TXRC RFP Solicitation Packet for Stewards in Training #476-25-001

The Texas Racing Commission (TXRC) is soliciting proposals for Stewards in Training through RFP #476-25-001, seeking qualified professionals to perform complex legal and technical work enforcing the Texas Racing Act and Commission Rules across multiple racing venues. The procurement targets individuals with a minimum of 3 years of relevant industry experience who can be certified as a Flat Racing Steward level III and pass an optical examination. Stewards will conduct hearings, prepare decisions, and provide supervisory oversight for racing operations teams at locations including Gillespie County Fair, Retama Race Park, Lone Star Park, and Sam Houston Race Park. Evaluation criteria will be weighted across four key areas: experience regulating horse racing (25%), experience as a racing official (25%), accreditations/education/practical experience (10%), and skills demonstrated in face-to-face interviews (40%). The solicitation is open from January 15, 2025, with responses due by August 31, 2025, at 12:00pm CST, and an initial contract term running through August 31, 2025, with potential for two optional one-year renewals.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, but follows standard state equal opportunity employment guidelines. Contractors will be compensated at tiered rates of $55/hour for two or more consecutive days worked and $40/hour for single-day assignments, with individual blanket contracts not exceeding $75,000 per fiscal year. Successful vendors must provide direct deposit capabilities and will be tracked in the Vendor Performance Tracking System. Contractors are required to maintain current ROAP certification and relevant licenses, comply with cybersecurity training requirements if accessing state systems, and adhere to strict conflict of interest policies. The contract includes comprehensive terms and conditions mandating $1,000,000 in liability insurance, compliance with state regulations, and various certifications regarding business practices. Potential contractors should be prepared to submit detailed documentation, including a comprehensive state employment application, contractor timesheets, and demonstrate full compliance with Texas state contracting requirements.