Exhibit N - Confidential or Proprietary Information 03.07.2024.docx

This document is an Exhibit N form issued by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) regarding confidential or proprietary information disclosures for the Re-Solicitation Texas Farmer Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline and Educational Services contract opportunity. The exhibit serves as a required submission component that ensures compliance with the Texas Public Information Act (PIA) by notifying respondents of their obligations when submitting proposals containing sensitive information. Under the PIA, all information held by governmental bodies is subject to public disclosure unless it qualifies for one of the specific statutory exceptions. TDA is required to provide third-party notice when public information requests are received that seek third-party information, allowing affected parties the opportunity to protect confidential or proprietary information through appropriate legal channels.

Respondents must select one of three checkbox options corresponding to their proposal submission: designating the entire proposal as exempt from PIA disclosure with clear markings identifying confidential or proprietary information; submitting confidential or proprietary information with a separate "Public Information Act Copy" of the proposal as required in Section II, Paragraph 5.2 of the solicitation; or confirming that the proposal contains no confidential or proprietary information requiring a separate redacted copy. The form requires the authorized respondent's printed name, company representation, signature, and submission date. TDA emphasizes that blanket assertions of confidentiality without specific language identification may result in an adverse ruling from the Office of the Texas Attorney General. This exhibit was revised on March 7, 2024, and must be completed and submitted as part of all proposal responses.