25NS0926 ASL Interpreting Services

Background

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is the state agency responsible for regulating services and utilities, protecting consumers, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring access to safe and reliable utility infrastructure at reasonable rates. The CPUC is seeking contractors to provide certified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, which mandate equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Work Details

The contract encompasses five categories of ASL interpreting services: 1) In-person services in the San Francisco region (within 50 miles of 505 Van Ness Avenue), 2) In-person services in the Sacramento region (within 50 miles of 300 Capitol Mall), 3) In-person services in the Los Angeles region (within 50 miles of 320 West 4th Street), 4) Video Remote Interpreting (scheduled), and 5) Video Remote Interpreting (on-demand). Services will include simultaneous ASL interpretation between spoken English and ASL, including tactile signing as needed. In-person and pre-scheduled video remote assignments will be billed for a minimum of two hours, while on-demand services will be billed per minute. Contractors must ensure interpreters arrive at least 15 minutes prior to job start times for in-person assignments and test their ability to log into virtual meetings five minutes prior for video remote interpreting.

Period of Performance

The contract performance period is not explicitly stated but responses are due by June 15, 2026, suggesting that services will commence shortly thereafter.

Place of Performance

Services will be performed at CPUC offices located in San Francisco, Sacramento, and Los Angeles, CA, as well as remotely from locations chosen by the contractor.

Bidder Requirements

Bidders must have at least three ASL interpreters on staff for each category they are bidding on. All interpreters must possess valid certifications such as RID Comprehensive Skills Certificate or equivalent. Contractors must also comply with insurance requirements including workers' compensation, general liability, and auto liability coverage. Additionally, contractors must adhere to DVBE participation requirements if applicable.