Exhibit J - Exceptions.docx

Exhibit J is an exceptions document for RFP HHS0016552, issued by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) on behalf of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). This form allows respondents to document any exceptions, deviations, or contradictions to the solicitation terms and conditions. The document clarifies that no exceptions will be considered part of any resulting contract unless expressly incorporated in writing by the System Agency. Respondents must complete this exhibit only if they intend to take exceptions to solicitation language and must indicate whether they wish to remain under consideration for contract award if their proposed exceptions are denied. The RFP seeks qualified contractors to provide Child Protective Services Home Study and Report Services across DFPS Regions 1-11, including Foster/Adopt Home Screening, Kinship Caregiver Home Assessments, Health Social Educational and Genetic History Reports, and Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children screening and assessment services. The proposal submission deadline is March 30, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. Central Time, with a pre-proposal teleconference scheduled for February 25, 2026, and a question submission deadline of March 2, 2026. The anticipated contract start date is September 2026, with an initial three-year term and options for extension of up to two additional one-year terms, plus one additional option period for immediate operational needs.

HHSC intends to award one or more contracts per DFPS region with a minimum of two providers per region. The evaluation criteria are weighted as follows: Narrative Proposal (60%), Qualifications, Experience, and Key Staffing (20%), and Cost (20%). All costs submitted must be firm for the contract term and provided in specified Excel format with active formulas. Based on FY 2024 historical expenditures of $2,851,121.80 across all regions, annual compensation is estimated at approximately $3,500,000, though no guarantee of volume, usage, or compensation is provided. Respondents must demonstrate at least one year in business, financial solvency, satisfactory Vendor Performance Tracking System scores, and provide comprehensive financial statements covering 2022-2024. Required submissions include proof of Texas business authorization, a HUB Subcontracting Plan indicating commitment to historically underutilized business participation, required insurance coverage documentation, references from similar contracts within the last three years, and comprehensive financial statements. Contract awards are contingent upon approval by the DFPS executive commissioner.