In-Person and Virtual Spoken Language Interpreting Services ¿ CN260138

The California Department of Education (CDE) is soliciting bids under solicitation number 0000040112 for in-person and video remote interpreting (VRI) services across Northern, Central, and Southern California. The contract is scheduled to begin approximately December 1, 2026, for an initial one-year term with two subsequent one-year renewal options. Award of the contract is contingent upon funding, program authorization, and approval from the CDE executive and the Department of General Services. Bids are evaluated based on price for Language Group A, though rates for Language Group B are also required for a bid to be considered complete. Small business bidders receive a five percent bid preference, and a DVBE incentive is available despite the solicitation being exempt from DVBE participation goals. Qualified contractors must provide interpreters with at least two years of verifiable experience and specific professional certifications, such as a language interpreting degree or certificates from the Judicial Council, State Personnel Board, or Federal Court. Alternatively, interpreters must provide proof of 40 hours of training and two years of experience. Virtual interpreters are required to operate from professional office settings and are prohibited from using public spaces or vehicles. The contract requires strict adherence to California civil rights laws, including non-discrimination regarding immigration status, and mandates the submission of workers' compensation and general liability insurance. Bids must be submitted by September 1, 2026, and include original signatures on all required certification forms and bid documents.