IFB 2167 In-Person ASL Interpreting Services

California Department of Developmental Services is requesting bids on in-person American Sign Language interpreting services statewide under IFB 2167, with bids due September 28, 2026, at 3:00 PM and a public bid opening on September 30 at 9:30 AM. DVBE participation requirements are exempted; a Small Business preference of up to 5 percent is available for certified SB/Microbusiness entities not exceeding $50,000, and voluntary DVBE subcontractor participation carries an incentive of up to 5 percent.

The scope covers on-demand certified ASL interpreting for Deaf, DeafBlind, Deaf Disabled, Hard of Hearing, and Late-Deafened individuals at departmental meetings, trainings, events, and official business. Primary coverage areas are Sacramento, greater Los Angeles, and Fresno. Services must be available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time, with after-hours provision where required, excluding state-observed holidays. All interpreters must hold valid certifications: RID's National Interpreter Certification (NIC) Advanced or Master, Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI), or acceptable legacy certifications such as NAD Level IV or V; EIPA scores of 4.0 or higher are acceptable in educational settings only.

The contract runs October 21, 2026, through September 30, 2029. Compensation is based on actual rates specified in the Cost Worksheet (Attachment 3); invoices are due monthly by the 11th of the following month with payment within 45 days of approval. Bidders must maintain general liability insurance of not less than $1 million per occurrence with $2 million annual aggregate, workers' compensation insurance, and automobile liability coverage of not less than $1 million combined single limit.

Written questions are due September 8, 2026, at 3:00 PM; responses will be provided by September 17. Award goes to the responsive and responsible bidder with the lowest total rates. Protests are allowed within five working days of the State's intent to award notice.