1711-27-R-RFIN-00001

The Mississippi Forensic Laboratory, a division of the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, is seeking to procure professional forensics staffing and services as a sole-source procurement from SNA International, LLC under RFIN 1711-27-R-RFIN-00001, with an objection deadline of October 5, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. local time. This is a sole-source designation; no other vendors may respond.

The scope encompasses on-site daily staffing to manage and deliver forensics, biometrics, and identity intelligence services, with specific focus on eliminating critical backlogs in firearms and drug testing. SNA will provide five dedicated forensic scientists comprising two Controlled Substance Analyst/Senior Scientists and three Controlled Substance Analysts. The forensic scientist positions will execute operational assessments, process improvement recommendations, firearm analysis (including microscopic projectile and casing comparisons, serial number restorations, distance determinations, and NIBIN utilization), and controlled substance chemistry examination. All staff will work on-site during MSFL's current business hours.

The three-year contract value is $2,521,382.40 — $815,712 in Year 1, $840,211.20 in Year 2, and $865,459.20 in Year 3, reflecting 3 percent annual escalation. Hourly rates represent negotiated discounts from SNA's GSA schedule. The period of performance commences upon signature by both parties but not prior to December 20, 2026 and terminates December 19, 2029. Monthly invoicing is required with payment due within 45 days of approval. The contract is subject to Mississippi State Legislature appropriation and may be terminated by DPS without penalty upon ten business days' written notice if funds are not forthcoming.

The MSFL justified the sole source on grounds that SNA International possesses dual CMMI and ISO certification specific to forensics and biometrics services, historical operational knowledge of MSFL procedures, specialized staff credentials, and established experience with Justice Trax systems. Market analysis included review of GSA schedule vendors and private laboratory alternatives; the agency determined that dedicated staffing represents the only reliable method to permanently reduce backlogs.