ESBD_514300_1779388316265_Responses Q and A High Security Customer Check.pdf

This document is an Official Responses to Questions from Potential Respondents for Request for Proposal No. 304-27-1701 issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA) on May 11, 2026, for high-security customized check stock procurement. The RFP seeks qualified vendors to supply security virgin bond paper with specific specifications including 24 lb. weight, phantom images, watermarks, microprinting, MICR bands, thermochromic heat-reactive ink, and anti-fraud security features for the production of state Warrants. The submission deadline for written questions was May 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time, with official responses released on May 21, 2026. Proposals must be submitted electronically by June 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. Respondents are required to provide 25 sample sheets as part of their proposals. An appointment may be scheduled with Rene Gonzales, the CPA contact person, to view current check stock samples at the Comptroller's Headquarters located at 111 East 17th Street, Austin, Texas 78774. The initial contract term runs from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027, with four optional one-year renewal periods extending through August 31, 2031.

The RFP employs a best-value evaluation methodology with cost weighted at 35 percent, quality and security features at 20 percent, respondent qualifications and past performance at 20 percent, security and chain-of-custody measures at 15 percent, and quality control measures at 10 percent. Pricing must be submitted on a per-sheet basis for standard orders up to 1,000,000 sheets and for orders exceeding 1,000,001 sheets, with separate pricing for express delivery options, and all costs including F.O.B. destination shipping must be included in unit prices. The CPA anticipates annual purchases of approximately 2 million sheets based on prior usage. All respondents must complete a HUB Subcontracting Plan demonstrating good faith effort to utilize Texas-certified HUB vendors, maintain blanket employee dishonesty bonds ($25,000 minimum per individual), and carry workers compensation, general liability ($1,000,000/$2,000,000), and professional liability insurance ($1,000,000/$2,000,000). The vendor must also comply with data safeguard standards, cybersecurity training requirements, and detailed security protocols for protecting check stock, image carriers, and plates. The RFP does not specify incumbent vendors, impose minimum or maximum quantity guarantees, or indicate restrictions on respondent eligibility beyond compliance with insurance, security, and HUB subcontracting requirements.