Amendment 02.pdf

W912PQ21Q0015

0011626012

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30-105-04EXCEPTION TO SF 30

APPROVED BY OIRM 11-84

STANDARD FORM 30 (Rev. 10-83)

Prescribed by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

The purpose of this amendment is to answ er questions asked by vendors.

Added updated Wage Determination Rev 16 dated 17 May 2021.

Changes to Performance Work Statement (PWS) as stated in Questions and answ ers.

Quote due date extended to 2 July 2021 by 10:00am.

1. CONTRACT ID CODE PAGE OF PAGES

J 1 56

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

16C. DATE SIGNED

BY 29-Jun-2021

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA15C. DATE SIGNED15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of Contracting Officer)(Signature of person authorized to sign)

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., Street, County, State and Zip Code) X W912PQ21Q0015

X 9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

18-Jun-2021

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

X The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offer X is extended, is not extended.

Offer must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended by one of the following methods:

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning 1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted;

or (c) By separate letter or telegram which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE

RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN

REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by telegram or letter, provided each telegram or letter makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required)

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS.

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE

CONTRACT ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(B).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not, is required to sign this document and return copies to the issuing office.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

10A. MOD. OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 5. PROJECT NO.(If applicable)

6. ISSUED BY

3. EFFECTIVE DATE

29-Jun-2021

CODE

USPFO NY PURCHASING & CONTRACTING

330 OLD NISKAYUNA ROAD

LATHAM NY 12110-2224

W912PQ 7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than item 6)

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO.

CODE

See Item 6

FACILITY CODECODE

EMAIL:TEL:

SECTION SF 30 BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

SECTION SF 30 - BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

The following have been added by full text:

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

1. s there a page limit for the technical proposal? Reference solicitation and specifically

FAR Clause verbiage 52-212-2

2. How many FTE are currently supporting this contract? Currently there are 5

3. Does the Government have established labor categories for each FTE on this contract?

That is up to the vendor to place each category into a category on the Wage

Determination.

4. Does the CM have to be on-site/in-state? No

5. Does telework only apply to the current COVID-19 environment, or does it apply to operations at all times? It is not just for COVID-19. However it is expected that employees will perform at the Watervliet duty location the majority of the time unless weather conditions or national emergency or incidents occur.

6. Are there any special requirements/IT certifications for the IT support personnel (i.e. Security

+)? Yes, Security+ and a Secret Clearance Level

7. Are all the positions considered SCA positions? Yes

8. Does the government have an expectation that all listed labor positions will be full-time?

Yes, all are expected to be full time.

9. Are there any certifications required for the Network Support Position? Yes, Security+ and a Secret Clearance Level

10. Is there an incumbent or is this a new requirement?

A: Yes, there is an incumbent. Contract W912PQ-17-P-0222, Advantech

11. 4.2 Secret Facility Clearance: The contractor shall possess or be eligible to receive and maintain a SECRET facility clearance from the Defense Security Services.

Our interpretation is that a Facility Clearance does not have to be possessed at award, but the offeror must be eligible to obtain after award. Is this a correct interpretation?

If a Joint Venture answers and one partner of the JV holds a facility clearance, will that clearance be recognized as owned by the offeror?

A: Offerer must be able to obtain a SECRET Facililty Clearance. If one partner holds one already that will be recognized provided they maintain their joint venture for the length of the contract period.

12. 4.3 Contractor Security Clearance: The contractor employees performing work for the Human Resources Manager, Multi-Component Coordinator and Network Support duties of this contract shall have been granted a SECRET security clearance from the Defense Industry Security Clearance Office.

Are the employees required to have the clearance upon award or can they work under an interim until the final clearance has been granted?

A: Employees can work under an interim clearance until the SECRET is granted.

13. Section 5.0 - Marketing & Advertising Specialist, Videographer/Media

Production, Multi-Component Coordinator, Network Support, Human Resources Manager Can you provide requirements as far as education and experience for each of the labor categories?

A: No, employees are expected to be able to do the duties outlined upon starting employment.

14. Quote Submission: Quotes shall be submitted with a maximum size of 10 pages. Quotes must include how each task will be complete.

Is the page limit of 10 pages inclusive of the technical and pricing? Is past performance required? Are resumes required for any of the labor categories?

A. The pricing can be placed on each CLIN on the solicitation submission and not included in the 10 page limit. Past performance and Resumes are not mandatory. It is up the vendor to decide what to include in your quote submission.

NYARNG RRBS Questions

Pg # Section # Section Name Question

1.4.2 Recognized

Holidays Will the government be modifying the list of Federal Holidays to reflect the new June 19th (“Juneteenth”) as a period of non-service performance?

A: Yes

1.4.5.12 OPSEC

SOP/Plan Will the government consider the training time (to be spent) in having a staff member become an OPSEC Coordinator as part of the productive hours (delivered work)?

