FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT

INVITATION TO BID

Acknowledgement Form

Page 1 of 21 pages SUBMIT REPLY TO:

Florida Department of Law Enforcement Office of General Services Telephone Number: (850) 410-7300 Agency Release Date:

12/16/2025 Solicitation Number:

FDLE ITB 2612 Solicitation Title: Forensic Biology and STR DNA Testing Services

Bids are Due:

01/20/2026 Bid responses shall be binding until execution of a Purchase Order with the successful Bidder.

**Bidder Name:

**If a fictitious name is used, include registered name (i.e.

XYZ, Inc. DBA ABC) Bidder Mailing Address: *Authorized Signature (Manual)

City, State, Zip:

Phone Number: *Authorized Signature (Type), Title

Toll Free Number: *This individual must have the authority to legally bind the Bidder to a contractual obligation. By submission of a signature on the response, the Bidder certifies that they comply with all terms and conditions contained herein.

Fax Number:

Email Address:

FEID Number:

Type of Business Entity (Corporation, LLC, partnership, etc.):

BIDDER CONTACTS: Provide the name, title, address, telephone number, and email address of the official contact and an alternate, if available. These individuals shall be available to be contacted by telephone or attend meetings as may be appropriate regarding the solicitation schedule.

PRIMARY CONTACT: SECONDARY CONTACT:

Contact Name, Title: Contact Name, Title:

Address: Address:

Phone Number: Phone Number:

Fax Number: Fax Number:

Email Address: Email Address:

BY AFFIXING MY SIGNATURE ON THIS REPLY, I HEREBY STATE THAT I HAVE READ THE ENTIRE ITN TERMS, CONDITIONS, PROVISIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND ALL ITS ATTACHMENTS, INCLUDING THE REFERENCED PUR 1000 AND PUR 1001.

FAILURE TO FILE A PROTEST WITHIN THE TIME PRESCRIBED IN SECTION 120.57(3), FLORIDA STATUTES, OR FAILURE TO POST THE BOND OR OTHER SECURITY REQUIRED BY LAW WITHIN THE TIME ALLOWED FOR FILING A BOND SHALL

CONSTITUTE A WAIVER OF PROCEEDINGS UNDER CHAPTER 120, FLORIDA STATUTES.

FDLE ITB 2612

Section 1 – Introductory Section

1.1. Agency Intent

1.2. Heading and Section References

1.3. General Instructions to Respondents (PUR 1001)

1.4. Mandatory Requirements

1.5. Procurement Officer

1.6. Restrictions on Communications

1.7. Schedule of Events / Timeline

1.8. Accessibility for Disabled Persons

1.9. Bidder Questions

Section 2 – Technical Specifications

Section 3 – Invitation to Bid Process

3.1. Special Conditions and Instructions

3.2. Solicitation Requests

3.3. Bidder Inquiries

3.4. Addenda

3.5. Discussions

3.6. MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) Registration

3.7. Florida Department of Financial Services Substitute W-9 Initiative

3.8. Bid Price Sheet

3.9. Bid Packaging and Submission Requirements

3.10. Bidder Acknowledgement

3.11. Vendor Generated Terms and Conditions

3.12. Redacted Bid Submission

3.13. Administrative Review

3.14. Price Evaluation

3.15. Cost of Preparing a Vendor Bid

3.16. Firm Response

3.17. Withdrawal of Bid

3.18. Legal Requirements

3.19. Antitrust Violations List

3.20. Scrutinized Companies List

3.21. Vendor Certification Form (PUR 7801)

3.22. Less Than Two Responsive Bids

3.23. Basis of Award

3.24. Posting of Tabulations

3.25. Reserved Rights

3.26. Draft Contract

Section 4 – Special Conditions Section

4.1. General Contract Conditions (PUR 1000)

4.2. Cooperation With The Inspector General

4.3. Federal Excluded Parties List

4.4. Public Records

4.5. Unauthorized Aliens

4.6. No Preference

Section 5 – Attachments

SOLICITATION INTRODUCTION

Critical Things to Keep in Mind When Responding to a Solicitation for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement

1. Read the entire document. Note critical items such as mandatory requirements; sample(s) required; supplies/services required; submittal dates; number of copies required for submittal;

funding amount and source; contract requirements (i.e., contract performance security, insurance requirements, performance and/or reporting requirements, etc.).

2. Note the Procurement Officer's name, address, phone numbers and e-mail address. This is the only person you are allowed to communicate with regarding the solicitation and is an excellent source of information for any questions you may have.

3. Take advantage of the “question and answer” period. Submit your questions to the Procurement

Officer by the due date listed in the Calendar of Events and view the answers given in the formal “addenda” issued for the Solicitation. All addenda issued for a solicitation are posted on the Vendor Information Portal website (MyFloridaMarketPlace Vendor Information Portal) and will include all questions asked and answered concerning the solicitation.

4. Follow the format required in the solicitation when preparing your response. Provide point-by-point responses to the required sections in a clear and concise manner.

5. Provide complete answers/descriptions. Read and answer all questions and requirements. Don’t assume the Department will know what your company capabilities are or what items/services you can provide, even if you have previously contracted with the Department. The bids are evaluated based solely on the information and materials provided in your response.

6. Use the forms provided, i.e., Solicitation cover sheet, Price forms, etc.

7. Check the Vendor Information Portal website for solicitation addenda. Before submitting your response, check the Vendor Information Portal website to see whether any addenda were issued for the solicitation. Some addenda require that you sign and return them with the bid.

8. Review and read the Solicitation document again to make sure that you have addressed all requirements. Your original response and the requested copies must be identical and complete.

9. Submit your response on time. Note all dates and times listed in the Calendar of Events and within the document and be sure to submit all required items on time. Faxed, emailed or late bid responses are never accepted.

https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/

SECTION 1 – INTRODUCTORY SECTION

The State of Florida, Department of Law Enforcement, hereinafter called the FDLE, Department, Agency, State, Customer or Purchaser, issues this invitation to obtain competitive sealed bids for the Forensic Biology and STR DNA Testing Services. This Invitation to Bid (ITB) and all activities leading towards the anticipated issuance of a Contract pursuant to this ITB are conducted pursuant to Chapters 943 and 287 Florida Statutes (F.S.), and Rule 60A-1 Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.).

1.1. AGENCY INTENT

The contract resulting from this solicitation is expected to begin upon execution and remain in effect for a period of three years. The selected Respondent will be expected to assume the responsibilities outlined herein upon contract execution.

The State reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to renew the Contract resulting from this solicitation for three (3), one (1) year periods, or for the length of the contract whichever is greater. Renewal of the Contract shall be in writing and shall be subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the existing Contract. All renewals are contingent upon satisfactory performance by the Contractor and the availability of funds. Pursuant to Section 287.057(14), Florida Statutes, exceptional purchase contracts may not be renewed. Exceptional purchase contracts are defined in Section 287.012(12), Florida Statutes.

1.2. HEADING AND SECTION REFERENCES

Section headings in this ITB are inserted for convenience only and are not to be construed as a limitation of the scope of the particular section to which the heading refers.

1.3. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS TO RESPONDENTS (PUR 1001)

Pursuant to Rule 60A-1.002 F.A.C, the State of Florida General Instructions to Respondents (PUR 1001, 2006 version) is incorporated herein by reference and can be accessed at:

State Purchasing (PUR) Forms / State Agency Resources / State Purchasing / Business Operations - Florida Department of Management Services (myflorida.com)

Special Instructions

The following special instructions modify the general instructions provided in the incorporated PUR 1001 and shall take precedence over conflicting terms of the PUR 1001 which are inapplicable and superseded by this ITB.

Paragraphs 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, and 20 of the PUR 1001 (General Instructions) are deleted and are replaced as follows:

Section 3. Electronic Submission of Responses: Responses must be submitted as required in Section 3.1.19.

Section 4. Terms and Conditions: All Replies are subject to the terms of this solicitation, which, in case of conflict, shall have the order of precedence listed in the Order of Precedence for Solicitation section.

The Department shall not accept any unrequested terms or conditions submitted by a Respondent, including any appearing in documents attached as part of a Respondent’s Reply. In submitting its Reply, https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms a Respondent agrees that any additional terms or conditions, whether submitted intentionally or inadvertently, shall have no force or effect.

Section 5. Questions: Questions must be submitted as specified in Section 3.1.3.

Section 6. Conflict of Interest: Replaced with Section 3.1.14

Section 7. Convicted Vendors: Replaced with Section 3.1.10

Section 12. Public Opening: Replaced with Section 3.1.20

Section 13. Electronic Posting of Notice of Intended Award: Replaced with Section 5.2

Section 14. Firm Response: Replaced with Section 3.1.25

Section 15. Clarifications/Revisions: Replaced with Section 3.2.3

Section 16. Minor Irregularities/Right to Reject: Replaced with Section 3.2.2

Section 20. Protests: Replaced with Section 5.5

Section 21. Limitation on Vendor Contact with Agency During Solicitation Period: Replaced with Section 1.9

1.4. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

The FDLE has established certain requirements with respect to bids to be submitted by respondents. The use of “shall”, “must” or “will” (except to indicate simple futurity) in this ITB indicates a requirement or conditions from which a material deviation may not be waived by the Department. A deviation is material if, in the Department’s sole discretion, the deficient response is not substantially in accordance with the ITB requirements, provides an advantage to one respondent over other respondents, has potentially significant effect on the quantity or quality of items bid, or on the cost of the Department. Material deviations cannot be waived. The words “should” or “may” in this ITB indicate desirable attributes or conditions but are permissive in nature. Deviation from, or omission of, such a desirable feature, will not in itself cause rejection of a Bid.

1.5. PROCUREMENT OFFICER

The Procurement Officer, acting on behalf of the FDLE, is the sole point of contact outside of official public meetings, with regard to all procurement matters relating to this solicitation, from the date of the release of the solicitation until the FDLE Notice of Intent to Award is posted on the Vendor Information Portal (VIP).

All questions or requests for clarification are to be directed in writing to:

Angela Githens Office of General Services Florida Department of Law Enforcement 2331 Phillips Road Tallahassee, FL 32308 Email: FDLEOGSContracts@fdle.state.fl.us

***PLACE THE ITB NUMBER IN THE SUBJECT LINE OF ALL EMAILS TO THE PROCUREMENT OFFICER*** mailto:FDLEOGSContracts@fdle.state.fl.us

If a Bidder claims that any portion of an email is trade secret under section 812.081, F.S., or otherwise confidential under Florida or Federal Law, the Respondent is to place the word “Confidential” in the subject line. (See also subsection 3.8 of this ITB for more information on confidential information.)

1.6. RESTRICTIONS ON COMMUNICATIONS

NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 287.057(25), F.S.

Bidders to this solicitation or persons acting on their behalf may not contact, between the release of the solicitation and the end of the 72-hour period following the agency posting the notice of intended award, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays, any employee or officer of the executive or legislative branch concerning any aspect of this solicitation, except in writing to the procurement officer or as provided in the solicitation documents. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a response.

(This portion intentionally left blank.)

1.7. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS / TIMELINE

The following time schedule will be strictly adhered to in all actions relative to this ITB unless modified by the FDLE by written addenda. FDLE will publish all written addenda on the MyFloridaMarketPlace, Vendor Information Portal (VIP). No liability to the FDLE will result from such deviations. All required Vendor actions must be completed by the date and time indicated on the schedule. All listed times are Eastern Time (ET) in Tallahassee, Florida.

EVENT DUE DATE LOCATION

ITB Advertised/Released 12/16/2025 Posted to the Vendor Information Portal (VIP)

Vendor Information Portal

Questions Submitted in writing by email

Must be received

PRIOR TO:

1/07/2026

@ 12:00 p.m.

Submission deadline for Respondent Written Questions

FDLE Procurement Officer via email:

FDLEOGSContracts@fdle.state.fl.us

Answers to Questions (Anticipated Date) 1/12/2026

Posted to the Vendor Information Portal (VIP)

Bid responses Due to FDLE

Must be received

PRIOR TO:

1/20/2026

@ 2:00 p.m.

Submit To:

FDLE Off-Site Mail Facility c/o Florida Department of Law Enforcement Headquarters, Office of General Services

Attention: Angela Githens 813B Lake Bradford Road

Tallahassee, FL 32304 FDLEOGSContracts@fdle.state.fl.us

Public Meeting/ Opening of Bids

01/22/2026 @ 2:00 p.m.

Via Conference Call

Conference Call Number:

850-270-3999

Participation Code:

881463338#

FDLE shall utilize the State of Florida, MyFloridaMarketPlace Vendor Information Portal (VIP) and the Florida Administrative Register for all ITB public notice information, in accordance with Rule 60A-1.021 F.A.C., and Section 120.525 F.S. and Rule 28-

102.001 F.A.C., respectively.

mailto:FDLEOGSContracts@fdle.state.fl.us https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/ mailto:FDLEOGSContracts@fdle.state.fl.us tel:+18502703999,,881463338

1.8. ACCESSIBILITY FOR DISABLED PERSONS

Any person with a qualified disability shall not be denied equal access and effective communication regarding any ITB documents or attendance at any related meeting or ITB opening. If accommodations are needed because of a disability, please contact the Procurement Officer or FDLE Office of General Services at (850) 410-7300.

1.9. BIDDER QUESTIONS

Bidders will submit all questions during the Questions and Answer period in writing to the Procurement Officer via email at the email address listed in Section 1.5, Procurement Officer. Questions relevant to this ITB a should be submitted in written form (e-mailed) utilizing the Question Submittal Form (Attachment A) to the Procurement Officer. The deadline for submission of questions is reflected in Section 1.7 Schedule of Events.

Questions and answers will not constitute a basis for formal protest of the specifications of the solicitation. The Department’s answers to written questions will be posted on the MFMP Vendor Information Portal (VIP). The Department will not be bound by, and Bidders shall not rely on, any representations outside of this Question and Answer process.

If a Bidder identifies any concerns or required clarifications related to the Price Reply Spreadsheet, such requests must be submitted during the official Q&A period.

Any Bidder suggested changes to the Price Reply Spreadsheet will only be considered if submitted through the Q&A process and may result in an Addendum issued by FDLE, if deemed necessary. FDLE reserves the right to clarify, revise, or supplement the Price Reply Spreadsheet at any time prior to proposal due date. Any such changes or additions will be communicated through an Addendum and posted on the MFMP Vendor Information Portal

(VIP).

All written questions are reproduced in the same format as submitted by the Bidder.

Bidders are responsible for monitoring the Vendor Information Portal and incorporating any updates or revisions into their submitted proposals, as no additional notification will be provided when addendums are posted.

SECTION 2 – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

For definitions of any terminology throughout the sections on Forensic Biology or STR DNA Testing, refer to Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories (QAS; July 1, 2025), ISO/IEC 17025 (2017-11 ed.), and ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) Accreditation Requirements for Forensic Testing and Calibration Laboratories (AR3125:2023). All methods and procedures must be approved by the FDLE prior to use on casework.

It is expected that all methods, procedures, technologies, typing kits, and equipment be properly validated by the vendor laboratory, and that compliance with the QAS and accreditation requirements of federal law be demonstrated. Whenever the vendor implements new methods, procedures, technologies, typing kits, and equipment that will be used on casework outsourced by FDLE, confirmation of approval must be provided by an FDLE DNA Technical Leader via e-mail prior to beginning DNA extraction.

A. General Forensic Biology and STR DNA Testing

1. Acceptable biological screening tools and tests are as follows:

a. Alternate Light Source (ALS) for stains of possible biologic interest (fluorescence of possible bodily fluids or absorption of light by possible blood)

b. Blood (presumptive): Phenolphthalein (Kastle-Meyer)/TMB

c. Semen

i. Semen (presumptive): Acid Phosphatase (AP, Brentamine)

ii. Semen (presumptive): Prostate Specific Antigen (P30) immunological testing using commercial cartridges; may be considered confirmatory in presence of positive AP test

iii. Semen (confirmatory): Light microscopy (brightfield or phase) of slides prepared using histological stains (e.g. Kernectrot-Picroindigocarmine)

d. Hair

i. Light and magnification for determining presence of root

ii. Light microscopy to determine suitability of hair roots for STR testing

1. Validated staining techniques for nuclear DNA in hair roots Note: Further characterizations require Scope of Accreditation including Trace Materials Discipline for Qualitative Determination of Hair using Microscopy, to be provided with other supporting materials

