NH Interpreter Licensure Board Conflict Resolution and Mediation System Development

The New Hampshire Department of Education's Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) New Hampshire Interpreter Licensure Board is seeking a qualified consultant to develop a comprehensive conflict resolution and mediation system for interpreter-related complaints. The project aims to create a framework specifically addressing issues within the Deaf, Deaf Blind, and Hard of Hearing communities, with key deliverables including designing procedures for navigators, fact-finders, and mediators, creating job descriptions, and developing training programs. The consultant must demonstrate fluency in American Sign Language, extensive knowledge of Deaf culture, and proven experience in developing complaint resolution systems. Proposals will be evaluated using a 100-point scoring system, with significant weight placed on technical proposals and assessment of understanding project goals, relevant experience, cultural competency, proposed methodology, and training plans. The RFP requires detailed technical and price proposals to be submitted by 5:00 PM on June 9, 2025, with an estimated selection notification date of June 13, 2025. The contract term is set for 6 months with a potential 6-month extension at the agency's discretion, and the total fixed fee for the project is $25,000.

The procurement has specific restrictions, including a requirement that the selected vendor cannot be affiliated with any New Hampshire-based interpreting agency to prevent conflicts of interest. The project is funded through the state-federal Vocational Rehabilitation program, suggesting potential limitations on eligible respondents. No specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are explicitly mentioned in the provided documentation. The contract does not indicate any existing infrastructure or technology that requires integration, nor are any incumbent vendors referenced. The fixed budget of $25,000 represents the total project value, with the possibility of a future 6-month extension potentially increasing the total potential contract value to $50,000. Successful respondents will need to demonstrate not only technical expertise in developing conflict resolution systems but also a deep understanding of the linguistic and cultural nuances specific to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities.