ESBD_473255_1764792113627_Invitation For Bids 473-26-00004 For Posting.pdf

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IF NOT BIDDING,

DO NOT RETURN THIS FORM.

PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION OF TEXAS

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB)

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE DATE

WHEN BIDDING:

Bids must be submitted via electronic mail (E-mail) to rfpcorrespondence@puc.texas.gov. Please identify in the subject line the corresponding requisition number and description of services or commodities.

Submit questions to: rfpcorrespondence@puc.texas.gov

BID OPENING 12/18/2025 @10:00AM

REQUISITION NO. 8938

FAILURE TO SIGN WILL DISQUALIFY BID

By signing this bid, bidder certifies that if a Texas address is shown as the address of the bidder, bidder qualifies as a Texas Bidder as defined in Texas Government Code § 2155.444(c)(2). Further, by signing this bid, Bidder acknowledges receipt of the Standard Terms and Conditions attached to this IFB as Attachment B; agrees to provide the items/services described in this IFB; and agrees to abide by the PUCT’s Standard Terms and Conditions and any additional Terms and Conditions contained in the purchase order resulting from an award.

VENDOR ADDRESS:

Vendor ID # ____________________________________________________

AN IDENTIFICATION NUMBER IS REQUIRED TO PROCESS PAYMENT FOR GOODS/SERVICES PURCHASED AGAINST CONTRACT AWARDS. THE FEDERAL EMPLOYER’S IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (EIN) WILL BE USED TO ESTABLISH A PAYEE ID NUMBER:

PLEASE ENTER YOUR FEDERAL EIN: □□□□□□□□□□

Every vendor MUST have an EIN prior to receiving payment under an awarded contract. This is being required in an effort to minimize identity theft.

For information on obtaining your EIN, you may call the IRS at 800-829-4933 or visit the following web site: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/

CHECK HERE IF YOU ARE A SOLE OWNERSHIP OR PARTNERSHIP

AGENCY TO INVOICE

Public Utility Commission of Texas P.O. Box 13326

Austin, Texas 78711-3326

DESTINATION OF GOODS IF DIFFERENT THAN ABOVE

Public Utility Commission of Texas 1701 N. Congress Avenue

Austin, Texas 78701

PREFERENCES

See Appendix 23 of the State of Texas Procurement Manual regarding preferences.

Check below to claim a preference under 34 Texas Administrative Code § 20.306.

□ Goods produced or offered by a Texas bidder that is owned by a service-disabled veteran who is a Texas resident.

□ Goods produced in Texas or offered by a Texas bidder that is not owned by a service-disabled veteran who is a Texas resident.

□ Agricultural products grown in Texas.

□ Agricultural products offered by a Texas bidder.

□ Services offered by a Texas bidder that is owned by a service-disabled veteran who is a Texas resident.

□ Services offered by a Texas bidder that is not owned by a service-disabled veteran who is a Texas resident.

□ Texas Vegetation Native to the region for landscaping purposes.

□ U.S.A. produced supplies, materials or equipment.

□ Products of persons with mental or physical disabilities.

□ Products made of recycled, remanufactured, or environmentally sensitive materials, including recycled steel.

□ Energy Efficient Products.

□ Rubberized asphalt paving material.

□ Recycled motor oil and lubricants.

□ Products produced at facilities located on formerly contaminated property.

□ Products and services from economically depressed or blighted areas.

□ Vendors that meet or exceed air quality standards.

□ Recycled or Reused Computer Equipment of Other Manufacturers.

□ Foods of Higher Nutritional Value.

IFB 8938

PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION OF TEXAS

INSTRUCTIONS

Bidders should carefully study all specifications, terms, and conditions prior to submitting a bid.

ITEMS BELOW APPLY TO AND BECOME PART OF BID. ANY EXCEPTIONS THERETO MUST BE IN

WRITING AND AGREED TO BY THE PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION OF TEXAS (PUCT).

1. BIDDING REQUIREMENTS:

1.01. Bidders must comply with all rules, regulations, and statutes relating to purchasing in the State of Texas, in addition to the requirements of this form.

1.02. Bids should be submitted on this form. Bidders must price per unit shown. Unit prices shall govern in the event of extension errors. If a price quotation is submitted as part of the bid, the quotation must be referenced on the bid document and signed by the bidder to establish formal linkage to the bid.

1.03. Bids must be received at the PUCT on or before the hour and date specified.

1.04. Late and/or unsigned bids will not be considered under any circumstances. Person signing bid must have the authority to bind the bidder in a contract.

1.05. Quote FOB destination, freight prepaid and allowed, unless otherwise stated within the specifications.

1.06. Bid prices are requested to be firm for PUCT acceptance for 30 days from bid opening date. "Discount from list" bids are not acceptable unless requested. Cash discounts are not considered in determining an award. Cash discounts offered will be taken if earned.

1.07. Bidder should enter Texas Identification Number System (TINS) number, full firm name, and address of bidder on the face of this form. Enter in the space provided. Additionally, firm name should appear on each continuation page of a bid.

1.08. Bid cannot be altered or amended after opening time. Alterations made before opening time should be initialed by bidder or his authorized agent. No bid can be withdrawn after opening time without approval by the PUCT based on an acceptable written reason.

