GT-Fast Prep ARTIC SARS-CoV-2 Library Preparation Kit

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are conducting a competitive solicitation (IFB HHS0016811v2) for the procurement of GT-Fast Prep ARTIC SARS-CoV-2 Library Preparation Kit molecular reagent kits. These specialized kits contain primers and reagents designed for amplification and downstream preparation of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material extracted from wastewater matrices, specifically used for advanced epidemiological monitoring. The procurement aims to support DSHS Lab's wastewater testing program, which can identify potential COVID-19 outbreaks approximately two weeks before clinical cases emerge. Bids are due on December 12, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central Time, with a questions and clarifications deadline of December 4, 2025. The solicitation requires bidders to submit a completed Exhibit C Pricing Sheet, HHS Solicitation Affirmations form, and comply with all specified requirements, with failure to adhere potentially resulting in bid disqualification. The initial contract term will begin on the award date and expire on August 31, 2026, with potential one-year extension at HHS Agency's discretion.

The solicitation does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. Bidders must be registered in the Texas Identification Number (TIN) system and, if awarded, submit a Certificate of Interested Parties before contract execution. Historical monetary values for similar goods range between $25,050.00 and $50,000.00 for fiscal year 2025, though HHSC does not guarantee specific usage or compensation volumes. The procurement allows for potential price adjustments at HHSC's sole discretion, potentially correlated with Consumer Price Index data or Federal Minimum Wage Rate increases. Contractors will be responsible for all delivery costs, and unauthorized product substitutions are prohibited. Bidders must use the PeopleSoft Strategic Sourcing platform and comply with extensive legal and ethical requirements outlined in the HHS Contract Affirmations document, which includes provisions on suspension and debarment status, cybersecurity training, E-Verify utilization, and various state and federal compliance standards.