Programmatic and Financial Audits 45 CFR 155

The Department of Vermont Health Access is seeking an independent CPA firm to conduct programmatic and financial audits of Vermont Health Connect, the state's State Based Exchange, for State Fiscal Years 2026 through 2030. The selected contractor will perform annual external audits to ensure compliance with 45 CFR 155, specifically focusing on financial reporting accuracy per GAAP, the effectiveness of control frameworks, and the integrity of eligibility determinations and enrollment transactions. Key deliverables include a Financial Statement Audit Report and a Programmatic Compliance Audit Report, which must be made available to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services by June 1 annually. The audits must adhere to Generally Accepted Governmental Auditing Standards (GAGAS) and GAAP. The period of performance is scheduled from November 1, 2026, to October 31, 2029. Awards will be made based on the best interest of the State, with preferences given to resident bidders and those promoting clean energy practices. The contract includes strict compliance requirements, such as the Byrd Anti-Lobbying Certification for contracts over 100,000 dollars, prohibitions on specific telecommunications equipment under Public Law 115-232, and adherence to OSHA guidelines for workplace violence prevention. Payment terms are Net 30 days following the submission of detailed monthly invoices. Bidders must submit their proposals as digitally searchable PDFs by November 6, 2026, including a technical response, price schedule, and a signed Certificate of Compliance.