A: Paragraph 1.4.5.12 will be deleted from the PWS

Will the government ensure that assigned contractor staff are billeted for the OPSEC Officer training course to get OPSEC officer level II trained within the identified 90 day period for achievement?

A: Paragraph 1.4.5.12 will be deleted from the PWS

Will the government reimburse the contractor for any costs involved in achieving the required OPSEC Level II certification (travel, per diem, registration, etc.) or the government will not reimburse these costs explain the reasoning why a support services contract is thus required to have this certification level?

A: Paragraph 1.4.5.12 will be deleted from the PWS

4.2 Secret

Facility Clearance

Since the need for the contractor to supply and hold the clearances of assigned staff for Day 1 support ability is critical, and that the awardee (as the Prime) holds privity and responsibility with the government alone will the government require that the Prime contractor provide proof of a current Secret Facility clearance level, and that the FCL is not being managed by a subcontracting partner who holds no privity with the government in terms of responsibility or contractual accountability?

A: Reference Item 13 Security Guidance on the DD 254

Tech Exhibit 1 5.1.2 Will the government provide adjusted dates (currently showing 1 JUL and 1 AUG) as AQL metric points?

A: Yes, adjusted dates will be provided and worked on with the employee for the base year

CLINS The government specifies that under CLIN’s 0001, 1001, 2001, and 3001 that a Wage Determination applies; this indicates that portions of or all of the staff to be assigned are SCA-based; of the defined roles (support staff), which staff are considered SCA employees?

A: All employees are SCA

For the Travel CLIN’s, is it correct in understanding that the government wants NO pricing (plug numbers, etc.) inserted within each of those respective CLIN areas?

A: Correct

42 Delivery Information

The government has indicated a start date (projected) of July 31, 2021;

as we are currently expected to submit proposals nominally on June 28th, and there is a defined 30 day transitionary period is this date considered feasible for the government to receive, review, vet, and award in a timely manner to allow a start of July 31st?

A: Contractor is expected to fully perform on the start date of the contract. An extension in the current contract is being proposed but no finalized to date.

50 Is the provision at 52.204-7, System for Award Management included in this solicitation?

A: No

51 Will the government require the submission of current VETS-4212 documentation and if so where in the submission format should that be included?

A: No, There is no VETS-4212 referenced in the solicitation

As this is a SDVOSB set-aside, will the government require that offerors provide proof of current validated Service-Disabled status?

A: Verification of SDVOSB will be through the System of Award Management (SAM) Beta System

64 Under the Debriefing item (l), the government has indicated “Not Applicable”; does this signify the government intent NOT to provide any debriefings concerning this solicitation action, and if so, why?

A: Debrief is not mandatory when using Informal Source Selection Procedures but when requested the Government will provide information on the Basis of Award Critieria

65 The government references a technical proposal and a business proposal, yet only defines a 10-page limit for the quote; will the government provide more detail in what is expected in terms of volumes, layout and composition, and page count (both included and excluded items such as table of contents, etc.)?

A: No Reference 52-212-2 for information on requirements.

The government has indicated multiple labor roles (e.g., Marketing and Advertising Specialist, Videographer/Media Production, Multi- Component Coordinator, Network Support Specialist, and Human Resources Manager); all these roles are performing critical functions for the customer and should be considered as KEY staff roles. Will the government require that resumes be provided for EACH position, along with signed letters of commitment that indicate accepted salary negotiations? Requiring these materials as part of the quote submission will prove that the successful offeror understands the position requirements and needs, is capable of staffing these positions successfully (critical in a tight labor market such as today’s) and is priced correctly to ensure continued success in the customer’s critical support needs.

A: No, the government doesn’t mandate this in their quote. The vendor will decide what to include in their quote.

The government has multiple labor tasks that cover areas of marketing/advertising analyses, videography and photography editing and graphics, business analytics, networking and cyber-security roles, and human resource specializations but do not seem to be requiring offerors to submit any relevant performance capabilities that would demonstrate any success in performing this type of work activities successfully. Will the government require offerors to submit up to three

(3) past performance references that will assist the government in properly ensuring that FAR 9.104 responsibility criteria are met?

A: No, the government doesn’t mandate this in their quote. The vendor will decide what to include in their quote.

In view of the types of labor roles requested, and the actions and activities defined in the PWS for support activities we ask the government to please explain or define how the determination to conduct this solicitation as an “LPTA” evaluation was arrived at? It is our observation that this should be a best value evaluation with a full review of capabilities of an offeror made vice simply the lowest price that can be obtained.

A: This solicitation is not Best Value or LPTA Formal Procedures but Simplified Acquisition procedures. All quotes will be evaluated for technical acceptability. This was determined and approved as the Acquisition Strategy for this requirement.

