QIAxcel and QIAamp Kits for DNA Screening

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) have issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for QIAxcel and QIAamp Kits for DNA Screening, seeking competitive bids for specialized laboratory diagnostic equipment. The procurement targets seven specific line items including QIAxcel DNA Screening Kits, QIAxcel DNA High Resolution Kits, alignment and size markers, and QIAamp DSP DNA Blood Mini Kits, which will be used for routine evaluation of DNA fragments and qualitative singleplex or multiplex PCR applications at the DSHS state laboratory. Bidders must provide firm, fixed pricing per kit or unit, with all submitted documentation in US dollars, and must ensure product compatibility with Qiagen Analyzers. The products will be delivered to the DSHS laboratory located at 1100 W 49th Street, Lab Loading Dock 114, in Austin, Texas. Key evaluation criteria include bidder conformance with specifications, delivery capability, and overall pricing, with HHSC reserving the right to award based on best value. The solicitation was posted on December 16, 2025, with a questions deadline of December 22, 2025, and a final response deadline of December 30, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central Time. The anticipated contract term runs through August 31, 2026, with a potential one-year extension option.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, though the Exhibit A Solicitation Affirmations document indicates preferences for Texas bidders, service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, and vendors meeting environmental or recycled material standards. Respondents must complete comprehensive compliance certifications covering areas such as child support obligations, franchise tax status, human trafficking prohibitions, and various statutory requirements. Historical spending for similar goods ranged from $25,050 to $30,000 in fiscal year 2025, though the solicitation explicitly states no volume or compensation is guaranteed. Bidders must submit responses via email to PCSBids@hhs.texas.gov, through the HHS Online Bid Room, or by hand delivery/overnight mail of a USB drive. The contract is subject to appropriations and fund availability, with all awarded contracts being monitored through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Vendor Performance Tracking System. Importantly, failure to submit required documentation, including the completed Exhibit A affirmations and Exhibit C pricing sheet, will result in immediate bid disqualification.