What is an RFP
The RFP process allows private citizens/companies to submit proposals to provide specified services to a government agency. The Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB) is seeking proposals for consulting services to assist with the implementation of the legalized recreational marijuana system enacted by the voters with Initiative 502. More detailed information can be found in the RFP which is posted on the WEBS website [1].
Consulting Services Sought
The WSLCB anticipates that it will seek consulting services in the following categories:
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Product and Industry Knowledge
This category includes but is not limited to: how marijuana is grown, cultivated, harvested, cured and processed. How marijuana is infused into food and beverages. How marijuana should be packaged, labeled, transported and sold at a retail level. How wholesale and retail product should be recalled and accounted for. How marijuana should be destroyed if over-produced, contaminated or recalled.
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Product Quality Standards and Testing
This category includes but is not limited to: knowledge of the infrastructure to test marijuana to ensure product quality, content, ingredients and consumer safety considerations. The consultant may assist the WSLCB with establishing quality standards for testing.
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Product Usage and Consumption Validation
This category includes but is not limited to: expertise to estimate product usage and consumption levels by geographic areas in Washington State.
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Product Regulation
This category includes but is not limited to: a strong understanding of state, local or federal government processes and procedures. The consultant may assist the WSLCB in crafting marijuana system regulations.
Awarding the Bid
Submitted proposals will be evaluated and scored in accordance with the RFP. Contract(s) may be awarded as a result of the RFP evaluation process.
Tentative Schedule
| Date (2013) | Milestone |
| Jan. 11 | WSLCB Listserv notice |
| Jan. 17 | RFP is publicly released via WEBS |
| Jan. 30 | Bidders Conference at the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center, 11:00 a.m. |
| Feb. 15 | 2:00 p.m. deadline for bids |
| Mar. TBD | Completion of bid/vendor review and scoring process |
| Mar. TBD | Apparent successful vendor announced via WSLCB listserv, etc. |
| Mar. TBD | Award contract |
Questions
Upon release of the RFP, all proposer communications must be directed to the Procurement Coordinator. All communications must be submitted in writing. Unauthorized contact regarding this solicitation with other State employees, including WSLCB employees, involved with the solicitation may result in disqualification. Proposers should rely only on written statements issued by the Procurement Coordinator.
Procurement Coordinator
Washington State Liquor Control Board
3000 Pacific Ave
Olympia, WA 98504
K430@liq.wa.gov [2]