Re-Bid Term Contract for Prisoner Transportation Services for Jefferson County

Jefferson County, Texas, through its Purchasing Department, is issuing an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for a Re-Bid Term Contract for Prisoner Transportation Services. The procurement seeks qualified contractors to provide comprehensive interstate and intrastate prisoner transportation services by ground and air, covering destinations throughout the Continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii. Contractors must maintain a 24/7/365 ground transportation system with the capability to conduct both ground and air transport, strictly adhering to U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requirements, and the Interstate Transportation of Dangerous Criminals Act of 2000. Required deliverables include per-mile rates for adult and juvenile ground transport, hourly officer rates for air transport, detailed airfare costs, and potential additional fees for expedited or medical ground transport. Sealed bids are due by 11:00 a.m. CST on January 14, 2026, with bid questions required to be submitted by 5:00 p.m. CST on December 29, 2025. The initial contract term is one year, with options to renew for up to four additional one-year terms.

The solicitation does not specify explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Contractors must possess a valid DOT number and either maintain a Satisfactory Audit Rating from FMCSA or provide comprehensive vehicle documentation. Mandatory qualifications include employing U.S. citizens with valid driver's licenses, conducting fingerprint-based background checks and controlled substance tests on all employees, and maintaining uniform standards. Insurance requirements are substantial, mandating $1,000,000 in public liability and excess liability, with higher limits ($1,500,000 to $5,000,000) required for commercial motor vehicle operations based on passenger capacity. Contractors must also provide workers' compensation insurance meeting Texas statutory requirements. Required submission documentation includes System for Award Management (SAM) registration, Form 1295, Certificate of Insurance, debarment certification, civil rights compliance provisions, and vendor references. While specific contract value is not disclosed, the comprehensive nature of services and extensive requirements suggest a significant operational commitment from the selected vendor.