Audio-Visual Equipment Upgrade Solicitation: OCMP #27-25739 IFB Document

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STATE OF MARYLAND

MARYLAND BOARD OF PHYSICIANS

(MBP)

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB)

AUDIO-VISUAL EQUIPMENT UPGRADE

IFB NUMBER OCMP #27-25739/EMMA#BPM058842

ISSUE DATE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2026

A Prospective Bidder that has received this document from a source other than eMarylandMarketplace Advantage (eMMA) https://procurement.maryland.gov should register on eMMA https://emma.maryland.gov/

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

SMALL BUSINESS PREFERENCE PROCUREMENT

This procurement has been designated for a small business preference under COMAR 21.11.01.05. The procurement agency will accept the most favorable responsive bid from a responsible small business (COMAR 21.01.02.01B(80)) if the bid of the small business does not exceed the most favorable responsive bid received from a responsible bidder who is not a small business by: (1) more than 5 percent;

(2) more than 7% for a veteran-owned small business; (3) more than 8% for a disabled-veteran-owned https://procurement.maryland.gov/ https://emma.maryland.gov/

IFB for Maryland Board of Physicians Page 2 of 34 small business; or (4) the percentage otherwise identified in the solicitation as the small business preference.

MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISES ARE ENCOURAGED TO RESPOND TO THIS

SOLICITATION.

KEY INFORMATION SUMMARY SHEET (KISS)

Invitation for Bids IT - Audio-Visual Equipment Upgrade

Solicitation Number:

OCMP # 27-25739

IFB Issue Date: September 15, 2026

IFB Issuing Office:

Maryland Department of Health (MDH)

Procurement Officer:

Chevelle McGinnis Maryland Department of Health Office of Contract Management Procurement 201 W. Preston Street, Baltimore MD 21201

Email:

Phone Number:

chevelle.mcginnis@maryland.gov

667-276-1441

Bids are to be sent to:

Submit on emma.maryland.gov under Solicitation Number OCMP #27- 25739 To submit a bid, bidders must first register on emma.maryland.gov. We recommend registering in advance to become acquainted with the site.

Proposals will be accepted through the State’s eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA) e-Procurement system.

Instructions on how to submit proposals electronically can be found at:

https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2019/08/5-eMMA-QRG-Responding-to- Solicitations-Double-Envelope-v2.pdf mailto:chevelle.mcginnis@maryland.gov https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-

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No Bid Notice Feedback Form

If you are not submitting a bid for this solicitation, submit Attachment 1 with your reasons why.

Pre-Bid Conference:

Not Applicable

Scheduled Site Visit

Not Applicable

Questions Due Date and Time:

September 18, 2026, by 3:00 PM

Bid Due (Closing) Date and Time:

September 28, 2026, by 2:00 PM Local Time Bidders are reminded that a completed Feedback Form is requested if a no-bid decision is made (see Attachment 1 - No Bid Notice/Vendor Feedback Form).

Bid Opening Date, OCMP Virtual Meeting, September 29, 2026 11:15 am

MBE

Subcontracting Goal:

0%.

VSBE

Subcontracting Goal:

0%

Procurement Method:

A Contract will be awarded in accordance with the Competitive Sealed Bidding method under COMAR 21.05.02.

Multiple or Alternate Bids:

Multiple or alternate Bids will not be accepted.

Contract Type: Firm fixed price

Contract Duration:

One time project: Completed within 14 days of NTP; No options.

Primary Place of Performance:

Maryland Board of Physicians

4201 Patterson Ave, Baltimore, MD 21215

SBR Designation: No

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Federal Funding: No

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Table of Contents - IFB

1 Minimum Qualifications

1.1 Bidder Minimum Qualifications

2 Contractor Requirements: Scope of Work

2.1 Summary Statement

2.2 Background and Purpose

2.4 Supplemental Category of Work Requirements and Responsibilities

3 Standard Terms and Conditions

3.1 Contract Initiation Requirements .......................................................................................... 123.2

.................................................................................................... End of Contract Transition

3.3 Invoicing

3.4 Liquidated Damages

3.5 Work Orders

3.6 Payments by Electronic Funds Transfer

3.7 Prompt Payment Policy

3.8 Federal Funding Acknowledgement

3.9 Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure

3.10 Non-Disclosure Agreement

3.11 Maryland Healthy Working Families Act Requirements

3.12 The State of Maryland’s Commitment to Purchasing Environmentally Preferred Products and

Services (EPPs)

3.13 Insurance Requirements

4 Bid Submission Information and Instructions

4.1 eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA)

