S-10000-00016057.pdf

STATE OF OREGON

COVER PAGE

The Oregon Department of Human Services, by and through its

OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES

Is issuing this Request For Applications (“RFA”) under OregonBuys Bid Solicitation Number S-10000-00016057 for

TICKET TO WORK (“TTW”) SERVICES

Date of Issue: Friday, May 22, 2026 Opening Date and Time: Monday, December 31, 2035, at 3:00 PM Pacific

Current TTW Providers must submit an Application no later than Monday, June 15, 2026 to avoid a possible gap in service

Single Point of Contact (SPC): Louie Thomas, ODHS Procurement Specialist Address: 500 Summer Street NE E03 City, State, Zip Salem, Oregon 97301 E-mail: louie.thomas@odhs.oregon.gov

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer free of charge. Contact the Single Point of Contact (SPC) at the contact information found above. We accept all relay calls.

The State of Oregon promotes equal opportunity for all individuals without regard to age, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion or creed, sex or gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

RFA S-10000-00016057 (ODHS-VR) – Ticket to Work Program

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 SCHEDULE

1.3 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPC)

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

2.3 OREGON BUYS

2.4 OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

SECTION 3: SCOPE OF WORK

3.1 PURPOSE AND GOALS

3.2 SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED

3.3 ONGOING EVALUATION

3.4 QUARTERLY REPORTING

3.5 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

SECTION 4: MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

4.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

4.2 MINIMUM APPLICATION SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

4.3 APPLICATION FORMAT, QUANTITY, AND APPLICATION INFORMATION

SECTION 5: APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

5.1 ATTACHMENT A “APPLICANT INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATION SHEET”

5.2 ATTACHMENT B “RESPONSIBILITY INQUIRY”

5.3 ATTACHMENT C “MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS”

SECTION 6: SOLICITATION IN GENERAL

6.1 PUBLIC NOTICE

6.2 PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE

6.3 QUESTIONS OR REQUESTS FOR CLARIFICATIONS

6.4 APPLICATION DELIVERY OPTIONS

6.5 APPLICATION DUE

6.6 PUBLIC OPENING

6.7 APPLICATION REJECTION

SECTION 7: REVIEW PROCESS

7.1 RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE APPLICANT DETERMINATION

7.2 REVIEW COMMITTEE

7.3 REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS

7.4 APPLICATION REVIEW CRITERIA

7.5 RANKING OF APPLICANTIONS

SECTION 8: AWARD AND NEGOTIATION

8.1 AWARD NOTIFICATION

8.2 APPARENT SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

8.3 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION

SECTION 9: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

9.1 COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

9.2 CERTIFIED FIRM PARTICIPATION

9.3 GOVERNING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

9.4 OWNERSHIP/PERMISSION TO USE MATERIALS

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9.5 CANCELLATION OF RFA; REJECTION OF APPLICATION; NO DAMAGES

9.6 COST OF SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

The response to this RFA, known as the “Application,” (and, once accepted in OregonBuys, also known as the “Quote”), consists of a series of completed Attachments, two available for download in OregonBuys and one created by the Applicant in accordance with instructions in the RFA. Together, this series of three completed Attachments are what constitutes a complete Application. The complete set of required Attachments is also collectively known as the “Application Packet.”

Attachments available for download in OregonBuys and required as part of the Application:

• Attachment A “Applicant Information and Certification Sheet”

• Attachment B “Responsibility Inquiry”

Attachment created by the Applicant in accordance with instructions in the RFA, and required as part of the Application:

• Attachment C “Minimum Qualifications”

Attachment available for download in OregonBuys for Applicant’s Information and not required to be completed and submitted as part of the Application:

• Attachment D “Sample Contract”

Applications received will be reviewed by an ODHS Review Committee. Those that meet the minimum requirements shall be offered a TTW Contract by ODHS substantially similar to Attachment D “Sample Contract.”

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SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

The State of Oregon, acting by and through the Oregon Department of Human Services (“ODHS”) and its Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (“VR”), sometimes collectively referred to in this Solicitation document as “Agency,” is issuing this Request for Application (“RFA”) under the provisions of Oregon Revised Statute (“ORS”) 279B.060 for vendors to participate with ODHS and the Social Security Administration (“SSA”) in implementing the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (“TTW”) for SSA Beneficiaries, as defined in 20 CFR Part 411 – “The Ticket To Work and Self-Sufficiency Program.”

