The agency is purchasing 500 ASUS Computer Tablets as an Emergency Procurement under Section 3 of the Governor’s order. These tablets allow community staff to perform daily duties clients and school children via online means during this time of crisis. The value priced state contract tablets were sold out and unavailable at the time of this emergency purchase. This purchase allows state employees to continue to provide the services required by our clients while reducing the number of staff in state owned buildings and is also needed due to the closures of the schools. Social distancing is a proven defense against the spread of the Covid 19 virus. SCDMH is acquiring these items for the safety and welfare of the employees performing these duties during this time of crisis. The price of $126,171 is deemed fair and reasonable.