4.2 Electronic Means

4.3 Pre-Bid Conference

4.4 Questions

4.5 Bid Due (Closing) Date and Time

4.6 Receipt, Opening and Recording of Bids

4.7 Duration of Bids

4.8 Revisions to the IFB

4.9 Cancellations

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4.10 Incurred Expenses

4.11 Protest/Disputes

4.12 Bidder Responsibilities

4.13 Acceptance of Terms and Conditions

4.14 Compliance with Laws/Arrearages

4.15 Verification of Registration and Tax Payment

4.16 False Statements

4.17 Confidentiality of Bids / Public Information Act Notice

4.18 Use of Bidder’s Form Not Binding on State

4.19 Attachments and Documents Required with the Bid (Table A)

4.20 Bid Delivery Instructions

4.21 Bid Evaluation Criteria and Award Basis

4.22 Tie Bids

4.23 Reciprocal Preference

4.24 Small Business Preference

4.25 Documents Required upon Notice of Recommendation for Contract Award (Table B)

5 IFB Appendices and Exhibits

5.1 Appendices (Table C)

5.2 Exhibits (Table D)

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1 Minimum Qualifications

1.1 Bidder Minimum Qualifications

The Bidder must document it is Bid that it satisfies the following Minimum Qualifications:

Experience

The Bidder shall have a minimum of three (3) years of experience in the design and installation of commercial audio/visual systems of similar size and complexity.

Required Documentation: The Bidder shall provide with its Bid a brief description of at least two (2) projects completed within the past five (5) years involving installation of conference room, boardroom, or similar multi-microphone audio systems. The description shall include the client name, project scope, and completion date.

B. Licensing

The Bidder shall be properly licensed and authorized to perform the required work in the State of Maryland.

Required Documentation:

The Bidder shall provide with its Bid evidence of:

Active registration and good standing with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT); and

Any applicable State of Maryland or local licenses required to perform the work described in this IFB, including but not limited to low-voltage electrical, telecommunications, or audio-visual system installation, if applicable.

C. References

The Bidder shall provide with its Bid “Attachment L – Reference Checks” with at least two (2) references completed for projects of similar size and scope performed within the past five (5) years.

THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

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2 Contractor Requirements: Scope of Work

2.1 Summary Statement

2.1.1 This Invitation for Bids (IFB) is issued to procure the goods or services, as specified in this Section 2, from a contract between the successful bidder(s) and the State of Maryland (“State”): theMaryland Department of Health, Maryland Board of Physicians (MBP or the “Board”), to procure, furnish, install, configure, and integrate a fully wireless delegate microphone system and related audio/visual equipment, including the removal and disposal of the existing wired microphone system, to upgrade the Board’s conference room audio system.

It is the State’s intention to obtain goods and services, as specified in this IFB, from a contract between the selected Bidder and the State.

2.1.2 This is a single award IFB See IFB Section 4.21 Bid Evaluation Criteria and Award Basis for more Contract award information.

A Contract award does not ensure a Contractor will receive all or any State business under the Contract.

2.2 Background and Purpose

The Board maintains a conference room equipped with twenty-six (26) wired gooseneck microphones installed at each seat on the conference table. Users frequently fail to position themselves properly relative to the microphones, resulting in poor audio capture and reduced meeting clarity.

The Board intends to remove the existing wired microphone system entirely and replace it with a fully wireless delegate microphone system that improves audio clarity, flexibility, and overall meeting functionality. This Contract is intended to improve operational effectiveness and meeting quality and is not driven by a specific regulatory requirement.

The new system must support live streaming and recording of meetings and may require replacement of certain backend hardware to ensure compatibility with the wireless system.

2.2.1 Project Goals

The goals of this project are to:

A. Improve audio clarity and reliability during Board meetings

B. Replace the existing wired microphone system with a fully wireless delegate microphone system.

C. Improve mobility and flexibility for conference room users

D. Provide a system capable of supporting live streaming and recording of meetings.

E. Provide a modern, reliable, and user-friendly audio solution

F. Ensure the system supports compliance with applicable State requirements for meeting accessibility, recording, and operational functionality.

G. The Contractor shall be responsible for restoring the conference room to full operational condition after installation, testing, or any demonstrations, including cleanup and system reset.

2.2.2 State Staff and Roles

The State Project Manager will:

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A. Coordinate installation scheduling with the Contractor

B. Provide access to the conference room and existing equipment

C. Review and approve installation and testing, and final acceptance

D. Serve as primary point of contact during project implementation

2.2.3 Other State Responsibilities

A. The State will provide normal office working facilities and equipment reasonably necessary for Contractor performance under the Contract.

The State will provide access to the conference room during agreed installation time, including standard business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5.00 PM), or other mutually agreed upon times coordinated with contractor.

B. The State will provide access to existing Audio-Visual (A/V) equipment, wiring infrastructure, and control systems necessary for system integration.

C. The State will identify a primary point of contact to coordinate scheduling, access, and acceptance testing.

D. The State will review and approve deliverables, including installation completion and system testing.

2.3 Contractor Responsibilities and Tasks

The Contractor shall provide all labor, supervision, materials, equipment, tools, transportation, and incidentals necessary to furnish, install, configure, and test a fully wireless delegate microphone system.

The Contractor shall:

A. Remove the existing twenty-six (26) wired gooseneck microphones and any associated cabling, mounting hardware, and control components currently installed in the meeting room. All removed equipment shall be properly disposed of in accordance with applicable State and local regulations unless otherwise directed by the State.

B. Furnish and install a fully wireless delegate microphone system capable of supporting a minimum of twenty-six (26) individual microphone units for use during Board meetings.

