Concealable body armor - vest

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting sealed bids for concealable body armor vests, with bids due November 25, 2008.

The procurement is governed by Maine's standard sealed-bid procedures. Bidders must submit unit prices on prescribed forms or through the electronic bidding system to the Division of Purchases at Room 119, 9 State House Station in Augusta, Maine, prior to opening. The State reserves the right to reject any or all bids and will award to the lowest responsible bidder based on best value considerations including quality, specification conformity, delivery dates, and ultimate cost to the State.

In case of tie bids, preference is given to in-state bidders or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine. The State reserves the right to increase or decrease ordered quantities by up to 10% unless otherwise specified and may procure from alternative sources at the contractor's expense in case of default. All transportation charges, including freight and express delivery, must be prepaid and borne by the contractor unless otherwise specified. Cash discounts of 20 days or more are considered in determining the low bidder; discounts under 20 days are not considered.

Contractors must furnish items exactly as specified on the purchase order; deviation constitutes grounds for rejection. Samples required for bid evaluation must be furnished at no charge. Pricing must exclude Federal and Maine State Sales and Use Taxes. Compliance with Maine's Chemical Substance Identification Law is required, including provision of current material safety data sheets to direct purchasers.