1.09. Purchases made for State use are exempt from the State Sales tax and Federal Excise tax. Do not include tax in bid. Excise Tax Exemption Certificates are available upon request.

1.10. AWARD NOTICE: The State reserves the right to make an award on the basis of low line item bid, low total of line items, or in any other combination that will serve the best interest of the State and to reject any and all bid items at the sole discretion of the State. The State also reserves the right to accept or reject all or any part of any bid, waive minor technicalities, and award the bid to best serve the interests of the State.

1.11. Consistent and continued tie bidding could cause rejection of bids by the PUCT and/or investigation for antitrust violations.

1.12. Inquiries pertaining to this IFB must include the requisition number, class/item codes, and opening date.

2. SPECIFICATIONS:

2.01. Catalogs, brand names, or manufacturer's references are descriptive only and indicate type and quality desired.

Bids on brands of like nature and quality will be considered unless advertised under §2155.067, Texas Government Code (Gov't Code). If bidding on other than references, bid should show manufacturer, brand or trade name, and other description of product offered. If other than brand(s) specified is offered, illustrations and complete description of product offered are requested to be made part of the bid. Failure to take exception to specifications or reference data will require bidder to furnish specified brand names, numbers, etc.

2.02. Unless otherwise specified, items shall be new and unused and of current production.

2.03. All electrical items must meet all applicable OSHA standards and regulations, and bear the appropriate listing from UL, FMRC or NEMA.

2.04. Samples, when requested, must be furnished free of expense to the State. If not destroyed in examination, they will be returned to the bidder, on request, at bidder's expense. Each sample should be marked with bidder's name, address, and requisition number. Do not enclose in or attach bid to sample.

2.05. The State will not be bound by any oral statement or representation contrary to the written specifications of this

IFB.

2.06. Manufacturer's standard warranty shall apply unless otherwise stated in the IFB.

3. TIE BIDS:

Awards will be made in accordance with 34 Tex. Admin. Code Chapter 20.

4. DELIVERY:

4.01. Show number of days required to place material in receiving agency's designated location under normal conditions. Delivery days mean calendar days, unless otherwise specified. Failure to state delivery time obligates bidder to deliver in 14 calendar days. Unrealistic delivery promises may cause bid to be disregarded.

4.02. If delay is foreseen, bidder shall give written notice to the PUCT. Bidder must keep the PUCT advised at all times of status of order.

4.03. Default in promised delivery (without accepted reasons) or failure to meet specifications authorizes the PUCT to purchase the goods or services of this IFB elsewhere and charge any increased costs for the goods or services, including the cost of rebidding, to the bidder.

4.04. No substitutions permitted without written approval of PUCT.

4.05. Delivery shall be made during normal working hours only, unless prior approval has been obtained from ordering agency.

5. INSPECTION AND TESTS: All goods will be subject to inspection and test by the State. Authorized PUCT personnel shall have access to supplier's place of business for the purpose of inspecting merchandise. Tests shall be performed on samples submitted with the bid or on samples taken from regular shipment. All costs shall be borne by the bidder in the event products tested fail to meet or exceed all conditions and requirements of the specification. Goods delivered and rejected in whole or in part may, at the State's option, be returned to the bidder or held for disposition at bidder's expense. Latent defects may result in revocation of acceptance.

6. AWARD OF CONTRACT: A response to this IFB is an offer to contract based upon the terms, conditions, and specifications contained herein. Bids do not become contracts until they are accepted through an open market purchase order. The contract shall be governed, construed, and interpreted under the laws of the State of Texas.

The factors listed in Gov’t Code Chapter 2155 shall also be considered in making an award when specified. Any legal actions must be filed in Travis County, Texas. A three month extension for any contract resulting from the award of this IFB is permitted.

7. PAYMENT: Bidder shall submit 2 copies of an itemized invoice showing State order number and agency requisition number on all copies. The State will incur no penalty for late payment if payment is made in 30 or fewer days from receipt of goods or services and an uncontested invoice. Payment shall be made in accordance with Chapter 2251, Gov't Code.

8. PATENTS, TRADEMARKS, OR COPYRIGHTS: Bidder agrees to defend and indemnify the PUCT and

State from claims involving infringement or violation of patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, or other proprietary rights, arising out of the PUCT's or the State's use of any good or service provided by the bidder as a result of this IFB.

9. BIDDER ASSIGNMENTS: Bidder hereby assigns to the PUCT any and all claims for overcharges associated with this bid arising under the antitrust laws of the United States 15 U.S.C.A. §1, et seq., and the antitrust laws of the State of Texas, Tex. Bus. & Comm. Code §15.01, et seq.

10. BIDDER AFFIRMATIONS: Signing this bid with a false statement is a material breach and shall void the submitted bid and any resulting contract, and the bidder shall be removed from all bid lists. By signing this bid, the bidder hereby certifies that:

The Bidder has made a good faith effort to ensure all statements and information submitted in response to this IFB are current, complete, and accurate. The Bidder represents and warrants that all statements and information prepared and submitted in this document are current, complete, true, and accurate. Submitting a response/bid with a false statement or making material misrepresentations during the performance of a contract is a material breach of contract and may void the submitted response and any resulting contract.