C. Shall provide and install all required backend components necessary for system operation, including but not limited to:

• Wireless access points or receivers

• Control units and base stations

• Charging stations for wireless microphones

• Audio interface equipment

• Network integration components

• Streaming and recording interface hardware

D. All equipment shall be compatible with the existing meeting room infrastructure and audio-visual environment. System Configuration and Testing

The Contractor shall configure, calibrate, and fully test the system to ensure proper operation.

Testing shall include verification of:

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• Microphone functionality

• Wireless signal stability and range

• Audio clarity and gain levels

• Integration with existing audio systems

• Streaming and recording capabilities

E. The installed system shall support the live streaming and recording of Board meetings. The Contractor shall configure the system to ensure reliable audio transmission for both in-room amplification and external broadcast/recording platforms.

F. Training Provide on-site training for designated State personnel. Training shall include, at a minimum:

• System operation

• Microphone management and charging

• Basic troubleshooting procedures

• Use of streaming and recording functions

2.3.1 Documentation

Upon completion of installation, the Contractor shall provide the State with all relevant documentation, including:

• Manufacturer manuals and specifications

• System diagrams and wiring schematics

• Programming and configuration files

• Warranty documentation

• Recommended maintenance procedures

2.3.2 Installation Schedule

The Contractor shall complete all installation, configuration, and testing activities within ten (10) to fourteen (14) calendar days from the issuance of the Notice to Proceed (NTP).

• 2.3Acceptance Testing

2.3.1 System Acceptance Testing

Upon completion of installation, configuration, and initial system calibration, the Contractor shall conduct system acceptance testing in the presence of designated State personnel to verify that the wireless delegate microphone system is fully operational and meets all contract requirements.

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Acceptance testing shall occur prior to final system acceptance and final payment.

2.3.2 Testing Requirements

The Contractor shall demonstrate that the installed system performs the following functions successfully:

2.3.2.1. Microphone Operation

All twenty-six (26) wireless delegate microphone units shall power on, connect to the system, and transmit clear audio without interruption.

2.3.2.2 Wireless Connectivity

The system shall demonstrate stable wireless communication between microphone units and the system base station without interference, signal loss, or noticeable latency.

2.3.2.3. Audio Quality

Audio transmitted from each microphone shall be clear, free of distortion, and properly balanced through the meeting room sound system.

2.3.2.4. Simultaneous Use

The system shall demonstrate the ability to support multiple microphones operating simultaneously without degradation in audio quality or connectivity.

2..2.5. Battery and Charging Functionality All microphone charging stations and batteries shall operate properly and demonstrate the ability to recharge microphone units according to manufacturer specifications.

2.3.2.6. Streaming Capability

The system shall demonstrate successful integration with the State’s streaming platform to support live streaming of Board meetings.

2.3.2.7. Recording Capability

The system shall demonstrate the ability to capture and record meeting audio for archival purposes.

2.3.2.8. Control System Functionality

If applicable, the system control interface shall allow designated personnel to activate, mute, or manage microphones as required.

2.4 Correction of Deficiencies

If any component of the system fails to meet the requirements outlined during acceptance testing, the Contractor shall correct all deficiencies at no additional cost to the State and repeat the testing process until the system meets all contract requirements.

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2.5 Final Acceptance

Final acceptance of the system will occur only after:

• Successful completion of all acceptance testing

• Delivery of all required documentation

• Completion of training for designated State personnel

• Written acceptance will be provided by the State’s Contract Manager or designated representative.

2.6 Warranty

The Contractor shall provide a minimum one (1) year manufacturer’s warranty covering all equipment, materials, and installation workmanship.

2.7 Supplemental Category of Work Requirements and Responsibilities See the attached Commodity Supplemental associated with this solicitation.

The Contractor may replace existing backend audio processing or control components as necessary to ensure proper functionality of the wireless delegate microphone system.

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3 Standard Terms and Conditions

3.1 Contract Initiation Requirements

Once all approvals have been obtained and the Contract is fully executed, the Procurement Officer may schedule a kickoff meeting to be held prior to commencement of Contract performance.

3.2 End of Contract Transition

The Contractor shall cooperate in the orderly transition of services from it to a subsequent contractor at the end of the contract term or upon receipt of a Notice of Termination from the State. Transition shall be provided in a prompt and timely manner and shall proceed in accordance with the schedule provided to the Contractor by the State in the Notice of Transition. Additional instructions regarding transition services may be provided in the event of a Notice of Termination issued by the State.

For this procurement, transition services may include transfer of system configuration files, documentation, warranties, passwords, programming files, and any related system information necessary for continued operation of the installed equipment.

3.3 Invoicing

1. Submission of an invoice constitutes the Contractor’s verification that the information in the invoice is accurate as of the time of submission.

