Contract: Gloves with Inserts.

The State of Maine Division of Purchases, on behalf of the Department of Conservation & Marine Resources and Department of Marine Resources, is requesting bids for black nylon insulated gloves with inserts, with bids due October 22, 2009. The source contains no decision-flipping set-aside or preference program beyond the state's general preference for in-state bidders or Maine-manufactured products when price, quality, availability, and other factors are equal.

The scope is black nylon gloves with 150-gram Thinsulate insulation, tanned cowhide palm and thumb inserts, waterproof and windproof Gore-Tex construction, and knit cuffs with elasticized adjustable wrist straps, available in sizes small through 3XL. Samples must be submitted by the bid opening date to Sue Garcia at the Division of Purchases in Augusta. The anticipated quantity is approximately 50 pairs over the contract duration, though actual quantities will be based on departmental needs.

The contract runs through October 31, 2010, with options for two one-year renewals. Delivery orders will be processed through AdvantageME or the State's Procurement Card, with items required within 10 business days of order receipt. Prices must be submitted as net costs including all transportation charges prepaid by the contractor with delivery FOB destination, and prices must remain firm for the contract duration. All vendors awarded contracts for apparel, footwear, or textiles are subject to a 1% anti-sweatshop fee based on total contract amount, payable within 30 days of purchase order execution or quarterly for term contracts. Vendors must accept the State Procurement Card as payment with no surcharges allowed.

A completed and notarized Code of Conduct affidavit certifying compliance with applicable workplace laws, international labor standards, and prohibitions against forced labor, child labor, and discrimination must be submitted by the bid opening date. Bidders must provide complete physical locations of all manufacturing plants where products are assembled. Bids must be submitted electronically through Vendor Self Serve and cannot be faxed or emailed.