Sol edited 71626 SS Clinical Ocona.pdf

USDA Forest Service Clinical Support Services 1282A726Q0048

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR Part 12. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation that will be issued. Quotations are being requested, and separate written solicitation will not be issued.

Request for Quotation (RFQ) for Job Corps Clinical Support Services – see attachments for more information.

This acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns. The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard Code is 561990 All other support services. The small business size standard is $16.5. This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. All responsible sources may submit a quotation which will be considered by the agency.

Statement of Requirement Provide Clinical Support Services for USDA Forest Service Job Corps Center – Services may include Registered Nurse, Center Mental Health Counselors and Drug/Alcohol Counselors. Student enrollment and outcomes for each center are affected by recruitment and attrition rates, labor market conditions, trends in provider burnout and engagement, and other factors. This has led to supply and demand imbalances that are sensitive to subtle shifts in policies and organizational priorities, variability of critical staffing needs across time and geography, and the need for expanded utilization of support services. Job Corps is a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Employment and Training Administration (ETA) program.

Job Corps is designed to assist young people who need and can benefit from the wide range of services provided at a Job Corps center. Services include the following: basic education, High School Diploma (HSD) program; General Educational Development (GED); vocational skills training; residential living program; healthcare; and related support services. The comprehensive combination of training and support services is designed to help each student become a responsible and productive citizen.

CLIN Description Estimated Quantity

Unit of Issue

Unit Cost Total

0001 Drug/Alcohol Counselor 1040 HR

TOTAL

Schedule Notes:

1). The period of performance for the base period is 12 months, from August 1, 2026 through July 31, 2027.

2). At award, the Government will fund only the first six (6) months of the base period in accordance with FAR 52.232-18, Availability of Funds.

3). The remaining six (6) months of the base period will be funded via modification when funds become available.

4). Quoters must price all 12 months of the base period, even though funding will be obligated in 6-month increments.

5). The 6-month extension under FAR 52.217-8 may be exercised at the sole discretion of the Government, but will be pre-priced and evaluated at the time of solicitation prior to award.

6). Incremental funding does not change the Firm-Fixed-Price nature of this contract, nor does it alter CLIN pricing.

Technical Data – See attachments for more information

.Solicitation Attachments The following documents are included as attachments to this solicitation.

•Attachment 1 – Performance Work Statement (PWS) •Attachment 2 – Wage Determination •Attachment 3 – Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP)

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and United States Department of Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) Clauses and Provisions The clauses and provisions contained herein are applicable to any order awarded as a result of this solicitation. The terms and conditions set forth herein supersede all other terms and conditions.

Acceptance of the order in accordance with (IAW) FAR 12.201-1(b)(2) constitutes acceptance of all terms and conditions contained herein.

As part of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), system updates may lag policy updates. The System for Award Management (SAM) may continue to require entities to complete representations based on provisions that are not included in this solicitation. Contracting officers will rely on representations from offers based on provisions in the solicitation. Entities are not required to, nor are they able to, update their entity registration to remove these representations in SAM.

52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by Reference Feb 1998 This solicitation incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also the full text of the clause may be accessed electronically at Internet address https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-4 Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.212-4 52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (Nov 2023) 52.203-19 Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) 52.222-50 Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.222-50 52.226-8 Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Text Messaging While Driving (May 2024) 52.232-39 Unenforceability of Unauthorized Obligations (Jun 2013) 52.232-40 Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (Mar 2023) 52.233-3 Protest After Award (Sep 2025) 52.233-4 Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (Sep 2025) 52.240-91 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.240-91 52.244-6 Subcontracts for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025)

The following clauses are applicable if checked: You can either leave all clauses and check the boxes of the ones that apply or delete the clauses that do not apply. If you delete lines, you will need to right-click on the box and select “remove content control” before it will delete.

https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

☐ 52.203-6 Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (Jun 2020) with Alternate I (Nov 2021) of 52.203-6 ☐ 52.203-13 Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Nov 2021) ☒ 52.204-9 Personal Identity Verification of Contractor Personnel Jan 2011 ☒ 52.204-13 System for Award Management—Maintenance (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.204-91 Contractor identification (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.209-6 Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment (Sep 2025) ☐ 52.209-9 Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (Sep 2025) ☒ 52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Sep 2025) ☐ 52.219-4 Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.219-6 Notice of Total Small Business Aside (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Mar 2020).