66 The government has indicated a “training” CLIN allocation of $10,000; is this actually a TRAVEL CLIN and associated “plug” number?

A: yes, This is a travel plug number

In the Section B CLINS, for the Travel line items the government provided specific instruction to NOT insert pricing under those applicable CLIN areas; however, the government seems to indicate a validated number of $10,000 respective to annual travel “plug” values…are offerors to enter the $10,000 as part of our proposed pricing and CLIN formats, or do we enter 0(zero) for the CLIN values, and no estimate ($10,000) as part of subjective pricing workups?

A: Offerer’s can put 0 in this as it is not evaluated as part of their bid

88 The government is providing GSA salary rate equivalents but states that the attached Wage and Determination rates apply (under the Section B Labor CLINS); IF the SCA-based Wage and Determinations are applicable, the government needs to identify the 1) applicable SCA-based labor categories currently supporting the contract, and 2) the applicable base hourly rate associated with the SCA labor category (along with the relevant Health/Welfare component). Otherwise, we will all (both the contracting office and the offeror) be out of compliance with the mandated Department of Labor regulations and the Service Contract Act. Will the government provide the applicable SCA labor categories and hourly rates as per the attached Wage and Determination information?

A: No. It is up to the vendor to decide the best fit category in accordance with the Wage Determination

Does EO13706 apply to this contract?

A: Yes, this contract is covered under Service Contract Act

The attached Wage and Determination statement (2015-4143 Rev. No.

15) has been replaced by Revision 16 (published May 17, 2021); will the government please review and update the out-of-date information as that is structurally significant to the solicitation?

A: Yes Will be included in the Amendment

What is the change in the requirements from the previous iterations that has necessitated the positions now requiring a Secret Security Clearance?

A: Due to Ft Knox requirements and new HR system platforms a SECRET security clearance is now required for the positions of Multi- Component Coordinator, Network Support and Human Resources Manager

The DD254 states that, “The Prime Contractor Company must have a Facility Clearance (FCL) at the appropriate level (IAW the NISPOM DOD 5220.22-M and AR 380-49) prior to the start of the contract award period of performance.” Then later in that same paragraph states, “If no FCL, the supporting Government Contracting Activity will sponsor the prime contract company in obtaining the FCL.”. Can you clarify if the FCL needs to be in place prior to the contract award?

A: As Stated in Section 13 of the DD 254 the vendor must be able to obtain the Facility Clearance and will Sponsor the Prime if required.

Are SCA rates applicable to this contract?

A: yes

Page 37 of 150 of the RFQ states that Attachment 1 DD 254 is, “FOR PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY”. Can you confirm that this form is not needed as part of the RFQ Submission?

A: That is for information purposes only. Upon award it will be finalized

On page 65 of the RFQ, it mentions that there is a 10-page limit on the responses, does this include the pricing? Cover letter? Will you be looking for in-depth responses to each task listed?

A: This does not include pricing as this should be placed on the signed solicitation. It is up to the vendor to decide what to include in their quote.

Is the NY ANG expecting a one volume or two volume response?

A: Reference 52-212 for quote requirements

Will the government identify the specific labor codes as defined in the SCA Directory of Occupations that would classify the defined PWS task areas as SCA-eligible?

A: No, it is up to the vendor to decide which category is the best fit in accordance with the Wage Determination.

RFP Reference RFP Reference Text Question

1.4.1.1, 1.4.5.13, 4.3

1.4.1.1 Telework: The Government will permit the

contractor to telework in support of this requirement.

In furtherance of Continuity of Operations Planning (COOP), a telework program may be enacted to ensure that the Government's mission-critical operations stay operational during times of national emergency or incidents of national significance. Telework shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

1.4.5.13 Access to Classified Information. The

contractor shall comply with FAR 52.204-2, Security Requirements. This clause applies to contracts that involve access to information classified “Confidential,” “Secret,” or “Top Secret,” and requires contractors to comply with the Security Agreement (DD Form 441), including the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (DoD 5220.22-M) and applicable updates/changes. This contract requires an overall security level of “Secret” due to the duties and access to information required by the Human Resources Manager, Multi-Component Coordinator and Network Support positions. A DD 254 DoD Contract Security Classification Specification is attached to this PWS.)

4.3 Contractor Security Clearance: The contractor

employees performing work for the Human Resources Manager, Multi-Component Coordinator and Network Support duties of this contract shall have been granted a SECRET security clearance from the Defense Industry Security Clearance Office.

Will the Government please clarify whether the Human Resources Manager, Multi- Component Coordinator and Network Support individuals are permitted to telework in light of the fact that these positions require Secret clearances?

Answer - Yes, all positions are eligible for telework under certain circumstances.

Employees are expected to work at the Watervliet Arsenal on a daily basis unless there is weather, national or safety issue.