2. The contractor shall email the original of each invoice and signed authorization to invoice to the Contract Monitor and MBP FISCAL Services at email address;

Mdh.mbp_fiscal@maryland.gov

3. All invoices for services shall be verified by the contractor as accurate at the time of submission.

4. An invoice not satisfying the requirements of a Proper Invoice (as defined in COMAR 21.06.09) will not be processed for payment. To be considered a Proper Invoice, invoices must include the following information, without error:

A. Contractor name and address;

B. Remittance address;

C. Federal taxpayer identification (FEIN) number, social security number, as appropriate;

D. Invoice period (i.e. time period during which services covered by invoice were performed);

E. Invoice date;

F. Invoice number;

G. State assigned Contract number;

H. State assigned (Blanket) Purchase Order number(s);

I. Goods or services provided;

J. Amount due; and

K. Any additional documentation required by regulation or the Contract.

5. Invoices that contain both fixed price and labor hour or time and material items shall clearly identify each item as either fixed price, and labor hour, or time and material billing.

mailto:Mdh.mbp_fiscal@maryland.gov

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6. The State reserves the right to reduce or withhold Contract payment in the event the Contractor does not provide all required deliverables within the time frame specified in the Contract or otherwise breaches the terms and conditions of the Contract until such time as the Contractor brings itself into full compliance with the Contract.

7. The State is generally exempt from federal excise taxes, Maryland sales and use taxes, District of Columbia sales taxes and transportation taxes. The Contractor, however, is not exempt from such sales and use taxes and may be liable for the same.

8. Invoices for final payment shall be clearly marked as “FINAL” and submitted when all work requirements have been completed and no further charges are to be incurred under the Contract. In no event shall any invoice be submitted later than 60 calendar days from the Contract termination date.

3.3.1 Invoice Submission Schedule

The Contractor shall submit invoices in accordance with the following schedule:

1. The Contractor shall submit invoices upon completion of installation, testing, and written acceptance by the State.

2. Payment shall be made on a firm fixed price basis as specified in the Price Form. No progress payments shall be made unless approved in writing by the Procurement Officer.

3. Final payment shall be made only after:

A. Successful removal of the existing wired microphone system;

B. Installation of the wireless delegate microphone system;

C. Completion of testing and streaming/recording functionality verification; and D. Completion of on-site training.

3.3.2 Materials Reporting

Submit evidence to support the cost of materials and that billing on the invoice is consistent with the requirements stated in Section 2 of the IFB.

A. For the purposes of the Contract an amount will not be deemed due and payable if:

B. The amount invoiced is inconsistent with the Contract;

C. The proper invoice has not been received by the party or office specified in the

Contract;

D. The invoice or performance is in dispute or the Contractor has failed to otherwise comply with the provisions of the Contract;

E. The item or services have not been accepted;

F. The quantity of items delivered is less than the quantity ordered;

G. The items or services do not meet the quality requirements of the Contract;

H. If the Contract provides for progress payments, the proper invoice for the progress payment has not been submitted pursuant to the schedule;

I. If the Contract provides for withholding a retainage and the invoice is for the retainage, all stipulated conditions for release of the retainage have not been met; or J. The Contractor has not submitted satisfactory documentation or other evidence reasonably required by the Procurement Officer or by the Contract concerning performance under the Contract and compliance with its provisions.

3.3.3 Travel Reimbursement

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Travel will not be reimbursed under this IFB.

3.4 Liquidated Damages

3.4.1 MBE Liquidated Damages

Inapplicable because there is no MBE goal for this IFB.

3.4.2 Liquidated Damages other than MBE

This section is inapplicable to this IFB.

3.4.3 Problem Escalation Procedure

No later than ten (10) Business Days after notice of recommended award or after the date of the Notice to Proceed, whichever is earlier, the Contractor must provide, and thereafter, maintain a Problem Escalation Procedure (PEP) for both routine and emergency situations. The PEP must state how the Contractor will address problem situations as they occur during the performance of the Contract, especially problems that are not resolved to the satisfaction of the State within appropriate timeframes and must include:

A. Contact information B. The process for establishing the existence of a problem;

C. Names, titles, and contact information for progressively higher levels of personnel in the Contractor’s organization who would become involved in resolving a problem;

D. For each individual listed in the Contractor’s PEP, the maximum amount of time a problem will remain unresolved with that individual before the problem escalates to the next contact person listed in the Contractor’s PEP;

E. Expedited escalation procedures and any circumstances that would trigger expediting them;

F. The method of providing feedback on resolution progress, including the frequency of feedback to be provided to the State;

G. Contact information for persons responsible for resolving issues after normal business hours (e.g., evenings, weekends, holidays) and on an emergency basis; and

H. A process for updating and notifying the Contract Monitor of any changes to the PEP.

I. The PEP must be updated within ten (10) Business Days after any change in circumstance which changes the PEP but not less than annually within ten (10) Business Days after the start of each Contract year.

Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit any rights of the Contract Monitor or the State which may be allowed by the Contract or applicable law.

3.5 Work Orders

THIS SECTION IS INAPPLICABLE TO THIS IFB.

3.6 Payments by Electronic Funds Transfer

By submitting a Bid in response to this solicitation, the Bidder, if selected for award:

Agrees to accept payments by electronic funds transfer (EFT) unless the State Comptroller’s Office grants an exemption. Payment by EFT is mandatory for contracts exceeding $200,000. The successful Bidder shall register using the COT/GAD X-10 Vendor Electronic Funds (EFT) Registration Request Form.