☐ 52.219-8 Utilization of Small Business Concerns (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-9 Small Business Subcontracting Plan (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate III (Nov 2025) of 52.219-9.

☐ Alternate IV (Nov 2025) of 52.219-9

☐ 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-16 Liquidated Damages—Subcontracting Plan (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-33 Nonmanufacturer Rule (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-3 Convict Labor (June 2003) ☒ 52.222-19 Child Labor—Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-35 Equal Opportunity for Veterans (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-35 ☒ 52.222-36 Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-36 ☐ 52.222-37 Employment Reports on Veterans (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-40 Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (Dec 2010 ☒ 52.222-41 Service Contract Labor Standards (Aug 2018) ☒ 52.222-42 Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (May 2014)

This Statement is for Information Only:

It is not a Wage Determination

Employee Class Monetary Wage -- Fringe Benefits Mental Health Counselor Drug/Alcohol Counselor

☒ 52.222-43 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts) (Aug 2018) ☐ 52.222-44 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (May 2014) ☐ 52.222-51 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment-Requirements (May 2014) ☐ 52.222-53 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services-Requirements (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-54 Employment Eligibility Verification (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) ☒ 52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors (Apr 2026) ☐ 52.223-2 Reporting of Biobased Products Under Service and Construction Contracts (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.223-9 Estimate of Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated Items (May 2008)

☐ Alternate I (May 2008) of 52.223-9 ☐ 52.223-11 Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential Hydrofluorocarbons (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.223-12 Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.223-23 Sustainable Products and Services (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.224-3 Privacy Training (Jan 2017)

☐ Alternate I (Jan 2017) of 52.224-3 ☐ 52.225-1 Buy American-Supplies (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Oct 2022) of 52.225-1 ☐ 52.225-3 Buy American--Free Trade Agreements--Israeli Trade Act (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate II (Nov 2025) of 52.225-3.

☐ Alternate III (Nov 2025) of 52.225-3.

☐ Alternate IV (Oct 2022) of 52.225-3

☐ 52.225-5 Trade Agreements (Nov 2023) ☐ 52.225-19 Contractor Personnel in a Designated Operational Area or Supporting a Diplomatic or Consular Mission outside the United States (May 2020) ☐ 52.225-26 Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (Oct 2016) ☐ 52.226-4 Notice of Disaster or Emergency Area Set-Aside (Nov 2007) ☐ 52.226-5 Restrictions on Subcontracting Outside Disaster or Emergency Area (Aug 2025) ☐ 52.229-12 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements ☐ 52.232-29 Terms for Financing of Purchases of Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ☐ 52.232-30 Installment Payments for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ☒ 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer— System for Award Management (Oct 2018)

☐ 52.232-34 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—Other Than System for Award Management (Jul 2013) ☐ 52.232-36 Payment by Third Party (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.237-2 Protection of Government Buildings, Equipment, and Vegetation (Apr 1984) ☐ 52.237-3 Continuity of Services (Jan 1991) ☐ 52.240-92 Security Requirements (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.240-93 Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems (No 2025) ☐ 52.247-64 Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Apr 2023) of 52.247-64.

☐ Alternate II (Nov 2021) of 52.247-64

Other Applicable Clauses

52.217-8 Option to Extend Services (Nov 1999) 30 calendar days prior to contract expiration 52.245-2 Government Property

AGAR Clauses

452.203-71 Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Compliance (May 2026)

(a) By entering into this contract, the contractor certifies that:

(1) It is compliant with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws and the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution, and it will remain compliant for the duration of the contract.

(2) Neither it nor any subcontractor or teaming partner operates or funds any program, policy, or initiative that promotes DEI in a manner that violates any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws, including but not limited to Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution, and the contractor and any subcontractor or teaming partner will not do so for the duration of the contract.

