ESBD_549967_1787001527476_#758-26-00094 Gov Relations (Final 7.27.26).docx

APPENDIX FOUR - ????

APPENDIX ONE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Request for Proposal (“RFP”) No: 758-26-00094

FOR

Governmental Relations

ALL PROPOSALS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN:

Thursday, September 17, 2026, AT 2:30 PM CENTRAL

Prepared by:

Jenn DeLeon The Texas State University System Jennifer.deleon@tsus.edu Issue Date: 08/17/26

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

Section 1 – General Information

1.1 OBJECTIVE

The Texas State University System (“TSUS” or “The System”) is soliciting proposals in response to this Request for Proposal No. 758-26-00094 (this “RFP”), from qualified vendors to provide state and federal governmental relations support (the “Services” or “Project”). The System expects to enter into a contract with the selected firm or firms to provide the Services as further described in Section 5 of this RFP.

This solicitation sets forth, at a minimum, the specifications, terms, conditions, and requirements to be considered for this solicitation. The System will select the proposal(s) that offers the “best value” based on the published selection criteria and on its ranking evaluation of submitted proposals. Firms that respond to this RFP will be referred to as “Proposers.”

1.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE SYSTEM

The Texas State University System, founded in 1911, is the first higher education system that was established in Texas. Beginning as an administrative means to consolidate the support and management of state teacher colleges, The System has evolved into a network of higher education institutions stretching from the Texas–Louisiana border to the Big Bend region of West Texas. Throughout The System, faculty and staff are preparing students to work in and contribute to our global society.

The System includes the system administration office (TSUS Administration) and seven (7) member institutions (Institutions) that offer a broad range of academic and career opportunities:

The Texas State University System is governed by a nine-member Board of Regents appointed by the governor. In addition, a nonvoting student regent is appointed annually to the board. TSUS Administration, which is led by a board-appointed chancellor, is based in Austin, where it provides support to the Institutions and state government.

1.3 BACKGROUND & SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

The Office of Governmental Relations at TSUS Administration seeks support to coordinate communications and activity regarding legislative and policy matters affecting higher education on behalf of the Board of Regents, the chancellor and the Institutions. A successful Respondent to this RFP will have knowledge, experience and expertise in areas including, but not limited to:

A. Agriculture;

B. the bill process (from formation until signed into law);

C. the legislative and executive branches of government;

D. legislative strategies for higher education institutions; and E. higher education issues pertaining to both two-year and four-year degree granting institutions.

1.4 CONTRACT TERM

The base contract term will begin on the effective date (estimated to be between December 2026 and July 2027) of the Agreement and continue through July 31, 2030. The System may renew the contract for up to two (2) additional two (2) year renewal terms.

Note: The contract term effective date for any agreement resulting from this RFP will be influenced by key activities, dates and deadlines associated with the 90th Texas Legislative Session.

1.5 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Below is the anticipated schedule of events for this RFP. The System reserves the right to revise this schedule. Any such revision will be formalized by the issuance of a written addendum to the RFP (ref. Section 2.4, Clarifications and Interpretations).

at 2:30 p.m. (Central Time)

1.6 CLASS AND ITEM (NIGP) CODES

The related Class and Item code(s) for goods / services requested are: 918-58

1.7 GROUP PURCHASING AUTHORITY

Texas law authorizes institutions of higher education (defined by Section 61.003, Education Code) to use the group purchasing procurement method (ref. Section 51.9335, Education Code). Additional Texas institutions of higher education may therefore elect to enter into a contract with the successful Proposer under this RFP.

Texas institutions of higher education (“IHEs”) routinely evaluate whether a contract resulting from a procurement conducted by another IHE might be suitable for use, and if so, this RFP could give rise to additional purchase volumes. As a result, in submitting its proposal, Proposer should consider proposing a pricing model and other commercial terms that consider the higher volumes and other expanded opportunities that could result from the eventual inclusion of other IHEs in the purchase contemplated by this RFP. Any purchases made by other IHEs based on this RFP will be the sole responsibility of those IHEs.

Section 2 – Notice to Proposers

2.1 PUBLIC INFORMATION

All information, documentation, and other materials submitted in response to this Solicitation are considered non-confidential and/or non-proprietary and are subject to public disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 552.001, et seq.) after the Solicitation is completed.

2.1.1 The System strictly adheres to all statutes, court decisions and the opinions of the Texas Attorney General with respect to disclosure of public information under the Texas Public Information Act, Chapter 552, and Texas Government Code.

2.1.2 Proposer is required to make any information created or exchanged with the state pursuant to this contract, and not otherwise exempted from disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act, available in a format that is accessible by the public at no additional charge to the state.

2.1.3 Information provided to Proposer by The System, including information from representatives of TSUS or any of its Institutions, and information provided to Proposer by members of the public or any other third party shall belong to The System.

2.1.4 Information created or otherwise produced by Proposer shall remain the exclusive property of Proposer. Proposer acknowledges any final report or papers will be provided in accordance with this RFP, and that any information contained in any report or papers, which Proposer believes is confidential under Texas law will be clearly designated as such by Proposer.

