ABSSLC seeks Orientation & Mobility services.

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is requesting bids for orientation and mobility services at Abilene State Supported Living Center (AbSSLC) for approximately 244 visually impaired or dual-sensory-impaired residents under IFB HHS0017600v2, with bids due August 20, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. CST.

Bidders must hold one of two certifications: Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP) Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) or National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC). Three years of relevant experience is required. The scope includes pre-cane training, sighted guide techniques, assessments, and staff training, delivered on-site Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, with a four-hour response requirement for service calls and monthly scheduled visits.

Pricing must be submitted as firm, fixed hourly rates on Exhibit C for both regular and outside-regular-hours service, with acceptable responses ranging from $0.00 to $200,000 per hour. The initial contract term runs three years from September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2029, with one potential one-year extension at HHSC's discretion. Price adjustments may occur at HHSC's sole discretion based on Consumer Price Index.

Bidders must provide three verifiable references for similar services within the past five years and carry comprehensive insurance: commercial general liability ($1,000,000 per occurrence), professional liability ($1,000,000), workers' compensation per Texas requirements, commercial automobile liability ($1,000,000), and umbrella liability ($1,000,000). Responses will be evaluated on meeting IFB requirements, ability to meet performance delivery, and price; HHSC will award based on best value to the state, not lowest price alone.

Questions are due August 12, 2026 at 1 p.m., with responses posted by August 14. Bids are submitted through mail, email (PCS.Bids@HHS.Texas.Gov), or the HHS Online Bid Room. All required certifications, affirmations, pricing sheet, bidder reference form, Security and Privacy Inquiry form, and proof of financial capability must accompany the bid; failure to submit Exhibit A, Exhibit C, or required certifications results in disqualification.