Final_RFP_520_2600000168_2_SO_FORM.PDF

Document ID: RFP 520 2600000168 Page: 1

Commonwealth of Kentucky

SOLICITATION MODIFICATION

Modification: Yes Version #: 2

TITLE: DNA Analysis Services

Date Issued:

01/12/2026 Record Date:

01/09/2026

Solicitation Closes Date:

01/20/2026 Time:

13:00

Solicitation No:

RFP 520 2600000168

Reason for Modification

ADDENDUM #1

1/6/2026

The purpose of this addendum is to post the answers to the written questions received from vendors. The document has been added to the RFP as Vendors Questions and KSP Responses for DNA Analysis.

The Attachment A Cost Proposal has been modified to include additional space for additional analysis which should include the price per each.

Extended closing date to January 20, 2026.

Online Bidding Prohibited: No For Information Call:

Kristie Graham 502-782-1828

Bid Receiving Location:

KSP Financial Grant Management KSP Financial Grant Management 919 Versailles Rd

Frankfort KY 40601

Vendor Customer Number:

Vendor Name:

Phone Number:

Fax Number:

Email Address:

Ordering

Address:

City, State, Zip:

Contact Name:

Contact Email:

Contact Phone Number:

Payment

Address:

City, State, Zip:

Contact Name:

Contact Email:

Contact Phone Number:

Ownership Type

__ Sole Proprietorship __ Partnership __ Corporation __ Other_________________________

SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED AGENT IS REQUIRED UNLESS RESPONSE

IS SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY. FAILURE TO SIGN SHALL RENDER

THE BID INVALID.

Document ID: RFP 520 2600000168 Page: 2

Signature X_________________________________________ FEIN#____________________ Date____________

All offers subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

Document ID: RFP 520 2600000168 Page: 3

Line Items

Commodity Group: Default

Line CL Description Quantity UOM Unit Cost Line Total or Contract Amnt

1 Refer to Bid Instruction for DNA Analysis

Comm Code Comm Description Manufacturer Model # Manuf Part #

96148 Laboratory and Field Testing Services (Not Otherwise Classif

Extended Description The KSP is required by Kentucky Revised Statute (KRS 12.020) to establish a state crime laboratory to conduct examination of evidence submitted by KSP and local agencies in support of the Commonwealths criminal justice system. There are currently six (6) laboratories that conduct various examinations from blood alcohol toxicology, breath alcohol maintenance, solid dosage drugs, trace/GSR/arson, firearms/toolmarks/imprint evidence, friction ridge, polygraph, photography, serology, DNA casework, as well as maintaining the Commonwealths DNA database.

Shipping Information KSP Forensic Laboratory - Central Branch

100 Sower Blvd, Suite 102

Frankfort KY 40601-9980

Billing Information KSP Forensic Laboratory - Central Branch

100 Sower Blvd, Suite 102

Frankfort KY 40601-9980

Document ID: RFP 520 2600000168 Page: 4

Submission Checklist

The following items will be required to be submitted with bid:

Item

ADDENDUM #1

1/6/2026

The purpose of this addendum is to post the answers to the written questions received from vendors. The document has been added to the RFP as Vendors Questions and KSP Responses for DNA Analysis.

The Attachment A – Cost Proposal has been modified to include additional space for additional analysis which should include the price per each.

Extended closing date to January 20, 2026.

Revised May 2025

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION CHECKLIST

The vendor MUST include the following with the proposal submission.

If the items highlighted below are not submitted with the proposal submission, the Commonwealth MUST deem the proposal non-responsive and SHALL NOT consider for award.

All other items MUST be submitted prior to award.

_____ SIGNED AND COMPLETED SOLICITATION –Section(s) 8.00 and 8.10 of this RFP

(not required if submitting electronically)

_____ *PROPOSED SOLUTION (TECHNICAL) UNDER SEALED COVER AND BY

CLOSING DATE --Section(s) 8.00 and 8.10 of this RFP

_____ *PROPOSED SOLUTION (COST) UNDER SEALED COVER AND BY CLOSING

DATE -- Section(s) 8.00 and 8.10 of this RFP

_____ TRANSMITTAL LETTER – Section 8.20 of this RFP

_____ PROOF OF REGISTRATION WITH SECRETARY OF STATE BY A FOREIGN

ENTITY -- Section 8.00 of the Personal Service Contract Terms and Conditions of this

RFP

_____ REQUIRED AFFIDAVIT(S) – Section 8.20 of this RFP

*The Commonwealth defines SEALED as “a closure that must be broken to be opened and that thus reveals tampering” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary, https://www.merriam-webster.com/ dictionary/seal

Document Phase Document Description Page 5

2600000168 Final DNA Analysis Services Total Pages: 27 https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/seal https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/seal

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

FOR

PERSONAL SERVICE CONTRACT

Justice Cabinet, Kentucky State Police DNA Analysis Solicitation Number: RFP-520-2600000168

This document constitutes a Request for Proposals for a Personal Service Contract from qualified individuals and organizations to furnish those services as described herein for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, Kentucky State Police.