The Bidder has not given nor offered to give and does not intend to give at any time hereafter, any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, or service to a public servant in connection with its response to this IFB.

The Bidder is not currently delinquent in the payment of any franchise tax owed to the State of Texas.

The Bidder, the firm, corporation, partnership, institution, or other legal entity represented by the Bidder, and anyone acting for such a firm, corporation, partnership, institution, or other legal entity, have not, in connection with this IFB:

o Violated the antitrust laws of this state or federal antitrust laws;

o Communicated directly or indirectly the bid made to any competitor or other person engaged in such line of business; or o Otherwise violated 15 U.S.C. § 1, et. seq., or Texas Business and Commerce Code § 15.01, et.seq.

Under Texas Government Code § 2155.004, the Bidder certifies that the individual or business entity named in this response is not ineligible to receive the specified contract and acknowledges that the contract may be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

[A Bidder is ineligible to receive a contract award if the Bidder is a person who received compensation from the agency to participate in preparing the specifications or IFB on which the bid or contract is based. See Texas Government Code § 2155.004(a).]

The Bidder is in compliance with Texas Government Code § 669.003, relating to contracting with the current or former executive head of a state agency.

Under Texas Government Code §§ 2155.006 and 2261.053, the Bidder certifies that the individual or business entity named in the response/bid is not ineligible to receive the specified contract and acknowledges that any contract may be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

(A Bidder is ineligible to receive a contract award if the Bidder has violated certain laws or been subject to certain penalties in connection with hurricane relief, recovery, or reconstruction efforts. See Texas Government Code §§ 2155.006 and 2261.053.)

Under Texas Family Code § 231.006, the Bidder certifies that the individual or business entity named in this response/bid is not ineligible to receive payment under the proposed contract and acknowledges that any contract resulting from this response/bid may be terminated and payment may be withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

(A child support obligor who is more than 30 days delinquent in paying child support, or a business entity in which the obligor is a sole proprietor, partner, shareholder, or owner with an ownership interest of at least 25 percent, is not eligible to receive payments from state funds under a contract to provide property, materials, or services. See Texas Family Code § 231.006(a).

If a Bidder includes a Texas address in its response/bid, the Bidder must certify whether or not it qualifies as a Texas Resident Bidder, as defined in Texas Government Code § 2155.444(c)(2).

Bidder represents and warrants that it is not aware of any court or government agency actions, proceedings or investigations pending or threatened against Bidder or any of the individuals or entities included in the response/bid within the five calendar years immediately preceding the submission of the response/bid that would impair Bidder’s performance under the contract, relate to the solicited or similar goods or services, or otherwise be relevant to the PUCT’s consideration of the response/bid. If Bidder is unable to make the preceding representation and warranty, then Bidder instead represents and warrants that it has included as a detailed attachment in its response/bid a complete disclosure of any such court or governmental agency actions, proceedings, or investigations. In addition, Bidder represents and warrants that it will notify the PUCT in writing within five business days of any changes to the representations or warranties in this clause and understands that failure to timely update the PUCT may result in the Bidder’s disqualification at the PUCT’s sole discretion, or if during the performance of the contract, will constitute a breach of contract and may result in immediate termination of the contract for cause at the PUCT’s sole discretion.

Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 2275.0102, Bidder certifies that neither it nor its parent company, nor any affiliate of Bidder or its parent company, is: (i) majority owned or controlled by citizens or governmental entities of China, Iran, North Korea, Russia, or any other country designated by the Governor under Texas Government Code § 2275.0103; or (ii) headquartered in any of those countries.

Bidder certifies that neither it, nor anyone acting on behalf of or for the Bidder, has committed any act of collusion related to the development and submission of the response/bid.

ATTACHMENT A

STATEMENT OF WORK

The PUCT is seeking a contractor to provide the court reporting and transcription services specifically outlined below for a one-year contract, beginning January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, with a one-year option for renewal, to run from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027.

When used in this Statement of Work, the term ‘presiding officer’ means the Commission, any commissioner, or any hearings examiner or administrative law judge presiding over a PUCT proceeding or any portion thereof. A ‘PUCT proceeding’ includes a matter referred to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) by the PUCT. The term ‘party’ refers to a party to a proceeding before the Commission and includes applicants, complainants, respondents, intervenors, and commission staff representing the public interest. The ‘Commission Counsel’ is the director of the Office of Policy and Docket Management Division of the PUCT and the counsel to the Commission.

I. Types of Reporting and Transcription Services A. Services Requested by the PUCT or Another Party The contractor will record and transcribe regular and emergency meetings, hearings, public hearings, workshops for rulemakings, workshops, depositions, and other proceedings conducted by the PUCT for which the services of a court reporter are requested by the presiding officer, Commission Counsel, a designee of the Commission Counsel, or any party. These proceedings may be conducted in-person or by telephone or video conference. The presiding officer will determine how the proceeding will take place.

