Language Interpretation and Translation Services

Background
The Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) is seeking to establish a contract for Language Interpretation & Translation Services. The goal is to provide meaningful access to services offered by MDHS for Limited English Proficient (LEP) and Hearing-Impaired individuals. This initiative aligns with MDHS's mission to ensure that all individuals, regardless of language proficiency, can access necessary services.

Work Details
The contractor will provide the following services:

1. **Qualified Interpreters**: Must be proficient in languages including Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese (Mandarin/Cantonese), Arabic, French (including Patois and Cajun), Tagalog, Hindi, Korean, German, Russian, and others as required. Each interpreter must have at least two years of experience and demonstrate proficiency through independent assessment or certification from recognized entities.

2. **Qualified Translators**: Similar requirements as interpreters; must provide translation services for MDHS forms and documents into appropriate non-English languages.

3. **Telephonic Interpretation**: Services available via a toll-free number during business hours and after hours as needed.

4. **Written Document Translation**: Turnaround times vary based on document size; specific timelines are provided for different word counts.

5. **Hearing Impaired Services**: Includes on-site interpretation with tactile signing, Video Remote Interpretation (VRI), and Communication Access Real-time Translation (CART).

6. **Reporting Requirements**: Monthly reports detailing language services provided, total minutes of interpretation per language, and other metrics.

Period of Performance
The anticipated term of the contract is two years with the possibility of three one-year renewals based on performance and funding availability.

Place of Performance
Services will be performed at various MDHS office locations throughout the state of Mississippi.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must be registered to do business in Mississippi and comply with all applicable laws. They must not be debarred from submitting bids for contracts issued by any political subdivision or agency of the State of Mississippi or Federal government. Additionally, bidders must provide proof of insurance coverage including workers' compensation and general liability insurance.