Additional details on the Scope of the services to be provided are included in section 3 ‘Scope of Work.”

ODHS anticipates the award of multiple Contracts from this RFA. The term of each Contract is anticipated to be 10 years. Contracts awarded from this RFA will become effective on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 or later.

1.2 SCHEDULE

The table below represents a tentative schedule of events. All times are listed in Pacific Time.

Event Date Time

Questions or Requests for Clarification Due:

(refer to paragraph 6.3.1)

30 calendar days prior to the Application Opening Date and Time (Closing Date)

3:00 PM PDT

Answers to Questions or Requests for Clarification Issued:

(refer to paragraph 6.3.2)

Usually within five business days from receipt.

RFA Open Date and Time (The closing date and time, when Applications will no longer be accepted) (refer to subsection 6.5)

December 31, 2035 3:00 PM PDT

Applications reviewed by an ODHS Review Committee and a decision issued:

(refer to subsection 7.3)

In most cases, no later than five business days from the Applications Opening date and time (Closing Date)

Applicant notified of Review Committee decision (refer to subsection 8.1)

Approximately 10 business days from the Applications Opening date (Closing Date)

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1.3 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPC)

The SPC for this RFA is identified on the Cover Page, along with the SPC’s contact information.

Applicant shall direct all communications related to any provision of the RFA only to the SPC, whether about the technical requirements of the RFA, contractual requirements and terms and conditions, the RFA process, or any other provision.

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD

ODHS is issuing this RFA pursuant to its authority under ORS 279A.050 and OAR 125-246- 0170(2).

ODHS is using its authority under OAR 125-247-0288(2) and Department of Administrative Services (“DAS”) Special Procurement REQ-DA SOBO-00019979 “Class Special Procurement: Request for Application” for these Client Services.

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

For the purposes of this RFA, capitalized words are defined in OAR 125-246-0110 or as defined below.

2.2.1 “Application,” for the purposes of this Solicitation, means the complete response by an Applicant to this RFA in accordance with section 4 “Minimum Qualifications and Requirements,” and consisting of the following Attachments, completed in their entirety by the Applicant, signed when required, formatted as an Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) document, then submitted together as a packet (“Application Packet”):

• Attachment A “Applicant Information and Certification Sheet”

• Attachment B “Responsibility Inquiry”

• Attachment C “Minimum Qualifications”

2.2.2 “Benefits Counseling” means a professional information services that allow a VR client and/or an SSA Beneficiary to understand the effect that employment will have on their public benefits.

2.2.3 “Contractor” shall refer to the TTW Partner, and has the same meaning as defined in OAR 125-246-0110(35).

2.2.4 “Employment Network” or “EN” means either an agency or instrumentality of a State, or a political subdivision of a State, or a private entity, that assumes responsibility for the coordination and delivery of employment services, vocational rehabilitation services, and other support services to those Beneficiaries who have assigned their Tickets to the EN. ODHS, working by and through its Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, is an official SSA-designated Employment Network.

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2.2.5 “Individual Plan for Employment” or “IPE” means a written plan between the Beneficiary and VR that lists services that VR will provide to the Beneficiary and outlines the mutual commitment they are making to each other. The IPE shall comply with 20 CFR Subpart G “Requirements for Individual Work Plans,” Section 411.450 “What is an Individual Work Plan?”.

2.2.6 “Shared Client” means an individual who is receiving services from both VR and a partner agency. The individual’s employment services and supports are coordinated between the two partners to help the individual achieve and maintain employment.

2.2.7 “SSA Beneficiary” or “Beneficiary” means an adult between ages 18 through 65 who are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSDI”) and/or Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) based on disability.

2.2.8 “Ticket” means an authorization issued by SSA that allows an SSA Beneficiary to obtain employment-related services from an approved Employment Network. The Ticket authorizes the EN to deliver employment services, vocational rehabilitation, or other supports intended to help the Beneficiary achieve work and reduce dependence on benefits. A “Ticketholder” is an SSA Beneficiary who has received authorization and issued a Ticket by SSA

2.2.9 “Ticket to Work” or “TTW” means the employment program created by the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, which amended parts of the Social Security Act of 1935 and is administered by the SSA. The program is voluntary and offers Beneficiaries expanded opportunities to obtain the services and supports that they need to work and to achieve their employment goals.