2.1.5 If The System receives a request for public information for any portion of any final report or papers that have been designated by Proposer to be confidential, The System will provide notice to Proposer and Proposer may submit a brief to the Office of the Attorney General, as provided by Chapter 552, Tex. Govt. Code.

2.2 POINT OF CONTACT

The System designates the following person as its representative and Point of Contact for this RFP:

Jenn DeLeon Email: Jennifer.deleon@tsus.edu

The System instructs interested parties to restrict all contact and questions regarding this RFP to written communications with the Point of Contact. Proposers shall restrict all contact with The System and direct all questions regarding this RFP in writing to the Point of Contact.

2.3 PROPOSER QUESTIONS

After the RFP is advertised, Proposers will have until the Question Deadline (ref. Section 1.5, Schedule of Events) to submit written questions, including questions regarding terms and conditions or for clarification of the proposal, to The System’s Point of Contact (ref. Section 2.2). All questions submitted and received prior to the deadline will be reviewed, consolidated where possible, and answered in a written addendum. The addendum will be posted on the Texas Electronic State Business Daily (“ESBD”) at: http://www.txsmartbuy.com/sp. Enter “758” in the Agency Number field to search ESBD for The Texas State University System solicitations. The System will provide responses as soon as practicable following the Question Deadline however, The System reserves the right to decline to respond to any question. It is the Proposer's responsibility to continually check the ESBD for Addenda.

2.4 CLARIFICATIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS

Any clarifications or interpretations of this RFP that materially affect or change its requirements will be issued formally by The System as a written addendum. Addenda, if required, will be issued by The System and posted on the ESBD (ref. Section 2.3). It is the responsibility of all Proposers to check the status of formal addenda before the submission deadline and to obtain this information in a timely manner. The System intends to issue any required addenda a minimum of five (5) business days prior to the Submittal Deadline (ref. Section 3.1) to allow time for Proposers to review information and complete responses. All such addenda issued by The System must be acknowledged by Proposers and incorporated into the RFP response (ref. Section 7).

2.5 EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

It is the intent of The System to award a contract to the responsible, responsive Proposer(s) that submits a proposal meeting the minimum criteria set forth herein, and that represents the best value, per 51.9335 (b) Texas Education Code, to The System. Best value is determined by considering: the purchase price, the total long-term cost to the institution of acquiring the vendor's goods or services, the reputation of the vendor and of the vendor's goods or services, the vendor's past relationship with the institution, the quality of the vendor's goods or services, the extent to which the goods or services meet the institution's needs, and any other relevant factor that a private business entity would consider in selecting a vendor.

2.5.1 Review / Initial Ranking: All properly submitted proposals will be reviewed, evaluated, and ranked by The System according to the Evaluation Criteria provided in Section 9 of this RFP. Representatives from third party vendors or other outside entities that are currently contract holders with The System (“External Representatives”) may have access to Proposers’ submitted proposals and other relevant materials to assist The System in conducting its review.

Upon completion of proposal review, The System will determine an initial ranking of the Proposers. If the initial ranking of the Proposers is reasonably conclusive, The System may make a “best value” selection based solely upon the submitted proposals. If not, then The System may conduct interviews with a “short list” of top-ranked Proposers.

2.5.2 Interviews / Short List Presentations: Upon completion of the initial review, evaluation, and ranking of the proposals, The System may invite one or more Proposers within the competitive range, at the Proposer’s expense, to give an oral and / or written presentation and respond to questions. Interviews, at The System’s discretion, may be held either on site at The System’s offices in Austin, Texas or by video conference.

2.5.3 Best and Final Offers (BAFOs): After the initial evaluation process or at the conclusion of oral and / or written presentations but, before final selection of Contractor is made, The System may permit a Proposer to revise its proposal to obtain the Proposer's best and final offer. In that event, representations made by Proposer in its revised proposal, including price and fee quotes, will be binding on Proposer. The System will provide each Proposer within the competitive range with an equal opportunity for discussion and revision of its proposal. The System is not obligated to select the Proposer offering the most attractive economic terms if that Proposer is not the most advantageous to overall, as determined by The System.

2.5.4 Negotiations: If possible, an award will be made without negotiating. If negotiations are necessary, they will be scheduled after all proposals are evaluated. Negotiations will only be held with Proposer(s) who have a reasonable chance of receiving contract award. Proposers are strongly encouraged to submit the best offer at the time proposals are due.

2.6 AWARD OF CONTRACT

2.6.1 A response to this RFP is an offer to contract based upon the best price, terms, conditions and specifications contained herein. Proposals do not become contracts until they are accepted through a purchase order or fully executed contract. Any contract shall be governed, construed and interpreted under the laws of the State of Texas, and TSUS Administration policy as the same may be amended from time to time. Any legal actions must be filed in Travis County, Austin, Texas.