5.1.2, Deliverables

5.1.2 RRBN will develop an annual marketing plan.

Contractor shall breakdown that plan into monthly marketing initiatives. Monthly initiative plans will be due to the COR by July 1st for the upcoming fiscal year that begins October

Deliverables: 5.1.2 Monthly Marketing Initiative Plan - Provide by July 1st for the upcoming Fiscal Year

Will the Government please confirm that the first annual marketing plan will be due 1 July 2022 given that the period of performance for the base year starts 31 Jul 2021?

Answer - The government will definitely give additional time to prepare the FY22 plan due to the timing of the new contract.

pg. 66 Inquiries All questions and / or inquiries concerning this solicitation must be submitted via email to Christine Campbell by 10:00AM ET, June 23, 2021. Questions submitted after the due date will not be accepted. Any resulting addition, deletion, or change to the RFQ document will be made by issuing a formal amendment, which may be downloaded from http://www.beta.sam.gov

Given that questions are due 10:00 AM ET on 23 Jun 2021;

the Government will need time to compile them and provide answers; and offerors will need time to adjust their proposals accordingly, will the Government please consider extending the proposal due date to 7 July 2021?

Answer: Closed date is extended to 2 July 2021. No Further extension

pg. 30 Performance Objective 5.1.5.5 Attend Workshops, conferences and seminars to enhance advertising efforts

Will the Government please confirm that this performance objective should be labeled 5.1.5.6 so it corresponds to the appropriate PWS task?

Answer PWS will be adjusted to match

pg. 31 Performance Objective 5.2.3 Secure, maintain, and account for all NYARNG equipment used in Videographer duties

Will the Government please confirm that this performance objective should be labeled 5.2.4 so it corresponds to the appropriate PWS task?

Answer PWS will be adjusted to match

pg. 31 Performance Objective 5.2.4 Seek video opportunities for NYARNG videos

Will the Government please confirm that this performance objective should be labeled 5.2.5 so it corresponds to the appropriate PWS task?

Answer PWS will be adjusted to match

pg. 35 1.4.5.12 TARP Training Certificates Will the Government please confirm that this deliverable should be labeled 1.4.5.14 so it corresponds to the appropriate PWS task?

Answer PWS will be adjusted to match

SECTION SF 1449 - CONTINUATION SHEET

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

The required response date/time has changed from 30-Jun-2021 10:00 AM to 02-Jul-2021 10:00 AM.

The following have been modified:

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

FOR

New York Army National Guard Recruiting & Retention Headquarters Support Services

1.0 General:

1.1 Scope: The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, materials, supervision, and quality control necessary, except as specified in Paragraph 3.0 as Government Furnished, to perform Recruiting and Retention support services for the New York Army National Guard (NYARNG) as defined in this PWS.

1.1.1 Objectives: The purpose of the NYARNG Recruiting & Retention Headquarters Support Services contract is to serve as a force multiplier for the New York Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion (RRBN).

1.2 Background: The Recruiting and Retention Battalion of the New York Army National Guard has a requirement for support services. National Guard Bureau (NGB) has provided the state and territory Recruiting and Retention Battalions (RRBs) authority to augment their Full-Time Unit Support (FTUS) in order to provide the maximum number of recruiters in the field to support the state of New York and the National Guard Bureau’s end strength goals. The goal of the NYARNG RRBN is to increase to and maintain 100% authorized strength with an ultimate goal of attaining 105% authorized strength. Due to reductions in authorizations for FTUS positions, the role of the contractor support has greatly increased, as the operational support, marketing, personnel and reporting requirements have increased. While newly available automation systems provide near real time statistical and historical data for recruiting and retention performance, it has also increased the need to provide decision makers with analysis to affect end strength goals. Additionally, mandatory training and personnel services requirements have increased across the force, during this period of decreased FTUS availability. The NYARNG RRBN requires a highly responsive process whereby the government can quickly obtain needed support and services.

These services are required to support the NYARNG in achieving authorized end strength objectives and operational force readiness IAW a State District Maintenance Plan. Based on emerging requirements, specifically due to the growth and evolution of the force over the next three (3) to five (5) years, these services will facilitate mission initiatives to include all activities involved in the coordination of services with civilian and military stakeholders in regards to increasing accessions into the NYARNG.

1.3 Period of Performance (PoP): The Period of Performance shall be 1 Base Year of 12 months and three 12-month option years.

1.4 General Information:

1.4.1 Place and Performance of Services: 40 hours per week. The contractor shall provide services between the hours of 0800-1630 on Monday through Friday, except on recognized US holidays or when the Government facility/installation is closed due to local or national emergencies, administrative closings, or similar Government-directed facility/installation closings. Performance shall be at 25 Gibson Street, Watervliet Arsenal NY 12189. The contractor shall at all times maintain an adequate work force for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the Government facility/installation is not closed for the above reasons. When hiring personnel, the contractor shall keep in mind that the stability and continuity of the work force are essential. Teleworking is authorized.

