Vendor Question and Answer - 10-8-25.docx

The document is a Vendor Question and Answer file for the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) TABE Testing Materials procurement at the Centralia Correctional Center. The solicitation seeks multiple test booklets and answer documents across nine TABE test versions (13/14, 13A, 14A, 13D, 14D, 13E, 14E, 13M, and 14M), with quantities ranging from 3 to 23 packs of 25 test booklets and 1,000-1,800 answer document packs. The bid is due by October 17, 2025, with a delivery deadline of June 30, 2026. Delivery is restricted to Monday-Friday between 7:30 am and 2:30 pm at the Centralia Correctional Center, and all submitted bids must remain firm for 90 days from the opening date.

The procurement includes specific vendor requirements, such as registration in the Illinois Procurement Gateway, a valid State of Illinois Vendor Registration Number, and submission of Vendor Disclosure forms and a Business Enterprise Program/Veterans Small Business Program Utilization Plan. The contract incorporates minority contractor initiatives and includes a $15 fee associated with these programs. Pricing will be detailed in the BidBuy Purchase Order, with the total contract amount determined by unit pricing. Funding is contingent upon availability from the Illinois General Assembly or potential federal sources. Vendors must comply with various state and federal regulations, including employment tax credits for hiring qualified veterans and ex-offenders, prevailing wage requirements, and background check protocols.