Digital PCR Instrument with a DNA Extractor

The Texas Department of State Health Services is seeking competitive bids under solicitation HHS0016959v2 for the procurement of a Digital PCR Instrument and a DNA Extractor specifically configured for the detection and identification of carbapenem-resistant microorganisms, as well as the extraction of nucleic acids for downstream applications including PCR and whole genome sequencing in compliance with CDC grant requirements. The required systems must be the EZ2® Connect MDx and QIAcuity™ digital PCR systems as sole-source specifications, with no substitutions permitted without prior approval. The contract has a fixed initial term ending August 31, 2026, with a discretionary one-year extension option subject to funding and formal written notice through a Purchase Order Change Notice. Deliveries must be made to the address specified on the Purchase Order during designated hours, with vendors responsible for all packaging, shipping, and risk of damage, and packaging must include clear labeling of contents, agency purchase order number, and quantity per carton, with pallets required to be shrink-wrapped and labeled. The solicitation evaluates proposals using a best value trade-off approach, prioritizing technical compliance with specifications first, followed by the bidder’s ability to meet performance and delivery requirements, with price as a third factor—not necessarily the deciding criterion. Past performance is assessed through the Vendor Performance Tracking System and other sources, with disqualifying factors including repeated non-performance, contract cancellations, or unresolved corrective actions. Offerors must hold a valid Unique Entity Identifier from SAM.gov, comply with E-Verify requirements for all employees, and certify no affiliations with entities listed under NDAA Section 889 or U.S. Department of Commerce foreign adversary lists. Additional requirements include cybersecurity training compliance under Texas Government Code §2063.104, adherence to TX-RAMP for cloud services, full disclosure of pending legal actions, and strict avoidance of organizational conflicts of interest, including prohibitions on using non-public information and restrictions on hiring former state procurement personnel for two years. All submissions must be made via email or the HHS Online Bid Room by May 14, 2026, with attachments limited to 25 MB in .pdf, .docx, or .xlsx formats, and must include certified affirmations covering public information exemptions, legal proceedings, and employment history of former state employees. Invoices must reference the Purchase Order number, include the vendor’s Texas Identification Number, and comply with the Texas Prompt Payment Act.