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Any request for exemption must be submitted to the State Comptroller’s Office for approval at the address specified on the COT/GAD X-10 form, must include the business identification information as stated on the form, and must include the reason for the exemption. The COT/GAD X-10 form may be downloaded from the Comptroller’s website at:

http://comptroller.marylandtaxes.com/Vendor_Services/Accounting_Information/Static_Files/GA DX10Form20150615.pdf.

3.7 Prompt Payment Policy

This procurement and the Contract(s) to be awarded pursuant to this solicitation are subject to the Prompt Payment Policy Directive issued by the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs (GOSBA) and dated August 1, 2008. Promulgated pursuant to Md. Code Ann., State Finance and Procurement Article, §§ 11-201, 13-205(a), and Title 14, Subtitle 3, and COMAR 21.01.01.03 and 21.11.03.01, the Directive seeks to ensure the prompt payment of all subcontractors on non-construction procurement contracts. The Contractor shall comply with the prompt payment requirements outlined in the Contract, Section 31 “Prompt Pay Requirements” (see Exhibit 2 - Sample Contract). Additional information is available on GOSBA’s website at:

http://www.gomdsmallbiz.maryland.gov/documents/legislation/promptpaymentfaqs.pdf.

3.8 Federal Funding Acknowledgement

This Contract does not contain federal funds.

3.9 Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure

The Bidder shall complete and sign the Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure (Attachment I) and submit it with its Bid.

By submitting a Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure, the Contractor shall be construed as certifying all Contractor Personnel and subcontractors are also without a conflict of interest as defined in COMAR 21.05.08.08A.

Additionally, a Contractor has an ongoing obligation to ensure that all Contractor Personnel are without conflicts of interest prior to providing services under the Contract. For policies and procedures applying specifically to Conflict of Interests, the Contract is governed by COMAR 21.05.08.08.

Participation in Drafting of Specifications: Disqualifying Event: Bidders are advised that Md. Code Ann. State Finance and Procurement Article §13-212.1(a) provides generally that “an individual who assists an executive unit in the drafting of specifications, an invitation for bids, a request for proposals for a procurement, or the selection or award made in response to an invitation for bids or a request for proposals, or a person that employs the individual, may not: (1) submit a bid or proposal for that procurement; or (2) assist or represent another person, directly or indirectly, who is submitting a bid or proposal for that procurement.” Any Bidder submitting a Bid in violation of this provision shall be classified as “not responsible.”

3.10 Non-Disclosure Agreement

3.10.1 Non-Disclosure Agreement (Bidder/Offeror)

A Non-Disclosure Agreement (Bidder/Offeror) is not required for this procurement.

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3.10.2 Non-Disclosure Agreement (Contractor)

This solicitation and any Contract(s) are subject to the terms of the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) contained in this solicitation as Attachment S. This Agreement must be provided within five (5) Business Days of notification of recommended award; however, to expedite processing, it is suggested that this document be completed and submitted with the Bid.

3.11 Maryland Healthy Working Families Act Requirements

On February 11, 2018, the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act went into effect. All Bidders should be aware of how this Act could affect your potential contract award with the State of Maryland. See the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulations website for Maryland Healthy Working Families Act Information: https://dllr.state.md.us/paidleave/.

3.12 The State of Maryland’s Commitment to Purchasing Environmentally Preferred Products and Services (EPPs)

Maryland’s State Finance & Procurement Article §14-410 defines environmentally preferable purchasing as “the procurement or acquisition of goods and services that have a lesser or reduced effect on human health and the environment when compared with competing goods or services that serve the same purpose.” Accordingly, Bidders are strongly encouraged to offer EPPs to fulfill this contract, to the greatest extent practicable.

3.13 Insurance Requirements

The Contractor shall maintain, at a minimum, the insurance coverages outlined below, or any minimum requirements established by law if higher, for the duration of the Contract, including option periods, if exercised:

3.13.1 The following type(s) of insurance and minimum amount(s) of coverage are required:

A. Commercial General Liability - One million dollars ($1,000,000) combined single limit per occurrence for bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury and three million dollars ($3,000,000) annual aggregate. The minimum limits required herein may be satisfied through any combination of primary and umbrella/excess liability policies.

B. Worker’s Compensation - The Contractor shall maintain such insurance as necessary or as required under Workers’ Compensation Acts, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and the Federal Employers’ Liability Act, to not be less than. one million dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence (unless a state’s law requires a greater amount of coverage). Coverage must be valid in all states where work is performed.

C. Errors and Omissions/Professional Liability - One million dollars ($1,000,000) per combined single limit per claim and three million dollars ($3,000,000) annual aggregate.

