Request for proposals to provide relay access services

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to select a telecommunications carrier to provide statewide telephone relay access service (TRS) for persons with speech and/or hearing impairments in Texas. The selected TRS provider must make the service accessible and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and meet specific technical, service, and agent requirements outlined in the Statement of Work. The contract term is for an initial period of 2 years, with options to extend. The RFP requires proposers to submit a standardized rate for mandatory TRS services, with the PUCT reimbursing the selected contractor up to $95,000 per year for outreach and promotional activities, and up to an additional $20,000 per year for website development and maintenance. The TRS provider must submit monthly invoices and reports, and the PUCT will conduct audits to monitor performance. Proposals are due by November 1, 2024, and the contract period will begin on December 1, 2024.

The RFP does not specify any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. However, it does require the TRS provider to have a minimum of 10 years' experience providing similar services. The PUCT will evaluate proposals based on the proposer's understanding of requirements, competence and knowledge, and pricing. The RFP does not provide details on any existing incumbent vendors or contractors, or the estimated contract value or budget range.