1.4.1.1 Telework: The Government will permit the contractor to telework in support of this requirement. In furtherance of Continuity of Operations Planning (COOP), a telework program may be enacted to ensure that the Government's mission-critical operations stay operational during times of national emergency or incidents of national significance. Telework shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

1.4.1.2 Unscheduled gate closures by the Security Police may occur at any time causing all personnel entering or exiting a closed installation to experience a delay. This cannot be predicted or prevented. Contractors are not compensated for unexpected closures or delays. Vehicles operated by contractor personnel are subject to search pursuant to applicable regulations. Any moving violation of any applicable motor vehicle regulation may result in the termination of the contractor employee’s installation driving privileges.

1.4.1.3 The contractor’s employees shall become familiar with and obey the regulations of the installation; including fire, traffic, safety and security regulations while on the installation. Contractor employees should only enter restricted areas when required to do so and only upon prior approval. All contractor employees shall carry proper identification with them at all times, and shall be subject to such checks as may be deemed necessary. The contractor shall ensure compliance with all regulations and orders of the installation, which may affect performance. The Government reserves the right to direct the removal of an employee from Government property or revoke access to Government systems for misconduct, security reasons, or any overt evidence of communicable disease. Removal of contractor employees for reasons stated above does not relieve the Contractor from responsibility for total performance of this contract.

1.4.2 Recognized Holidays: The following are recognized United States (US) holidays.

The contractor shall not perform services on these days:

1.4.3.1 New Year’s Day: January 1st

1.4.3.2 Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday

1.4.3.3 President’s Day

1.4.3.4 Memorial Day

1.4.3.5.Juneteenth Day

1.4.3.6 Independence Day: July 4th

1.4.3.7 Labor Day

1.4.3.8 Columbus Day

1.4.3.9 Veteran’s Day: November 11th

1.4.3.10 Thanksgiving Day

1.4.3.11 Christmas Day: December 25th

1.4.3 Quality Control (QC): The contractor shall develop and maintain an effective QC Plan (QCP) to ensure services are performed in accordance with this PWS. The contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent, and ensure non-recurrence of defective services. The contractor’s QCP is the means by which it assures itself that its work complies with the requirements of the contract. As a minimum, the contractor shall develop QC procedures that address the areas identified in Technical Exhibit 1, Performance Requirements Summary (PRS). A final QCP shall be submitted to the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) NLT 10 days after contract award.

After acceptance of the QCP, the contractor shall obtain the Contracting Officer’s (KO’s) acceptance in writing of any proposed changes to its QCP.

1.4.4 Quality Assurance (QA): The Government will evaluate the contractor’s performance under this contract in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). This plan is primarily focused on what the Government will do to ensure that the contractor has performed in accordance with the performance standards. It defines how the performance standards will be applied, the frequency of surveillance, and acceptable quality level(s) or defect rate(s).

1.4.5 Installation Access and Security Requirements. The contractor shall comply with all applicable installation/facility access and local security policies and procedures, which may be obtained from the COR. The contractor and all associated subcontractor employees shall provide all information required for background checks to meet installation access requirements to be accomplished by installation Provost Marshal Office, Director of Emergency Services, or Security Office. The contractor shall ensure compliance with all personal identity verification requirements as directed by Department of Defense (DoD), Headquarters Department of Army (HQDA) and/or local policy (see PWS 6.0). Should the Force Protection Condition (FPCON) change, the Government may require changes in contractor security matters or processes.

1.4.5.1 For contractors requiring Common Access Card (CAC): The CAC is the DoD Federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) credential. Before CAC issuance, the contractor employee requires, at a minimum, a favorably adjudicated Tier 1 or an equivalent or higher investigation in accordance with Army Directive 2014-05. The contractor employee will be issued a CAC only if duties involve one of the following: (1) both physical access to a DoD facility and access, via logon, to DoD networks on-site or remotely; (2) remote access, via logon, to a DoD network using DoD-approved remote access procedures; or (3) physical access to multiple DoD facilities or multiple nonDoD federally controlled facilities on behalf of the DoD on a recurring basis for a period of 6 months or more. At the discretion of the sponsoring activity, an initial CAC may be issued based on a favorable review of the FBI fingerprint check and a successfully scheduled Tier 1 investigation at the Office of Personnel Management.

Sponsorship and enrollment information about each applicant must be registered in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) through either the Real-Time Automated Personnel ID System (RAPIDS) using the DD Form 1172-2 or the Trusted Associate Sponsorship System (TASS).