2.2.10 “TTW Partner” means the same as “Contractor” and are public and private entities under Contract to ODHS to provide TTW services and collect a portion of TTW payments from ODHS as the client’s Employment Network of record. TTW Partners are not an established EN with the SSA for the purposes of this Contract.

2.2.11 “Timely Progress Review” is defined as the IPE review that is conducted by SSA through the Beneficiary and the EN to assure that Beneficiaries are making progress toward greater self-sufficiency. Guidelines for these reviews are not based on the individual VR employment plan, but are based on general SSA guidelines.

2.3 OREGON BUYS

OregonBuys is the only delivery option permitted for this RFA (refer to subsection 6.4 “Application Delivery Options”). Applications, also referred to as “Quotes” in OregonBuys, shall be submitted electronically through OregonBuys at: https://OregonBuys.gov/bso

You do not need to be registered in OregonBuys to view an RFA; but you do need to be registered as a “Vendor” to download and respond to an RFA.

https://oregonbuys.gov/bso

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OregonBuys Guidelines:

• For Assistance with OregonBuys (Vendor Help Desk):

Email: suppliersupport@periscopeholdings.com Phone: 1-855-800-5046

• For information on how to register as a Vendor in OregonBuys:

https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/SupplierRegistrationQuickSteps.pdf

• For guidelines on how to find an open or closed Bid Solicitation in OregonBuys:

https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/How%20to%20find%20open%20or%2 0closed%20bids.pdf

• Detailed instructions on how to submit an Application (“Quote”) in OregonBuys:

https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/OregonBuys%20Vendor%20Formal%2 0Solicitation%20Response.pdf

If the above links are not an option or are unavailable, obtain the information through the Vendor Help Desk or contact the SPC.

2.4 OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

2.4.1 ODHS and VR Overview

The Oregon Department of Human Services is Oregon’s principal agency for helping Oregonians achieve well-being and independence. VR provides direct services to more than one million Oregonians each year. These services are a key safety net for people in diverse communities across Oregon. Through ODHS’ Building Well-Being Together initiative, we’re working to ensure that people, families, and communities across Oregon have the services and supports they need.

The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services helps people with disabilities get and keep a job that matches their skills, interests, and abilities. VR staff work in partnership with the community and businesses to develop employment opportunities and provide individualized services to each eligible person for their employment success.

2.4.2 Project Overview and Background

Through the SSA TTW Program, VR offers an opportunity for long-term support providers to share funds through a TTW Contract to provide the delivery of employment support services to Ticketholders.

SECTION 3: SCOPE OF WORK

3.1 PURPOSE AND GOALS

VR serves as the Employment Network (EN) of record with SSA and partners with mental health agencies, community mental health programs, and other long‑term employment support programs to provide individualized employment services. The goal is to support participating mailto:suppliersupport@periscopeholdings.com https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/SupplierRegistrationQuickSteps.pdf https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/How%20to%20find%20open%20or%20closed%20bids.pdf https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/How%20to%20find%20open%20or%20closed%20bids.pdf https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/OregonBuys%20Vendor%20Formal%20Solicitation%20Response.pdf https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/OregonBuys%20Vendor%20Formal%20Solicitation%20Response.pdf

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SSA Beneficiaries in obtaining or maintaining employment and to strengthen long‑term employment outcomes.

The Work and goals of Contracts awarded under this RFA are to:

3.1.1 Strengthen the partnership between VR and the TTW Partner to achieve the provision of EN services for people with disabilities and expand available employment services for SSA Beneficiaries;

3.1.2 Assist SSA Beneficiaries through vocational services to obtain earnings that allow them to be self-sufficient, and/or to obtain earnings at or above the Substantial Gainful Activity level (“SGA”) for a sustained period of time;

3.1.3 Utilize TTW revenue for the growth of individualized long term employment support service;

3.1.4 Establish processes for development of Beneficiary employment plans or VR Individual Plan for Employment (“IPE”) that complies with requirements of 20 CFR Subpart G “Requirements for Individual Work Plans,” Section 411.450 “What is an Individual Work Plan?”

3.1.5 Establish a long-term commitment between VR and the TTW Partners for collaboration and supports for SSA Beneficiaries seeking gainful employment at minimum wage or above.

3.2 SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED

3.2.1 TTW Partners shall:

3.2.1.1 Identify staff person(s) to be the Ticket liaison with VR.

3.2.1.2 In cases where the TTW Partner also operates an independent EN with SSA, the TTW Partner shall ensure programmatic oversight of the Ticket assignment and un-assignment process in cases where SSA Beneficiaries are referred to VR by the TTW Partner. VR will work with the TTW Partner on Ticket assignment status prior to VR services.

