IFB P2595018, Cannabis, Pesticide, and Witness Testimony Services

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is soliciting bids for Invitation for Bid (IFB) P2595018, seeking a contractor to provide comprehensive cannabis, pesticide, and expert witness testimony services. The procurement focuses on quantitative tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) analysis in cannabis plant samples and pesticide identification for enforcement investigations, with requirements to test for 43 specified pesticides and conduct heavy metals analysis. Qualified contractors must provide standard and expedited testing services ranging from 10 business days to 1-day rush options, prepare case materials and reports, and offer deposition and trial testimony by Ph.D.-level experts. Minimum qualifications include Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) certification, International Organization for Standardization (ISO) accreditation, a Bachelor's degree in Science for testing staff, and a Ph.D. in an applicable field for expert witnesses. Key dates include January 20, 2026, as the final date for question submissions, with bids due February 5, 2026, at 4:00 PM Pacific Time, a bid opening on February 10, 2026, and a proposed award date of February 19, 2026.

The solicitation includes a 5% Small Business preference for California-certified small businesses and a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) incentive up to 5%. Contractors must maintain specific insurance coverage, including $1,000,000 Commercial General Liability per occurrence, $1,000,000 Professional Liability per occurrence with a $3,000,000 aggregate, and $1,000,000 Pollution Liability per occurrence. The contract has a maximum budget of $49,999.99, with reimbursement based on actual services rendered at unit rates specified in the Bid Cost Sheet. The initial contract term extends from the CDFW approval date through June 30, 2027, with a potential one-year optional extension if deemed in the state's best interest. Bidders will be evaluated based on their ability to meet the technical specifications, provide comprehensive testing services, and offer expert witness testimony to support criminal prosecutions related to cannabis enforcement.