MPA 611 OE COVID-19 Test Kits

The State of Rhode Island Division of Purchases is seeking qualified vendors through an open enrollment Master Price Agreement (MPA) to provide COVID-19 testing kits, specifically FDA-authorized rapid antigen test kits and laboratory-based Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests. The solicitation (OEV24004199) aims to establish a qualified vendor list to help mitigate community transmission of COVID-19, with the contract period running from May 1, 2024, through June 30, 2026. Vendors can submit proposals at any time during this period, with evaluations conducted on a pass/fail basis across multiple criteria. The MPA will have an initial four-year term with options to renew for up to three additional 12-month periods. When specific testing needs arise, agencies will issue mini-bids to the qualified vendors, requiring detailed pricing quotes and project-specific requirements. Vendors must provide comprehensive documentation, including a Vendor Certification Questionnaire, and comply with all state contracting requirements.

The solicitation strongly emphasizes Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) participation, requiring vendors to submit an MBE Participation Acknowledgment Form and ensuring that at least one of three quotes for specific projects comes from MBE/WBE/VBE certified vendors when available. The MPA has statewide applicability, allowing participation from political subdivisions, institutions of higher education, municipal and state schools, and quasi-public agencies. Vendors must maintain specific insurance coverage, including $1 million in liability coverage, workers compensation, and automobile liability. A 1% contract administrative fee will be assessed on all purchase orders, which will be withheld from vendor payments. While there is no guaranteed minimum purchase amount, the MPA allows state agencies and authorized entities to utilize the qualified vendor list on an as-needed basis. Vendors should be prepared to submit quarterly reports detailing invoiced amounts and maintain all necessary licenses and certifications throughout the contract term.