(b) If the contractor participates in, facilitates, or funds programs that implicate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, including but not limited to grants to or for schools, colleges, universities, 4-H programs, non-governmental organization (NGO) programs, sports programs, and education-related grants to prisons or other detention facilities, the contractor certifies that it will remain compliant with those laws, including the requirements set forth in Executive Order 14168, Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government, and Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.

(c) The contractor affirms that the above requirements are conditions of payment that go to the essence of the contract and are therefore material terms of the contract. Payments under the contract are predicated on compliance with the above requirements, and therefore the contractor is not eligible for funding under the contract or to retain any funding under the contract absent compliance with the above requirements.

(d) This certification reflects a change in the Government’s position regarding the materiality of the foregoing requirements and therefore any prior payment of similar claims does not reflect the materiality of the foregoing requirements to this contract.

(e) Submission of a knowing false statement relating to contractor’s compliance with the above requirements and/or eligibility for the contract may subject the contractor to liability under the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, and/or criminal liability, including under 18 U.S.C. §§ 287 and 1001.

(f) The contractor must include the provisions of this clause in all subcontract solicitations.

(g) Failure on the part of the contractor or its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this clause may be grounds for the Contracting Officer to terminate this contract for default.

(End of Clause)

AGAR 452.203-72 Unenforceable Supplier Terms (MAY 2026)

(a) Definitions.

Supplier terms mean provisions customarily drafted by vendors of supplies or services and intended to create a binding legal obligation on the end user. The term applies:

1. Regardless of the format or style of the document. For example, supplier terms may appear in standard terms of sale or lease, Terms of Service (TOS), End User License Agreement (EULA), or another similar legal instrument or agreement, and may be presented as part of a proposal or quotation responding to a solicitation for a contract or order or otherwise become effective after the contract date.

2. Regardless of the media or delivery mechanism used. For example, supplier terms may be presented as one or more paper documents or may appear on a computer or other electronic device screen during a purchase, software installation, other product delivery, registration for a service, or another transaction.

(b) Applicability. When any supply or service acquired under this contract is subject to supplier terms, the supplier terms are deemed part of the contract only to the extent they are consistent with this clause. Supplier terms that conflict with any part of this clause, the contract, or Federal law are void and will not be considered incorporated into a contract, even if they are physically present in a contract documentation or systems. In the event of any inconsistency between supplier terms and this contract, this clause and the terms of the Government contract must govern and supersede any supplier terms in all cases.

(c) Authorization Required. Notwithstanding any other provision, no supplier terms must be binding on the Government unless the term is expressly authorized on the USDA Supplier Terms Authorization Form signed by the Contracting Officer, and the completed Authorization Form has been incorporated into the contract.

(d) Unenforceable Terms. Any supplier terms that impose obligations or restrictions inconsistent with applicable Federal law are unenforceable against the Government and deemed stricken from the agreement. This includes, but is not limited to, any clause that:

(1) Requires the Government to pay future fees, penalties, interest, legal costs, early‑termination fees, cancellation fees, minimum purchase commitments, true‑up payments, seat‑count minimums, usage minimums, continued‑use charges, or any other financial obligation not expressly authorized by the contract.

(2) Requires the Government to indemnify the contractor or any other entity.

(3) Restricts the Government’s ability to obtain similar supplies or services from another source.

(4) Imposes any penalty, financial or otherwise, based on the Government’s decision not to exercise an option.

(5) Subjects the United States Government to the laws of any U.S. state, territory, district, municipality, or foreign nation, except where Federal law expressly permits such application.

(6) Requires dispute resolution in a forum or venue other than one prescribed by applicable Federal law.

(7) Establishes a period of limitations for bringing an action that differs from that provided by applicable Federal law.

(8) Grants the contractor rights to use, mine, access, aggregate, analyze, or otherwise exploit Government data, usage data, or metadata.

(9) Deems the Government to have accepted initial or revised terms based on silence, continued performance, or failure to object.

(10) Grants the supplier the right to audit Government facilities, systems, records, or use of the product or service, except as expressly authorized by the contract and applicable Federal law.

(11) Requires the Government to accept supplier security requirements, network access requirements, monitoring, penetration testing, or other technical or security measures.