B. Recorded Proceedings The contractor will transcribe proceedings recorded on tape that the reporter was not directed to report and for which transcription service is requested by the presiding officer, Commission Counsel, a designee of the Commission Counsel, or any party, with the understanding that the reporter cannot certify the verbatim correctness of the transcript.

II. Contractor Personnel A. Qualifications All contractor personnel assigned to provide court reporting services must be certified under Chapter 154 of the Texas Government Code. Additionally, the contractor must ensure that any reporter assigned will have adequate training and experience to fulfill the reporting requirements before beginning work on the assignment. Assigned reporters must be familiar with grievance hearings, depositions, and public hearing procedures normally followed by state agencies, boards, and commissions, as well as those involving contested cases or adjudicatory proceedings. Contractor’s personnel must appear at the time and location requested, including connecting into a conference call, professionally attired and groomed, ready to work, and with all necessary equipment and supplies as necessary for the circumstances.

B. Conduct Upon arrival, the contractor’s assigned reporter must present himself or herself to the presiding officer and must at all times be governed by the instructions of the presiding officer in matters affecting the composition of the record, including, but not limited to, adjournment to other times or places and matters of like character. The contractor must report and incorporate into the transcript everything during the session unless the presiding officer directs otherwise.

The reporter must include a record of appearances, with the names and identification of the parties who testify or speak at the proceeding or who request the entering of their appearances, together with such other matters as the presiding officer may direct. Only the presiding officer can direct that any part of the proceedings will be off the record. Should the reporter have any questions about the technical aspects of the proceeding or fail to hear any part of the proceeding, he or she may ask the presiding officer to clarify any statements, but the reporter must not interrupt the proceedings on a frequent basis.

III. Assignments

A. Location The contractor’s assignments will normally be in Austin, Texas, but may, on occasion, be in other locations, and may on occasion be accomplished through telephone or video conference calls.

B. Required Notice The Commission will provide timely notice to the contractor after learning that court reporting services are needed or that previously requested services must be cancelled. Except for emergency open meetings, notice will be provided by e-mail or telephone a minimum of 24-hours before the services are needed or the scheduled services are cancelled. The contractor must guarantee the availability of a reporter, except when it receives notice less than 24 hours before the proceeding, in which case the contractor must notify the Commission at least two hours before the scheduled starting time if it cannot provide a reporter. For emergency open meetings, the contractor must advise the Commission at the time notice is given whether the contractor can provide a reporter.

C. Failure to Appear and Unexcused Delays When the contractor is given timely notice, the contractor’s reporter must be present and ready to proceed at the noticed starting time. If the contractor’s reporter fails to appear at the time and place specified for a proceeding, the Commission or other entity that requested the contractor’s service must notify the contractor immediately, and the contractor will make its best efforts to provide a substitute within one hour. If the contractor cannot guarantee that a substitute reporter will appear at the proceeding withing one hour, the proceedings will be recorded on tape, and the contractor will transcribe the recording. The due date for the transcription will be the same as if the scheduled reporter had been present in person for the event. Further, the transcription will be billed at a 50% fee reduction to the Commission or other entity that requested the contractor’s service. Delays caused by an unprepared reporter will result in a reduction of $25 per quarter hour of delay to any invoice presented to the Commission or other entity that requested the contractor’s service.

D. Recesses A presiding officer must grant a reporter’s request for a recess to replace paper, tape, or other necessary materials used in the performance of reporting services or when the reporter has equipment problems. The recess must be for a reasonable time for the reporter to replace materials or fix the equipment. Upon request to a presiding officer, a reporter is allowed a fifteen-minute recess approximately every two hours that a proceeding is being reported.

IV. Transcripts A. Number and Format: The contractor must provide transcripts as required by the most current Uniform Format Manual for Texas Court Reporters, as amended by the Texas Supreme Court.

1. Commission and other PUCT Proceedings The Commission has a standing request for a reporter at all regular meetings of the Commission. Because of the short time for scheduling emergency meetings of the Commission, the Commission will request reporting services only if time allows. For Commission open meetings; Commission-held hearings; open meeting workshops; PUCT project meetings and standard workshops; and any deposition taken by a PUCT attorney, the contractor must provide:

A. The original transcript to be filed with the Commission’s filing clerk 10 days post ½ day proceedings (4 hours or less) and 14 days post full day proceedings (over 4 hours).

B. A complete transcript, in electronic format, sent to OPDM at Ruby.Hicks@puc.texas.gov and Linda.Olson@puc.texas.gov and to Agency Counsel at Jasmin.Augustus@puc.texas.gov by the third business day after the proceeding occurs. However, regular delivery applies to a transcript for a water utility hearing on the merits held in conjunction with a regular meeting.

C. Copies sent to purchasing parties, as ordered.

2. PUCT Proceedings before SOAH If ordered by a party, the contractor must provide a complete transcript, in electronic format, sent to SOAH and copies sent to purchasing parties, as ordered.

B. Accuracy The contractor must provide complete transcripts that accurately reflect the complete verbatim recording of the proceeding. Where a reporter error appears in the transcript, the reporter must correct the error only at the direction of the presiding officer. The contractor must correct any errors within five business days after receiving notification of the error from the Commission. The contractor must make the correction without cost to the Commission or any other party and will be responsible for the delivery of errata sheets and corrected electronic media to all parties.

