Federal Affairs Representation Services

Background

The State of Oregon, through the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), is issuing this Request for Proposal (RFP) for federal affairs representation services. The goal of this contract is to advocate for ODOT in Washington, DC, ensuring that federal funding decisions, legislation, and regulations align with the needs and priorities of the State of Oregon and ODOT. ODOT's mission is to provide a safe and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people and supports Oregon's communities and economy.

Work Details

The selected contractor will provide federal affairs representation services which include: - Advocating for ODOT's interests in Washington, DC. - Identifying funding opportunities relevant to ODOT. - Developing strategies for securing policy changes and funding. - Drafting background papers, position papers, testimony, correspondence, bills, and amendments as necessary. - Monitoring federal legislative and regulatory actions that could impact ODOT, including annual transportation appropriation bills and multi-year authorization legislation. The contractor will not act as legal counsel for ODOT.

Period of Performance

The initial term of the contract is anticipated to be 3 years with options to renew up to an estimated cumulative total of 10 years. The contract is expected to be effective by October 1, 2026.

Place of Performance

The services will be performed primarily in Washington, DC, where the contractor must have office facilities and staff located within 15 miles.

Bidder Requirements

Proposers must be registered vendors in OregonBuys and have at least one registered federal lobbyist on staff. They must demonstrate experience in surface transportation policy at the federal level. Proposers must also commit to providing an average of 40 hours per month on services for ODOT during the life of the contract. Additionally, they must not represent clients that present a conflict of interest with ODOT’s agenda.