(12) Permits the supplier to suspend, degrade, or terminate access to products or services based on alleged non‑payment, alleged breach, automated security triggers.

(13) Limits the Government’s right to use, install, access, test, evaluate, or transfer the licensed product or service in any manner consistent with the contract and Federal law.

(14) Requires the Government to store, process, maintain, or transmit data in a particular geographic location, or permits the supplier to transfer Government data outside the United States, except as expressly authorized by applicable Federal law.

(15) Authorizes the supplier to use the Government’s name, seal, trademark, logo, or any reference to the Government as an end user or customer for marketing, publicity, promotional activities, press releases, or similar purposes.

(16) Incorporates by reference, or requires the Government to accept, terms or conditions imposed by any third party, subcontractor, or upstream service provider, unless such terms are expressly incorporated into the contract by bilateral modification.

(17) Limits, conditions, or negates the contractor’s performance obligations, service levels, or remedies through a supplier‑provided service level agreement (SLA).

(18) Uses Government data, usage data, metadata, prompts, content, or interactions to train, fine‑tune, improve, or derive any artificial intelligence, machine learning, or automated decision‑making model.

(19) Subjects the Government to automated decision‑making, automated risk scoring, automated content moderation, or any algorithmic process that may affect access, performance, or rights under the contract.

(20) Utilizes artificial intelligence or algorithmic tools that produce decisions, recommendations, or outputs affecting contract performance without providing transparency, explainability, auditability, and bias‑mitigation consistent with applicable Federal law and policy.

(21) Profiles, tracks, or analyzes Government user behavior, preferences, communications, or interactions for personalization, marketing, or algorithmic optimization purposes.

(e) Non-binding Actions. Neither the Government nor any Government authorized end user is deemed to have consented to any term, condition, or clause by virtue of its inclusion in the supplier agreement or through the use of clickwrap, browsewrap, “I agree” mechanisms, or similar means.

Execution of such mechanisms does not bind the Government or its authorized end users to any unenforceable terms.

(f) End user. The supplier agreement must bind the ordering activity as the end user to the extent it does not conflict with the terms of this clause, but it must not bind or impose personal liability on any Government employee or any person acting on behalf of the Government in their personal capacity.

(g) Law and disputes. The supplier agreement is governed by Federal law.

(h) Statutory exception. This clause does not apply to indemnification or any other payment by the Government that is expressly authorized by statute and specifically authorized under applicable agency regulations and procedures.

(i) Continued performance. The supplier or licensor must not unilaterally revoke, terminate, or suspend any rights granted to the Government except as allowed by the contract. If the supplier or licensor believes the ordering activity to be in breach of the supplier agreement, it must pursue its rights under the Contract Disputes Act or other applicable Federal statute while proceeding diligently with performance, pending final resolution of any dispute in accordance with the Disputes Clause at FAR 52.212‑4(d) or FAR 52.233‑1, as applicable.

(j) Arbitration. Binding arbitration must not be used unless specifically authorized by agency guidance.

(k) Equitable or injunctive relief. Equitable or injunctive relief, including the award of attorney fees, costs, or interest, may be awarded against the United States Government only when explicitly provided by statute (e.g., the Prompt Payment Act or the Equal Access to Justice Act).

(l) Revisions to supplier agreements. Any revisions to the supplier agreement must be incorporated into the contract using a bilateral modification. Unilateral revisions are not binding on the Government.

(m) No automatic renewals. If any license or service tied to periodic payment is provided under the supplier agreement (e.g., annual software maintenance or annual lease term), such license or service must not renew automatically upon expiration of its current term without prior express written consent from an authorized Government representative.

(n) Indemnification. Any clause of the supplier agreement requiring the supplier or licensor to defend or indemnify the end user is amended to provide that the U.S. Department of Justice has the sole right to represent the United States in any such action, in accordance with 28 U.S.C. 516.

(o) Taxes or surcharges. Any taxes or surcharges which the supplier or licensor seeks to pass along to the Government as end user will be governed by the terms of the associated Government contract or order and must be submitted to the Contracting Officer for a determination of applicability prior to invoicing unless specifically agreed otherwise.

