RFR-27-05773 Work Authorization Counsel Support

The Executive Office of Technology Services and Security (EOTSS) is evaluating whether it can sponsor a prospective or current employee for authorization to work in the United States. The agency has not determined which, if any, immigration category is appropriate. It seeks outside counsel with demonstrated expertise in employment-based immigration, including representation of public-sector employers, to assess the available options and the requirements associated with each.

The primary objective of this engagement is to secure outside counsel with demonstrated expertise in immigration law and provide EOTSS with practical legal assessment of whether sponsorship is available and advisable for the position(s) and individual(s) under consideration. Counsel should identify the most viable immigration pathway, explain the agency's obligations, costs, timing, and material risks, and recommend the steps needed to proceed.

Scope of Work

The selected legal counsel will be expected to provide the following services:

• Review relevant facts concerning work position(s), proposed duties, qualifications, employment arrangement, and current immigration and work authorization status of individual worker(s).
• Evaluate potentially applicable immigration pathways, including H-1B and any other category counsel determines may be suitable. Address eligibility, filing requirements, timing, numerical limits or exemptions, and any issues specific to a state agency employer.
• Identify employer obligations and constraints, including wage and recruitment requirements, record keeping, filing fees, ongoing compliance duties, and any restrictions on who may pay particular costs.
• Provide a written recommendation comparing viable options, explaining material uncertainties, risks, and estimated timelines, government fees, legal fees, and the information or decisions needed from the agency.
• Meet with agency Legal and Human Resources staff to discuss the assessment and answer follow-up questions.
• If the agency decides to proceed, counsel may be asked to assist with preparation and filing of the necessary applications or petitions, subject to separate written authorization and agreed fee.

Deliverables

- Legal memorandum evaluating available immigration and work authorization options, including eligibility requirements, employer sponsorship obligations, anticipated timelines and recommended next steps.

Only electronic quotes submitted via COMMBUYS will be accepted in response to this RFR. Responses must be sent via the "Create Quote" functionality in COMMBUYS.

Submission contents

• Cover letter: Statement of Interest.
• Firm profile: History, size, practice focus, and attorney bios
• Pricing Proposal: Line-item breakdown, hourly rate, estimated number of hours, flat fee rate, and applicable filing fee estimate. Total cost, payment plans and terms (subject to Commonwealth Standard Contract Terms and Conditions).

Evaluation Criteria

• Specialized Immigration and Government Experience: Firm and lead attorneys have greater than 5 years of relevant law practice and proven work with government clients.
• Timeline Alignment: Ability to deliver against the Commonwealth's urgent timeline.
• Transparent Cost Structure: Detailed, budget-friendly pricing with no hidden fees.
• Basic Compliance: Active law license in MA, Professional liability insurance, and clean bar association standing.
• Conflict of interest check.

Contract term

Initial Duration 8 months. Services to be completed during 2026. Renewal Options N/A.

Professional Liability Insurance Certificate is a required form.