D. Automobile or Commercial Truck Insurance - The Contractor shall maintain Automobile or Commercial Truck Insurance (including owned, leased, hired, and non-owned vehicles) as appropriate with Liability, Collision, and PIP limits no less than those required by the State where the vehicle(s) is registered, but in no case less than those required by the State of Maryland.

https://dllr.state.md.us/paidleave/ https://trackbill.com/bill/maryland-house-bill-629-environmentally-preferable-procurement-maryland-green-purchasing-committee/647077/

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3.13.2 The State shall be listed as an additional insured on the faces of the certificates associated with the coverages listed above, including umbrella policies, excluding Workers’ Compensation Insurance and professional liability.

3.13.3 All insurance policies shall be endorsed to include a clause requiring the insurance carrier to provide the Procurement Officer, by certified mail, not less than 30 days’ advance notice of any non-renewal, cancellation, or expiration. The Contractor shall notify the Procurement Officer in writing, if policies are canceled or not renewed within five (5) days of learning of such cancellation or nonrenewal. The Contractor shall provide evidence of replacement insurance coverage to the Procurement Officer at least 15 days prior to the expiration of the insurance policy then in effect.

3.13.4 Any insurance furnished as a condition of the Contract shall be issued by a company authorized to do business in the State.

3.13.5 The recommended awardee must provide current certificate(s) of insurance with the prescribed coverages, limits and requirements set forth in this section within five (5) Business Days from notice of recommended award. During the period of performance for multi-year contracts, the Contractor shall provide certificates of insurance annually, or as otherwise directed by the Contract Monitor.

3.13.6 Subcontractor Insurance

The Contractor shall require any subcontractors to obtain and maintain comparable levels of coverage and shall provide the Contract Monitor with the same documentation as is required of the Contractor.

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4 Bid Submission Information and Instructions

4.1 eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA) eMMA is the electronic commerce system for the State of Maryland. The IFB, Pre-Bid Conference (Conference)summary and attendance sheet, Bidders’ questions and the Procurement Officer’s responses, addenda, and other solicitation-related information will be made available via eMMA.

To receive a contract award, a vendor must be registered on eMMA. Registration is free. Go to emma.maryland.gov, click on “New Vendor? Register Now” to begin the process, and then follow the prompts.

4.2 Electronic Means

The following transactions related to this procurement and any Contract awarded pursuant to it are not authorized to be conducted by electronic means:

A. Submission of Bond documents determined by the State to require original signatures; or

B. Any transaction, submission, or communication where the Procurement Officer has specifically directed that a response from the Contractor or Offeror be provided in writing or hard copy.

Any e-mail transmission is only authorized to the email addresses for the identified person as provided in the solicitation, the Contract, or in the direction from the Procurement Officer or Contract Monitor.

“Electronic means” refers to exchanges or communications using electronic, digital, magnetic, wireless, optical, electromagnetic, or other means of electronically conducting transactions.

Electronic means includes e-mail, internet-based communications, electronic funds transfer, specific electronic bidding platforms (e.g., https://procurement.maryland.gov), and electronic data interchange.

4.3 Pre-Bid Conference

If a Conference will be held, the date, time, and location is indicated on the Key Information Summary Sheet. Attendance at the Conference is not mandatory, but all interested parties are encouraged to attend in order to facilitate better preparation of their Bids. If the solicitation includes an MBE participating goal, failure to attend the Conference will be taken into consideration as part of the evaluation of a bidder’s good faith efforts if there is a waiver request.

It is highly recommended that all Prime Contractors bring their intended subcontractors to the Conference/Site Visit to ensure that all parties understand the IFB requirements and the socio-economic goals for this solicitation.

MBE subcontractors are encouraged to attend the Conference to market their participation to potential prime contractors.

In order to assure adequate accommodations at the Conference, please email the completed Attachment 2 for those expected to attend the Conference to the Procurement Officer no later than the time and date indicated on the Key Information Summary Sheet. In addition, if there is a need for sign language interpretation or other special accommodations due to a disability, please notify the Procurement Officer at least five (5) Business Days prior to the Conference date. Reasonable effort will be made to provide such special accommodation.

https://emma.maryland.gov/page.aspx/en/usr/login?ReturnUrl=%2fpage.aspx%2fen%2fbuy%2fhomepage https://procurement.maryland.gov/

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If the Conference is in person, attendees should bring a copy of the solicitation and a business card to help facilitate the sign-in process.

4.4 Questions

All questions, including concerns regarding any applicable MBE or VSBE participation goals, shall identify in the subject line the Solicitation Number and Title for this IFB and must be submitted in writing via e-mail or eMMA to the Procurement Officer no later than the date and time specified in the Key Information Summary Sheet. The Procurement Officer, based on the availability of time to research and communicate an answer, shall decide whether an answer can be given before the Bid due date.

4.4.1 Answers to all questions that are not clearly specific only to the requestor will be distributed via the same mechanism as for IFB amendments and posted on eMMA.

4.4.2 The statements and interpretations contained in responses to any questions, whether responded to verbally or in writing, are not binding on the State unless it issues an amendment to the solicitation in writing.

4.5 Bid Due (Closing) Date and Time

Bids must be received by the Procurement Officer no later than the Bid due date and time indicated on the Key Information Summary Sheet to be considered. Except as provided in COMAR

21.05.02.10. Bids received after that date will not be considered. Requests for an extension of this date or time shall not be granted.