Offerors are advised that any personal service contract resulting from this RFP must comply with all applicable provisions of KRS 45A and KRS 12.210 prior to becoming effective.

A contract, based on this RFP, may or may not be awarded. Any contract award from this RFP is invalid until properly approved and executed by the Finance and Administration Cabinet and filed with the Legislative Research Commission, Government Contract Review Committee.

1.00 Purpose and Background

The Kentucky State Police (KSP) is soliciting qualified laboratories for the purpose of contracting with multiple laboratories for outsourcing of Forensic Biology cases needing Serological Analysis (Sero), Y-Screening Analysis (Y-Screen), Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Analysis, Y- Chromosome Short Tandem Repeat (Y-STR) Analysis, Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Analysis, Forensic Genetic Genealogical (FGG) Analysis, Forensic Genetic Genealogical Searching (FGGS), and/or Forensic Genetic Genealogical Phenotyping (FGGP), based upon the need of each case. KSP will utilize funding from the Missing and Unidentified Human Remains (MUHR) and DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) grant programs, along with any general funds as applicable.

The KSP is required by Kentucky Revised Statute (KRS 12.020) to establish a state crime laboratory to conduct examination of evidence submitted by KSP and local agencies in support of the Commonwealth’s criminal justice system. There are currently six (6) laboratories that conduct various examinations from blood alcohol toxicology, breath alcohol maintenance, solid dosage drugs, trace/GSR/arson, firearms/toolmarks/imprint evidence, friction ridge, polygraph, photography, serology, DNA casework, as well as maintaining the Commonwealth’s DNA database.

2.00 Scope of Work

The KSP is seeking laboratories for outsourcing and off-site analysis on forensic samples of various sample types utilizing Sero, Y-Screen, DNA, Y-STR, mtDNA, FGG (including by means

Document Phase Document Description Page 6 of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNP) and/or Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), FGGS, and/or FGGP. Due to various sample types, as well as the quality, the quantity, the source, and whether the sample is single sourced or mixed, it is important to have options to utilize multiple laboratories based upon the needs of each individual case. Laboratories are not required to bid on every analysis service. It may be necessary to utilize more than one laboratory to complete all the needed analyses for a case.

The KSP obtained MUHR funding and is seeking to process at least thirty (30) FGG/FGGS cases, ten (10) mtDNA remains cases, and twenty (20) mtDNA family reference samples (FRS) and CEBR funding to process one hundred (100) Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kits (SAECK).

The KSP does not have the technology to perform mtDNA and FGG-related analyses.

Typically, a MUHR case utilizing mtDNA and/or FGG/FGGS analyses will be limited to one (1) or two (2) unknown evidence samples and any associated reference standards from the victim and other persons needed for elimination purposes. When applicable, evidence from these cases will have been tested by the KSP utilizing, DNA, Y-STR analysis and subsequent Familial Searching with no leads. The sample may be forwarded as either a bulk item or DNA extract.

Typically, a SAECK will be limited to three (3) to five (5) evidence samples, including samples body swabs and underwear, although there could be less or more and the associated victim reference standards. These cases would typically be analyzed for serological, Y-Screen, and/ or DNA Analyses, however it may be necessary for any type of the contracted analyses to be performed. Other cases besides SAECKs may be submitted for these conventional tests but must be analyzed with the same parameters of SAECKs as set forth in this contract (billed on a per item basis).

If DNA extraction is to be performed by a laboratory, the laboratory (or their subcontracted laboratory) must be ISO/IEC 17025 accredited; as well as demonstrate compliance with the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories with adequate knowledge and experience in forensic DNA analyses (FGG may be limited by extraction and quantification).

In the event the laboratory cannot meet such requirements for DNA extraction, only a portion of the sample item will be forwarded to the laboratory for DNA extraction (FGG only). The laboratory must provide documentation of compliance with the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories. Documentation of previous audits/assessments must be provided to the KSP upon request. If applicable, must provide certification and/or accreditations, including but not limited to ISO/IEC 17025 Forensic Testing Laboratory Accreditation. If applicable, must provide documentation of compliance with the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories if laboratory participates in audits.

FGG analysis must follow the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) Interim Policy for Forensic Genetic Genealogical DNA Analysis and Searching. Following FGG analysis, at the request of the KSP, samples that meet thresholds for FGGS may be required to be searched utilizing databases including but not limited to Family Tree and GEDMatch with subsequent Data Mining and Data Modeling. Cases will also need to be evaluated to determine if FGGP would be beneficial.

Laboratory employees may be required to provide information during the investigative stage and/ or to serve as an expert or a fact of witness in various legal proceedings, including a court of law. Specifically, these services are to be conducted at the request of and in consultation with

Document Phase Document Description Page 7 the applicable submitting law enforcement agency, commonwealth attorney and the KSP. Initial analysis should be completed within ninety (90) days of submission.