3.2.1.3 Submit client SSA Beneficiary referral form and any other required documentation to VR for claims processing within an established timeframe as determined by VR.

3.2.1.4 Contractor shall make, at a minimum, quarterly contact with the assigned Ticket holder while the Ticket is assigned to VR to assess the need for additional services.

3.2.1.4.1 Provide or arrange for the provision of those services, when appropriate, to assist the Ticket holder with job retention or advancement.

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3.2.1.4.2 Maintain documentation of these contacts on file in a secured location, either hard copy or electronic, and make them available for VR and SSA review upon request.

3.2.1.5 In collaboration with VR, implement training for the TTW Partner staff on the TTW program, TTW audits, and TTW required documentation and processes.

3.2.1.6 Direct SSA Beneficiaries to the TTW Program Manager (“TPM”) if they have questions regarding their Ticket status. All other questions regarding the Ticket shall be directed to the VR Contract Administrator.

3.2.2 ODHS shall:

3.2.2.1 Oversee the maintenance and submittal of the IPE and all required documentation for Ticket assignments.

3.2.2.2 Refer VR clients to Benefits Counseling services through the Work Incentive Network (“WIN”) or Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (“WIPA”).

3.2.2.3 Provide training to TTW Partners on comprehensive TTW Program processes and procedures and any federal changes made to the program.

3.2.2.4 Operate as the Administrative Unit for purposes of tracking Tickets and Ticket claims processing.

3.2.2.5 Provide an annual report to each of the TTW partners, including the following:.

3.2.2.5.1 A list of SSA Beneficiaries with Tickets that are being tracked by VR.

3.2.2.5.2 Milestone-Outcome payments requested and paid to the TTW Partner for Tickets assigned and tracked in the calendar year.

3.2.2.6 Identify the current ODHS TTW Program Coordinator as the point of contact for the TTW Partners and TTW Program.

3.2.3 TTW Partner and ODHS shall collaborate on the following:

3.2.3.1 Work to ensure all SSA Beneficiaries are informed of their rights and choices under the TTW Program. This includes information regarding the voluntary nature and consumers' options as defined by the Social Security Administration.

3.2.3.2 Assisting SSA Beneficiaries in accessing accurate information on the impact of employment on their federal and state benefits and, when appropriate, refer SSA Beneficiaries to available Benefits Counseling services through the WIN or

WIPA.

3.2.3.3 Determining the most efficient and accurate mechanism for tracking earnings data and maintaining contact with SSA Beneficiaries, if necessary, over the long term.

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3.3 ONGOING EVALUATION

This TTW Contract between VR and the TTW Partners will allow for ongoing evaluation.

Decisions on the effectiveness of the TTW partnership will be made at Contract renegotiation.

Parties will use the evaluation provided by VR, which shall include but not be limited to:

3.3.1 Gaps in the service delivery system for the TTW Partner and the beneficiary;

3.3.2 Effectiveness of tracking employment outcomes for SSA Beneficiaries receiving long term employment supports;

3.3.3 Tracking types of services delivered by the TTW Partner;

3.3.4 Timeliness of payments;

3.3.5 Timeliness and thoroughness of the Timely Progress Reviews in accordance with 20 CFR Part 411 Subpart C “Suspension of Continuing Disability Reviews for Beneficiaries Who are Using a Ticket.”

3.4 QUARTERLY REPORTING

SSA requires the EN, which in this matter is the State of Oregon, to contact the Ticketholder at least quarterly to assess whether the Ticketholder needs additional services or supports. Under this TTW Contract:

3.4.1 The Contractor is required to contact the Ticketholder at least quarterly for the entirety of the Ticket assignment. Official contact attempts by the Contractor should be personalized and unique to each Ticketholder. Acceptable forms of contact include: phone calls, personalized emails, personalized text messages, and letters to individuals. Forms of mass communication are considered marketing efforts and are not acceptable forms of individualized attempts to “officially” contact Ticketholders, and cannot include: robo-calls, blast emails, newsletters, and mass mailings.

3.4.2 Contractor is required to document the contact or attempted contact with the Ticketholder. Acceptable documentation of the Contractor’s efforts to provide services and supports include: copies of emails, text messages, and letters and voicemails sent to the Ticketholder. These should be included in the Ticketholders records or case notes.

