San Mateo County is requesting proposals for state legislative advocacy services under RFP released October 1, 2026, with proposals due October 29, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Local business preferences of 5% apply under San Mateo County Ordinance Code Chapter 2.89, with an additional 3% for small businesses or 5% for micro businesses (8% or 10% total).
The scope encompasses strategic advocacy before the California State Legislature, Governor's Office, and state agencies in support of the County's legislative agenda. Core deliverables include legislative monitoring and analysis, platform and program development, direct advocacy and representation, relationship management and coalition building, funding and grants identification, and monthly reporting and communication with County staff.
Minimum qualifications require four years of similar service experience within the last seven years, an account manager with two years of relevant experience within the last five years, and System for Award Management registration. Proposers must comply with Levine Act disclosure requirements regarding campaign contributions to County officers if selected.
The contract term is two years with one optional one-year extension exercisable at the County's discretion. Evaluation occurs in two phases: Phase 1 scoring weights project approach at 30%, firm qualifications at 25%, team qualifications at 20%, and price at 25%. Phase 2applies local preference points. Questions are due October 16, 2026. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for December 7, 2026, with anticipated award January 12, 2027. Fee proposals must be submitted separately from technical proposals. Submissions are made via the County's eProcurement portal. The County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and waive minor irregularities.