For Bids accepted via email, the time stamp to indicate receipt of the Bid by the State, is the posted date and time in the Procurement Officer’s email inbox.

Bids may be modified or withdrawn by written notice received by the Procurement Officer before the time and date set forth in the Key Information Summary Sheet for receipt of Bids.

Potential Bidders not responding to this solicitation are requested to submit the “No Bid/Proposal Notice/Vendor Feedback” form Attachment 1, which includes company information and the reason for not responding (e.g., too busy, cannot meet mandatory requirements).

4.6 Receipt, Opening and Recording of Bids

Upon receipt, each Bid and any timely modification(s) to a Bid shall be stored in a secure place until the time and date set for Bid opening. Before Bid opening, the State may not disclose the identity of any Bidder.

Bids shall be opened publicly at the time, date and place designated in the Key Information Summary Sheet.

The name of each Bidder, the Total Bid Price, and such other information as is deemed appropriate shall be read aloud or otherwise made available and recorded at the time of Bid opening.

4.7 Duration of Bids

Bids submitted in response to this IFB are irrevocable for 120 days following the Bid due date and time or the date any protest concerning this IFB is finally resolved. This period may be extended at the Procurement Officer’s request only with the Bidder’s written agreement.

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4.8 Revisions to the IFB

4.8.1 All revisions to the IFB before the due date for Bids will be published in an addendum to the IFB and posted on eMMA and reasonable effort will be made to provide such addenda to all prospective Bidders that were sent this IFB or are otherwise known by the Procurement Officer to have obtained this IFB. It is the responsibility of all prospective Bidders to check eMMA for any addenda issued prior to the submission of Bids.

4.8.2 Bidders shall acknowledge in the Bid the receipt of all addenda to this IFB issued before the Bid due date.

4.8.3 Failure to acknowledge receipt of an addendum does not relieve the Bidder from complying with the terms, additions, deletions, or corrections set forth in the addendum, and may cause the Bid to be deemed not responsive.

4.9 Cancellations

4.9.1 This IFB may be cancelled as provided in COMAR 21.06.02.02

4.9.2 The State reserves the right to cancel this IFB, accept or reject any and all Bids, in whole or in part, received in response to this IFB and to waive or permit the cure of minor irregularities.

4.9.3 In the event a government entity proposes and receives the recommendation for award, this procurement may be canceled, and the award processed in accordance with COMAR 21.01.03.01.A(4).

4.9.4 If the services that are the subject of the IFB are currently being provided under an interagency agreement with a public institution of higher education and the State determines that the services can be provided more cost effectively by the public institution of higher education, then the IFB may be canceled in accordance with Md.

Code Ann., State Finance and Procurement Art., § 3-207(b)(2).

4.10 Incurred Expenses

The State will not be responsible for any costs incurred by any Bidder in preparing and submitting a Bid or performing any other activities related to submitting a Bid in response to this solicitation.

4.11 Protest/Disputes

Any protest or claim related to this IFB or the Contract award hereunder shall be subject to the provisions of COMAR 21.10 (Administrative and Civil Remedies).

4.12 Bidder Responsibilities

4.12.1 A Bidder, either directly or through its subcontractor(s), must be able to provide all goods and services and meet all of the requirements requested in this solicitation and the successful Bidder (the Contractor) shall remain responsible for Contract performance regardless of subcontractor participation in the work.

4.12.2 If applicable, subcontractors utilized in meeting the established MBE or VSBE participation goal(s) for this solicitation shall be identified using Attachment D or Attachment E as appropriate. Guidance for completing the Attachments is provided in the appropriate Appendix or Appendices to this IFB (see “Appendix 4 - MBE Participation Goal” and “Appendix 5 - VSBE Participation Goal”).

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4.12.3

4.12.4 If the Bidder is the subsidiary of another entity, all information submitted by the Bidder, including but not limited to references, financial reports, or experience and documentation (e.g., insurance policies, bonds, letters of credit) used to meet minimum qualifications, if any, shall pertain exclusively to the Bidder, unless the parent organization will guarantee the performance of the subsidiary. If applicable, the Bidder’s Bid shall contain an explicit statement, signed by an authorized representative of the parent organization, stating that the parent organization will guarantee the performance of the subsidiary.

4.12.5 A parental guarantee of the performance of the Bidder under this section will not automatically result in crediting the Bidder with the experience or qualifications of the parent under any evaluation criteria pertaining to the actual Bidder’s experience and qualifications. Instead, the Bidder’s responsibility will be assessed to the extent to which the State determines that the experience and qualifications of the parent are applicable to and shared with the Bidder, any stated intent by the parent to be directly involved in the performance of the Contract, and the value of the parent’s participation as determined by the State.

4.13 Acceptance of Terms and Conditions

By submitting a Bid in response to this IFB, the Bidder, if selected for award, is deemed to have accepted the terms and conditions of this IFB and the Contract, attached hereto as Exhibit 2 – Sample Contract. Any questions or exceptions to this IFB or the Contract must be submitted by the “Questions Due Date and Time” prior to Bid submission. Changes to the solicitation, including the Bid Form or Contract, made by the Bidder may result in Bid rejection.

