RFP-II 10211799 - Federal Government Relations Services

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has issued Request for Proposal #10211799 for Federal Government Relations Services, seeking a contractor to assist with gaining federal authorization and appropriations for State Water Project (SWP) operations, maintenance costs, and environmental mitigation efforts. The procurement is a three-year contract anticipated to start in February 2026, with proposals due on October 6, 2025. Key deliverables include monitoring proposed federal legislation, developing federal funding strategies, preparing appropriation requests, facilitating meetings with federal agencies and congressional offices, and tracking legislative developments. The evaluation process will award a total of 1,350 possible points, with 240 points for minimum qualifications, 600 points for approach to tasks/deliverables, 105 points for presentation, and 405 points for cost. Proposing firms must have a Washington D.C. metropolitan area office and be registered with the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives for lobbying activities, demonstrating extensive experience working with federal agencies, water resources organizations, and congressional committees.

The RFP includes provisions for Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation, with potential additional preference points for certified firms. Proposers must submit comprehensive documentation including cost proposals, references, technical approach, and compliance with state contracting requirements. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the complexity of the contract and comprehensive evaluation process suggests a significant investment in federal government relations services. The contractor will be expected to advocate on DWR's behalf, monitoring and proposing actions that benefit the department and the State of California. Potential respondents must carefully review all requirements, including the detailed submission guidelines and the extensive documentation needed to demonstrate qualifications and capability to perform the required federal government relations services.