HHS0016190 Lab Testing Supplies

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are soliciting competitive bids for Lab Testing Supplies through Invitation for Bids (IFB) number HHS0016190. The procurement seeks to acquire specific Real-Time BAX Kits for detecting multiple food-borne pathogens, including Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli O157:H7, Vibrio, Listeria species, Enterobacter sakazakii, STEC screening, and Campylobacter. The solicitation involves 11 different kit types with quantities ranging from 2 to 25 units per line item, targeted for testing food, water, shellfish, and dairy samples. Key evaluation criteria will focus on meeting specifications, performance delivery requirements, and price, with HHSC reserving the right to select the bid providing the best value to the State of Texas. Critical dates include a vendor and HUB conference on June 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM, question submission deadline of June 23, 2025, and bid response deadline of July 11, 2025 at 10:30 AM, with an anticipated contract start date of September 1, 2025.

The solicitation includes a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan with a HUB utilization goal of 21.1%, based on the 2009 State of Texas Disparity Study. Vendors are required to demonstrate good faith efforts to subcontract with HUB vendors, which can include using only HUB subcontractors, participating in the Mentor-Protege Program, or providing comprehensive documentation of solicitation efforts. The historical spend for similar goods is $99,984.89 for the September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2025 period, though this serves only as a guideline. Pricing must be firm and fixed for the contract duration, with potential future adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) subject to HHSC's discretion. Vendors must complete a comprehensive set of legal and operational affirmations, including compliance with state laws, ethical standards, cybersecurity training, and E-Verify requirements. Non-compliance with HUB requirements could result in contract breach and potential debarment from state contracting for up to five years.