3.5 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

ODHS requires that the Contractor meets the highest standards prevalent in the industry or business most closely involved in providing the appropriate goods or services, including meeting the Standards for providing long-term supported employment services.

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SECTION 4: MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

4.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered, Application must demonstrate how Applicant meets the requirements of this section. Applicant shall:

4.1.1 Provide evidence that the Applicant is currently providing long-term supports to Shared Clients; or

4.1.2 Attest that the Applicant is a Contractor with Oregon Developmental Disabilities Services (“ODDS”) or an Individual Placement & Support (“IPS”) program, providing long-term supports to Shared Clients with an evidence-based model of supported employment, helping individuals secure and maintain competitive employment; or

4.1.3 Verify and describe the benefits counseling being provided to Shared Clients.

4.2 MINIMUM APPLICATION SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

To be considered for review, Application must contain each of the following three elements, further detailed in section 5 “Application Requirements,” below:

4.2.1 Attachment A “Applicant Information and Certification Sheet,” downloaded from OregonBuys and further described in subsection 5.1, below;

4.2.2 Attachment B “Responsibility Inquiry,” downloaded from OregonBuys and further described in subsection 5.2, below.

4.2.3 Attachment C “Minimum Qualifications,” a form created by the Applicant in accordance in subsection 5.3, below, that discusses how the Applicants meets the requirements as defined in subsection 4.1 “Minimum Qualifications,” above.

4.3 APPLICATION FORMAT, QUANTITY, AND APPLICATION INFORMATION

The complete Application consists of the completed attachments listed in subsection 4.2 “Minimum Application Submission Requirements,” either downloaded from OregonBuys and completed by the Applicant or created by the Applicant, in accordance with the instructions in section 5 “Application Requirements”; then, together, formatted into an Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) document and submitted to ODHS through OregonBuys. The set of completed Attachments (“Application Packet”), completed and signed by the Applicant when required, is what constitutes a complete Application.

Applicant shall submit its Application electronically through OregonBuys in accordance with subsection 6.4 “Application Delivery Options.” Applicant should refer to subsection 2.3 “OregonBuys” for OregonBuys and electronic submission guidelines and assistance.

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SECTION 5: APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

The Application must include the three elements listed in this Section.

Application should not include extensive artwork, unusual printing, or other materials not essential to the utility and clarity of the Application. Do not include marketing or advertising material in the Application; Applications containing unsolicited marketing or advertising material may be considered non-Responsive and not considered further.

5.1 ATTACHMENT A “APPLICANT INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATION SHEET”

Applicant shall download Attachment A “Applicant Information and Certification Sheet” from OregonBuys.

5.1.1 Applicant shall read and complete the information requested on Attachment A

5.1.2 Attachment A must bear the Applicant or the Applicant’s authorized representative’s Signature to certify to its truth and accuracy. Failure of the Applicant or the Applicant’s authorized representative to sign Attachment A may result in rejection of the Application as non-Responsive and the Application not considered further.

5.1.3 Applicant shall format the completed Attachment A as an Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) document, and submit the entire form in OregonBuys as the first part of the Application Packet.

5.2 ATTACHMENT B “RESPONSIBILITY INQUIRY”

Applicant shall download Attachment B “Responsibility Inquiry” from OregonBuys.

5.2.1 Applicant shall read and complete the information requested on Attachment B.

The form must be signed and dated by the Applicant or the Applicant’s authorized representative.

5.2.2 Applicant shall format the completed Attachment B as an Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) document, and submit in OregonBuys as the second part of the Application Packet.

5.2.3 Attachment B will assist ODHS in determining if an Applicant is Responsible prior to acceptance of the Application. ODHS may reject an Applicant found to be not Responsible at any time prior to execution of a Contract.

5.3 ATTACHMENT C “MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS”

Attachment C “Minimum Qualifications” is a form created by the Applicant in accordance with the following requirements, and is how the Applicant demonstrates to an ODHS Review Committee how they meet or exceed the minimum qualifications as referenced in subsection

4.1 “Minimum Qualifications.”

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5.3.1 Applicant shall create Attachment C using 12-point Noto Sans, Aptos, or Verdana font, with reasonable page margins and lines reasonably spaced.

