ASL Interpretation Services

The contract solicitation issued by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) under solicitation number 2025-SOQ-489 seeks qualified vendors to provide American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting services for individuals with hearing impairments. The scope includes interpreting at public meetings such as SICC Quarterly Meetings and during early intervention family service sessions. Services must be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round, including holidays, with a rapid response time of 5 to 10 minutes and arrival within 30 to 45 minutes. Interpreting services are to be initiated via a main phone number with a backup, operating from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a two-hour minimum for daytime services, and a two-hour window with minimum service duration between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. Weekend, holiday, and press conference interpreting services are compensated at a rate of $55 per hour, also with a two-hour minimum. Payments are to be rendered within 30 days following submission of billing. The contract is estimated at a total cost of $20,000 and encompasses a performance period expected to begin shortly after contract signing, terminating on June 30, 2030. Vendors must meet minimum qualifications, including having at least three years of relevant experience, appropriate certifications or licenses, and financial stability demonstrated by audited statements. The award will be made to the lowest-priced, technically acceptable, and responsible bidder. The solicitation includes numerous clauses addressing compliance with relevant federal and Mississippi laws, insurance and bonding standards, confidentiality and HIPAA compliance, personnel qualifications and non-solicitation provisions, and the requirement to use E-Verify for employment eligibility verification. Contract modifications must be executed in writing, and the contractor agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the State for claims arising from contract performance. The contract administration involves electronic invoicing and payment protocols, and the contractor is subject to inspection for quality and compliance, with timeliness strictly enforced to avoid liquidated damages. The solicitation process involves electronic quote submission by December 29, 2025, under the oversight of specific MSDH procurement contacts. Overall, the contract establishes a clear, legally compliant framework for providing continuous, high-quality interpreting services to support the State’s commitment to accessibility in public health and early intervention programs.