C. Exhibits

1. Exhibit Index. The contractor must provide a free copy of the exhibit index as it appears in the transcripts to the Commission. The marking and identification of exhibits must be handled in accordance with the mandates in the Uniform Format Manual for Texas Court Reporters.

2. Record Copy of Exhibits. Unless the Commission’s contract administrator requests otherwise, the contractor must maintain the record copy of all exhibits pending completion and delivery of the original transcript to the Commission. Upon the conclusion of a proceeding during which exhibits were admitted into the record, and prior to adjournment of the proceeding, the presiding officer may instruct the reporter to verify that he or she has the record copy of all exhibits introduced during that same proceeding. In the event that the reporter is missing any of the exhibits, the reporter must notify the presiding officer and request the presiding officer direct the party introducing the exhibit to provide a duplicate record copy to the reporter after the presiding officer has authenticated the exhibit. The contractor must maintain all confidential documents and exhibits entrusted to the reporter in such a manner as to ensure the continual confidentiality of those documents and exhibits. Unless otherwise instructed by the presiding officer, the reporter must maintain all exhibits designated as confidential in a sealed envelope.

3. Other Documents. When written or prepared papers are presented, read, or referred to at a proceeding, if the reporter is not furnished a copy, the reporter must notify the presiding officer and request that the presiding officer require either the paper or a copy thereof be furnished to the reporter for reference during transcription. Parties distributing copies of agendas, registrations, or any other documents at proceedings must provide copies to the reporter at the time of the proceeding. If the reporter is not provided a copy, the reporter must notify the presiding officer or other Commission employee and request that a copy of such document be provided to the reporter.

V. Transcript Delivery

Time of Delivery

1. Regular Copy: Transcripts must be delivered within ten (10) business days after the conclusion of a proceeding lasting 4 hours or less and within 14 days after the conclusion of a proceeding lasting over 4 hours.

2. Intermediate Copy: Transcripts must be delivered within five (5) business days after the conclusion of the proceeding.

3. Expedited 4-Day Copy: Transcripts must be delivered within four (4) business days after the conclusion of the proceeding.

4. Expedited 3-Day Copy: Transcripts must be delivered within three (3) business days after the conclusion of the proceeding.

5. Expedited 2-Day Copy: Transcripts must be delivered within two (2) business days after the conclusion of the proceeding.

6. Daily Copy (Next-Day Delivery): Complete transcripts of each day’s proceedings must be delivered no later than 11:00 a.m. the next business day, except when a proceeding continues past 5:00 p.m. When a proceeding lasts past 5:00 p.m., the 11:00 a.m. delivery deadline is extended two hours for each hour the proceeding continues past 5:00 p.m. The Commission will make all reasonable efforts to provide the contractor with three (3) calendar days’ notice prior to the proceeding when ordering next-day delivery.

Computation of Time The date of a continuance, recess, or adjournment will be used for computing the time of the delivery of the transcript.

Whenever a proceeding is continued, recessed, or adjourned for a period of five or more business days, the transcript of that portion of the proceeding held before the continuance, recess, or adjournment will be considered a complete proceeding for the purpose of computing time for delivery of the transcript.

Deadline for Delivery to the Commission The contractor will not provide transcripts to the Commission later than the date on which transcripts are provided to any other person, except in any instance where a transcript is delivered to a party after 5:00 p.m., and the Commission has made no special arrangements to receive the transcript. In this case, the transcript must be delivered to the Commission the following weekday morning at the first available opportunity.

Place of Delivery The contractor will deliver transcripts to the person or location specified by the ordering party. The Commission filing clerk is the Commission’s designated agent for delivery of the original transcript. The filing clerk will note upon each volume of the original transcript the time at which delivery was made by contractor. The reporter must submit via email a pdf version of the transcripts to OPDM at Ruby.Hicks@puc.texas.gov and Linda.Olson@puc.texas.gov and to Agency Counsel at Jasmin.Augustus@puc.texas.gov.

Late Delivery The contractor will deliver the transcript in accordance with the delivery time designated by the party ordering the transcript. When an ordering party fails to specify a time of delivery, the contractor must deliver the transcript on a regular-copy basis, and transcripts not delivered within 10 business days after the conclusion of a proceeding lasting 4 hours or less and 14 business days after the conclusion of a proceeding lasting over 4 hours will be considered delinquent. When expedited delivery is requested but the transcript is not delivered on time, the charge for the transcript will be in accordance with whatever delivery was actually achieved. Any time delivery of the transcript exceeds ten business days after the conclusion of the proceeding, the contractor will further reduce the price as follows: The amount charged any party will be reduced by 5% for each business day, or fraction thereof, that delivery is delayed, up to a total of 50% of the regular-copy price.

The PUCT does not post transcripts publicly, so anyone who wishes to purchase a transcript from the contractor will need to pay the contractor directly, with the sole exception of public information act requests. The PUCT will provide copies of transcripts to requestor(s) pursuant to the requirements of the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552) at no additional cost to the PUCT. Further, the contractor will not be additionally compensated for any copies of transcripts provided to a requestor under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552).

