Unemployment Insurance Appeals Mentoring and Support Services

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is seeking proposals for Unemployment Insurance (UI) Appeals Mentoring and Support Services through RFP No. 3202600042. The primary objective is to reduce case backlog within the Commission Appeals (CA) department by engaging highly experienced Unemployment Insurance Higher Authority Appeals Program Mentors for Reviewing Attorneys (RAs). These mentors will review attorney work product drafts, provide analysis and feedback, identify training opportunities, and implement process improvements. The services will be delivered remotely, with up to two full-time equivalent mentors available for forty hours per week, each monitoring up to six RAs. Key qualifications include ownership or executive management experience in UI Appeals Mentoring Services within the last five years, with mentors requiring a minimum of twenty years of full-time experience in state UI appeals program management, training, or adjudication. The evaluation criteria include cost/price reasonableness (20%), response to requirements and ability to provide services (60%), and past performance, qualifications, and experience (20%). Critical dates include a Pre-Proposal Conference on December 16, 2025, at 2:30 PM, a deadline for written questions on December 19, 2025, at 5:00 PM, and a proposal submission deadline of January 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM via the TWC Procurement Portal.

The procurement includes a mandatory Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan with a 26 percent goal for all other service contracts. Respondents must provide references for three similar contracts performed over the last five years and meet specific HUB subcontracting requirements, including notifying at least three Texas-certified HUB vendors of subcontracting opportunities. The contract will have an initial term of one year from the fully executed contract date, with TWC holding the sole option to renew for four additional one-year terms and a potential extension of up to one additional year for immediate operational needs. Pricing for all services will be firm and fixed throughout the contract duration and renewal periods, with no additional reimbursement for travel, equipment, or incidental expenses. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the contract will cover mentor hours billed at a specified rate, with all labor, materials, supplies, and equipment costs included in the proposed price. Respondents must have a VPTS overall score above "D" and be prepared to provide comprehensive documentation including financial questionnaires, direct deposit information, and detailed compliance certifications.