The laboratory agrees to provide consultation for any admissibility type hearing, such as a Daubert Hearing. Vendor laboratory agrees to provide testimony and/or documentation in legal action pursuant to the testing completed by the vendor laboratory. Vendor shall provide consultation and documentation requests made by KSP laboratory personnel at no additional cost. Upon reasonable notice, Vendor shall make available for testimony the analyst(s) who performed the testing, and, where relevant, any observer(s) or technical reviewer(s) of the Work. Vendor acknowledges that, consistent with controlling law, courts may require testimony from the original testing analyst rather than a substitute expert. If an originally involved person is unavailable due to death, serious illness, or other cause beyond Vendor’s control, Vendor shall: (i) promptly notify the Lab in writing; (ii) document diligence to secure that person’s testimony; and (iii) make available a qualified witness consistent with applicable law and court orders. The testimony and documentation obligations in this paragraph survive expiration or termination of this Agreement with respect to all Work performed during the Term and continue until final resolution of all Related Proceedings, including the exhaustion of appeals and post-conviction review, or as otherwise ordered by a court with jurisdiction.

Vendor laboratory must assume all consultation and travel costs in providing any court testimony to support laboratory results in criminal trials in Kentucky during the contract period. The vendor shall provide these services at no additional cost to the KSP. If chain of custody documentation is not stipulated to by the court, expert witness fees will be capped at a maximum of three (3) persons even if more than three (3) persons are required to testify. Vendor laboratory must provide contact information, upon request by the courts, for anyone involved in the chain of custody and/or analysis/ interpretation/searching that leaves the vendor laboratory’s employment. These costs would be incurred by the requesting Agency/Attorney on a case-by-case basis and managed by the vendor laboratory. Vendor laboratory must provide a list of all fees for testimony and consultations. For testimony services provided after the Agreement expires or is terminated, the requesting Agency/ Attorney, not the KSP laboratory, will compensate Vendor at the agreed testimony rates and reimburse reasonable, pre-approved travel and lodging consistent with Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 64.710 and administrative regulation 200 KAR 2:006.

Case records, such as laboratory reports and case files, provided must be kept confidential. Any conversations regarding case results must be limited to KSP laboratory personnel, respective law enforcement agency, and respective Commonwealth’s Attorney Office. The KSP laboratory must approve any analysis to be performed in these cases.

The laboratory shall be staffed by forensic DNA analysts and/or genealogy experts who are available for telephone consultation (including laboratory results) and court (deposition or testimony) as needed in both criminal and civil suits. Payment, fees, scheduling and subpoena deliveries in civil suits will be arranged between private attorneys and the laboratory.

Laboratory must provide analysis of samples that meets KRS 524.120 (https:// apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=48742). No sample may be consumed without prior written authorization from the KSP, which would also include documentation from the agency/counsel/court for conventional DNA and Y-STR analyses. In general, no more than half of the samples can be consumed.

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Laboratories that must meet the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements (performing DNA extraction) must provide a copy of certification of their compliance. If a laboratory maintains other accreditations, certificates of compliance must be provided.

Laboratories must analyze SAECKs and other conventional autosomal DNA or Y-STR samples requests utilizing a Capillary Electrophoresis platform and STRMix for DNA interpretation for any autosomal DNA samples.

The laboratory must allow for outside observation of analyses if it is court ordered that this service is to be provided.

The laboratory must perform analysis on evidence samples in each case as requested by KSP.

For SAECKs, the laboratory must utilize Y-Screen/Quant of all samples to determine the most probative/male DNA positive items for further DNA analysis (Note: Some kits have been previously screened utilizing conventional serological or Direct-to-DNA analysis and may require a modified workflow. This modification would most likely result in decreasing the number of items per kit to be screened.) The laboratory must perform extraction of the most probative/male DNA positive item(s) based on case scenario (e.g. number of suspects) and Y-Screen/Quant. The laboratory must perform DNA analysis of at least one (1) evidence item along with the victim reference standard for any SAECK with a single suspect. SAECKs with multiple suspects or a recent consensual partner (within 48 hours) would require DNA analysis of at least two (2) evidence items along with the victim reference standard.

For SAECKs and conventional autosomal DNA samples, the laboratory must be able to provide allele sizes or designations utilizing the Promega PowerPlex Fusion 5C amplification kit. Applied Biosystem’s Globalfiler amplification kit may be an option (but is not required) dependent upon Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratory’s internal validation. For Y-STR samples, the laboratory must be able to provide allele sizes or designations utilizing the Applied Biosystems Yfiler Plus amplification kit. All allele sizes or designations must be determined with appropriate internal size standard(s) and allelic ladder(s) that represent all common alleles for each locus. All reagent blank(s) for associated samples must meet the criteria for the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards.

The laboratory must have the capability of screening evidence samples submitted to determine the presence of a constituent of semen and saliva, based on the case history from SAECKs. The laboratory must have the capability of screening evidence samples submitted to determine the presence of blood, semen and saliva for other conventional analyses.

The laboratory must perform analysis of victim reference standard(s), elimination standard(s), consensual partner standard(s) and suspect reference standard(s), if applicable.

The laboratory shall be capable of analyzing evidence within thirty (30) days of any contract award made.

The laboratory must provide formal written reports, which are to be sent in electronic copy, along with interpretation and consultation services. The laboratory must provide complete case files. The laboratory must provide a minimum (12) month record maintenance with optional extended storage available upon request, and minimum seven-year record maintenance.

Document Phase Document Description Page 9

The laboratory must maintain that SAECK, and conventional cases shall not be considered complete until the laboratory supplies a complete electronic copy of the case file and electronic data files (.fsa/.hid files) of all samples and controls for runs from each case (and must include a manifest of the cases within a batch for each run). The documents that support applicable analytical conclusions for all samples tested must include but are not limited to chain of custody, quantitation results, amplification information, electropherograms and allele call data at the completion of each case. A copy of the doctor’s report from the SAECK must be included in the case file. Upon review of the case jacket, if there are any samples that are not deemed acceptable by the KSP, additional analysis may be required. The laboratory shall be responsible for the cost of all re-analysis. The laboratory must perform a turn-around time of ninety (90) days for reporting results.

The laboratory must maintain detailed chain of custody documents for all samples, including DNA extracts, for court purposes. Duplication of these documents shall be provided at no additional cost to the KSP (includes fees for document copying, hard copy or electronic).

The laboratory shall provide traceability of items to ensure that the appropriate the KSP Laboratory Number and Item Number can be determined within the case file (including listing on a report).

The laboratory must include all information necessary to identify the cases and its source per the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards. The following minimums are required:

Name or identification number Laboratory identification Date submitted Date of report Specimens tested Test results Signature of approving individual

For FGG cases, the laboratory must provide electronic data from SNP and/or WGS (or similar) results to the KSP for any database mining which would be performed by the KSP or another laboratory after the contract with this laboratory. The laboratory must assist the KSP with any follow-up FGGS as requested on a case-by-case basis. The laboratory will test and upload any potential candidates determined by the KSP FGGS.

For cases which must meet requirements of the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories, the KSP will either perform an in-person initial site visit or review CODIS Onsite Visit Program (OVP) document. The KSP will be responsible for the costs associated with travel for the initial site visit. The KSP will perform subsequent annual site visits utilizing the OVP documents, in lieu of performing an in-person onsite visit. If the laboratory does not participate in OVP or at any other time when a discrepancy is noted by the KSP, laboratory shall be responsible for the costs associated with this travel. These expenses shall include airfare, as well as baggage, ground transportation, lodging and meals. These expenses would be for up to two (2) employees of the KSP. The visits are to ensure that compliance is met for requirements of the Commonwealth of Kentucky

If the laboratory performs DNA extraction of samples, the laboratory must provide a list of employees STR profiles (electronic .fsa or .hid files are preferred) that would allow for entry into Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratory’s data analysis software. Employee profiles do not require a name identifier. Employee profiles will be used only to ensure there is no employee contamination of the employee profiles generated from samples submitted to the KSP.

Document Phase Document Description Page 10

If a laboratory performs DNA extraction of samples, the laboratory must create one reagent blank for each questioned sample type per case plus at least one additional reagent blank per extraction batch.

If a laboratory performs DNA extraction of samples, the laboratory must maintain any DNA extracts and associated blanks until authorized by the KSP DNA Technical Leader to discard them.

The laboratory must provide proper conditions to protect the integrity of all samples.

KSP shall be responsible for all shipping charges of samples to the laboratory. The laboratory shall be responsible for all shipping charges related to the return of evidence to the KSP.

The laboratory must maintain and provide a billing system outlining the cost of each analysis and/ or database search per case.

The laboratory must provide copies (electronic) of protocols and/or validations used on samples submitted by the KSP at the start of the contract and for subsequent revisions.

If the laboratory performs DNA extraction of samples, laboratory must provide documentation of proficiency testing for analysts performing testing on samples submitted by the KSP upon request.

When the laboratory performs any DNA extraction of samples, laboratory must receive advance approval, in writing, from the KSP DNA Technical Leader with the KSP prior to introducing any newly validated procedure not mentioned above or made available at the time of award. The newly validated procedure may be added and used if reviewed and approved, in advance, by the KSP DNA Technical Leader, should a contract be awarded.

Subcontracting by laboratory for DNA extraction of samples shall be approved by the KSP DNA Technical Leader in advance of any DNA extraction.

The laboratory shall provide technical specifications and get authorization from the KSP DNA Technical Leader in advance of the start of analysis should a contract be awarded.

For mtDNA analyses, the laboratory must be capable of upload to CODIS or have an agreement with a NDIS eligible laboratory that is both capable and willing to upload mtDNA samples (and any associated samples) on KSP’s behalf.

3.00 Evaluation Criteria

The KSP shall conduct a comprehensive, fair, and impartial evaluation of all proposals. The KSP may reject any proposal that is incomplete or in which there are significant inconsistencies or inaccuracies. The KSP reserves the right to reject all proposals.

The KSP has established a Proposal Evaluation Committee to review, evaluate and verify information submitted by the offeror.

Each vendor is responsible for submitting all relevant, factual and correct information with their offer to enable the evaluator(s) to afford each vendor the maximum score based on the available data submitted by the vendor.

The KSP shall evaluate the proposals by assigning scores as indicated.

Document Phase Document Description Page 11

Technical Proposal Evaluation

Criteria Maximum Points Possible Turn-around time of results (days) – Include turn-around time of complete analysis.

100 points

(2) Professional References – Include names and addresses or organization with whom the laboratory previously contracted with to provide similar services.

200 points

Previous Experience, Expertise, and Qualifications

– Include years of forensic DNA testing experience, FGG experience, and FGGS experience. Specify years of experiences and describe the type of experience and history with similar projects. The laboratory shall include a summary of organization’s background.

Laboratory shall include a summary of organization’s background.

300 points

Maximum Points Possible 600 points

Cost Proposal Evaluation

Proposed Cost – Attachment A 350 points Maximum Points Possible 350 points

Oral Demonstration/Presentation Evaluation, if required

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Oral Demonstration/Presentation

The Commonwealth reserves the right to require Oral Presentations/Demonstrations to verify or expand on the Technical or Cost Proposals. Oral Presentations/Demonstrations may be conducted through videoconferencing or by conference call, if it is in the best interest of the Commonwealth to do so.

This is the opportunity for the vendor to present and demonstrate the solution and to answer questions or to clarify the understanding of the evaluation committee in accordance with the requirements of this RFP. The Commonwealth reserves the right to reject any or all proposals in whole or in part based on the oral presentations/demonstrations.

If required, the top 5 highest ranking vendors may be invited. Scheduling will be at the discretion of the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth reserves the right not to require oral presentations/demonstrations

50 points

Maximum Points Possible 50 points

Total Proposal Evaluation

Technical Proposal 600

Cost Proposal 350

Oral Demonstrations/Presentations, if required 50

MAXIMUM POINTS POSSIBLE 1000

4.00 Schedule of RFP Activities

The following schedule presents the major activities associated with the RFP distribution, written questions and proposal submission. The Commonwealth reserves the right at its sole discretion to change the Schedule of Activities, including the associated dates and times.

Release of RFP December 22, 2025

Proposals Due by: 1:00 pm January 14, 2026 January 20, 2026

*NOTE: ALL TIME REFERENCES ARE TO THE EASTERN TIME ZONE.

5.00 Offeror’s Conference

Not Applicable

Document Phase Document Description Page 13

6.00 Point of Contact

The Agency Contact named below shall be the sole point of contact throughout the procurement process. All communications, oral and written (regular mail, express mail or electronic mail), concerning this procurement shall be addressed to:

Kristie Graham 919 Versailles Road, Frankfort, KY 40601 502-782-5199 Kristie.Graham@ky.gov

From the issue date of this RFP until a Contractor(s) is selected and the selection is announced, Offerors shall not communicate with any other Commonwealth staff concerning this RFP.

7.00 Questions Regarding this RFP

Questions must be submitted in writing to the Agency Contact. The Commonwealth will respond to salient questions in writing by issuing an Addendum to the Solicitation. The Addendum shall be posted to the Commonwealth’s eProcurement page.

8.00 Proposal Submission

Electronic Proposals

Proposals shall be received by electronic submission in the eProcurement system, Kentucky Vendor Self Service System.

An electronic proposal shall be authorized by the proper agent of the firm by the act of submitting it electronically through the eProcurement system.

Proposal information MUST be completed online. Response must contain all required information for the Solicitation. All bidders MUST be registered in the Commonwealth eProcurement System via the Vendor Self Service System at https://vss.ky.gov .

Allow 24 – 48 hours to complete Vendor Registration. Vendors must be logged in to their Vendor Self Service (VSS) account in order to submit a response. Registrations completed the day of bid closing must be completed by the Vendor in the VSS portal. The Customer Resource Center is not able to complete registrations and activate accounts on the same day. Closing dates will not be extended for Vendors not registered by the date/time of the bid closing.

All bidders are cautioned to begin their electronic submission in sufficient time to complete before the closing date and time. Delays due to technical difficulties or document upload impediments shall not be justification for acceptance of a late bid or proposal. Vendor attention to this advisory is encouraged. Instructions “How to Submit an Online Response for a Business Opportunity” are posted to Kentucky’s Vendor Self Service, https://vss.ky.gov . If you need assistance, please contact the Customer Resource Center (CRC) by email at Finance.CRCGroup@ky.gov or phone 502-564-9641 or toll-free 877-973-HELP (4357).

Proposals shall be submitted in three (3) parts: The Technical Proposal, the Cost Proposal, and Proprietary Information. Each part shall consist of one document attachment. Do not submit multiple document attachments as Technical, Cost or Proprietary. All files shall be labeled accordingly. Attachments may not exceed 65,000 KB.

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2600000168 Final DNA Analysis Services Total Pages: 27 https://vss.ky.gov https://vss.ky.gov mailto:Finance.CRCGroup@ky.gov

Proposals submitted online must be in an “Accepted” status and shall be assigned a date and time stamp from the eProcurement system at the time of final acceptance and formal submission by the vendor. The system will not allow submission of an online proposal after the published date and time for closing.

A proposal may be modified or withdrawn by electronic or written notice ONLY if received prior to the bid closing date and time. An electronic offer may be modified by applying the appropriate electronic signature and following the procedure in the state’s eProcurement signature.

8.10 Format of Response

Electronic Proposals

Proposals shall be submitted in three (3) parts: the Technical Proposal, the Cost Proposal, and Proprietary Information. Each part shall consist of one document. Do not submit multiple documents as Technical, Cost or Proprietary.

1. Proposals must be submitted electronically in the eProcurement System, Kentucky Vendor Self Service site.

a. The Technical Proposal shall be submitted on one (1) document marked Technical (in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel or PDF format ONLY). Do not include embedded documents, hyperlinks or hyperlinks to videos. The document should be named in the following manner: Technical – Name of offeror RFP number

b. The Cost Proposal shall be submitted on one (1) document marked Cost (in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel or PDF format ONLY). Do not include embedded documents, hyperlinks or hyperlinks to videos. The document should be named in the following manner: Cost – Name of offeror RFP number

c. Any Proprietary Information shall be submitted on one (1) document marked Proprietary (in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel or PDF format ONLY). Do not include embedded documents, hyperlinks or hyperlinks to videos. The document should be named in the following manner: Proprietary – Name of offeror RFP number

8.20 Format of Technical Proposal

The Technical Proposal must be arranged and labeled in the manner set forth below.

Transmittal Letter – a Transmittal letter shall be submitted on Offeror’s letterhead and signed by an agent authorized to bind the Offeror. The Transmittal letter shall include the following:

a. A statement that deviations are included, if applicable.

b. A statement that proprietary information is included, if applicable.

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c. A statement that, if awarded a contract as a result of this Solicitation, the Offeror shall comply in full with all the requirements of the Kentucky Civil Rights Act, and shall submit all data required by KRS 45.560 to 45.640.

d. A sworn statement that, pursuant to KRS 11A.040, that Offeror has not knowingly violated any provisions of the Executive Branch Code of Ethics.

e. A statement certifying that the price in this proposal was arrived at independently without collusion, consultation, communication, or agreement as to any matter relating to such prices with any other Offeror or with any competitor.

f. A statement affirming that the Offeror is properly authorized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky to conduct business in this state and will remain in good standing with the Office of the Kentucky Secretary of State for the duration of any awarded contract resulting from this Solicitation.

g. The name, address, telephone number and email address and website address, if available, of the contract person to serve as a point of contact for day-to-day operations.

h. Subcontractor information to include the name of the company, address, telephone number and contact name, if applicable.

i. Foreign entity’s organization number issued by the Secretary of State in a certificate of authority or a statement of foreign qualification, if applicable.

Completed and Signed Solicitation and Addenda – An authorized representative MUST complete and sign the Solicitation form and include the following:

a. “Vendor” box and “Payment” box should be completed.

b. Vendor shall indicate ownership type.

c. Vendor shall provide “FEIN” if applicable.

d. Vendor shall provide date the form is completed and signed.

e. Signed face of the most recent Addenda, if applicable.

Signed and Notarized Required Affidavit for Bidders or Offerors - available at the following link:

https://finance.ky.gov/office-of-the-secretary/Pages/finance-forms.aspx.

Signed and Notarized Required Affidavit for Bidders, Offerors and Contractors Claiming Resident Bidder Status – if applicable. Available at the following link:

https://finance.ky.gov/office-of-the-secretary/Pages/finance-forms.aspx.

*Offerors not claiming Resident Bidder Status need not submit this affidavit.

Signed and Notarized Required Affidavit for Bidders, Offerors and Contractors Claiming Qualified Bidder Status – if applicable. Available at the following link:

https://finance.ky.gov/office-of-the-secretary/Pages/finance-forms.aspx.

*Offerors not claiming Qualified Bidder Status need not submit this affidavit.

Response to the Technical Portion of the RFP – Please provide a detailed response to the technical requirements outlined in the Evaluation Criteria. No cost information shall be provided in the technical portion.

8.30 Format of Cost Proposal

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The Cost Proposal must be submitted under separate cover from the Technical Proposal and must be arranged and labeled in the manner specified. The proposal with the lowest price receives the maximum score. The remaining proposals with the next lowest price receives points by dividing the lowest price by the next lowest price and multiplying that percentage by the available points.

8.40 Certification Regarding Debarment and Suspension

In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation 52.209-5, the Offeror shall certify, by signing the Solicitation, that to the best of its knowledge and belief, the Offeror and/or its Principals is (are) not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, or declared ineligible for the award of contracts by any state or federal agency.

For the purposes of this certification, “Principals”, means officers, directors, owners, partners, and persons having primary management or supervisory responsibilities within a business entity (e.g., general manager, plant manager, head of subsidiary, division, or business segment, and similar positions.

9.00 Rules of Procurement

To facilitate this procurement, various rules have been established. These are described in the following paragraphs.