(p) Non‑assignment. The supplier agreement may not be assigned, nor may any rights or obligations thereunder be delegated, without the Government’s prior approval, except as expressly permitted by FAR 52.212-4(b) or FAR 52.232-23, as applicable.

(q) Confidential information. If the supplier agreement includes a confidentiality clause, such clause is amended to state that neither the agreement nor the contract price list, as applicable, must be deemed “confidential information.” Issues regarding release of “unit pricing” will be resolved consistent with the Freedom of Information Act. Notwithstanding anything in the supplier agreement to the contrary, the Government may retain any confidential information as required by law, regulation, or its internal document retention procedures for legal, regulatory, or compliance purposes; provided, however, that all such retained confidential information will continue to be subject to the confidentiality obligations of the supplier agreement.

(r) Conflict with Federal law. If any other language, provision, or clause of the supplier agreement conflicts or is inconsistent with Federal law or the terms and conditions of this contract, such language, provisions, or clauses will be considered null and void and will not be binding on the United States Government.

(End of Clause)

452.204–70 Modification for Contract Closeout (Apr 2026)

(a) If unliquidated funds in the amount of $1000 or less remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer (Contracting Officer) may issue a unilateral modification for deobligation. The contractor will receive a copy of the modification but is not required to provide a signature. The Contracting Officer will immediately proceed with contract closeout upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(b) For commercial contracts not exceeding the simplified acquisition procedure threshold under FAR 12.001(c), if more than $1,000 in unliquidated funds remain at closeout, the Contracting Officer will issue a bilateral deobligation modification. Only the modification requires the contractor’s signature, though a Release of Claims may be requested. If the required documents are not returned within 60 days, the Contracting Officer will issue a unilateral modification and proceed with closeout once performance is complete, acceptance is confirmed, and final payment is made.

(c) For all other non-commercial or non–cost‑reimbursement contracts, if more than $1,000 in unliquidated funds remain at closeout, the Contracting Officer will issue a bilateral deobligation modification and a Release of Claims, both requiring contractor signature. If these documents are not returned within 120 days, the Contracting Officer will issue unilateral modification and proceed with closeout upon completion of performance, acceptance, and final payment.

(End of Clause)

452.204‑71 Personal Identity Verification and Workforce Integrity of Contractor Employees (Apr 2026)

(a) Compliance with PIV Requirements. The contractor must comply with the personal identity verification (PIV) policies and procedures established by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Directives 4620‑002 series, Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12, and any implementing guidance issued by the Contracting Officer. The contractor must appoint a representative responsible for PIV compliance and must maintain a current list of employees eligible for a USDA LincPass or otherwise authorized to perform work under this contract.

(b) PIV Sponsor Availability. The PIV Sponsor for this contract is the designated Government point of contact identified in the contract, typically the COR unless otherwise specified. The Government will notify the contractor of any changes. The contractor remains responsible for meeting all PIV obligations regardless of changes in sponsor availability.

(c) Contractor Workforce Integrity and Accountability. The contractor is fully responsible for ensuring that all individuals performing under this contract are properly vetted, eligible for access, authorized to perform the work, and accurately represented. At a minimum, the contractor must implement lawful and effective internal controls to:

(1) Verify the identity, work authorization, and qualifications of all personnel assigned;

(2) Ensure only the individuals presented to USDA for PIV enrollment or identity verification perform work;

(3) Detect and address indicators of identity fraud, unauthorized substitution, or other workforce integrity risks; and

(4) Ensure continuous oversight of personnel, including remote workers, in accordance with any reporting requirements specified in the Contract.

(d) Mandatory Removal and Replacement. If the Government determines that a contractor employee fails to meet eligibility, security, integrity, or performance requirements, the Contracting Officer may direct the contractor to remove the individual from performance. The contractor must:

(1) Remove the employee immediately upon notice;

(2) Provide a qualified replacement at no additional cost to the Government; and

(3) Ensure continuity of operations so as not to impact mission requirements.

(4) Failure to promptly remove or replace employees when directed may result in remedies including withholding payment, termination, or other actions authorized under this contract.