2. Acceptable DNA extraction methods for Questioned (forensic) samples include:

a. Silica/magnetic bead-based technology, manual or automated (e.g. DNA IQ™, Prepfiler™, QIAamp®

DNA Investigator)

b. Differential extraction of samples potentially containing semen may be assisted by adjuncts and/or automation (e.g. DNAse, QIAcube®, Differex™)

3. Acceptable DNA extraction methods for Known (reference) samples include:

a. Silica/magnetic bead-based technology, manual or automated; Chelex; NaOH

4. Quantitation must be completed using real-time quantitative PCR and must demonstrate sensitivity and specificity for detection of both total human and male-specific DNA (e.g. Quantifiler™ Trio, PowerQuant, Investigator® QuantiPlex®). All thresholds for DNA concentrations and ratios to discontinue testing (i.e. drop at quant or Y-screen) must be validated by the Vendor lab and approved by FDLE Technical Leader.

5. Amplification using the GlobalFiler™ Amplification Kit is required

a. GlobalFiler™ Express (direct PCR) may be used for known (reference) samples

b. Reduced volume reactions may be approved for known (reference) samples if validated by the laboratory

6. STRmix probabilistic genotyping software must be validated and available to the Vendor for use on mixed samples

a. Wherever possible, the known profile for an expected donor will be utilized in attempts to resolve foreign/other donor profile information from intimate/body samples that result in mixed DNA profiles

i. Use of the known donor profile for an expected donor should also be used for mixture deconvolution for indigenous samples or items demonstrating prolonged body contact with an individual, e.g. clothing or personal items, as defined by the Vendor laboratory’s SOP

ii. Wherever possible, a known reference sample will be utilized to aid in deconvolution, but a clean non-sperm cell fraction of a differential sample from a body swab or other secondary standard may be used

b. It is expected that attempts to deconvolute mixtures be made wherever permitted by Vendor lab procedure/policy

i. STRmix must be utilized to attempt to deconvolute any mixtures to which a number of contributors (NOC) may be reasonably attributed

ii. Assessment based on two different possible NOC is acceptable if addressed in the Vendor’s validation and procedures

c. Wherever mixtures obtained are not resolvable or suitable for deconvolution yet suitable for comparisons to known donor profiles, this must be apparent in the report.

d. FDLE enters all eligible data into CODIS, including mixtures. The Vendor laboratory must provide sufficient documentation to justify mixed profile entries.

i. The STRmix Component Interpretation Summary (>99% Table) is used to demonstrate single source profiles with >99% certainty that the genotypes observed are attributable to the donor for entry

ii. The Genotype Probability Distribution and Component Interpretation Tables are used in determining CODIS-eligibility of mixtures. Alleles in a mixture, whose probable genotype combinations sum to >99% may be entered into CODIS as a mixture. The entry may target one or both donors mathematically deconvoluted from the greater mixture. If a victim and Person of Interest (POI) comprise the mixture, obligate alleles may be designated for the donor of interest.

iii. Mathematical justification for the mixture entry (alleles in the mixture have probable genotypes that sum to >99%) must be provided and may be accomplished using a validated tool or workbook.

iv. It is expected that the Vendor perform and provide these summation calculations whenever obligate components of a single donor or mixtures of two donors (within a mixture of three or more donors) may be suitable for CODIS entry.

e. STRmix will be used for inclusion statistics (Likelihood Ratio, LR) for mixtures that are suitable for comparisons.

i. Single source matches are preferably reported in the form of a LR using STRmix or an internally validated and approved statistical tool; however, a Random Match Probability is also acceptable for single source statistics

f. Probability statistics will be generated using a validated database, the source of which must be disclosed to FDLE (e.g. FSI Genetics, 2017: 1768).

g. Rarely, Y-STR testing may be requested.

i. Y-STR testing will only be performed at the specific request of FDLE when a known reference sample is available for comparison or for preparation for Familial Search or Unidentified Human Remains.

ii. Y-STR testing for casework samples must use the Yfiler™ Plus Amplification Kit.

iii. Y-STR testing for the purposes of Florida Familial Search may use Y-filer™ or Yfiler™ Plus.

B. Sexual Assault Kits & Evidence

1. A Sexual Assault Kit (SAK) shall be defined as the container (typically an envelope or box) in which items collected from the body of a sexual offense victim are retained. In addition to orifice and body swabs, the SAK may include underwear collected at the time of the assault, fingernail clippings/scrapings, pubic hair combings, and/or sanitary pads/tampons.

a. Sexual Assault Kits

i. No serology screening is required for the contents of SAKs

1. Use of ALS to identify staining on underwear or gauze pads contained within a kit for sample selection purposes will be conducted as needed, but will not incur a separate charge

ii. Testing (direct-to-DNA or Y-screen) must be conducted such that SAKs are exhaustively tested prior to being reported as negative (see iii.).

