HHS0016429 Reagants for Media Prep DSHS Lab

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are conducting a formal Invitation for Bid (IFB No. HHS0016429) to procure reagents and supplies for media preparation in their public health laboratory. The solicitation seeks 21 specific line items of chemicals, media, and laboratory supplies, with requirements that all materials have at least one year before expiration and provide the longest possible expiration date. The initial contract term will run from September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2026, with four potential one-year renewal options. Key procurement dates include a vendor and HUB conference on July 8, 2025, a questions deadline of July 14, 2025, and a response deadline of August 1, 2025 at 10:30 AM. The evaluation will be based on best value to the state, considering the bidder's ability to meet specifications, performance delivery requirements, and pricing, with firms required to submit a completed Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan.

The procurement has established a HUB utilization goal of 21.1%, based on the 2009 State of Texas Disparity Study, which means vendors must demonstrate meaningful efforts to include historically underutilized businesses in their subcontracting approach. Vendors must complete a detailed Historically Underutilized Business Subcontracting Plan (HSP), which can be satisfied through methods such as using only HUB vendors, participating in a Mentor-Protege Program, or meeting specific subcontracting goals. The historical spend for similar goods is $170,243.94 for the contract period, with pricing required to be firm and fixed throughout the contract duration. Pricing must be submitted using the provided Pricing Sheet and include all related expenses. Notably, the contract is open to both HHSC and DSHS, and vendors must adhere to numerous legal and compliance requirements, including verification of no felony criminal convictions, compliance with state and federal laws, and certifications related to specific state policies.