Please submit a pricing per page with your bid for anyone who wishes to purchase all or part of a transcript. You must include the pricing requested below with your bid, in addition to the pricing for the PUCT on page 10 of this IFB.

For PUCT, for items not covered in prior sections of the Statement of Work (Attachment A):

Delivery Time Copy Daily $ Two-Day $ Three-Day $ Four-Day $ Five-Day $ Six-Day $ Seven-Day $ Eight-Day $ Nine-Day $ Regular (10 business days) $

Other Charges (in addition to page rate):

Administrative Fee $ Minimum Invoice Fee for copy (plus Admin Fee) of Open Meeting excerpt $ Hourly writing fee $ Overtime (after 5:00pm) $ Minimum Appearance Fee (half day) $ Minimum Appearance Fee (full day) $ Weekend/Holiday Appearance Fee $ Cancellation Fee $

For any other party, after the original transcript has been purchased:

Delivery Time Copy Daily $ Two-Day $ Three-Day $

Four-Day $ Five-Day $ Six-Day $ Seven-Day $ Eight-Day $ Nine-Day $ Regular (10 business days) $

Other Charges (in addition to page rate):

Administrative Fee $ Minimum Invoice Fee for copy (plus Admin Fee) of Open Meeting excerpt $ Hourly writing fee $ Overtime (after 5:00pm) $ Minimum Appearance Fee (half day) $ Minimum Appearance Fee (full day) $ Weekend/Holiday Appearance Fee $ Cancellation Fee $

ITEM

NO.

CLASS & ITEM DESCRIPTION ESTIMATED

QUANTITY

UNIT UNIT

PRICE

EXTENSION

961-24 Court Reporting and Transcription Services Attached is the Statement of Work (Attachment A) and the PUCT’s Standard Terms and Conditions (Attachment B).

Initial Term: 01/01/2026 – 12/31/2026, with one-year option for renewal to run from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027. Quoted price should include both initial term and renewal term. Quantities below are estimated totals for a one-year period.

1 Commission and other PUCT Proceedings (includes standing request for a reporter at all regular meetings of the Commission; emergency meetings of the Commission; Commission-held hearings; open meeting workshops; PUCT project meetings and standard workshops; and any deposition taken by a PUCT attorney):

Half Day In-Person Proceeding (Up To 4 Hours) Delivery of Transcript Electronic Copy: 1 business day Certified Copy: 10 business days

52 EACH,

FOR

ONE

YEAR

PERIOD

2 Commission and other PUCT Proceedings (includes of the Commission; emergency meetings of the Commission; Commission-held hearings; open meeting workshops; PUCT project meetings and

52 EACH,

FOR

ONE

standard workshops; and any deposition taken by a PUCT attorney):

Full Day In-Person Proceeding (Over 4 Hours) Delivery of Transcript Electronic Copy: 2 business days Certified Copy: 14 business days

3 Commission and other PUCT Proceedings (includes standing request for a reporter at all regular meetings of the Commission; emergency meetings of the Commission; Commission-held hearings; open meeting workshops; PUCT project meetings and standard workshops; and any deposition taken by a PUCT attorney):

Half Day Via Electronic Mode Proceeding (Up To 4 Hours) Delivery of Transcript Electronic Copy: 1 business day Certified Copy: 10 business days

52 EACH,

FOR

ONE

4 Commission and other PUCT Proceedings (includes of the Commission; emergency meetings of the Commission; Commission-held hearings; open meeting workshops; PUCT project meetings and standard workshops; and any deposition taken by a PUCT attorney):

Full Day Via Electronic Mode Proceedings (Over 4 Hours) Delivery of Transcript Electronic Copy: 2 business days Certified Copy: 14 business days

52 EACH,

FOR

ONE

5 PUCT Proceedings before SOAH Half Day In-Person Proceeding (Up To 4 Hours) Delivery of Transcript Electronic Copy: 1 business day Certified Copy: 10 business days

40 EACH,

FOR

ONE

6 PUCT Proceedings before SOAH Half Day Via Electronic Mode Proceeding (Up To 4 Hours) Delivery of Transcript Electronic Copy: 1 business day Certified Copy: 10 business day

40 EACH,

FOR

ONE

7 PUCT Proceedings before SOAH Full Day In-Person Proceeding (Over 4 Hours) Delivery of Transcript Electronic Copy: 2 business days Certified Copy: 14 business days

40 EACH,

FOR

ONE

8 PUCT Proceedings before SOAH Full Day Via Electronic Mode Proceeding (Over 4 Hours) Delivery of Transcript

40 EACH,

FOR

ONE

Electronic Copy: 2 business days Certified Copy: 14 business days

ATTACHMENT B

STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The following terms and conditions, together with the issued purchase order (PO), constitute the contract between the parties and supersede and merge all prior discussions, writings, negotiations, understandings, and agreements. Any term or condition not specifically incorporated in the PO or this attachment is void and has no effect.

1. Amendments and Modifications. This contract may not be amended or modified in any manner except by written instrument executed by authorized representatives of the parties in accordance with the terms of this contract.

2. Americans with Disabilities Act. Contractor represents and warrants its compliance with the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and its implementing regulations, as each may be amended.

