OFFICER SWEATERS, MSI- Request for Information

The Michigan Department of Corrections Procurement Division has issued a Request for Information (RFI) regarding correctional officer sweaters for Ingham County. This RFI, posted on January 14, 2021, seeks market information and industry best practices to inform the development of specifications for a potential subsequent Request for Proposal. The State is soliciting information on lightweight commando sweaters featuring rib knit and fleece lining with V-neck design and long sleeves in black color, available in both pull-over and zipper-front styles. Specifications require fabric composition of 30-60% polyester, 20-35% wool, and 15-40% acrylic, with standard unisex sizing from SM through 8XL in regular and tall lengths. Each sweater must include two black epaulets and one 2" x 4" name badge piece with Velcro. Currently approved sweaters include Cobmex style 2020 and 2030, which must be approved by the Corrections Uniform Committee. Vendors must submit responses through the SIGMA system at www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS by 3:00 p.m. EDT on February 5, 2021, with a deadline for vendor questions of 3:00 p.m. EDT on January 21, 2021. The State reserves the right to request oral presentations and product samples from interested vendors.

The RFI documentation does not specify set-aside designations or restrictions limiting responses to particular types of organizations such as disadvantaged enterprises or minority-owned businesses. No incumbent vendors or current contractors are identified in the available documentation. Vendors are requested to provide company information, authorized contact details, lead times, sizing charts, detailed specification sheets, photographs, and confirmation of intent to bid on any resulting RFP, though no pricing information is required at the RFI stage. The State indicates that all responses become property of the State and are subject to disclosure under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act, and the State will not be liable for costs incurred in preparing responses. No award value or budget range is disclosed in this RFI phase.