2.6.2 Tie Proposals: Awards will be made in accordance with Rule 1 TAC Section 113.6 (b) and 113.8 (preferences).

2.6.3 Multiple Awards and Utilization: It may be determined that having the Services provided by multiple Proposers is more advantageous to The System. The System reserves the right to make multiple awards against this RFP. The System will only pay for Services utilized and makes no guarantee of a maximum amount to be paid over the course of any contract that may result from the RFP.

2.6.4 No Guarantee of Award: The System makes no warranty or guarantee that an award will be made as a result of this RFP. The System reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, waive any formalities or minor technical inconsistencies and delete any requirement or specification from this RFP or the Agreement when deemed to be in The System’s best interest. The System reserves the right to seek clarification of any item contained in Proposer’s proposal prior to final selection. Such clarification may be provided by telephone or personal meetings with or in writing to The System, at The System’s discretion. Representations made by Proposer within its proposal will be binding on Proposer. The System will not be bound to act by any previous communication or response submitted by Proposer, other than this RFP.

2.7 THE SYSTEM’S RESERVATION OF RIGHTS

The System may evaluate the Proposals based on the anticipated completion of all or any portion of the Project. The System reserves the right to divide the Project into multiple parts, to reject any and all proposals and re-solicit for new proposals, or to reject any and all proposals and temporarily or permanently abandon the Project. The System makes no representations, written or oral, that it will enter into any form of agreement with any Proposer to this RFP for any project and no such representation is intended or should be construed by the issuance of this RFP.

2.8 ACCEPTANCE OF EVALUATION METHODOLOGY

By submitting its proposal in response to this RFP, Proposer accepts the evaluation process and acknowledges and accepts that the determination of the “best value” firm(s) will require subjective judgments by The System.

2.9 NON-REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS

Proposer acknowledges and accepts that any costs incurred from the Proposer’s participation in this RFP process shall be at the sole risk and responsibility of the Proposer. Proposers submit proposals at their own risk and expense.

2.10 CONFLICTS/CONTACT

Proposers shall not contact existing members of the TSUS Board of Regents, The System employees, including those of Institutions about this RFP until the resulting contract(s), if any, are fully executed.

2.11 OWNERSHIP AND USE OF WORK MATERIAL

All work material, whether accepted or rejected by The System, is the sole property of The System and for its exclusive use and re-use at any time without further compensation and without any restriction.

2.12 TERMINATION / CANCELLATION

The System may terminate any resulting agreement for any reason, including material changes to selected Proposer’s firm, upon thirty (30) days written notice to the other party.

2.13 CERTIFICATE OF INTERESTED PARTIES

Pursuant to Texas Government Code 2252.908 and Texas Ethic Commission Rule 46, for contracts that either have a value of at least $1 million or require approval of the TSUS Board of Regents, a business entity (vendor) must submit a copy of the Disclosure of Interested Parties (Texas Ethics Commission Form 1295) filed with the Texas Ethics Commission when the business entity submits the signed contract. No such contract may be presented to the TSUS Board of Regents for approval without the disclosure. By submitting a proposal in response to this RFP, Proposer agrees to comply with this law. Information on the Disclosure of Interested Parties can be found at: https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/filinginfo/1295/

Section 3 – Requirements of Proposal

3.1 PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL DEADLINE AND LOCATION

The System will receive proposals for this RFP at the time and location described below. The Proposer (not The System, the carrier, mail service/courier, or other party) is solely responsible for ensuring that the proposal is received by the Point of Contact, in the format described below (ref. Section 3.3), prior to the Submittal Deadline.

Submittal Deadline: Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM CENTRAL

The Texas State University System Attn: Jenn DeLeon 601 Colorado Street Austin, Texas 78701 Re: RFP 758-26-00094

NOTE: A public opening of responses will not be conducted for this RFP.

3.2 HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES

It is the policy of The System to promote and encourage contracting and subcontracting opportunities for Historically Underutilized Businesses (“HUBs”). Accordingly, The System has adopted a policy on the Utilization of Historically Underutilized Businesses. The policy applies to all contracts with an expected value of $100,000 or more. If The System determines that subcontracting opportunities are probable, then a Subcontracting Plan is a required element of the proposal. Failure to submit a required Subcontracting Plan form will result in rejection of the proposal.

3.2.1 The System has determined that subcontracting opportunities are not probable under this RFP.

3.2.2 A Subcontracting Plan is not required for this RFP.

3.3 PROPOSAL FORMAT AND REQUIRED COPIES

3.3.1 Unacceptable Proposal Delivery Methods: The System will not accept proposals in response to this RFP that are submitted by telephone, facsimile (fax) transmission, or electronic mail.

3.3.2 Proposal Envelope/Box/Container: Proposal must be placed in a sealed envelope, box, or container that is completely and properly identified with the name of Proposer’s firm, RFP number, due date and time. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to have the proposal correctly marked, addressed and delivered to The System by the Submittal Deadline for receipt by the Point of Contact.