1. Orifice and genital swabs and other samples poten�ally containing semen, as evidenced by case scenario or in the event no scenario is available, that demonstrate male DNA at quan�ta�on will be subjected to differen�al extrac�on if not conducted prior to the quan�ta�on, unless an approach such as Casework Direct has been validated by the vendor and approved to guide the workflow of Y-screen extracts for sexual assault evidence between differen�al and non-differen�al extrac�on

2. Whenever a sample containing male DNA has not been subjected to differen�al extrac�on, and the resul�ng mixed profile cannot be resolved due to masking by the female donor, the sample will be re-extracted differen�ally based on the vendor laboratory’s valida�on and discre�on

iii. Tes�ng may be conducted in rounds or waves (e.g. orifice swabs first)

1. Tes�ng may be discon�nued when a proba�ve result is obtained (e.g. if a foreign profile is developed from a vaginal swab, the remaining items in the kit do not require tes�ng)

2. However, if the scenario suggests mul�ple perpetrators or the vic�m is incapable of describing events (e.g. loss of consciousness in an environment with numerous other people present, mental or physical incapacity), or recent consensual contact with no elimina�on sample provided, the kit must be tested in its en�rety

iv. If a differen�al extrac�on is not performed as part of the Y-screen for orifice / genital area swabs, it must be performed for the tes�ng if an acceptable Y quan�ta�on value is obtained, except as described under ii. (e.g. Casework Direct approach).

1. ALS or visual exam may be used to determine areas for tes�ng on underwear included within the SAK; minimally, if no staining is observed, a sample from the crotch area will be extracted and subjected to Y-screening as above

2. Swabs of suspected saliva (e.g. neck/breast swabs) should be forwarded directly to DNA tes�ng without presump�ve amylase or saliva tes�ng

3. If no proba�ve results are obtained from other SAK contents, fingernail clippings/scrapings will be subjected to extrac�on and quan�ta�on. These items will be tested under the circumstances of Sec�on (B)(1)(a)(iii).

4. If no proba�ve results are obtained from other SAK contents, pubic hair combings or apparent hairs observed adhering to SAK contents will be examined for suitability for STR tes�ng. These items will be tested under the circumstances of Sec�on (B)(1)(a)(iii).

5. Light microscopy or another validated method for examining hair roots must be used to determine whether the hair is suitable for or has characteris�cs associated with successful PCR-based STR tes�ng.

b. Non-SAK Sexual Assault Evidence

i. Underwear not included within a SAK represented as having been worn during or immediately after the assault may be screened using traditional methods; minimally testing as per Section (B)(1)(a)(iv)(1), or an alternative approach agreed upon through communication with the FDLE Technical Leader.

ii. Underwear not included within a SAK and no documentation to indicate it was specifically worn during or immediately after the assault will be screened using biological screening (serology) methods.

1. Minimally, AP testing will be used to screen the underwear.

2. If the size of the stain permits, AP testing will be followed by a confirmatory test for semen.

3. Positive stains must be differentially extracted and subjected to Y-screening or tested in accordance with Section (B)(1)(a)(ii).

iii. Clothing will be screened for stains according to case scenario.

1. Presumptive and confirmatory testing must be conducted prior to extraction of suspected semen stains from clothing, bedding, or swabs thereof.

2. Testing may be discontinued on items suspected of containing semen that yield no positive presumptive tests.

3. Clothing suspected of containing saliva based on case scenario (e.g. bra) may be sampled by scraping/swabbing/cutting without presumptive testing; however, use of ALS or presumptive testing such as amylase mapping may be used to help identify stains of interest.

4. If clothing is submitted for “touch” or transfer DNA, the area of interest will be scraped/swabbed/cut.

iv. Condoms will be sampled “inside” and “outside” using separate swabbings and forwarded for differential extraction without additional serology testing.

v. Bedding/environmental items (e.g. couch cushions, carpet samples) require serology screening, and only positive stains will be forwarded for DNA testing.

vi. Penile swabs will be subjected to differential extraction in attempts to isolate a probative epithelial cell donor, unless serology screening demonstrates a lack of semen.

C. Violent Crimes Evidence

1. Items will be examined for staining and presumptive blood tests performed as deemed probative based on case scenario.

a. No testing is requested when the FDLE Case Tracking Form or scenario indicates the item has already been tested for the possible presence of stains of serological value.

b. Otherwise, presumptive testing for blood will be conducted on characteristic red-brown stains when the presumptive presence of blood is of probative value given the nature of the alleged crime and any case narrative supplied.

c. Applicable stains will be collected for DNA testing by swabbing and/or cutting.

2. Swabbings/scrapings/cuttings will be collected for wearer/touch/transfer/trace DNA as deemed probative based on case scenario.

3. Beverage containers will be sampled for “drinker” DNA by swabbing; amylase or presumptive saliva testing is not requested.

4. “Smoker” samples will be collected from cigarette/cigar butts by swabbing and/or cutting; amylase or presumptive saliva testing is not requested.

D. Property Crimes Evidence

1. Items will be examined for staining and presumptive blood tests performed as deemed probative based on case scenario.

a. No tes�ng is requested when the FDLE Case Tracking Form or scenario indicates the item has already been tested for the possible presence of stains of serological value.

b. When the presence of blood is not indicated, presump�ve tes�ng for blood is not requested.

c. Otherwise, Presump�ve tes�ng for blood will be conducted on characteris�c red-brown stains when the presump�ve presence of blood is of proba�ve value given the nature of the alleged crime and any case narra�ve supplied.

d. Applicable stains will be collected for DNA tes�ng by swabbing and/or cu�ng.

2. Swabbings/scrapings/cu�ngs will be collected for wearer/touch/transfer/trace DNA as deemed proba�ve based on case scenario.

3. Beverage containers will be sampled for “drinker” DNA by swabbing; amylase or presumptive saliva testing is not requested.

4. “Smoker” samples will be collected from cigarete/cigar buts by swabbing and/or cutting; amylase or presumptive saliva testing is not requested.