1.4.5.1.1 Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD)-12 Background Investigation Requirements: The contractor shall ensure that all contractor and subcontractor personnel whose duties require CAC card issuance obtain them, and shall process all CAC card applications. The contractor shall ensure that all employees requiring an initial background investigation complete a Personnel Security Investigation Portal (PSIP) form at Attachment TBD, at the earliest possible date and that this form is forwarded to the COR immediately. The COR will review the form for completeness and accuracy and forward it to the NGB Personnel Security manager who will initiate the investigation process via the PSIP. Contractor personnel will then receive two e-mail messages; the first will confirm that the investigative service provider has received the request, and the second will provide instructions for the completion of the appropriate form via the Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (e-QIP) system.

Upon completion of the e-QIP questionnaire and submittal of all required documents, including fingerprint card to the security manager, the background investigation (BI) will be initiated. The contractor shall ensure immediate compliance with all instructions regarding background investigation processing, including those provided verbally, by e-mail or via a Government system. The contractor is cautioned that the entire process from submittal of the PSIP form to return of the FBI fingerprint check may routinely take from two to six weeks and shall factor this lead time into its hiring/placement process.

The contractor shall make all reasonable efforts to ensure that contractor employees meet CAC eligibility standards upon assignment to the contract and shall be held responsible for delays, failure to meet performance requirements or decreases in efficiency in accordance with the applicable inspection clause.

1.4.5.1.2 Trusted Associate Sponsorship System (TASS): The contractor shall process CAC applications through the TASS, the procedures for which are described below.

Although there is no requirement for the contractor to designate a “Corporate Facility Security Officer" (FSO) to serve as its single point of contact for the BI, the TASS application process and other CAC and security-related matters, such designation facilitates these processes. If a Corporate FSO is not established, all contractor employees requiring a CAC will be required to process their own applications. The submission process for CAC applications is as follows:

1. The contractor's FSO or contractor employee shall submit requests for a CAC via email to the designated TASS Trusted Agent (TA). The TASS TA for this requirement will be: SSG Steven A. Holzman at steven.a.holzman.mil@mail.mil

2. The Government will establish a TASS application account for each CAC Request and will provide each contractor employee a user ID and password, via email, to the contractor’s FSO or contractor employee. The FSO or contractor employee shall access the TASS account and complete the CAC application (entering/editing contractor information as applicable) at: https://tass.dmdc.osd.mil/tass/. The contractor’s FSO or contractor employee shall follow up to ensure that the TA is processing the request.

3. The Government will inform the contractor's applicant, via email, of one of the following:

a. Approval.* Upon approval, the information is transferred to the DEERS database and an email notification is sent to the contractor with instructions on obtaining their CAC. The contractor proceeds to a RAPIDS station (RAPIDS Site Locator:

http://www.dmdc.osd.mil/rsl/).

b. Rejection.* The Government, in separate correspondence, will provide reason(s) for rejection.

c. Return. Additional information or correction to the application required by the contractor employee.

*The contractor shall maintain records of all approved and rejected applications.

1.4.5.1.3. At the RAPIDS station, the RAPIDS Verification Officer will verify the contractor employee by Social Security Number (SSN) and two forms of identification.

Identity source documents must come from the list of acceptable documents included in Form I-9, OMB No. 1615-0047, "Employment Eligibility Verification". Consistent with applicable law, at least one document from the Form I-9 list shall be a valid (unexpired) State or Federal Government-issued picture ID. The Identity documents will be inspected for authenticity and scanned and stored in the DEERS upon issuance of an ID. The photo ID requirement cannot be waived, consistent with applicable statutory mailto:steven.a.holzman.mil@mail.mil requirements. The Verification Officer will capture primary and alternate fingerprints, picture, and updates to DEERS, and will then issue a CAC. Issued CACs will be valid for no longer than three years, or until the individual's contract end date (inclusive of any options), whichever is earlier.

1.4.5.1.4 The contractor shall manage requests for new or renewal CAC cards in sufficient time to ensure that all contractor employees have them when needed to perform work under this contract. The contractor shall provide at least 10 calendar days advance notice to the TA, unless there are extenuating circumstances approved by the COR or KO.

1.4.5.1.5 The contractor shall return issued CACs to the DEERS office upon departure or dismissal of each contractor employee, and shall obtain a receipt for each card and provide it to the TA/COR.

1.4.5.1.5.1 Failure to comply with these requirements may result in withholding of final payment.

1.4.5.1.6 The contractor shall obtain an Army Knowledge Online (AKO) email address for each applicant, including subcontractors, who may be deployed or require logical access to a Government computer network. Note: If employees of a contractor lose the privilege to access AKO, they lose the ability to renew their CAC. Therefore, it is critical that contractor employees maintain their AKO accounts.