Offerors should review and comply with the General Conditions and Instructions for Solicitation/ Contract listed under “Response to Solicitation” located on the eProcurement web page at https://finance.ky.gov/eProcurement/Pages/doing-business-with-the-commonwealth.aspx

The procurement process will provide for the evaluation of proposals and selection of the winning proposal in accordance with state law and regulations. KRS Chapter 45A of the Kentucky Model Procurement Code provides the regulatory framework for the procurement of services by state agencies.

9.10 Technical Proposal Evaluation

The Kentucky State Police will evaluate the proposal based on the technical portion of the Evaluation Criteria. Each Offeror is responsible for submitting all relevant, factual and correct information with their offer to enable the evaluator(s) to afford each vendor the maximum score based on the available data submitted by the Offeror. Past Offeror Performance may be considered in the award of this Contract. Offerors with a record of poor performance in the last twelve (12) months may be found non-responsible and ineligible for award.

9.20 Cost Proposal Evaluation

The Kentucky State Police will evaluate the proposal based on the cost portion of the Evaluation Criteria.

Offeror shall only provide cost on the attached Cost Proposal Form; otherwise, the proposal may be deemed non-responsive.

9.30 Right to Reject/Waiver of Minor Irregularities

The Commonwealth reserves the right at its discretion to reject any and all offers. The Commonwealth also reserves the right at its discretion to waive informalities and minor irregularities in offers received.

9.40 Clarification of Proposals

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The Commonwealth reserves the right at its discretion to request additional information as may reasonably be required for selection and to reject any proposals for failure to provide additional information on a timely basis.

The Commonwealth reserves the right to conduct discussions with any Offeror who has submitted a proposal to determine the Offeror’s qualifications for further consideration. Such discussions shall not disclose any information derived from proposals submitted by other Offerors.

9.50 Best and Final Offers

The Commonwealth reserves the right at its discretion to request a Best and Final Offer (BAFO) for technical and/or cost proposals. Offerors are cautioned to propose their best possible offers at the outset of the process, as there is no guarantee that any Offeror will be allowed an opportunity to submit a Best and Final technical and/or cost offer.

9.60 Vendor Response and Public Inspection

This RFP specifies the format, required information and general content of proposals to be submitted in response to the RFP. The Kentucky State Police shall not disclose any portions of the proposals prior to contract award to anyone outside the Kentucky State Police, representatives of the agency for whose benefit the contract is proposed, representatives of the federal government, if required, and the members of the evaluation committee. After a contract is awarded in whole or in part, the Commonwealth shall have the right to duplicate, use, or disclose all proposal data submitted by Offerors in response to this RFP as a matter of public record.

Any and all documents submitted by an Offeror in response to the RP shall be available for public inspection after contract award pursuant to the Kentucky Open Records Act, KRS 61.870 to 61.884 (“the Act”). When responding to a request to inspect records submitted in response to this RFP, the Commonwealth will not redact or withhold any information or documents unless the records sought are exempt from disclosure pursuant to KRS 61.878 or other applicable law. Similarly, no such documents shall be exempt from public disclosure, regardless of the Offeror’s designation of the information contained therein as “proprietary,” “confidential,” or otherwise, except in cases where the requested documents (or information contained therein) would be excluded from application of the Act under KRS 61.878(1)(c).

The Commonwealth of Kentucky shall have the right to use all system ideas, or adaptations of those ideas, contained in any proposal received in response to this RFP. Selection or rejections of the proposal will not affect this right.

9.70 Reciprocal Preference for Kentucky Resident Bidders and Preferences for a Qualified Bidder The scoring of bids/proposals is subject to the reciprocal preference for Kentucky resident bidders and preferences for a Qualified Bidder or the Department of Corrections, Division of Prison Industries (See KRS 45A.490(1), (2), 45A.492, 45A.494 and KAR 200 5:410).

Vendors not claiming resident bidder or qualified bidder status need not submit the corresponding affidavit.

Determining the residency of a bidder for purposes of applying a reciprocal preference

Any individual, partnership, association, corporation, or other business entity claiming resident bidder status shall submit the attached Required Affidavit for Bidders, Offerors and Contractors

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Claiming Resident Bidder Status as part of its response. The Kentucky State Police reserves the right to request documentation supporting a bidder’s claim of resident bidder status. Failure to provide such documentation upon request shall result in disqualification of the bidder or contract termination.

As part of its response, a nonresident bidder shall submit its certificate of authority to transact business in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Secretary of State. The location of the principal office identified therein shall be deemed the state of residency for that bidder. If the bidder is not required by law to obtain said certificate, the state of residency for that bidder shall be deemed to be that which is identified in its mailing address as provided in its bid.

Preferences for Qualified Bidder or the Department of Corrections, Division of Prison Industries (200 KAR 5:410)

Pursuant to KRS 45A.470 and 200 KAR 5:410, Kentucky Correctional Industries will receive a preference equal to twenty (20) percent of the maximum points awarded to a bidder in a solicitation. In addition, the following “qualified bidders” will receive a preference equal to fifteen

(15) percent of the maximum points awarded to a bidder in a solicitation. New Vision Industries, Inc., any nonprofit corporation that furthers the purposes of KRS Chapter 163 and any qualified nonprofit agencies for individuals with severe disabilities as defined in KRS 45A.465(3). Any bidder claiming “qualified bidder” status, other than New Vision Industries, Inc., shall submit a notarized affidavit affirming that it meets the requirements to be considered a qualified bidder as part of its response to the solicitation (affidavit form included as part of this RFP). If requested, failure to provide documentation proving qualified bidder status to a public agency, if requested, may result in disqualification of the bidder or contract termination.