3.3.3 Format for Proposal: Proposer shall make every effort to present the required information in a detailed, orderly, and compact presentation. Proposer should provide visual examples of functionality to clarify and reinforce key product features and services. Long or elaborate proposals are not desired. Sections will be tabbed and clearly labeled for ease of review and evaluation.

Proposer should submit the complete proposals, both the paper and electronic copies, using a format substantially like the following in terms of order of content:

A. Cover Page B. Table of Contents C. Executive Summary of Proposal D. Pricing and Delivery Schedule (ref. Section 6) E. Execution of Offer (ref. Section 7) F. Proposer’s Questionnaire (ref. Section 8) G. Additional Questions Specific to RFP (ref. Section 9) H. General Terms & Conditions of Contract (ref. Section 10) I. Redlined Appendix One (if applicable, per Section 3.8 and Section 10), to include any additional terms and conditions (e.g. any additional documents / forms to add to the agreement) Proposer would like The System to consider.

J. Supplemental Information: Proposer may submit any additional information Proposer feels is relevant to the proposal. This information must be clearly labeled as “Supplemental Information” and in a separate tabbed section of the proposal.

NOTE: Proposers are responsible for submitting all required information as requested in this RFP. The above listing of items to be included in the proposal submission is a summary provided to aid Proposers in putting together the proposal package. Any items stated in other Sections of the RFP, but not listed in this Section, are still required to be provided as part of the proposal submission.

3.3.4 Required Copies: Proposer must submit (a) one (1) complete paper copy of its entire proposal and (b) one (1) USB flash drive with the individual and separate files as described below. The USB flash drive must include a protective cover and be labeled with Proposer’s name and the RFP number. An original signature by an authorized officer of Proposer’s firm must appear on the Execution of Offer (ref. Section 7) included in the submitted proposals, both paper and electronic.

The USB flash drive must contain the following individual and separate files:

A. One (1) complete electronic copy of the entire proposal, in a single .pdf file B. One (1) electronic copy of the proposal in a single .pdf file that does not contain pricing information relative to Section 6 C. One (1) redlined electronic copy of APPENDIX ONE, if applicable, in an editable format (i.e. Microsoft Word)

3.4 PRICING

Proposer shall provide all-inclusive pricing as requested in Section 6 of this RFP. All pricing must be in United States Dollars.

3.5 EXECUTION OF OFFER

Proposer must complete, sign and return the attached Execution of Offer (ref. Section 7) as part of the proposal. The Execution of Offer must be signed by an authorized officer of Proposer’s firm duly authorized to bind the Proposer to its proposal. Failure to sign and return the Execution of Offer will result in the rejection of the proposal.

3.6 PROPOSER’S QUESTIONNAIRE

Proposer must completely answer all questions asked in Section 8 (Proposer’s Questionnaire). By submitting a proposal, Proposer certifies that, to the best of its knowledge, all responses are true, correct and complete.

3.7 ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS SPECIFIC TO RFP

Proposer must completely answer all questions asked in Section 9 (Additional Questions Specific to RFP). By submitting a proposal, Proposer certifies that, to the best of its knowledge, all responses are true, correct and complete.

3.8 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF CONTRACT

Proposer must completely answer all questions asked in Section 10 (General Terms and Conditions of Contract). Any proposed changes or additions to The System’s intended agreement for the Services (ref. APPENDIX ONE) must be submitted with Proposer’s proposal in the form of a redlined APPENDIX ONE with track changes engaged and comments to support Proposer’s requested change(s) included.

3.9 VALIDITY PERIOD

By submitting a proposal in response to this RFP, Proposer accepts that the proposal will remain valid for a minimum of one-hundred twenty (120) days after the submittal deadline to allow time for evaluation of proposals, award determination, and any unforeseen delays.

A.

Section 4 – Terms & Conditions of Proposal

The items below apply to and become a part of the proposal. Exceptions cannot be taken to the RFP document itself, nor can it be redlined. These actions may result in Proposer’s disqualification. Only additions / modifications to APPENDIX ONE (ref. Section 10) will be subject to consideration by The System.

PROPOSER IS CAUTIONED TO READ THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS RFP CAREFULLY AND TO SUBMIT A COMPLETE RESPONSE TO ALL REQUIREMENTS AND QUESTIONS AS DIRECTED.

4.1 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS AND GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

4.1.1 Rules, Regulations & Statutes: The System is an agency of the State of Texas. Proposers must comply with all rules, regulations, and statutes relating to purchasing of the State of Texas, The Texas State University System Rules and Regulations, in addition to the Terms and Conditions of this form. Upon engagement, any successful Proposer shall confirm its compliance with all necessary State and/or Federal requirements relative to work performed.

4.1.2 Submittal Deadline Exception: If The System is closed due to inclement weather and/or emergency situations on the designated Submittal Deadline, the Submittal Deadline will default to the next open business day at the same time.