5.3.2 Applicant shall clearly and prominently display the following at the top of each page of Attachment C:

• The Applicant’s name;

• “Attachment C ‘Minimum Qualifications’”;

• If Attachment C consists of more than a single page, a sequential page number relative to Attachment C only (may be formatted into the document footer, if preferred); and

• “RFA S-10000-00016057.”

5.3.3 For Attachment C, Applicant shall provide detailed information to justify how they meet or exceed the minimum requirements as defined in subsection 4.1 “Minimum Qualifications.” The response shall be descriptive and provide enough information for the ODHS Review Committee to make a reasonable decision on whether the Applicant meets or does not meet the minimum requirements of this RFA.

Those Applications that do not meet the minimum qualifications, as determined by the ODHS Review Committee, shall be deemed non-Responsive, the Applicant notified, and the Application shall not be considered further.

5.3.4 Applicant shall format the completed Attachment C as an Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) document, and submit in OregonBuys as the third part of the Application Packet.

SECTION 6: SOLICITATION IN GENERAL

6.1 PUBLIC NOTICE

The RFA and attachments are published and available in the State of Oregon’s electronic procurement system, OregonBuys, at OregonBuys.gov/bso. Documents will not be mailed, sent, emailed, or otherwise provided to prospective Applicants except through OregonBuys. All relevant material to consider and respond to this RFA is obtained and submitted through OregonBuys.

Modifications to this RFA, if any, will be made by written Amendment published in OregonBuys.

Prospective Applicant is solely responsible for checking OregonBuys to determine whether or not any Amendments have been issued. All Amendments are incorporated into the RFA by this reference.

6.2 PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE

A Pre-Application conference for this RFA will not be held.

6.3 QUESTIONS OR REQUESTS FOR CLARIFICATIONS

6.3.1 All inquiries, whether relating to the RFA process, the Work of the RFA, its https://oregonbuys.gov/

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• Be delivered to the SPC via email (SPC email address is listed on the RFA Cover Sheet);

• Reference the OregonBuys bid number (S-10000-00016057);

• Identify Applicant’s name and contact information;

• Refer to the specific area of the RFA being questioned (i.e. page, section and paragraph number); and

• Be received by the due date and time for Questions or Requests for Clarification identified in subsection 1.2 “Schedule.”

6.3.2 Response to Questions or Requests for Clarification

In most situations, responses will be issued by the SPC within 5 business days from receipt.

In some situations, responses, portions of responses, or example question/responses based on the actual response to Questions or Requests for Clarification may be published in OregonBuys as an amendment to the RFA for the benefit of all potential and actual Applicants.

6.4 APPLICATION DELIVERY OPTIONS

The following delivery option is the only delivery option allowed for this RFA:

• Delivery through OregonBuys

Application submission shall be electronically through OregonBuys at: OregonBuys.gov/bso.

Guidelines on how to submit an Application and OregonBuys assistance resources can be found in subsection 2.3 “OregonBuys.”

Applicant is solely responsible for ensuring its Application is accepted into OregonBuys in accordance with the RFA requirements before the RFA’s Open Date and Time identified in subsection 1.2 “Schedule.” ODHS is not responsible for any delays or transmission errors or delays, or for any mis-delivery for any reason. An Application submitted by any means not authorized will be rejected.

6.5 APPLICATION DUE

Current TTW Providers must submit an Application no later than Monday, June 15, 2026, to avoid a possible gap in service.

The Application Packet, including all required items and elements as described in subsection

4.2 “Minimum Application Submission Requirements,” must be submitted in OregonBuys on or before the RFA’s Open Date and Time as stated in Subsection 1.2 “Schedule.”

Even if you begin the process to submit your Application prior to the closing time, your Application must be fully accepted and acknowledged by OregonBuys no later than 3:00 PM Pacific on the Opening Date and Time or OregonBuys will not accept it. A late Application, or one partially submitted, will not be accepted by OregonBuys.

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Applicant is urged to begin the submission process far enough in advance of the Opening Date and Time to resolve any unanticipated issues and to avoid any potential conflicts.

6.6 PUBLIC OPENING

A public Opening will not be held for this RFA.

6.7 APPLICATION REJECTION

ODHS may reject an Application for any of the following reasons:

• Application is non-Responsive. Applicant fails to substantially comply with all prescribed RFA procedures and requirements, including but not limited to the requirement that Applicant or the Applicant’s authorized representative sign Attachment A.

• Applicant has liquidated and delinquent debt owed to the State or any department or agency of the State.

• Applicant fails to meet the Responsibility requirements of ORS 279B.110.

