AI helper
The Department of Buildings and General Services (BGS) is seeking proposals for a Statewide Sign Language Interpreter Referral Service. The selected contractor will operate this service for Vermonters who are deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing, as well as for businesses, educational programs, medical providers, state employees, and the general public. The contract will be for two years with an option to renew for up to three additional twelve-month periods, with an anticipated start date of September 15, 2026. Key requirements include: - Ensuring service availability at least 40 hours per week, preferably during state business hours. - Maintaining a comprehensive list of certified sign language interpreters based in Vermont and surrounding states. - Developing and maintaining an accessible website for requesting interpreter services. - Providing information and technical assistance on communication access. - Offering options for after-hours interpreter contact. - Assigning interpreters based on individual preferences where possible. - Conducting community education and outreach in Vermont. - Submitting quarterly and annual reports on service performance and client satisfaction. - Charging and collecting fees for services from users. - Paying interpreters promptly based on negotiated rates. The contractor will be required to meet minimum qualifications including carrying specific insurance coverages (commercial general liability, automobile liability, workers compensation, professional liability). Preferred qualifications include experience in statewide communication access services, strong background in access for individuals with hearing loss, and a strong connection to the ASL interpreter community. Proposals are due by May 8, 2026, 4:30 PM ET. Questions are due by April 23, 2026, 4:30 PM ET. All notifications, releases, and addendums will be posted on www. ***. *. * are responsible for periodically checking this webpage. Bidders must submit electronic bids via email to ***@***. *. * subject line must be Sign Language Interpreter Referral Service. Bids must be a single PDF attachment. Evaluation criteria include knowledge and experience (20%), implementation plan (30%), education and outreach (20%), and rate structure (30%). Awards will be made in the best interest of the state, with preference given to resident bidders and those promoting clean energy. Additional required documents include a cover letter, technical response, references, price schedule, and a signed certificate of compliance. Standard state contract terms and conditions apply, as detailed in the attachments.
The RFP responses are due by May 8, 2026, 4:30 PM ET.
The bid notice states that payment terms are net 30 days from the date the state receives an error-free invoice with all necessary and complete supporting documentation.
Awards will be made in the best interest of the state, considering skills and experience, implementation plan, education and outreach, and rate structure. Preference will be given to resident bidders and those promoting clean energy.
To be qualified, bidders must meet minimum requirements including carrying specific insurance coverages (commercial general liability, automobile liability, workers compensation, professional liability).
A bidders conference will not be held, and there is no mention of a mandatory site visit.
Questions are due by April 23, 2026, 4:30 PM ET.
