Random Statistical Sampling Assistance and Expertise

The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) has issued Request for Proposal (RFP) #190000003135 seeking comprehensive random statistical sampling assistance and expertise for the state's citizen-led redistricting process. The primary objectives involve conducting two specific random selections and one statistically weighted selection of Michigan registered voters. The first task requires randomly selecting at least 10,000 registered voters to receive mailed applications, with a goal of obtaining 100 returned submissions. The second task involves performing a weighted random selection of 200 semi-finalists that precisely reflects the state's geographic and demographic composition, considering variables such as zip code, year of birth, sex, race, and ethnicity. Evaluation criteria are structured with 100 total technical points, distributed as follows: Product Quality (50 points), Service Capabilities (25 points), and Vendor Questions Worksheet (25 points), with a minimum threshold of 80 technical points required to advance to pricing evaluation. The RFP was posted on September 10, 2019, with vendor questions due September 10, 2019, and proposal submissions due September 13, 2019. The anticipated contract start date is October 1, 2019, with an initial term through September 30, 2020, and an option for one additional one-year renewal period.

The RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract includes specific insurance requirements for potential vendors, mandating $1 million in commercial general liability, $1 million in automobile liability, workers compensation coverage, and $3 million in professional liability insurance. Liquidated damages are structured at $5,000 plus $100 per day for late or improper completion. While no incumbent vendors are mentioned, the document indicates this RFP represents a refined scope compared to a previous unawarded solicitation (RFP 190000002407), suggesting modifications were made based on prior vendor feedback to improve cost-effectiveness. The ultimate goal is to support Michigan's innovative approach to becoming the second state to implement a citizen-led redistricting process, with the final 13 commissioners to be selected in August 2020. Although specific budget ranges are not detailed, the complexity of the statistical sampling requirements and the precise demographic matching suggest a sophisticated and potentially substantial contract value.