E. Quality Assurance

1. The following must be provided to FDLE at the beginning of any contract period and in accordance with the Vendor’s accredita�on schedule and whenever updated. Documenta�on of assessments by the Vendor’s accredi�ng body must be supplied. Documenta�on in support of QAS must be supplied if the vendor will provide work product to be reviewed for CODIS entry. FDLE accepts STR and Y-STR profiles for CODIS entry, not mtDNA or SNP-based profiles.

a. Accredita�on Cer�ficate

b. Scope of Accredita�on

c. Results of internal Quality Audit and internal QAS Audit (where applicable)

d. Results of external Quality Audit and external QAS Audit (where applicable)

2. The following, however named, must be provided to FDLE on an annual basis or whenever substan�al changes to any method or procedure or policy are made

a. Quality Manual

b. Standard Opera�ng Procedures

c. Results of Proficiency Testing

d. Valida�ons and/or Performance Checks and/or Material Modifica�ons for all technologies, equipment, and methods that may be u�lized on FDLE casework

3. Unexpected profiles or suspected contamina�on must be checked against the Vendor laboratory’s staff database, other casework, and any known consumable contamination profiles according to Vendor policy

4. The FDLE TL must be no�fied in the event of suspected contamina�on involving an FDLE case or any devia�on from policy deemed by the Vendor laboratory’s quality management to be a non-conformance subject to no�fica�on of the Vendor’s accredi�ng body.

a. Wherever the root cause analysis reveals a contamina�on event or non-conformance is due to ac�ons of the Vendor laboratory or its staff, re-tes�ng of the sample(s), where applicable, will be done at no addi�onal charge to the FDLE.

5. A reagent/extrac�on blank must be u�lized for and returned with each unique FDLE case number for each set of extracted ques�oned samples.

a. This may be achieved in a number of ways and may be determined upon mutual agreement between the Vendor and FDLE.

i. If a single or set of reagent/extrac�on blanks is to be u�lized across mul�ple cases, remaining blank must be par��oned into separate tubes across the cases, such that each case receives a volume of reagent blank analogous with the lowest volume sample in the extrac�on set.

ii. If an extrac�on blank must be consumed for re-tes�ng of a sample within a given batch, approval must be sought from the FDLE TL.

iii. See also F. 4. below regarding extrac�on blanks for known reference samples. If original buccal/blood sample for the known remains for poten�al retes�ng, extracts and blanks for known reference samples are not required to be returned, although they may be treated the same as ques�oned samples and returned accordingly

6. Prior approval to consume any swab, cu�ng, hair, or other sample type for the purposes of extrac�on is not required by the FDLE; however, substrates and extracts for ques�oned samples are to be treated as evidence and returned to the FDLE (see below).

7. Access to documents collected as part of the FBI On-site Vendor Program (OVP) do not subs�tute for the above.

F. Evidence

1. Evidence will be shipped by the FDLE laboratories to the Vendor laboratory using an approved courier

(e.g., FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL) with documenta�on sufficient to maintain chain of custody. Vendor will be required to sign for receipt of the package(s). This signature will begin the 15-business day for the Vendor to verify the contents of the package(s).

a. Receipt of the package(s) shall be confirmed via communica�on to the FDLE within 15 business days of physical receipt by the Vendor laboratory, including verifica�on of the package’s contents.

b. Failure to verify the package’s contents by the end of the 15th business day will result in the following financial consequence:

i. 5% of the final invoice for each impacted case

2. Evidence will be returned to the applicable FDLE laboratory via an approved courier within 60 calendar days of the Vendor providing results/reports to the FDLE

a. Failure to return evidence (including substrates and extracts) within this defined �me shall result in payment being withheld Unavoidable delays due to weather or disaster may be excused

i. The FDLE laboratory contact shall be no�fied whenever a return shipment is dispatched

3. Extracts must be packaged by case, including applicable reagent blanks, and may be returned to the

FDLE dried down (e.g., vacuum method), using a proprietary addi�ve (a recons�tu�on procedure must be supplied), or frozen and packaged on ice packs.

4. Extracts and substrates for known samples (with their own blanks per case) must also be returned IF the en�re source of the known profile was consumed. If remaining buccal swab or blood spot card exists as evidence to be returned to the FDLE, the extract/substrate/blank is not required to be returned but will be accepted if it suits the workflow of the Vendor laboratory. If returned, these must be packaged by unique FDLE case number and may be packaged along with the ques�oned extracts.

5. Substrates (dry) may be returned within the original evidence packages or with the extracts.

G. Work Product for Forensic Biology and STR DNA Tes�ng

1. It is expected, at a minimum, that one report per case will be issued including the entire body of work conducted for the case with exceptions for additional submissions of evidence or separately submitted known reference samples for comparisons. The Vendor’s report and summary sheet format will be approved by the FDLE after the contract has been awarded.

a. Simplified reporting is acceptable to FDLE if documented and approved by the Vendor’s accrediting body

b. Rarely, supplemental reports may be warranted due to specific request for addi�onal tes�ng a�er FDLE has reviewed the original work

c. Results/interpreta�ons/conclusions for SAK tes�ng will be issued in a single report, as no kits will be reported out as completely nega�ve without the contents having been exhausted for tes�ng

2. Work product in the form of electronic .ser files for samples/injections used for interpretation must be provided for all cases on which STR DNA testing is conducted. These .ser files may contain the results for one to as many cases as can be processed in a single capillary electrophoresis run (e.g. one 96 well plate).

a. .ser files may also contain multiple run folders in order to batch cases

b. No more than 20 unique cases may be batched within a single .ser file for review purposes. If possible, cross-referenced cases will be in the same batch.

c. Each .ser file must contain the appropriate ladders and amplification controls for the injections represented.

d. PDFs of the controls, ladders, and size standards will be provided for review

3. The .hid files in the form of run folders must also be provided. These may contain all injections, whereas a single .ser file must be provided which demonstrates the injections and allele calls used for interpretation

4. The final report must not contain an allele table

5. An allele table, summary sheet, STRmix output, or other similar documentation indicating the interpreted profile for samples used for interpretation must be provided.

