Consultant with DEA Expertise with Automated Dispensing Units

The State of Rhode Island, specifically through the Division of Purchases and focusing on Providence County, is seeking a consultant with Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) expertise to provide specialized services related to automated dispensing units for Schedule III medications within the Department of Corrections. The primary objective is to obtain consulting services that will provide expert guidance on DEA regulations and requirements for the administration and management of automated dispensing units. Vendors must possess comprehensive knowledge of DEA regulations surrounding controlled substances and experience with automated medication dispensing technologies. The Request for Proposal (RFP22001308) requires interested vendors to submit detailed technical proposals demonstrating their qualifications, along with separate cost proposals and ISBE participation plans. The solicitation was released on April 21, 2022, with a vendor question and answer period running from April 21 to May 3, 2022, and proposals are due by May 19, 2022. The initial contract period is expected to begin approximately June 1, 2022, and will run for up to one year with no renewal options. Proposals will be evaluated by a technical evaluation committee based on technical merit, proposed cost, and the vendor's proposed utilization of Minority, Women, and Disability Business Enterprises.

The state encourages participation from Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), and Disability Business Enterprises (DisBEs), collectively referred to as ISBEs, and will award additional scoring points based on the vendor's proposed ISBE utilization rates. Vendors must be registered in the Ocean State Procures system and will be required to maintain specific insurance coverages, including $1 million in general liability, $100,000 in workers compensation, $1 million in automobile liability, and $2 million in professional liability coverage. There is no mention of an incumbent vendor, and the contract funding is contingent on the availability of state appropriated funds. Vendors must also comply with Rhode Island's laws regarding small business participation, non-discrimination in employment, and foreign corporation registration requirements. While the RFP does not specify a precise contract value or budget range, it indicates that the state reserves the right to award the contract based on cost alone or to reject any or all proposals submitted, providing flexibility in the procurement process.