Feminine Products

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Contracts and Procurement Department is seeking bids for a procurement of feminine hygiene products, specifically tampons, through an Invitation for Bids (IFB) numbered 1M220379. The solicitation targets the acquisition of 600,000 cases of tampons with cardboard applicators, individually wrapped, and packaged in non-vending tubes with 500 tampons per case, referencing the Bob Barker brand (Item # TPX500). The products will be delivered to the TDCJ Prison Store in Huntsville, TX, with a preferred delivery timeline of 14 calendar days after contract award. Key bidding dates include a question deadline of June 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM CST, an anticipated amendment posting on June 9, 2025, and a bid opening on June 17, 2025, at 3 P.M. Bidders must submit electronic bids via BIDS@TDCJ.TEXAS.GOV with a 10 MB attachment limit, and the TDCJ may request product samples for evaluation. Compliance requirements include Texas Bidder certifications, terrorism watch list verification, and adherence to strict security protocols for correctional facility deliveries.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention set-aside designations or specific restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must comply with comprehensive legal and administrative requirements, including participation in the E-Verify system, providing Texas Identification Numbers, and meeting various state and federal legal compliance certifications. The documents emphasize vendor responsibilities such as electronic funds transfer capabilities, conflict of interest disclosures, and potential contract modifications. While a specific award value is not detailed, the procurement involves a substantial volume of 600,000 cases of tampons. Potential bidders must demonstrate eligibility through various certifications, including compliance with Texas Government Code chapters related to state purchasing regulations. Contact persons for this procurement are Amy Rankin and Sylvia Gurrola from the TDCJ Contracts and Procurement Department, who can provide additional guidance on bid submission and requirements.