4.1.3 Late or Unsigned Proposals: Late and/or unsigned proposals will not be considered under any circumstances. Person signing the proposal must have the authority to bind Proposer’s firm in a contract. The Proposer (not The System, the carrier, mail service/courier, or other party) is solely responsible for ensuring that the complete proposal is received in The Texas State University System’s Office prior to the specified opening date and time.

4.1.4 FOB Designation: Shipping terms will be FOB Destination, freight prepaid and allowed unless otherwise stated within the specifications.

4.1.5 Pricing: Proposal prices are requested to be firm for The System acceptance for one-hundred twenty (120) days from proposal opening date (unless otherwise stated in specifications). Proposers must price per unit shown. Unit prices shall govern in the event of extension errors. “Discount from list” proposals are not acceptable unless requested. Cash discounts are not considered in determining an award. Cash discounts will be taken if earned. All costs/pricing must be in United States dollars. The System will not recognize or accept any charges or fees to perform Services that are not specifically stated in the Pricing and Delivery Schedule.

4.1.6 Tax Exempt: Purchases made for State use are exempt from the State Sales tax and Federal Excise tax, per Texas Tax Code, Section 151.309(4). Do not include tax in the proposal.

4.1.7 Right to Accept or Reject: The System reserves the right to accept or reject all or any part of any proposal, waive minor technicalities and award the proposal to best serve the interests of The System and the State of Texas.

4.1.8 Withdrawal: Any proposal may be withdrawn prior to the date and time set for receipt of proposals. Any proposal not so withdrawn shall constitute an irrevocable offer, for a period of 90 days, to provide the commodity or service set forth in the specifications, or until a selection has been made by The System.

4.1.9 Proposal Costs: Proposers electing to respond to this RFP are responsible for any and all costs of proposal preparation. The System is not liable for any costs incurred by a Proposer in response to this RFP.

4.1.10 Proposals that (i) are qualified with conditional clauses; (ii) alter, modify, or revise this RFP in any way; or (iii) contain irregularities of any kind, are subject to disqualification by The System, at The System’s sole discretion.

4.1.11 Any proposal that fails to comply with the requirements contained in this RFP may be rejected by The System, at The System’s sole discretion.

4.2 SPECIFICATIONS

4.2.1 Brand Name Descriptive: Catalogs, brand names or manufacturer’s references indicate the type and quality required by The System. Proposals on brands of like nature and quality will not be considered unless otherwise stated in the RFP. If proposing other than brand referenced, proposal will 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 proposal.

4.2.2 New Items: Unless otherwise specified, items shall be new and unused and of current production.

4.2.3 Samples: Samples, when requested, must be furnished free of expense to the State. Each sample should be marked with the Proposer’s name, address, and RFP number. Do not enclose in or attach proposal to sample. All samples become the property of The System.

4.2.4 Oral Statements: The System will not be bound by any oral statement or representation contrary to the written specifications of the RFP.

4.2.5 Manufacturer’s Warranty: Manufacturer’s standard warranty shall apply unless otherwise stated in the RFP.

4.2.6 Warranty-Product: Proposer shall not limit or exclude any implied warranties and any attempt to do so shall render any potential contract voidable at the option of The System. Proposer warrants that the goods proposed and furnished will conform to the specifications, drawings, and descriptions listed in the RFP, and to the sample(s) furnished by Proposer, if any. In the event of a conflict between the specifications, drawings, and descriptions, the specifications shall govern.

4.2.7 Secure Erase of Hard Disk Capability: All equipment provided to The System that is equipped with hard disk drives (i.e., computers, telephones, printers, fax machines, scanners, multifunction devices, etc.) shall have the capability to securely erase data written to the hard drive prior to final disposition of such equipment, either at the end of the equipment’s useful life or the end of the related services agreement for such equipment, in accordance with 1 TAC § Chapter 202.

4.3 NON-DISCLOSURE

No public disclosures or news releases pertaining to this RFP shall be made without prior written approval of The System.

4.4 CONFLICTS

In event of a conflict between standard proposal requirements and conditions and the attached detailed specification, the detailed specification shall govern.

4.5 PROPOSER AFFIRMATION

Submitting a proposal with a false statement is material breach of contract and shall void the submitted proposal or any resulting contracts, and the Proposer shall be removed from all proposal lists. By submitting a proposal, the Proposer herein affirms:

4.5.1 Vendor Ethics - Gratuities: As an agency of the State of Texas, The System holds the trust of the public. All Proposers and persons doing business with The System must provide the highest level of ethics and service in all business interactions. A Proposer shall not give, offer to give, nor intend to give at any time any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, or service to an employee of The System that might reasonably appear to influence the employee in the discharge of official duties. The System may, by written notice to the Proposer, cancel any resulting contract without incurring liability if it determined that gratuities, in the form of entertainment, gifts, or otherwise, were offered or given by the Proposer, or any agent or representative of the Proposer, to any officer or employee of The System or its Components with a view toward securing a contract or securing favorable treatment with respect to the awarding or amending, or the making or any determinations with respect to the performing of such a contract. In the event any contract resulting from this RFP is cancelled by The System pursuant to this provision, The System shall be entitled, in addition to any other rights and remedies, to recover or withhold the amount of the cost incurred by Proposer in providing such gratuities.