6. See A. 6. above regarding STRmix output that must be provided.

a. For samples where STRmix has been used for deconvolution, the STRmix report output containing the applicable tables and any mathematical calculations performed satisfies this requirement

7. Results, reports, and data may be returned to the FDLE via a secure portal or .FTP site meeting the requirements of ISO 17025, via courier on optical media or via an agreed upon secure transfer service (e.g.

through SharePoint).

8. Failure to return the report for the pre-determined number of cases per shipment within 90 calendar days of physical receipt of the evidence by the Vendor, or per an agreed-upon schedule, a financial consequence shall be applied as follows:

• For 1-15 business days late, 5% of the final invoice for each impacted case

• For 16-30 business days late, 10% of the final invoice for each impacted case

• For 31 business days and beyond, 15% of the final invoice for each impacted case

a. Cases may be shipped on a schedule and returned as batches, or a bulk shipment may be submitted with the Vendor returning a given number of those cases across a period of time.

i. For example, if 100 cases are shipped per month with an expecta�on of 100 returned per month (30 calendar days) with a maximum 90 calendar day turn-around �me, it is expected that the 100 cases be completed within 90 calendar days of receipt. However, if 600 cases are shipped at the beginning of the agreement, with an expecta�on of 100 cases being returned per month (30 calendar days) with a maximum 90 calendar day turn-around �me, it is expected that 100 cases be completed within 90 calendar days of receipt, followed by 100 cases per month (30 calendar days) following the original 90 days.

b. Agreements regarding shipments, capacity, and expecta�ons will be secured in wri�ng between the Vendor and the FDLE designee prior to each shipment in an effort to ensure the Vendor can maintain a workflow that precludes financial penal�es or undue delays for either party.

c. If at any �me the Vendor cannot accommodate the outsourcing needs of the FDLE and must refuse acceptance of addi�onal work under these constraints, the FDLE may u�lize an addi�onal accredited vendor to meet its needs.

H. Other Requirements for Forensic Biology and DNA Tes�ng

1. Profiles (known/reference or forensic/ques�oned) generated from evidence outsourced by the FDLE may NOT be searched or stored in any local database, excluding contamina�on checks, or disseminated to any other agency.

2. Vendor must provide documenta�on to demonstrate the following if requested by the FDLE:

a. Over the past 365 calendar days, con�nuous employment of a minimum of five qualified forensic DNA analysts

b. Sufficient physical space for examina�on of evidence and evidence storage areas secured to prevent the� of interference and with limited, controlled access

i. Storage condi�ons shall prevent loss, deteriora�on, and contamina�on and maintain the integrity of the evidence

c. Accredita�on by ANAB in the Biology Discipline including Qualita�ve Determina�on of Body Fluid, DNA Profile Determina�on (STR, Y-STR using Capillary Electrophoresis), and Physical Comparison of DNA Profiles with use of STRmix

d. Within the past four years, successful comple�on of at least two external FBI QAS Audits. FDLE reserves the right to ques�on any response/remedia�on findings in historical or current audit documenta�on for completeness and compliance with the FBI QAS, ASCLD/LAB Supplemental Requirements, FQS Forensic Requirements for Accredita�on, ANAB Addi�onal Requirements, or A2LA Specific Requirements where applicable.

e. Over the past 365 calendar days, comple�on of a minimum of 800 forensic cases, at least 200 of which must be sexual assaults requiring differen�al extrac�on.

3. Any addi�onal documenta�on regarding the Vendor laboratory’s staff qualifica�ons, accredita�on status, or procedures may be requested by the FDLE at any interval and must be provided as agreed upon by the Vendor and FDLE at the �me of request.

4. If advances or changes in technology , method, procedure, or program for any of the tes�ng deliverables described within this SOW are validated by the Vendor, are first mutually agreed upon in wri�ng by the Vendor and the FDLE TL, and do not result in any change in costs, such change(s) may be ins�tuted for the outsourcing agreement in accordance with QAS 17 and by the FDLE Change Order (Appendix #).

I. Subject Mater Expert (SME) Professional Time of SME: Includes, but is not limited to, (1) telephone or in-person meetings, consultations, hearings, and other court appearances, (2) preparation time for meetings, depositions, and trials, (3) time required to create or review documentation or visuals, (4) time waiting for meetings, hearings, depositions and/or trials to commence or resume, and (5) actual time testifying.

Charges for courtroom testimony must be singular and all-inclusive per day or quarter thereof (0000-0600;

0600-1200; 1200-1800; 1800-0000). Travel, per diem, incidentals may not be itemized for reimbursement by FDLE. Vendor responsible for arrangements.

Prior to payment, Vendor must submit a copy of any subpoena, along with any other supporting documentation necessary to verify the need for the services of a SME, as part of the payment process. These materials must accompany any invoice for review and approval.

SECTION 3 – INVITATION TO BID PROCESS

This ITB is hereby advertised on the State of Florida VIP. To find the ITB or other related information, enter Agency “Department of Law Enforcement” and click on “Initiate Search” at the bottom of the web page. If unable to download the document(s), contact the FDLE Procurement Officer.