(e) Impact on Contractor Performance. Contractor compliance with this clause, including timely removal and replacement of personnel, adherence to PIV requirements, and maintenance of workforce integrity, is a material requirement of this contract. Incidents of identity discrepancies, failure to maintain an eligible workforce, submission of personnel who do not match verified identities, unauthorized substitutions, or failure to comply with Government direction may result in termination and will be documented in the contractor’s performance assessment and reflected in the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS).

(f) Subcontractor Applicability. The contractor must include this clause in all subcontracts requiring routine unaccompanied physical access to a Federally controlled facility and/or routine unaccompanied access to a Federally controlled information system. The contractor is accountable for ensuring subcontractor compliance.

(g) No Government Direction of Hiring Practices. Nothing in this clause authorizes the Government to direct the contractor’s internal hiring processes or require the disclosure of personal information beyond what is authorized by law, regulation, or contract terms. The contractor remains solely responsible for determining lawful methods to meet the requirements of this clause.

(End of Clause)

Solicitation Information

Award Type

It is anticipated that a Firm-Fixed Contract will be awarded as a result of this synopsis/solicitation.

The total duration of this contract shall not exceed One (1) year six (6) months.

Evaluation and Basis for Award

The provision at FAR 52.212-2, Evaluation—Commercial Products and Commercial Services is not applicable to this solicitation. In lieu of this provision, quotes will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 12.203 based on the criteria listed below. Award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government.

Evaluation Factors The submission will be evaluated based on list below:

Factor 1: Technical I Technical capability II Past Performance

Factor 2: Price

Evaluation Criteria

ADJECTIVAL RATINGS

The following adjectival rating tables shall be used to rate proposals. The evaluator will use the appropriate table and select one of the adjectival ratings that most clearly reflect the assessment of the proposal’s based on the established evaluation criteria.

Factor 1: Technical The technical approach will evaluate the ability of the offeror to provide a sound and compliant approach that meets all requirements in accordance with the Performance Work Statement and shows a thorough understanding of them. It is the contractor's responsibility to ensure their quotation clearly demonstrates their capability to meet these requirements. All offerors must provide the following minimum information and documentation with their quotations to be considered responsive and have their offers evaluated:

I. Technical Capability

ACCEPTABLE (A)

The proposal meets the stated requirements. The response is considered complete in terms of the basic content and level of information the Government seeks for evaluation. There is a reasonable probability of success to meet the quantity, quality, and schedule requirements and little risk that this Offeror would fail. There are no deficiencies, and minor weaknesses. Minor weaknesses need not be corrected to make award.

UNACCEPTABLE (U)

The proposal fails to meet the stated requirements. The response is considered deficient in terms of basic content and support the Government seeks for evaluation. The degree of risk is so high that there is little or no likelihood of success. Deficiencies are so major or extensive that a major revision or complete rewrite of the proposal would be necessary.

Past Performance:

The Government may utilize any references provided by the Contractor, along with information available from past contracts/orders with the USDA and any information found using sources such as Federal Government sources or the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) to determine if the Contractor has acceptable or neutral Past Performance. Past Performance will be evaluated using the following rating system:

-Acceptable (A) The past performance record represents that the Offeror is capable of adequately performing the requirement. This rating indicates a low level of performance risk to the Government.

-Neutral (N: Indicates that the Offerors references could not be verified or that the Offeror lacks relevant past performance experience.

-Unacceptable (U) Indicates that the Offeror has historically failed to perform in a satisfactory manner in the fulfillment of like or similar requirements. This rating indicates an unacceptable level of performance risk.

Factor 2 – Price

Firm-Fixed Price Fair & Reasonable

The offeror shall provide pricing as requested in the Schedule of Items attachment of this Request for Quote. Vendor should submit quote with Firm Fixed Pricing. Failure to propose pricing for all individual line items may result in a quotation being excluded from further consideration. The offeror’s quotation will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 12.204, to determine if it is fair and reasonable.

Award will be made to the vendor that is capable of successfully fulfilling requirements to the Government’s approval and acceptance; and its evaluation of Technical Capability, Past Performance, and Price based on the criteria listed above.