3. Antitrust Affirmation. Contractor represents and warrants that, in accordance with Section 2155.005 of the Texas Government Code, neither Contractor nor the firm, corporation, partnership, or institution represented by Contractor, or anyone acting for such a firm, corporation, or institution has: (1) violated any provision of the Texas Free Enterprise and Antitrust Act of 1983, Chapter 15 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, or the federal antitrust laws; or (2) communicated directly or indirectly the contents of this contract to any competitor or any other person engaged in the same line of business as Contractor.

4. Assignment. Contractor shall not assign its rights under the contract or delegate the performance of its duties under the contract without prior written approval from the PUCT. Any attempted assignment in violation of this provision is void and without effect.

5. Binding Effect. The contract shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the PUCT and Contractor and to their representatives, successors, and assigns.

6. Buy Texas Affirmation. In accordance with Section 2155.4441 of the Texas Government Code, Contractor agrees that during the performance of a contract for services it shall purchase products and materials produced in Texas when they are available at a price and time comparable to products and materials produced outside this state.

7. Change in Law and Compliance with Laws. Contractor shall comply with all laws, regulations, requirements, and guidelines applicable to a vendor providing services and products required by the contract to the State of Texas, as these laws, regulations, requirements and guidelines currently exist and as amended throughout the term of the contract.

The PUCT reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to unilaterally amend the contract throughout the term of the contract to incorporate any modifications necessary for the PUCT’s compliance, as an agency of the State of Texas, with all applicable state and federal laws, regulations, requirements, and guidelines.

8. Child Support Obligation Affirmation. Under Section 231.006 of the Texas Family Code, the Contractor certifies that the individual or business entity named in this contract is not ineligible to receive the contract and acknowledges that this contract may be terminated, and payment may be withheld if this certification is inaccurate in addition to other remedies set out in section 231.006(f).

9. Cloud Computing State Risk and Authorization Management Program (TX-RAMP). If applicable, and pursuant to Section 2054.0593(d)-(f) of the Texas Government Code, relating to cloud computing state risk and authorization management program, Contractor represents and warrants that it complies with the requirements of the state risk and authorization management program and agrees that throughout the term of the contract it shall maintain its certifications and comply with the program requirements in the performance of the contract.

10. Compliance with Executive Order GA 48. In accordance with Executive Order GA 48, Contractor certifies that it, and if applicable, any of Contractor’s holding companies or subsidiaries, is not: (a) Listed in Section 889 of the

2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA); or (b) Listed in Section 1260H of the 2021 NDAA; or (c) Owned by the government of a country on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s foreign adversaries list under 15 C.F.R. § 791.4;

or (d) Controlled by any governing or regulatory body located in a country on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s foreign adversaries list under 15 C.F.R. § 791.4.

11. Computer Equipment Recycling Program. If applicable, Contractor certifies its compliance with Subchapter Y, Chapter 361 of the Texas Health and Safety Code and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality rules in 30 TAC Chapter 328.

12. Conflicts. Contractor agrees to abide by the requirements of and policy directions provided by the Texas statutes and the rules and regulations of the PUCT. Contractor agrees to inform and consult with the PUCT when further interpretations or directions are needed in order to fully implement the rules and regulations of the PUCT. In the event that Contractor becomes aware of inconsistencies between this contract and a Texas statute or PUCT rule, Contractor will so advise the PUCT immediately and will cooperate fully to revise applicable provisions of this contract, as necessary.

13. Contracting Information Responsibilities. If applicable, Contractor represents and warrants that it will comply with the requirements of Section 552.372(a) of the Texas Government Code. Except as provided by Section 552.374(c) of the Texas Government Code, the requirements of Subchapter J, Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code, may apply to the contract and the Contractor agrees that the contract can be terminated if the Contractor knowingly or intentionally fails to comply with a requirement of that subchapter.

14. Contractor Responsibility. Contractor agrees to comply with all state and federal laws applicable to the liability and payment of Contractor and Contractor’s employees, including laws regarding wages, taxes, insurances, and workers’ compensation. Neither the PUCT nor the State of Texas will be liable to the Contractor, its employees, agents, or others for the provision of unemployment insurance or workers’ compensation or any benefit available to a state employee.

15. COVID-19 Vaccine Passport Prohibition. Under Section 161.0085 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, Contractor certifies that the individual or business entity named in this contract is not ineligible to receive the specified contract.

16. Critical Infrastructure Affirmation. If applicable, and pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 2275.0102, Contractor certifies that neither it nor its parent company, nor any affiliate of Contractor or its parent company, is: (1) majority owned or controlled by citizens or governmental entities of China, Iran, North Korea, Russia, or any other country designated by the Governor under Texas Government Code Section 2275.0103; or (2) headquartered in any of those countries.

17. Cybersecurity Training. If applicable, Contractor represents and warrants that it will comply with the requirements of Section 2054.5192 of the Texas Government Code relating to cybersecurity training and required verification of completion of the training program.

