Interpreter Training Services for Certified and Non-Certified Interpreters

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are seeking competitive bids for Interpreter Training Services for certified and non-certified sign language interpreters serving persons who are deaf or hard of hearing. The Invitation for Bid (IFB) number HHS0016332 solicits proposals for two training events to be conducted virtually or in-person in Austin or Dallas, Texas, with all training to be completed prior to August 31, 2025. Key training objectives include developing etymology understanding, improving reading comprehension, learning receptive interpreting and transliterating strategies, and practicing sight translation. Bidders must have a minimum of 5 years of experience training sign language interpreters, and key personnel are required to be Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) certified. The contractor will be responsible for providing lead trainers, evaluators, and presenters, developing curriculum, and conducting pre- and post-training evaluations. The bid response is due on June 27, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central Time, with the contract to be awarded to the bidder providing the best value to the State of Texas.

There are no specific set-aside designations mentioned in the procurement documents. Respondents must complete comprehensive compliance documentation, including the Solicitation Affirmations form, which requires verification of numerous business practices and legal compliance requirements. Bidders must provide detailed information including tax identification, franchise tax details, and attest to various legal and ethical standards. The procurement involves extensive security and privacy requirements, with mandates for handling confidential information and demonstrating robust information technology security protocols. While a specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the bidder must submit a detailed pricing sheet and provide at least three verifiable references for similar contracts performed within the last five years. Potential respondents must also navigate a complex registration process for the HHS Online Bid Room, with registration for the Enterprise Portal potentially taking up to five business days.