4.14 Compliance with Laws/Arrearages

By submitting a Bid in response to this IFB, the Bidder, if selected for award, agrees that it will comply with all federal, State, and local laws applicable to its activities and obligations under the Contract.

By submitting a response to this solicitation, each Bidder represents that it is not in arrears in the payment of any obligations due and owing the State, including the payment of taxes and employee benefits, and shall not become so in arrears during the term of the Contract if selected for Contract award.

4.15 Verification of Registration and Tax Payment

Before a business entity can do business in the State, it must be registered with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). SDAT is located at State Office Building, Room 803, 301 West Preston Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201. For registration information, visit https://egov.maryland.gov/BusinessExpress/.

It is strongly recommended that any potential Bidder complete registration prior to the Bid due date and time. The Bidder’s failure to complete registration with SDAT may disqualify an otherwise responsive successful Bidder from final consideration and recommendation for Contract award.

https://egov.maryland.gov/BusinessExpress/

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4.16 False Statements

Bidders are advised that Md. Code Ann., State Finance and Procurement Article, § 11-205.1 provides as follows:

In connection with a procurement contract a person may not willfully:

A. Falsify, conceal, or suppress a material fact by any scheme or device;

B. Make a false or fraudulent statement or representation of a material fact;or C. Use a false writing or document that contains a false or fraudulent statement or entry of a material fact.

A person may not aid or conspire with another person to commit an act under this section.

A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $20,000 or imprisonment not exceeding five (5) years or both.

4.17 Confidentiality of Bids / Public Information Act Notice

The Bidder should give specific attention to the clear identification of those portions of its Bid that it considers to contain confidential and/or proprietary commercial information or trade secrets, and provide justification why such materials, upon request, should not be disclosed by the State under the Public Information Act, Md. Code Ann., General Provisions Article, Title 4. This information should be identified by page number and placed in the Transmittal Letter with the Bid.

The Bids shall be tabulated or a Bid abstract made. The opened Bids shall be available for public inspection at a reasonable time after Bid opening, but in any case before contract award, except to the extent the Bidder designates trade secrets or other proprietary data to be confidential as set forth in this solicitation. Material so designated as confidential shall accompany the Bid and shall be readily separable from the Bid to facilitate public inspection of the non-confidential portion of the Bid, including the Total Bid Price.

For requests for information made under the PIA, the Procurement Officer shall examine the Bids to determine the validity of any requests for nondisclosure. Nondisclosure is permissible only if approved by the Office of the Attorney General.

4.18 Use of Bidder’s Form Not Binding on State

The Bidder may not substitute, modify, or provide any other document in lieu of the documents provided with this Bid. Only those forms and documents provided with this solicitation and by the Procurement Officer will be considered acceptable as bid submission.

4.19 Attachments and Documents Required with the Bid (Table A) A Bidder shall include the following Attachments with its Bid as a single Bid Package:

Attachments A through C= Bid will be rejected if the required Attachment is not submitted or is incomplete.

Attachments D through R = Bid may be rejected if the required Attachment is not submitted or is incomplete.

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TABLE A - Attachments and Documents Required with the Bid

Applies Attachment Attachment Name

A

Bid/Proposal Affidavit A Bid submitted by the Bidder must be accompanied by a completed

Bid/Proposal Affidavit.

https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-A.-Bid-Proposal- Affidavit.pdf

Y

B

The Price Form (as specified within eMMA) Do not alter this Price Form or the Bid may be determined to be not responsive. The Price Form must be signed and dated, where requested, by an individual who is authorized to bind the Bidder to the prices entered on the Bid Form.

(See Appendix 2 for specific Price Form Instructions.)

N C

Bid Bond https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-C.-Bid-Bond.pdf

N D

N E

Y

F

Bidder Information Sheet https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-F.-Bidder-Offeror- Information-Sheet.pdf

N

G

Maryland Living Wage Requirements Affidavit of Agreement (for Services and Facilities Maintenance Contracts - See

Appendix 6 for Details) https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-G.-Maryland-Living- Wage-Requirements-Affidavit-of-Agreement.pdf

N H

Y

I

Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-I.-Conflict-of-Interest- Affidavit.pdf

Note: If this solicitation will result in the “selection of a contractor who will assist a unit in the formation, evaluation, selection, award, or execution of another State contract” the Bidder shall provide this Affidavit and other times as requested by the Procurement Officer.

https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-A.-Bid-Proposal-Affidavit.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-A.-Bid-Proposal-Affidavit.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-A.-Bid-Proposal-Affidavit.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-C.-Bid-Bond.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-C.-Bid-Bond.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-F.-Bidder-Offeror-Information-Sheet.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-F.-Bidder-Offeror-Information-Sheet.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-F.-Bidder-Offeror-Information-Sheet.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-G.-Maryland-Living-Wage-Requirements-Affidavit-of-Agreement.pdf https://procurement.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/07/Attachment-G.-Maryland-Living-Wage-Requirements-Affidavit-of-Agreement.pdf…