SBE-AU14-Vehicle

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is conducting a Request for Quote (RFQ) to procure two 2025 SUVs or sedans with specific vehicle requirements. The vehicles must be flex fuel (E-85) or fuel-efficient non-plug-in hybrid, featuring 4-door configuration, front-wheel drive, dark cloth interior, and standard features including air conditioning, cruise control, automatic transmission, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. Vendors must submit exact pricing for tax-exempt procurement, with all quoted prices required to remain valid for 30 days from submission. The RFQ is due on October 14, 2025, with ISBE reserving the right to reject all offers, reject individual offers failing to meet requirements, award by item or total, and waive minor defects. Insurance requirements are stringent, mandating General Commercial Liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence, Auto Liability coverage of $1,000,000, Worker's Compensation Insurance, and Professional Liability Insurance of $1,000,000 per claim.

The procurement encourages Small Business Enterprise (SBE) registration with the State of Illinois, suggesting potential set-aside or preferential consideration for smaller businesses. Vendors must complete a comprehensive 34-point certification process addressing legal, ethical, financial, labor, and operational standards, which includes compliance with procurement laws, avoidance of criminal convictions, adherence to labor regulations, workplace standards, tax obligations, and ethical business practices. Failure to meet these certifications can result in significant penalties including contract voiding, suspension, debarment, denial of payment, civil fines, or criminal penalties. While the specific budget range is not explicitly stated in the documents, the procurement is for two vehicles, indicating a likely modest contract value. The contract terms emphasize strict compliance with state procurement regulations, minority contractor initiatives, and maintaining high standards of vendor performance and accountability.