Review Board Office of Personal Service Contract

Review Rules and Regulations, a copy of which is available on the Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration’s website (www.dfa.ms.gov). Any offeror responding to a solicitation for personal and professional services and any contractor doing business with a state Agency is deemed to be on notice of all requirements therein.

31. Severability. If any term or provision of this Contract is prohibited by the laws of the State of Mississippi or declared invalid or void by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Contract shall not be affected thereby and each term and provision of this

Contract shall be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

32. Trade Secrets, Commercial and Financial Information. It is expressly understood that

Mississippi law requires that the provisions of this contract which contain the commodities purchased or the personal or professional services provided, the price to be paid, and the term of the contract shall not be deemed to be a trade secret or confidential commercial or financial information and shall be available for examination, copying, or reproduction.

33. Requirements Contract. During the period of the contract, Independent Contractor shall provide all the service described in the contract. Independent Contractor understands and agrees that this is a requirements contract and that MDCPS shall have no obligation to

Independent Contractor if no services are required. Any quantities that are included in the scope of work reflect the current expectations of MDCPS for the period of the contract.

The amount is only an estimate and Independent Contractor understands and agrees that

MDCPS is under no obligation to Independent Contractor to buy any amount of the services as a result of having provided this estimate or of having any typical or measurable requirement in the past. Independent Contractor further understands and agrees that

MDCPS may require services in an amount less than or in excess of the estimated annual contract amount and that the quantity actually used, whether in excess of the estimate or less than the estimate, shall not give rise to any claim for compensation other than the total of the unit prices in the contract for the quantity actually used.

34. Entire Agreement. This Contract constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter contained herein and supersedes and replaces any and all prior negotiations, understanding, and agreements, written or oral, between the parties relating thereto.

http://www.dfa.ms.gov/

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35. Approval Clause. It is understood that if this contract requires approval by the Public

Procurement Review Board (“PPRB”) and/or the Mississippi Department of Finance and

Administration Office of Personal Service Contract Review (“OPSCR”) and this contract is not approved by the PPRB and/or OPSCR, it is void and no payment shall be made hereunder.

36. Force Majeure. Each party shall be temporarily excused from performance for any period and to the extent that it is prevented from performing any obligation or service, in whole or in part, as a result of causes beyond the reasonable control and without the fault or negligence of such party and/or its subcontractors. Such acts shall include without limitation acts of God, strikes, lockouts, riots, acts of war, epidemics, governmental regulations superimposed after the fact, fire, earthquakes, floods, or other natural disasters

(“force majeure events”). When such a cause arises, Independent Contractor shall notify the Agency in writing at its earliest reasonable opportunity of the cause of its inability to perform, how it affects its performance, and the anticipated duration of the inability to perform. All parties shall make reasonable efforts to minimize the impact of the force majeure event on contract performance. The MDCPS may exercise any rights it has under the contract which are available when neither party is in default.

37. Property Rights. Property rights do not inure to Independent Contractor until such time as services have been provided under a legally executed contract. Independent Contractor has no legitimate claim of entitlement to the provision of work hereunder and acknowledges that the MDCPS may terminate this contract at any time for its own convenience.

38. Modification or Renegotiation Required by Change In Law. The parties agree to renegotiate the agreement in good faith if federal and/or state revisions to any applicable laws or regulations make changes in this agreement necessary. This agreement may be modified only by written agreement signed by the parties hereto and approval by the Public

Procurement Review Board, if required.

39. No Limitation of Liability. Nothing in this agreement shall be interpreted as excluding or limiting any liability of the Contractor for harm arising out of the Contractor’s or its subcontractors’ performance under this agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have affixed their signatures on the date indicated below, after first being authorized so to do.

By: _________________________________

Mississippi Department of Child

Protection Services

Andrea Sanders

Commissioner

By: _________________________________

[Contractor Name]

[Contractor Signatory]

[Signatory Title]