Section 120.57(3)(b) F.S., requires that notice of protest of the solicitation documents shall be made within 72 hours after the posting of the solicitation. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in section 120.57(3) F.S., shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120 F.S.

3.1. SPECIAL CONDITIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

The FDLE Bid requirements and special conditions modify and shall take precedence over the State of Florida form PUR 1001, General Instructions to Bidders.

The FDLE currently does not utilize the State of Florida’s, MyFloridaMarketPlace e-Procurement system for competitive solicitations such as this ITB. Bidders are to manually submit a hard copy of their responses to this ITB as identified in this section. Specific references to MFMP usage for this ITB stated in paragraphs 3 and 5 of the PUR 1001, General Instructions to Bidders are not applicable.

3.2. SOLICITATION REQUESTS

All questions or requests for clarification pertaining to this ITB should be addressed in writing to the Procurement Officer. It will be the responsibility of each Bidder to submit any questions prior to the ITB receipt opening.

Questions or requests for clarification concerning the specifications or solicitation procedures as written must be submitted to the FDLE in accordance with the Schedule of Events / Timeline. The written interpretation of the appropriate representative of the FDLE shall prevail.

3.3. BIDDER INQUIRIES

The Bidder will examine the ITB to determine if the FDLE requirements are clearly stated. If there are requirements which may restrict competition, Bidders may request specification changes. Requests must identify and describe the difficulty meeting specifications, provide detailed justification, and provide the recommended changes.

Change requests or protests of the specifications must be received by the State no later than 72 hours after the posting of the solicitation. The FDLE will determine what, if any, changes to the ITB will be accepted. If required, the FDLE will issue addenda reflecting the changes.

Written interpretations of the appropriate representative of the FDLE will prevail. While oral responses may be given in good faith and are intended to be accurate, the FDLE is not bound by any non-written interpretation or guidance offered to Bidders.

3.4. ADDENDA

The FDLE reserves the right to modify this ITB. All addenda to this ITB will be in writing with content and number of pages described to all Bidders. Any addenda or answers to written questions supplied by the FDLE to participating Bidders may include an Addenda Acknowledgement Form. This form shall be signed by an authorized representative of the Bidder’s organization and submitted to the FDLE.

All addenda will be provided via the VIP at the following website: MyFloridaMarketPlace Vendor Information Portal

Bidders are not authorized to make any changes to the ITB including forms or attachments submitted with their Bid, unless otherwise specified. Making such modifications may be grounds for deeming the Bidder non-responsive.

It is the sole responsibility of the Bidder to monitor the VIP for any addenda issued in reference to this ITB.

3.5. DISCUSSIONS

No negotiations, decisions or actions shall be initiated or executed by the Bidder as a result of any discussions with any State employee prior to the opening of the sealed Bid(s). Prior to the opening of the sealed Bid(s), Bidders are NOT to divulge bid prices to any state employee or representative of the State. Further, Bids submitted to the FDLE will remain unopened until the time for opening Bids as indicated on the Schedule of Events / Timeline.

During this period, any discussion by the Bidder with any state employee or representative of the State involving price information will result in rejection of said Bidder’s response. Only those communications which are in writing or electronically submitted from the FDLE, Office of General Services may be considered as a duly authorized expression on behalf of the FDLE. Also, only communications from Bidders, which are in writing and signed or electronically submitted, will be recognized by the FDLE as duly authorized expressions on behalf of the Bidder.

3.6. MYFLORIDAMARKETPLACE (MFMP) REGISTRATION

The State of Florida, through the Department of Management Services, has instituted MyFloridaMarketPlace, a statewide eProcurement system pursuant to Section 287.057(24), Florida Statutes (F.S.). All payments issued by Agencies to registered vendors for purchases of Commodities or Contractual Services under Chapter 287, F.S., shall be assessed the Transaction Fee of one percent (1.0%) of the total amount of the payments received from the State or Eligible Users, as prescribed by Rule 60A-1.031, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), or as may otherwise be established by law. Vendors shall pay the Transaction Fee and are subject to automatic deduction of the Transaction Fee, when automatic deduction becomes available. Vendors shall submit any monthly reports required pursuant to Rule 60A-1.031, F.A.C. All such reports and payments are subject to audit. The Department will have grounds for declaring the vendor in default if the vendor fails to comply with the payment of the Transaction Fee or reporting of payments, which may subject the vendor to being suspended from business with the State of Florida.

Responding Vendors should be registered in the MFMP system at the time of Bid submission.

Vendors should register for the following United Nations Standard Products and Services (UNSPSC) Class/Group Commodity Code(s) pertaining to this Procurement:

• 85121803 Biological laboratory services

• 80121903 Expert witness service

3.7. FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES SUBSTITUTE W-9 INITIATIVE

The Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) must have the correct Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and other related information (i.e. Social Security number) to report accurate tax information to the Internal Revenue service and determine if a vendor should receive a Form 1099. A completed Substitute form W-9 is required for any entity to receive payment from the State of Florida. Vendors must submit their W-9 forms electronically at the DFS website: https://flvendor.myfloridacfo.com/

The awarded Vendor must have a valid W-9 on file with the DFS prior to issuance of a Purchase Order. This may be completed by the Bidder post-award and is not something which FDLE will consider in determining the responsiveness of a bid.

3.8. BID PRICE SHEET

The Bidder must submit pricing on Attachment B – Price Sheet.