4.5.2 If Proposer is a taxable entity as defined by Chapter 171, Texas Tax Code ("Chapter 171"), then Proposer certifies that it is not currently delinquent in the payment of any taxes due under Chapter 171, or that Proposer is exempt from the payment of those taxes, or that Proposer is an out –of–state taxable entity that is not subject to those taxes, whichever is applicable.

4.5.3 Neither the Proposer nor the firm, corporation, partnership, or institution represented by the Proposer, or anyone acting for such firm, corporation or institution has violated the antitrust laws of this State or the Federal Antitrust Laws nor communicated directly or indirectly the proposal made to any competitor or any other person engaged in such line of business.

4.5.4 Under Section 2155.004, Texas Government Code, a state agency may not accept a proposal or award a contract that includes proposed financial participation by a person who received compensation from the agency to participate in preparing the specifications or request for proposals on which the proposal or contract is based. By submitting a proposal in response to this RFP, Proposer certifies and affirms that: 1) Proposer has not received compensation for participation in the preparation of the specifications for this RFP; and 2) the individual or business entity named in this bid or contract is not ineligible to receive the specified contract and acknowledges that this contract may be terminated, and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

4.5.5 If applicable, pursuant to Texas Family Code, Title 5, Subtitle D, Section 231.006(d), regarding child support, the Proposer certifies that the individual or business entity named in this proposal is not ineligible to receive the specified payment and acknowledges that any contract resulting from this RFP may be terminated, and payment may be withheld if this certification is inaccurate. Furthermore, any proposer subject to Section 231.006 must include the names and Social Security numbers of each person with at least 25% ownership of the business entity submitting the proposal. If awarded this RFP, Proposer will provide this information to The System prior to contract execution.

4.5.6 Pursuant to Section 2155.004 Texas Government Code regarding collection of state and local sales and use taxes, the Proposer certifies that the individual or business entity named in this proposal is not ineligible to receive the specified contract and acknowledges that the contract may be terminated and/or payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

4.5.7 Proposer agrees that any payments due under any resulting contract will be applied towards any debt, including but not limited to delinquent taxes and child support that is owed to the State of Texas.

4.5.9 Proposer represents and warrants that Proposer’s provision of services or other performance under any contract resulting from this RFP will not constitute an actual or potential conflict of interest and represents and warrants that it will not reasonably create even the appearance of impropriety.

4.5.10 Proposer and any of its principals (including, but not limited to, an owner, proprietor, sole or majority shareholder, director, president, or managing partner) are not debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from doing business with The System.

4.5.11 Proposer certifies that if a Texas address is shown as the address of the Proposer on its proposal, Proposer qualifies as a Texas Bidder as defined in Section 2155.444(c) of the Texas Government Code.

4.6 TERMS AND CONDITIONS ATTACHED TO RESPONSE

Any terms and conditions attached to the proposal will not be considered unless referred to in the proposal (ref. Section 10).

Section 5 – Scope of Work

The purpose of this RFP is to solicit proposals to enter into a contract with a qualified and experienced firm(s) to obtain timely and professional Services as described herein. The successful Proposer, if any, is referred to as the “Contractor.” Services described in this RFP will be provided to, and on behalf of, The System.

Proposers shall submit a complete response to all requirements and specifications set forth in this RFP. Proposers may expand or offer any additional suggestions and / or services that their firm feels may benefit The System in addition to the requirements listed in this RFP (ref. Section 8.4).

Contractor will provide the following Services:

5.1 Serve as primary liaison between TSUS and other parties on state and federal issues important to TSUS. Parties include, but are not limited to:

A. State and federal elected officials, including associated staff;

B. State and federal agencies;

C. City, county, state, and national organizations;

D. Industry associations; and E. Non-profit organizations (e.g. think tanks, philanthropies, etc.).

5.2 Provide support and service to TSUS:

5.2.1 Assist in strategic planning and opportunity identification.

5.2.2 Assist in developing and maintaining relationships with relevant parties (ref. Section 5.1):

A. Assist in communication approaches and interaction strategies.

B. Schedule meetings.

C. Develop talking points, prepare briefing materials and conduct preparatory briefing sessions prior to key meetings.

D. Propose events to showcase TSUS work / projects.

E. Look for opportunities to advance research.

5.2.3 Respond to legislative requests.

5.2.4 Monitor and analyze legislation.

5.2.5 Foster relations with members of the government / community and assist in communication of goals to constituencies.

5.2.6 Work with faculty members to develop research programs.

5.2.7 Promote TSUS research and agendas.

5.2.8 Identify grant opportunities and assist with grant applications.

5.2.9 Formulate and implement comprehensive federal advocacy plans, revising as needed.

5.2.10 Draft and / or prepare materials and communications as needed including, but not limited to:

A. Legislation, amendments, and committee report language;

B. Letters of comment on agency actions affecting TSUS;

C. Design and implement advocacy plans to enact legislation, amendments, and Committee report language;

D. Compile reports;

E. Prepare briefing materials for meetings;

F. Prepare statements, issue memorandums, talking points, and correspondence; and G. Provide routine verbal and written advocacy and federal funding status reports.

