Digital PCR Instrument with a DNA Extractor

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) issued Invitation for Bids (IFB) number HHS0016959v2 on April 23, 2026, for the procurement of a Digital PCR Instrument with DNA Extractor system. The solicitation seeks competitive bids for laboratory equipment capable of detecting and identifying microorganisms, specifically carbapenem-resistant bacteria, and extracting nucleic acids for downstream processes including PCR and whole genome sequencing to meet CDC grant requirements. The specifications require sole-source products consisting of the EZ2 Connect MDx system with full installation and IQ/OQ service plus estimated freight, the QIAcuity Four PLT system with QIAgility and QIAcuity IQ/OQ services and installation, and the QIAgility HEPA/UV system included with sales at no additional cost, all manufactured by QIAGEN GmbH. Bidders must submit responses firm and binding for 240 days from the submission due date and are evaluated on bidder qualifications, ability to meet delivery requirements, and pricing, with award made to the bidder offering best value to the State rather than necessarily the lowest price. Critical deadlines include a questions and clarifications deadline of May 4, 2026, with responses to clarifications posted by May 5, 2026, and a response deadline of May 14, 2026, at 10:30 AM Central Time. The initial contract term runs from the date of award through August 31, 2026, with an option for extension up to one additional year at HHSC's sole discretion. Bidders must submit the completed and signed Exhibit A HHS Solicitation Affirmations, the completed Exhibit C Pricing Sheet with firm, fixed prices, and any applicable signed Addendum Acknowledgement Forms as mandatory requirements for bid qualification.

The solicitation does not establish specific set-aside designations, though a Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) Subcontracting Plan is encouraged if subcontracting opportunities exist but is not required. No incumbent vendors or current contractors are identified in the solicitation materials. Bidders must comply with extensive compliance requirements established in the HHS Solicitation Affirmations and HHS Uniform Terms and Conditions for Vendors, including certifications regarding debarment status, suspension and exclusion lists, child support obligations, human trafficking prohibitions, cybersecurity training, E-Verify utilization, and various Texas-specific statutory compliance obligations. Delivery requirements include on-time delivery between 7:30 AM and 4:30 PM on specified dates, proper product labeling and pallet shrink-wrapping, with bidders responsible for any additional warehouse charges such as overtime or restacking fees. The historical monetary value for similar goods is between $100,000 and $200,000 for Fiscal Year 2025, provided as a guideline only, with pricing to be submitted in US dollars only. Reworked products, previously refused items, and seconds are not acceptable, and substitutions require prior written approval from HHSC and must maintain equivalent specifications at no additional cost. In-person bids may be submitted at the HHS Procurement and Contracting Services office located at 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, Texas, during standard business hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or bidders may utilize the optional HHS Online Bid Room electronic submission process.