• Applicant makes any contact regarding this RFA with state representatives such as state employees or officials other than the SPC or persons authorized by the SPC, or has inappropriate contact with the SPC.

• Applicant attempts to influence a member of the Review Committee.

• Application is conditioned on ODHS’ acceptance of any other terms and conditions or rights to negotiate any alternative terms and conditions that are not reasonably related to those expressly authorized for negotiation in the RFA or its Amendments.

SECTION 7: REVIEW PROCESS

7.1 RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE APPLICANT DETERMINATION

7.1.1 Responsiveness determination

An Application received prior to the Opening Date and Time will be reviewed to determine if it is Responsive to all RFA requirements, including compliance with section 4 “Minimum Qualifications and Requirements,” and section 5 “Application Requirements.” If the Application is unclear, the SPC may request clarification from the Applicant. However, clarifications may not be used to rehabilitate a non-Responsive Application. If the SPC finds the Application non-Responsive, the Application may be rejected; however, ODHS may waive mistakes in accordance with OAR 125-247-0470.

7.1.2 Responsibility Determination

ODHS will determine if an apparent successful Applicant is Responsible prior to award and execution of a Contract. Applicant is required to submit a signed Responsibility Inquiry form (Attachment B) with its Application.

At any time prior to the award of a Contract, ODHS may reject an Applicant found to be not Responsible.

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7.2 REVIEW COMMITTEE

Each Responsive Application from Responsible Applicants meeting minimum requirements will be reviewed by an ODHS Review Committee.

7.3 REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS

The Review Committee shall meet and make a determination on whether the Application meets or exceeds the requirements of the RFA, or does not meet the requirements, based on a “meet” or “does not meet” criteria, in accordance with subsection 7.4 “Application Review Criteria,” below.

Review of the Application may include exchanges with the Applicant by the SPC or VR Program or licensing staff for clarification, or to discuss certain elements of the Application or its requirements, prior to the “meet” or “does not meet” determination of the Review Committee.

For those Applications that “meet” the requirements of the RFA, Applicant shall be offered an ODHS TTW Program Contract substantially similar to Attachment D “Sample Contract” and pending any successful Contract negotiations based on the RFA and its Scope of Work section, the Applicant’s Application, and other statutory and policy requirements.

ODHS shall notify Applicants where a determination of “does not meet” the requirements of the RFA has been made, the reason for rejection of the Application, and, at the Applicants discretion, will begin active conversation with the Applicant to discuss meeting the requirements of the RFA.

7.4 APPLICATION REVIEW CRITERIA

Applications will be reviewed by the Review Committee, who will assess the viability of the Applicant to provide TTW Program services based on the Applicant’s responses. Determination will be based on applicable SSA rules and regulations, Oregon Revised Statutes, Oregon Administrative Rules, ODHS and VR policies, and other related standards and protocols.

7.5 RANKING OF APPLICANTIONS

There is no scoring or ranking of Applications.

ODHS will initiate Contract Negotiations with all Applicants who the Review Committee determines “meets” the requirements of this RFA.

SECTION 8: AWARD AND NEGOTIATION

8.1 AWARD NOTIFICATION

There will be no public announcement of award. All Applicants will be notified by ODHS of the results of the Review Committee. Those that successfully pass (“meet”) will begin working with the VR TTW Program and others to become a contracted TTW Provider. Those that do not meet

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8.2 APPARENT SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants who are selected for a Contract award under this RFA will be required to submit additional information and comply with the following:

8.2.1 Insurance

Prior to Contract execution, Applicant shall secure and demonstrate to ODHS proof of insurance as required in this RFA or as negotiated. Insurance Requirements are found in Exhibit C of Attachment D “Sample Contract.”

8.2.2 Taxpayer Identification Number

Applicant shall provide its Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and backup withholding status on a completed W-9 form when requested by ODHS or when the backup withholding status or any other relevant information of Applicant has changed since the last submitted W-9 form, if any.

8.2.3 Business Registry

If selected for award, Applicant shall be duly authorized by the State of Oregon to transact business in the State of Oregon before executing the Contract. Visit http://sos.oregon.gov/business/pages/register.aspx for Oregon Business Registry information.

8.2.4 Responsibility Inquiry

Prior to award, Applicant shall be required to complete and submit, and have accepted by ODHS, the “Responsibility Inquiry” form (attachment B).

8.2.5 Nondiscrimination in Employment

As a condition of receiving the award of a Contract under this RFA, Applicant must certify by its Signature on Attachment A “Applicant Information and Certification Sheet that, in accordance with ORS 279A.112, it has in place a policy and practice of preventing sexual harassment, sexual assault, and discrimination against employees who are members of a protected class. The policy and practice must include giving employees a written notice that the policy both prohibits, and prescribes disciplinary measures for, conduct that constitutes sexual harassment, sexual assault, or unlawful discrimination.

8.3 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION

ODHS intends to execute a Contract substantially similar to Attachment D “Sample Contract” with terms and conditions that are consistent with all other TTW providers under Contract to ODHS. Negotiations of any terms and conditions shall not be allowed for Exhibit A Part 3 “Special Provisions,” Exhibit B “Standard Terms and Conditions,” Exhibit C http://sos.oregon.gov/business/pages/register.aspx

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“Insurance Requirements,” or Exbibit D “Federal Terms and Conditions” of the Contract document unless required by circumstance.

In accordance with subsection 6.3, Contact the SPC if you have questions about specific services to provide or the Contract language.

SECTION 9: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

9.1 COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

The State of Oregon is committed to taking active steps toward increasing and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion values across procurement processes for minority, women, emerging small, and service-disabled veteran owned businesses by reducing barriers to compete for and be awarded state contracts. All interested businesses are encouraged to submit Applications for this contracting opportunity.

9.2 CERTIFIED FIRM PARTICIPATION

Pursuant to ORS Chapter 200, ODHS encourages the participation of small businesses, certified by the Oregon Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (“COBID”) in all contracting opportunities. This includes certified small businesses in the following categories:

disadvantaged business enterprise, minority-owned business, woman-owned business, a business that a service-disabled veteran owns or an emerging small business. ODHS also encourages joint ventures or subcontracting with certified small business enterprises. For more information, visit:

https://oregon4biz.diversitysoftware.com/FrontEnd/VendorSearchPublic.asp?XID=6787&TN=o regon4biz

If the Contract has potential subcontracting opportunities, the successful Applicant may be required to submit a completed Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan prior to execution.

9.3 GOVERNING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

This RFA is governed by the laws of the State of Oregon. Venue for any administrative or judicial action relating to this RFA, evaluation and award is the Circuit Court of Marion County for the State of Oregon; provided, however, if a proceeding must be brought in a federal forum, then it must be brought and conducted solely and exclusively within the United States District Court for the District of Oregon. In no event shall this Section 9.3 be construed as a waiver by the State of Oregon of any form of defense or immunity, whether sovereign immunity, governmental immunity, immunity based on the eleventh amendment to the Constitution of the United States, or otherwise, to or from any claim or consent to the jurisdiction of any court.

9.4 OWNERSHIP/PERMISSION TO USE MATERIALS

All Applications are public records and are subject to public inspection after ODHS awards a Contract. Application of the Oregon Public Records Law will determine whether any information is exempt from disclosure.

https://oregon4biz.diversitysoftware.com/FrontEnd/VendorSearchPublic.asp?XID=6787&TN=oregon4biz https://oregon4biz.diversitysoftware.com/FrontEnd/VendorSearchPublic.asp?XID=6787&TN=oregon4biz

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All Applications submitted in response to this RFA become the Property of ODHS. By submitting an Application in response to this RFA, Applicant grants the State a non-exclusive, perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free license for the rights to copy, distribute, display, prepare derivative works of and transmit the Application solely for the purpose of evaluating the Application, negotiating a Contract, if awarded to Applicant, or as otherwise needed to administer the RFA process, and to fulfill obligations under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS

192.311 through 192.478). Applications, including supporting materials, will not be returned to Applicant.

9.5 CANCELLATION OF RFA; REJECTION OF APPLICATION; NO DAMAGES.

Pursuant to ORS 279B.100, ODHS may reject any or all Applications in-whole or in-part, or may cancel this RFA at any time when the rejection or cancellation is in the best interest of the State or ODHS, as determined by ODHS. Neither the State nor any State agency is liable to any Applicant for any loss or expense caused by or resulting from the delay, suspension, or cancellation of the RFA or a Contract award, or the rejection of any Application.

9.6 COST OF SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION

Applicant shall pay all costs incurred in connection with its Application, including, but not limited to, the costs to prepare and submit the Application, costs of samples and other supporting materials, costs to participate in demonstrations, and costs associated with protests.