1.4.5.2 RESERVED

1.4.5.3 Awareness Training (AT) Level 1: All contractor employees, including subcontractor employees, requiring access to Army installations, facilities, and controlled access areas shall complete AT Level 1 training within 30 calendar days after contract start date and within 30 calendar days of new employees commencing performance. The contractor shall submit certificates of completion for each affected contractor and subcontractor employee to the COR within 15 calendar days after completion of training by each employee or subcontractor personnel. AT Level 1 awareness training is available at the following website:

https://jko.jten.mil/courses/atl1/launch.html.

1.4.5.4 iWATCH Training: The contractor and all associated subcontractors with an area of performance within an Army-controlled installation, facilities or area shall brief all employees on the local iWATCH program (training standards provided by the requiring activity Antiterrorism Officer (ATO)). This local developed training shall be used to inform employees of the types of behavior to watch for and instruct employees to report suspicious activity to the COR or the KO. This training shall be completed within 30 calendar days of contract award and within 30 calendar days of new employees commencing performance. The contractor shall report completion for each contractor employee and subcontractor employee to the COR within 15 calendar days after completion of training.

https://jko.jten.mil/courses/atl1/launch.html

1.4.5.5 Communications Security/Information Technology (COMSEC/IT) Security. All communications with DoD organizations are subject to COMSEC review. All telephone communications networks are continually subject to intercept by unfriendly intelligence organizations. DoD has authorized the military departments to conduct COMSEC monitoring and recording of telephone calls originating from, or terminating at, DoD organizations. Therefore, the contractor is advised that any time contractor personnel place or receive a call they are subject to COMSEC procedures. The contractor shall ensure wide and frequent dissemination of the above information to all employees dealing with DoD information. The contractor shall abide by all Government regulations concerning the authorized use of the Government's computer network, including the restriction against using the network to recruit Government personnel or advertise job openings.

1.4.5.6 Use of Government Information Systems (IS) and access to Government networks is a revocable privilege, not a right. Users are the foundation of the DoD strategy and their actions affect the most vulnerable portion of the Army Enterprise Infostructure (AEI). Contractor employees shall have a favorable background investigation or hold a security clearance and access approvals commensurate with the level of information processed or available on the system. Contractor employees shall:

1.4.5.6.1 Comply with the command's Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) for Government owned IS and sign an AUP prior to or upon account activation.

1.4.5.6.2 Complete initial and/or annual Information Assurance (IA) training as defined in the IA Best Business Practices (BBP) training (https://atc.us.army.mil/iastar/docs/Training_BBP.pdf).

1.4.5.6.3 Mark and safeguard files, output products, and storage media per classification level and disseminate them only to individuals authorized to receive them with a valid need to know.

1.4.5.6.4 Protect IS and IS peripherals located in their respective areas in accordance with physical security and data protection requirements.

1.4.5.6.5 Practice safe network and Internet operating principles and take no actions that threaten the integrity of the system or network.

1.4.5.7 Army Training Certification Tracking System (ATCTS): All contractor employees with access to a Government information system shall be registered in ATCTS (https://atc.us.army.mil/iastar/index.php) at commencement of services, and shall successfully complete the DoD Information Assurance awareness training prior to access to the IS and then annually thereafter. (https://iatraining.us.army.mil/).

https://atc.us.army.mil/iastar/docs/Training_BBP.pdf https://atc.us.army.mil/iastar/index.php

1.4.5.8 Information Assurance (IA) Training. All contractor employees and associated subcontractor employees shall complete the DoD IA Awareness Training before issuance of network access and annually thereafter.

1.4.5.9 Information Assurance (IA)/Information Technology (IT) certification. Not applicable.

1.4.5.10 Protection of Personally Identifiable Information (PII). The contractor shall protect all PII encountered in the performance of services in accordance with Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 224.103 Personally Identifiable Information and Department of Defense Directive (DoDD) 5400.11, Department of Defense Privacy Program, and DoD 5400.11-R. If a PII breach results from the contractor’s violation of the aforementioned policies, the contractor shall bear all notification costs, call-center support costs, and credit monitoring service costs for all individuals whose PII has been compromised.

1.4.5.11 OPSEC Training: In accordance with AR 530-1, Operations Security, new contractor employees shall complete Level I OPSEC training within 30 calendar days of their reporting for duty and annually thereafter. The contractor shall submit certificates of completion for each contractor employee to the COR within 15 calendar days after completion of training. Level 1 OPSEC training is available at https://securityawareness.usalearning.gov/opsec/index.htm.

1.4.5.12 OPSEC SOP/Plan. NOT Applicable.

1.4.5.13 Access to Classified Information. The contractor shall comply with FAR 52.204- 2, Security Requirements. This clause applies to contracts that involve access to information classified “Confidential,” “Secret,” or “Top Secret,” and requires contractors to comply with the Security Agreement (DD Form 441), including the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (DoD 5220.22-M) and applicable updates/changes.

This contract requires an overall security level of “Secret” due to the duties and access to information required by the Human Resources Manager, Multi-Component Coordinator and Network Support positions. A DD 254 DoD Contract Security Classification Specification is attached to this PWS.)