For purposes of evaluation, the potential need to exercise the option under FAR 52.217-8 to extend a period of performance for a maximum period of six (6) months beyond any period of performance will be considered the same for all offerors. The Government will consider that if the extension of service clause (FAR 52.217-8) is exercised, it will be on the exact same rates and terms, other than length of performance, as the period of performance being extended.

Evaluation Method:

Award will be made using Best Value Tradeoff process. The Government intends to select the quotation that represents the best value to the Government, where technical capability is more important than price.

The Government reserves the right to award to other than the lowest-priced offeror, if a higher-priced quotation demonstrates superior technical capability or presents lower performance risk.

Award will be made to the offeror whose quotation:

1). Is determined to be the most advantageous to the Government, considering Technical Capability, Past Performance, and Price;

2). Has a fair and reasonable price; and 3). Receives a Past Performance rating of Acceptable or Neutral.

If two or more quotations are evaluated as technically equal, price will become the determining factor for award.

52.252-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference Feb 1998 This solicitation incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cautioned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submitted with its quotation or offer. In lieu of submitting the full text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es): https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors - Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025) FAR 52.212-1 is amended as follows:

Period for acceptance of offers.

The Offeror agrees to hold the prices in its offer firm for 90 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

Submission:

Submit quotations to Dennis Cantrell at dennis.cantrell@usda.gov no later than 27 July 2026, 4:30 PM PT. Late quotations will not be accepted. Please ensure enough time is allowed for delivery to recipient’s email box. Government will confirm receipt of quotation via replied email.

Questions Questions shall be submitted via email to dennis.cantrell@usda.gov and are due no later than 21 July 2026 12:00 PM PT. This will ensure enough time to respond before the solicitation period ends.

Please include the solicitation name and number as the subject line of the email. A modification with questions and answers will be issued before the solicitation deadline.

52.203-18 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements-Representation (Jan 2017) 52.209-2 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations - Representation (Sep 2025) 52.209-11 Representation by Corporations Regarding Delinquent Tax Liability or a Felony Conviction under any Federal Law (Sep 2025) 52.240-90 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions Representations and Certifications (Nov 2025)

The following provisions are applicable if checked: You can either leave all clauses and check the boxes of the ones that apply or delete the clauses that do not apply. If you delete lines, you will need to right-click on the box and select “remove content control” before it will delete.

☐ 52.203-11 Certification and Disclosure Regarding Payments to Influence Certain Federal Transactions (Sep 2024) ☒ 52.204-7 System for Award Management—Registration (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) to 52.204-7 ☐ 52.204-90 Offeror Identification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.207-6 Solicitation of Offers from Small Business Concerns and Small Business Teaming Arrangements or Joint Ventures (Multiple-Award Contracts) (Aug 2024) ☐ 52.209-12 Certification Regarding Tax Matters (Oct 2025) ☐ 52.219-2 Equal Low Bids (Nov 2025) https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52 https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52 mailto:dennis.cantrell@usda.gov

☒ 52.222-18 Certification Regarding Knowledge of Child Labor for Listed End Products (Feb 2021) ☐ 52.222-48 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment–Certification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-52 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards for Certain Services-Certification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-56 Certification Regarding Trafficking in Persons Compliance Plan (Oct 2020) ☐ 52.223-4 Recovered Material Certification (May 2008) ☐ 52.225-2 Buy American Certificate (Oct 2022) ☐ 52.225-4 Buy American-Free Trade Agreements-Israeli Trade Act Certificate (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.225-6 Trade Agreements-Certificate (Feb 2021) ☐ 52.226-3 Disaster or Emergency Area Representation (Nov 2007) ☐ 52.229-11 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements—Notice and Representation (Jul 2025)

Other Applicable FAR Provisions

Add any other provisions that apply to this procurement. Consider Parts 16, 17, 27, 47, etc. Some common provisions are (this is not an inclusive list):

52.216-31 Time and Materials/Labor Hour Proposal Requirements - Commercial Acquisition (Nov 2021) 52.217-5 Evaluation of Options (Nov 2025) 52.225-18 Place of Manufacture (Aug 2018) 52.233-2 Service of Protest (Sep 2025) 52.237-1 Site Visits (Apr 1984)

AGAR Provisions 452.203-70 Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Certification (Dec 2025)

(a) By submission of its offer, the offeror certifies that:

(1) It is compliant with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws and the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution.

