HHS0015894v3 Consumer Microbiology Testing

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) have issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) No. HHS0015894v3 for Consumer Microbiology Testing Supplies, specifically seeking laboratory testing supplies and kits from authorized vendors. The procurement targets specialized testing equipment including Charm SL Quantitative Aflatoxin Tests, Penicillin-G Standards, Beta Lactam Test Kits, Tetracycline SL Kits, SULFA Test Kits, and related positive control tablets and cleaning kits. The initial contract term will run from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026, with potential renewals for up to four additional one-year terms through August 31, 2030. Bidders must provide products with at least 4 months of expiration upon receipt and comply with environmental standards including ISO 17025:2017, TNI 2016, College of American Pathologists (CAP), and FDA requirements for milk and shellfish testing. The solicitation was posted on August 7, 2025, with bid responses due by August 22, 2025, at 10:30 AM, and award will be made to the bidder providing the best value to the State of Texas, considering factors such as meeting specifications, performance delivery requirements, and price.

The procurement does not explicitly indicate specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types. Bidders must provide a letter from Charm Sciences confirming they are an authorized vendor for the items and must comply with various legal and ethical standards outlined in the Solicitation and Contract Affirmations documents. The historical spend for similar goods is $94,531.07 for the period 2022-2025, suggesting a comparable budget range for this procurement. Vendors must complete and submit Exhibit A Solicitation Affirmations, Exhibit B Contract Affirmations, Exhibit C Pricing Sheet, and any applicable Addendum Acknowledgement Forms. The solicitation includes comprehensive requirements regarding antitrust compliance, cybersecurity training, employment practices, and prohibitions on doing business with certain entities. Potential bidders must also certify they are not involved with entities that boycott specific industries, have no felony criminal convictions, and will maintain all necessary permits and licenses. The primary contact for this solicitation is Courtney Meads, who can be reached at 512/406-2478.