18. Damage to Governmental Property. In the event of loss, destruction, or damage to any PUCT or State of Texas property by Contractor or Contractor’s employees, agents, subcontractors, and suppliers, Contractor shall be liable to the PUCT and the State of Texas for the full cost of repair, reconstruction, or replacement of the lost, destroyed, or damaged property. Contractor will reimburse the PUCT and the State of Texas for such property damage within ten

(10) calendar days after the Contractor’s receipt of the agency’s notice of amount due.

19. Data Management and Security Controls. If appliable, and in accordance with Section 2054.138 of the Texas Government Code, Contractor certifies that it will comply with the security controls required under this contract and will maintain records and make them available to the PUCT as evidence of Contractor’s compliance with the required controls.

20. Dealings with Public Servants Affirmation. Contractor has not given, offered to give, nor intends to give at any time hereafter any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, or service to a public servant in connection with this contract.

21. Debts and Delinquencies Affirmation. Contractor agrees that any payments due under the contract shall be applied towards any debt or delinquency that is owed to the State of Texas.

22. Disaster Recovery Plan. If requested, and in accordance with 13 Texas Administrative Code § 6.94(a)(9), Contractor shall provide to the PUCT the descriptions of its business continuity and disaster recovery plans.

23. Disclosure of Interested Parties. Contractor represents and warrants that if applicable, it will submit to the PUCT a Certificate of Interested Parties prior to contract execution in accordance with Section 2252.908 of the Texas Government Code.

24. Disclosure of Prior State Employment. If applicable, and in accordance with Section 2254.033 of the Texas Government Code, relating to consulting services, Contractor certifies that it does not employ an individual who has been employed by the PUCT or another agency at any time during the two years preceding the contract or, in the alternative, Contractor has disclosed the following: (i) the nature of the previous employment with the PUCT or the other agency; (ii) the date the employment was terminated; and (iii) the annual rate of compensation for the employment at the time of its termination.

25. Dispute Resolution. The dispute resolution process provided for in Chapter 2260 of the Texas Government Code must be used to attempt to resolve any dispute arising under the contract.

26. Drug Free Workplace Policy. Contractor must comply with the applicable provisions of the Drug-Free Work Place Act of 1988, 41 U.S.C. § 8102, et seq., and 48 CFR § 52.223-6 Drug-Free Workplace and maintain a drug-free work environment. The requirements of the Drug Free Workplace Act and the rules interpreting it are incorporated by reference and Contractor must comply with the relevant provisions thereof, including any amendments that may hereafter be issued.

27. Energy Company Boycotts. If Contractor is required to make a verification pursuant to Section 2276.002 of the Texas Government Code, Contractor verifies that it does not boycott energy companies and will not boycott energy companies during the term of the contract. If Contractor does not make that verification, it must so indicate and state why the verification is not required.

28. Entities that Boycott Israel. If Contractor is required to make a certification pursuant to Section 2271.001 of the Texas Government Code, Contractor certifies that it does not boycott Israel and will not boycott Israel during the term of the contract. If Contractor does not make that certification, it must so indicate and state why the certification is not required.

29. E-Verify Program. If applicable, Contractor certifies that for contracts for services, it shall utilize the U.S.

Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify system during the term of the contract to determine the eligibility of: (i) all persons employed by Contractor to perform duties within Texas; and (ii) all persons, including subcontractors, assigned by Contractor to perform work pursuant to the contract within the United States of America.

30. Excess Obligations Prohibited. The contract is subject to termination or cancellation, without penalty to the PUCT, either in whole or in part, subject to the availability of state funds.

31. Excluded Parties. Contractor certifies that it is not listed in the prohibited vendors list authorized by Executive Order No. 13224, “Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions with Persons Who Commit, Threaten to Commit, or Support Terrorism”, published by the United States Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control.

32. Executive Head of a State Agency Affirmation. In accordance with Section 669.003 of the Texas Government Code, relating to contracting with the executive head of a state agency, Contractor certifies that it is not: (1) the executive head of the PUCT; (2) a person who at any time during the four years before the date of the contract was the executive head of the PUCT; or (3) a person who employs a current or former executive head of the PUCT.

33. Export Laws. Contractor represents, warrants, agrees, and certifies that it: (a) will comply with the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (regarding, among other things, payments to government officials) and all export laws and rules and regulations of the United States Department of Commerce or other United States or foreign agency or authority; and (b) will not knowingly permit any non-party to directly or indirectly, import, export, re-export, or transship any intellectual property or any third party materials accessed by Contractor during the course of this contract in violation of any such laws, rules, or regulations.

34. False Statements. Contractor represents and warrants that all statements and information prepared and submitted in this document are current, complete, true, and accurate. Submitting a false statement or material misrepresentations made during the performance of a contract is a material breach of contract and may void the contract.

35. Financial Participation Prohibited Affirmation. Under Section 2155.004(b) of the Texas Government Code, Contractor certifies that the individual or business entity named in this contract is not ineligible to receive the contract and acknowledges that the contract may be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

36. Firearm Entities and Trade Associations Discrimination. If Contractor is required to make a verification pursuant to Section 2274.002 of the Texas Government Code, Contractor verifies that it (1) does not have a practice, policy, guidance, or directive that discriminates against a firearm entity or firearm trade association; and (2) will not discriminate during the term of the contract against a firearm entity or firearm trade association.