(2) Neither it nor any proposed subcontractor or teaming partner operates or funds any program, policy, or initiative that promotes DEI in a manner that violates any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws, including but not limited to Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution.

(b) If the offeror participates in, facilitates, or funds programs that implicate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, including but not limited to grants to or for schools, colleges, universities, 4-H programs, non-governmental organization (NGO) programs, sports programs, and education-related grants to prisons or other detention facilities, by submission of its offer, the offeror certifies that it is compliant with those laws, including the requirements set forth in Executive Order 14168, Defending Women from

Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government, and Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.

(c) The offeror affirms that the above requirements are conditions of payment that go to the essence of the contract and are therefore material terms of the contract. Payments under the contract are predicated on compliance with the above requirements, and therefore the offeror will not be eligible for funding under the contract or to retain any funding under the contract absent compliance with the above requirements.

(d) This certification reflects a change in the Government’s position regarding the materiality of the foregoing requirements and therefore any prior payment of similar claims does not reflect the materiality of the foregoing requirements to this contract.

(e) Submission of a knowing false statement relating to offeror’s compliance with the above requirements and/or eligibility for the contract may subject the offeror to liability under the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, and/or criminal liability, including under 18 U.S.C. §§ 287 and 1001.

(f) Failure on the part of the offeror or its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this clause may be grounds for the Contracting Officer to terminate the contract for default.

(End of Provision)

NOTICE FOR FILING AGENCY PROTESTS

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Protest Procedures

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is committed to fair, transparent, and efficient acquisitions. Interested parties with concerns about this solicitation are encouraged to seek resolution through the following USDA procedures.

Tier 1: Contracting Officer Concern Resolution

Submission: Interested parties with concerns about either the solicitation or subsequent award should first submit their concern directly to the Contracting Officer, providing sufficient detail to allow the Contracting Officer to understand and assess the issue.

Process: The Contracting Officer will review the concern, seek clarification as needed, and engage with the interested party to attempt prompt resolution.

Review Timeline: The Contracting Officer will make every effort to provide a response or resolution within 10 business days of receiving the concern.

Effect on Award or Performance: Tier 1 engagement is not considered an official notification of filing an agency protest and does not pause solicitation deadlines, delay award decisions, or suspend contract performance.

Next Steps: If the matter cannot be resolved at Tier 1, the interested party may file a written agency protest under Tier 2.

USDA encourages all parties to seek resolution with the Contracting Officer before filing an agency protest.

Tier 2: Agency Protest If concerns cannot be resolved at Tier 1, an interested party may file a written agency protest with either the Contracting Officer or the USDA Independent Review Authority. The decision by the USDA Independent Review Authority is an alternative to a decision by the Contracting Officer. The USDA Independent Review Authority will not consider an appeal of the Contracting Officer’s decision on an agency protest.

The protest must state whether the protester elects review by the Contracting Officer, by the UDSA Independent Review Authority. If no election is stated, the Contracting Officer will decide the protest.

Required Information: Protests shall include the information set forth in FAR 33.104-4 (a)(3).

Failure to submit the required information may result in a delay or dismissal of the protest.

Submission: Agency protests should be submitted electronically to SPE.inquiry@usda.gov and the Contracting Officer.

Timeliness: Protests must be filed within the timeframes specified in FAR 33.104.

Effect on Award or Performance: Contract awards or performance will be suspended during the protest period unless justified in writing for urgent and compelling reasons or determined to be in the best interest of the Government.

Review Timeline: USDA strives to resolve agency-level protests within 35 business days of receipt.

Election of Forum: By filing a protest with USDA, the protesters agree not to file a protest on the same matter with the Government Accountability Office (GAO) or any other external forum while the agency protest is pending. If such a protest is filed externally, the USDA agency protest will be dismissed.

Questions: Questions regarding this notice or protest procedures should be directed to the Contracting Officer identified in this solicitation.

mailto:SPE.inquiry@usda.gov