HHS0015636 Consumable Supplies (Quartz)

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are seeking bids for consumable quartz supplies used in mercury and trace metals testing for drinking water and food samples, in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. The Invitation for Bids (IFB) HHS0015636 covers 19 line items including demountable quartz torches, injectors, spray chambers, cones, detectors, and other specialized testing equipment, with quantities ranging from 1-3 units per item. Bidders must provide firm, fixed pricing for the contract term, with potential adjustments considered based on Consumer Price Index (CPI) or Federal Minimum Wage increases. The evaluation criteria will focus on providing the best value to the State of Texas, considering price, ability to meet specifications, and delivery requirements. Key dates include questions due by December 19, 2024, with answers posted December 20, 2024, and bid responses due January 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central Time, with an anticipated contract start date of January 6, 2025. Submissions can be made via email to pcsbids@hhsc.state.tx.us, through the HHS Online Bid Room, or by hand delivery/overnight mail of a USB drive.

No specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged businesses are mentioned in the procurement documents. The historical spend for similar goods and services was $26,454.40, though this amount is provided only as a guideline and does not guarantee future volumes or compensation. Both HHSC and DSHS will be entitled to use the resulting contract, which will have an initial term beginning upon award with potential renewal options. Vendors must complete and submit several required documents, including pricing sheets, addendum acknowledgment forms, and bid execution documents. All pricing must be submitted in US dollars, with no alternate currencies permitted. The contract requires compliance with numerous state regulations, including cybersecurity training, E-Verify usage, and various ethical and operational requirements outlined in the Solicitation Affirmations and Contract Affirmations documents. Potential bidders must carefully review and acknowledge multiple exhibits detailing specific state contract requirements, including provisions related to public information, contracting information, and various prohibitions on business practices.