Interpreter Training Services for Certified and Non-Certified Interpreters

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) numbered HHS0016103 for Interpreter Training Services targeting certified and non-certified interpreters who are deaf or hard of hearing. The solicitation seeks a contractor to provide two training events, which will be conducted virtually or in-person in Austin or Dallas, Texas, and must be completed prior to August 31, 2025. Bidders must demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience and possess Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) certification, with a requirement to provide a lead trainer experienced in interpreter training and evaluation. The contract will be awarded based on best value considerations, examining factors such as the bidder's ability to meet requirements, performance delivery capabilities, and pricing. Key deadlines include questions due by May 22, 2025, and bid responses required by June 3, 2025, with the initial contract term beginning upon award and expiring on August 31, 2025. Bidders must submit comprehensive documentation including BEI licenses, staff resumes, signed affirmations, security inquiries, reference forms, and proof of certification for all Contractors, Evaluators, Lead Trainers, and Presenters.

The solicitation does not explicitly indicate specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must provide three verifiable references for similar contracts completed within the last five years and demonstrate organizational capabilities through detailed company information, including years in business, office address, employee counts, and industry certifications. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated in the documents, the pricing sheet requires bidders to specify rates per training event for certified and non-certified interpreters. The HHSC reserves the right to make single or multiple awards and will evaluate responses based on providing the best value to the State of Texas. Potential contractors must comply with an extensive list of legal and regulatory requirements outlined in the Solicitation Affirmations form, which covers 61 different compliance areas including child support verification, cybersecurity training, employment eligibility, and anti-discrimination practices. Failure to submit certain required documents or meet specific qualifications will result in disqualification of the bid response.