Communication Accessible Real-Time (CART) Transcription Services

Background
The Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) is committed to providing reasonable accommodations and communication access to individuals who need support. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that state and local governments communicate effectively with people who have communication disabilities. This contract aims to ensure that communication with individuals with disabilities is as effective as it is with those without disabilities. OOD seeks vendors to provide on-site and/or remote Communication Accessible Real-Time (CART) transcription services across all eighty-eight Ohio counties.

Work Details
Vendors are required to supply on-site and/or remote captioning services, including CART transcription services, during typical working hours (7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday). Services may also be needed outside these hours. Respondents must provide an hourly rate for on-site services in at least one Ohio county. The vendor must ensure that captionists arrive 15 minutes prior to assignments, respond to service requests within two business days, and maintain confidentiality by not recording any captioning events. Remote services must utilize OOD-approved videoconference software such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom for Government.

Period of Performance
The targeted contract begin date is July 1, 2025, and the targeted end date is June 30, 2027.

Place of Performance
Services will be performed in all eighty-eight counties of Ohio.

Bidder Requirements
Respondents must have at least two years of business experience providing captioning services and comply with the standards of the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA). They must submit a completed Respondent Experience Summary Form detailing relevant past contracts. Additionally, respondents are required to maintain an affirmative action program verification certificate from the Ohio Department of Development.