5.2.11 Identify potential policy, legislative issues of interest, projects and programs eligible for funding, committees, groups, and task forces that could be of value to TSUS and assist as needed with appointments to boards, consortiums, task forces, etc.

5.2.12 Represent TSUS before state and/or federal agencies and legislative bodies.

5.2.13 Assist in hosting logistics for events, receptions, retreats, etc. as needed including, but not limited to, event locations, lodging, transportation, and catering.

5.2.14 Help support the development of the Capital Hill Internship program for select students at 4-yr Institutions.

5.3 Remain engaged on issues and projects with TSUS.

5.3.1 Visit Institutions throughout the year.

5.3.2 Participate in quarterly chief research officer (“CRO”) meetings.

5.3.3 Provide advocacy reports for TSUS Board of Regents meetings.

5.3.4 Identify new opportunities and address challenges as they emerge.

5.4 Advocate for TSUS priorities.

5.4.1 Monitor political activities for opportunities to provide written testimony on projects and priorities.

5.4.2 Attend regular meetings of associations, organizations and other groups that are of interest to TSUS.

5.4.3 Seek partnership opportunities for the Institutions with private companies, industry associations and non-governmental organizations (“NGOs”).

5.4.4 Develop and lead coalitions to address priorities shared with other organizations.

5.5 Follow and provide guidance on trends related to:

A. higher education funding;

B. higher education policy; and C. public views on higher education.

5.6 Provide quarterly written reports of all services / activity under the agreement to designated TSUS contact.

5.7 Perform additional duties, tasks or services not specifically identified but related to the Services (e.g., advising on relevant emerging issues) described in this RFP.

5.8 Contractor will comply, at Contractor’s sole expense, with all state and federal lobbying laws when performing work, both with and on behalf of TSUS.

Section 6 – Pricing & Delivery

6.1 PRICING FOR WORK AND EXPENSES

Proposer shall include in response to this Section any and all costs associated with the Services (at a firm fixed price) as requested in Section 5 or any other part of this solicitation. Pricing must be in United States Dollars and is considered all inclusive.

Indicate annual fee to be charged to The System for provision of Services:

$_________________ Base Year 1 (Effective Date – 7/31/2028) $_________________ Base Year 2 (8/1/2028 – 7/31/29) $_________________ Base Year 3 (8/1/2029 – 7/31/30)

$_________________ Optional Year 4 (8/1/2030 – 7/31/31) $_________________ Optional Year 5 (8/1/2031 – 7/31/32)

$_________________ Optional Year 6 (8/1/2032 – 7/31/33) $_________________ Optional Year 7 (8/1/2033 – 7/31/34)

Note: The System will pay annual fee in equal monthly installments.

Travel Expenses. In addition to the fee(s) noted above, The System will reimburse, without mark-up, reasonable expenses for travel (including meals, rental car or mileage, coach class airfare, and lodging) validly incurred by Contractor directly and solely in support of Services and approved by The System. Travel will be limited to amounts authorized under The System’s travel policy. A copy of The System’s travel policy will be provided to Contractor upon request. In the event travel expenses are paid by appropriated funds, travel expenses are limited to amounts authorized by the Comptroller of Public Accounts for the State of Texas for state employees (https://fmx.cpa.state.tx.us/fm/travel/travelrates.php). Contractor will not be reimbursed by The System for expenses that are prohibited or that exceed the allowable amounts provided in the then-current Travel Reimbursement Rates. As a condition precedent to receiving reimbursement for expenses, Contractor may be required to submit receipts, invoices, and other documentation requested by The System.

Reimbursement for expenses and disbursements will not exceed a maximum expense cap (to be mutually agreed by Contractor and Proposer and provided in the Agreement), without the prior written approval of The System.

6.2 DELIVERY: Indicate number of calendar days needed to commence performance of the Services after contract execution:

_______________ Calendar Days

6.3 INVOICING: Invoices will be submitted by electronic means and must contain the resulting Agreement number and supporting documentation for the invoiced amounts as described in the Agreement.

6.4 PAYMENT TERMS: The System’s standard payment terms are “net 30 days” as mandated by the Texas Prompt Payment Act (ref. Chapter 2251, Government Code).

Indicate below the prompt payment discount that Proposer offers:

Prompt Payment Discount: _____%_____days / net 30 days.

The System, an agency of the State of Texas, is exempt from Texas Sales & Use Tax on goods and services in accordance with §151.309, Tax Code, and Title 34 TAC §3.322. Pursuant to 34 TAC §3.322(c)(4), The System is not required to provide a tax exemption certificate to establish its tax-exempt status.

