Uniform Badges, Name Bars, and Award Bars

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA) Statewide Procurement Division has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB) No. 304T-25-080A1 for uniform badges, name bars, and award bars specifically for the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). The procurement seeks 19 different badge types, including criminal investigation badges, breast badges (in gold and nickel plating), wallet badges, field officer badges, and various commendation bars with precise technical specifications. Vendors must provide badges meeting exact dimensional, material, and construction requirements, with acceptable manufacturers including Blackinton and Smith & Warren, and the ability to provide equivalent products. The contract will have an initial term from the effective date through November 30, 2026, with potential renewal options extending through December 1, 2029. Key procurement dates include a bid posting on June 13, 2025, a June 19, 2025 deadline for submitting questions, and a response due date of July 9, 2025, at 1:30 pm Central Time. The CPA will award the contract on a best value basis, potentially to different vendors for different line items, with price evaluation based on the lowest price per comparable unit of product.

The solicitation does not explicitly indicate specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The mandatory price sheet references a 1.5% Texas SmartBuy administrative fee that contractors must factor into their pricing, and vendors will be required to submit comprehensive documentation including a mandatory price sheet, insurance statement of intent, and various compliance attachments. Delivery locations are specified as Austin, TX addresses (78752 and 78744), and the procurement uses NIGP Class Item 08015. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the price sheet includes quantities ranging from 30 to 1,750 units per line item, suggesting a potentially significant contract value. Vendors must provide firm, all-inclusive fixed prices and comply with extensive state procurement guidelines, including certifications covering conflicts of interest, equal employment opportunity, environmental protection, immigration, and antitrust regulations. The contact person for this procurement is Christy Ferro, reachable at 512/936-8454, who can provide additional information about the solicitation.