1.4.5.14 Threat Awareness and Reporting Program (TARP). Per AR 381-12, Threat Awareness and Reporting Program (TARP), contractor employees with security clearances must receive annual TARP training by a counterintelligence (CI) agent or other trainer as specified in Chapter 2 Threat Awareness and Education, Section II, paragraph 2-4b. The contractor shall identify annual TARP training, personnel trained, and date of training within 15 days of training completion.

1.4.6 Physical Security. The contractor shall safeguard all Government property provided for contractor use. At the close of each work period, Government facilities, equipment and materials shall be secured.

1.4.6.1 Key Control. NOTE: All references to keys include key cards. The contractor shall establish and implement methods of ensuring that no keys/key cards issued by the Government are lost or misplaced or are used by unauthorized persons. No keys issued by the Government shall be duplicated. Such procedures shall include turn-in of any issued keys by personnel who no longer require access to locked areas. The contractor shall include procedures covering key control in the QCP.

1.4.6.1.1 The contractor shall immediately report any occurrences of lost or duplicated keys/key cards to the COR.

1.4.6.1.2 In the event keys, other than master keys, are lost or duplicated, the contractor shall, upon direction by the KO, re-key or replace the affected lock or locks; however, the Government, at its option, may replace the affected lock or locks or perform re-keying. When the Government replaces or re-keys the locks, the Government will deduct the total cost of lock replacement or re-keying from the monthly payment due the contractor. In the event a master key is lost or duplicated, the Government will replace all locks and keys for that system, and will deduct the total cost from the monthly payment due the contractor.

1.4.6.1.3 The contactor shall prohibit the use of the Government issued keys/key cards by any persons other than the contractor’s employees. The contractor shall prohibit the opening of locked areas by contractor employees to permit entrance of persons other than contactor employees engaged in the performance of services in those areas, or personnel authorized entrance by the KO.

1.4.6.2 RESERVED.

1.4.7 Special Qualifications: The contractor shall ensure all employees possess a driver’s license for operating a motor vehicle in the state of New York. This does not include education or other qualifications for the position in which the contractor employee is performing, dress codes, or other information. (NOTE: The Government does not provide training to contractors. Contractors must ensure that any personnel performing under a contract are fully trained, licensed, certified, and otherwise qualified to provide services.)

1.4.8 Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings: The contractor agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the KO in accordance with FAR 42.5.

The KO, COR and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the contractor to review the contactor’s performance. At these meetings, the KO will apprise the contractor of how the Government views the contractor’s performance and the contractor shall apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced.

The contractor shall resolve outstanding issues raised by the Government. Contractor attendance at these meetings shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

1.4.9 Contract Manager (CM): The contactor shall designate a CM who shall ensure performance under this contract. The name of this person, and an alternate who shall act for the contractor when the CM is absent, shall be designated in writing to the KO.

The CM or alternate shall have full authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract. The CM shall work through the COR to resolve issues, receive technical instructions, and ensure adequate performance of services. The CM shall ensure that contractor employees do not perform any services outside the scope of the contract without an official modification issued by the KO. The CM shall ensure contractor employees understand that services performed outside the scope of the contract are performed wholly at the expense of the contractor.

1.4.10 Identification of Contractor Employees: All contractor personnel attending meetings, answering Government telephones and working in other situations where their contractor status is not obvious to third parties are required to identify themselves as such to avoid creating an impression that they are Government employees. The contractor shall ensure that all documents or reports produced by contractor personnel are suitably marked as contractor products or that contractor participation is appropriately disclosed. The contractor’s status as a “contractor” shall be predominantly displayed in all correspondence types (to include signature blocks on e-mail) and dealings with Government or non-Government entities. Contractor personnel shall wear identification badges distinguishing themselves as such. The badges shall have the company name, employee name and the word “contractor” displayed.

1.4.10.1 The contractor shall retrieve all identification media (including vehicle passes) from its employees who depart employment for any reason. The contractor shall return all identification media (i.e., badges and vehicles passes) to the KO within 14 days of an employee’s departure.

1.4.11. Combating Trafficking in Persons: The United States Government has adopted a zero tolerance policy regarding trafficking in persons. Contractors and contractor employees shall not engage in severe forms of trafficking in persons during the period of performance of the contract; procure commercial sex acts during the period of performance of the contract; or use forced labor in the performance of the contract. The Contractor shall notify its employees of the United States Government’s zero tolerance policy, the actions that will be taken against employees for violations of this policy. The contractor shall take appropriate action, up to and including termination, against employees or subcontractors that violate the US Government policy as described at

FAR 22.17.

1.4.12 Contractor Travel

The contractor shall travel to various locations within the United States, predominantly in New York, during the performance of this contract for the benefit of the New York Army National Guard.