Section 7 – Execution of Offer

Proposer shall complete, sign, and submit this Execution of Offer with their proposal response. The Execution of Offer must be signed by an authorized officer of Proposer duly authorized to bind the Proposer to its proposal. Failure to sign the Execution of Offer will result in the rejection of proposal.

7.1 In compliance with this RFP, and subject to all the conditions herein, the undersigned offers and agrees to furnish any and all commodities or services at the prices quoted.

7.2 By signature hereon, the offeror hereby certifies that he/she is not currently delinquent in payment of any franchise taxes owed the State of Texas under Chapter 11, Tax Code.

7.3 By executing this offer, offeror represents and warrants that he/she has not given, offered, or intends to give at any time hereafter, any economic opportunity, future employment, gift loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, or service to public servant in connection with the submitted offer. Failure to sign the offer, or signing it with a false statement, shall void the submitted offer or any resulting contracts, and the offeror shall be removed from all proposal lists.

7.4 By the signature hereon affixed, the offeror hereby certifies that neither the offeror or the firm, corporation, partnership, or institution represented by the offeror or anyone acting for such firm, corporation, or institution has violated the antitrust laws of this State, codified in Section 15.01, et. seq., Texas Business and Commerce Code, or the Federal anti-trust laws, nor communicated directly or indirectly the offer made to any competitor or any other person engaged in such line of business. By signing this offer, offeror certifies that if a Texas address is shown as the address of the offeror, offeror qualified as a Texas Resident Proposer as defined in Rule 1 TAC 113.8.

7.5 Acknowledgement of Addenda: The undersigned Proposer hereby acknowledges receipt of the following Addenda issued as a part of this solicitation (initial only if applicable).

No. 1 ______ No. 2 ______ No. 3 ______ No. 4 ______ No. 5 ______ Note: If there was only one (1) Addendum issued, initial just the first blank after No. 1, not all five (5) blanks above.

Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN): ___________________________

Proposer/Company: _________________________________________________

Signature: ______________________________________ Date: _____________

Name (typed/printed): ________________________________________________

Title: ______________________________________________________________

Address:____________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number: __________________________ E-mail: __________________________

Section 8 – Proposer’s Questionnaire

The Proposer recognizes that in selecting a Contractor, The System will rely in part on the answers provided in response to this Section. Accordingly, Proposer certifies that to the best of its knowledge, all responses are true, correct and complete.

All Proposals submitted must contain full and complete responses to each of the following questions about Proposer’s firm (“Company”). Proposer must demonstrate the ability to successfully provide the Services. If a Proposer cannot meet any qualifications or responsibilities, it must state that, and when appropriate, offer an alternative response. Failure to respond to any item listed may disqualify the Proposal.

8.1 COMPANY PROFILE

8.1.1 Provide the following information:

Legal name of Company

Federal Tax ID #

State of incorporation

Identify the organizational status of the Company (i.e., corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship).

Include:

· date of incorporation,

· name of corporate president / principals

Address of principal place of business (

Address of office that would be providing service under the Agreement

Number of Employees

Annual Revenue

Name of Parent Corporation (if any)

NOTE: If Proposer is a subsidiary, The System prefers to enter into a contract or agreement with the Parent Corporation or to receive assurances of performance from the Parent Corporation.

8.1.2 State whether Proposer will provide a copy of Company financial statements for the past two (2) years, if requested by The System.

8.1.3 Provide financial rating of Company and any related documentation (such as a Dunn and Bradstreet analysis) that indicates the financial stability of Proposer.

8.1.4 Provide a brief history of the Company. Indicate the number of years the Company has provided the type of services for which this proposal is submitted.

8.1.5 Is the Company licensed to solicit business in the State of Texas? If yes, include a copy of the license(s).

8.1.7 Disclose any relationships between Company and employees of The System:

A. Is there any current or past relationship(s), including familial relationships through marriage or consanguinity, business relationships, capital-funding agreements or arrangements, or any other such similar business or personal relationship(s), between the Company and any employee, officer or Regent of The Texas State University System, including the Institutions? If yes, please explain.

B. Does the Company have any current or former employees who are / were employees of The Texas State University System or the Institutions? If yes, please explain.

C. Does the Company have any proposed personnel who are, or are related to, current or former employees of The Texas State University System or the Institutions? If yes, please explain.

8.1.8 Is the Company currently for sale or involved in any transaction to expend or to become acquired by another business entity? If yes, please explain the impact both in organizational and directional terms.

8.1.9 Is the Company currently in default on any loan agreement or financing agreement with any bank, financial institution, or other entity? If yes, specify date(s), details, circumstances, and prospects for resolution.

8.1.10 Provide any details of all past or pending litigation or claims filed against the Company that would negatively impact the Company’s performance under any agreement with The System.

8.1.11 Provide the name, title, email and telephone number of the individual who will serve as the primary day-to-day contact for The System should a contract be awarded to Company.

8.2 QUALITY OF SERVICE

8.2.3 Will Company provide performance metrics (quarterly or yearly) to The System including suggested improvements…