25-0026-IFB - DOJ - Bureau of Investigation - Helicopter Services for DOJ Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis (EPIC) Program - South Region

The California Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Investigation is soliciting bids for Invitation for Bid (IFB) No. 25-0026-IFB, specifically seeking helicopter services for the Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis (EPIC) Program in the South Region. The procurement requires a Type 3, high skid, four-bladed, six-passenger, turbine-powered Bell 407 helicopter with comprehensive operational support, including a pilot, fuel, and maintenance services. The helicopter must be capable of deployment across ten Southern California counties: San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Imperial, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Inyo. Contractors must ensure their helicopter and pilots meet Inter-Agency inspection carding standards established by the United States Forest Service and Department of Interior. The proposed contract term spans two years, from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027, with potential for extension. Bids are due by 3:00 p.m. PST on Friday, April 25, 2025, with a bid opening scheduled for Monday, April 28, 2025.

The solicitation includes a mandatory Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation requirement of 3%, with potential incentives for exceeding this threshold. Bidders should note that funding is subject to Budget Act appropriations, and the contract will include daily availability rates and hourly flight rates based on United States Forest Service National Helicopter contracts. The DOJ reserves the right to temporarily relocate the helicopter to other regions to support special operations, investigations, and critical incidents. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the contract will be funded through state appropriations and is designed to support ongoing cannabis eradication efforts. The procurement appears open to qualified helicopter service providers who can meet the stringent operational, maintenance, and certification requirements outlined in the solicitation document, with a focus on supporting law enforcement and interdiction activities across Southern California's diverse geographical regions.