RFQ #25-014 - Voting System Test Support Services Hart Intercivic Verity 3.2.2

This contract involves providing Voting System Test Support Services to assist the California Secretary of State in evaluating the Hart Intercivic Verity 3.2.2 voting system for compliance with California Voting Systems Standards (CVSS) and relevant election laws. The scope includes configuring trusted builds, developing and executing functional, software, security, usability, and volume testing, and preparing comprehensive draft and final reports. The work is to be performed at locations determined in coordination with the Secretary of State, with the possibility of offsite testing requiring the presence of State staff. The contract aims to ensure the system's security, accuracy, and reliability before certification for use in California elections. The procurement is structured as a fixed-price services contract, with an anticipated duration from October 2025 through October 2027, and a contract value estimated between 500,000 and 2 million dollars. Bidders must submit detailed responses including cost worksheets, staff qualifications, references, and certifications, adhering to specific forms and certifications such as the Bidder Declaration, DVBE Declaration, and Civil Rights Certification. The evaluation process emphasizes a pass/fail review of administrative and technical requirements, followed by selecting the lowest-cost proposal among those deemed compliant. The contract incorporates state-standard agreements, general provisions, and compliance clauses related to non-discrimination, small business preferences, and confidentiality, with the potential for amendments and optional additional testing services. Payment will be made upon satisfactory completion and approval of deliverables, with detailed invoicing procedures outlined. Overall, the contract emphasizes rigorous testing, documentation, and compliance to ensure the voting system’s integrity and security in California’s electoral process.