9.80 Negotiation

After conducting the evaluation to determine the best proposal received, the Kentucky State Police reserves the right to negotiate a fair and reasonable compensation based on the pricing submitted in the Offeror’s proposal. If the negotiations fail to reach an agreement on a fair and reasonable compensation rate, the Kentucky State Police reserves the right to proceed to the next highest ranked proposal. Other terms and conditions relating to the technical and/or cost proposals may be negotiated at the sole discretion of the Commonwealth.

9.85 Best Interests of the Commonwealth

The Commonwealth will rank all proposals in the manner set forth in the Evaluation Criteria.

However, the Commonwealth reserves the right to reject any or all proposals in whole or in part before, during, or after negotiation based on the best interests of the Commonwealth.

CONTRACT AWARD, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS

10.00 Notification of Award

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To view the award of contract(s), including the contractor(s) receiving the award(s) for this solicitation, access the Kentucky Vendor Self Service Site at:

Offerors can search for the solicitation title or number in the keyword search field or filter their search for only awarded solicitations by clicking on “Advanced Search” and changing the status to “awarded.” The award(s) information can be accessed by clicking on the details button of the solicitation and clicking the “Notice of Award” tab. It is the Offeror’s responsibility to review this information in a timely fashion. No other notification of the results of an Award of Contract will be provided to unsuccessful Offerors.

10.10 Beginning of Work

This Contract is not effective and binding until approved by the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet and filed with the Legislative Research Commission’s Government Contract Review Committee. The Contractor shall not commence any billable work until a valid Contract has been fully executed. This Contract, including the components referenced in Section 10.20, shall represent the entire agreement between the parties. Prior negotiations, representations, or agreements, either written or oral, between the parties hereto relating to the subject matter hereof shall be of no effect upon this Contract.

10.20 Contract Components and Order of Precedence

The Commonwealth’s acceptance of the Contractor’s offer in response to the Solicitation, indicated by the issuance of a Contract Award, shall create a valid contract between the Parties consisting of the following:

1. Procurement Statutes, Regulations and Policies

2. Any written Agreement between the Parties.

3. Any Addenda to the Solicitation.

4. The Solicitation and all attachments

5. Any Best and Final Offer.

6. Any clarifications concerning the Contractor’s proposal in response to the Solicitation.

7. The Contractor’s proposal in response to the Solicitation.

In the event of any conflict between or among the provisions contained in the Contract, the order of precedence shall be as enumerated above.

10.30 Contract Term and Renewal Option

The initial term of the Contract is anticipated to be from February 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026.

This agreement is not effective until the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet or his authorized designee has approved the Contract and until the Contract has been filed with the Legislative Research Commission, Government Contract Review Committee.

The Commonwealth reserves the right to renew this contract for up to two (2) additional two (2) year periods.

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Renewal shall be subject to prior approval from the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet, or this authorized designee, and the LRC Government Contract Review Committee in accordance with KRS 45A.695 and KRS 45A.705.

10.40 Changes and Modifications to the Contract

Pursuant to 200 KAR 5:311, no modification or change of any provision in the Contract shall be made, or construed to have been made, unless such modification is mutually agreed to in writing by the Contractor and the Commonwealth, and incorporated as a written amendment by the Kentucky State Police prior to the effective date of such modification or change. Modification shall be subject to prior approval from the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet, or this authorized designee, and the LRC Government Contract Review Committee. Memoranda of Understanding, written clarification, and/or other correspondence shall not be construed as amendments to the Contract.

10.50 Notices

Unless otherwise instructed, all notices, consents, and other communications required and/or permitted by the Contract shall be in writing. After the award of the Contract, all communications of a contractual or legal nature are to be made to the Agency Contact.

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Personal Service Contract Standard Terms and Conditions Revised August 2025

Whereas, the first party, the state agency, has concluded that either state personnel are not available to perform said function, or it would not be feasible to utilize state personnel to perform said function; and

Whereas, the second party, the Contractor, is available and qualified to perform such function; and

Whereas, for the abovementioned reasons, the state agency desires to avail itself of the services of the second party;

NOW THEREFORE, the following terms and conditions are applicable to this contract:

1.00 Effective Date

This contract is not effective until the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet or his authorized designee has approved the contract and until the contract has been submitted to the Legislative Research Commission, Government Contract Review Committee (“LRC”). However, in accordance with KRS 45A.700, contracts in aggregate amounts of $10,000 or less are exempt from review by the committee and need only be filed with the committee within 30 days of their effective date for informational purposes.

KRS 45A.695(7) provides that payments on personal service contracts and memoranda of agreement shall not be authorized for services rendered after government contract review committee disapproval, unless the decision of the committee is overridden by the Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet or…