The Department of Health & Human Services, through the Indian Health Service, has issued a Buy Indian Act Representation Form as part of a solicitation process. This form requires Offerors to self-certify their status as an “Indian Economic Enterprise” in accordance with the law (25 U.S.C. 47). Offerors must meet eligibility criteria at three critical times: when submitting an offer, at contract award, and throughout the contract performance period. Any change in status must be reported to the Contracting Officer immediately. Documentation may be required by Contracting Officers to verify eligibility. There are legal ramifications for submitting false information, including potential criminal penalties and false claims liability. The form includes a section for Offerors to affirm whether they meet the definition of an “Indian Economic Enterprise” and requires the details of ownership and enterprise information. This process underscores the federal commitment to ensuring that contracts intended to support Indian Enterprises are awarded fairly and in compliance with legal standards. Overall, this initiative aims to enhance economic opportunities within Native communities through specific procurement policies.
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking information from firms, particularly small and Native American-owned businesses, regarding their capabilities to install a septic system and connect a water service line for a new home in Warm Springs, Oregon. This request for information (RFI) does not solicit proposals but aims to gather market insight under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) guidelines. The project falls under a construction magnitude of $25,000 to $100,000, classified under the PSC code Y1NZ and NAICS code 237110 for water and sewer line construction.
Interested firms must submit company details, bonding capacity, and relevant project experience, including roles as prime or subcontractor, project complexity, and reference contacts. Additional information on quality control, construction management activities, and self-performing disciplines is required. Native American firms must provide specific documentation to verify their status. Questions can be directed to IHS personnel. Responses must be received by 2:00 pm CST on January 30, 2025.