2023-26955. Funding Opportunity for Tribal Self-Governance Negotiation Cooperative Agreement Program

Announcement Type: New.

Funding Announcement Number: HHS–2024–IHS–TSGN–0001.

Assistance Listing (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance or CFDA) Number: 93.444.

Key Dates

Application Deadline Date: February 19, 2024.

Earliest Anticipated Start Date: April 1, 2024.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

Statutory Authority

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is accepting applications for cooperative agreements for the Tribal Self-Governance Negotiation Cooperative Agreement Program. This program is authorized under the Snyder Act, 25 U.S.C. 13; the Transfer Act, 42 U.S.C. 2001(a); and title V of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA), 25 U.S.C. 5383(e). The Assistance Listings section of SAM.gov ( https://same.gov/​content/​home) describes this program under 93.444.

Background

The Tribal Self-Governance Program (TSGP) is more than an IHS program; it is an expression of the government-to-government relationship between the United States (U.S.) and Indian Tribes. Through the TSGP, Tribes negotiate with the IHS to assume Programs, Services, Functions, and Activities (PSFAs), or portions thereof, which gives Tribes the authority to manage and tailor health care programs in a manner that best fits the needs of their communities.

Participation in the TSGP affords Tribes the most flexibility to tailor their health care needs by choosing one of three ways to obtain health care from the Federal Government for their citizens. Specifically, Tribes can choose to: (1) receive health care services directly from the IHS; (2) contract with the IHS to administer individual programs and services the IHS would otherwise provide (referred to as Title I Self-Determination Contracting); and (3) compact with the IHS to assume control over health care programs the IHS would otherwise provide (referred to as Title V Self-Governance Compacting or the TSGP). These options are not exclusive and Tribes may choose to combine options based on their individual needs and circumstances.

The TSGP is a Tribally-driven initiative and strong Federal-Tribal partnerships are essential to the program's success. The IHS established the Office of Tribal Self-Governance (OTSG) to implement the Tribal Self-Governance authorities under the ISDEAA. The primary OTSG functions are to: (1) serve as the primary liaison and advocate for Tribes participating in the TSGP; (2) develop, direct, and implement TSGP policies and procedures; (3) provide information and technical assistance to Self-Governance Tribes; and (4) advise the IHS Director on compliance with TSGP policies, regulations, and guidelines. Each IHS Area has an Agency Lead Negotiator (ALN), designated by the IHS Director to act on his or her behalf, who has authority to negotiate Self-Governance Compacts and Funding Agreements (FA). Tribes interested in participating in the TSGP should contact their respective ALN to begin the Self-Governance planning and negotiation process. Tribes currently participating in the TSGP that are interested in expanding existing or adding new PSFAs should also contact their respective ALN to discuss the best methods for expanding or adding new PSFAs.

Purpose

The purpose of this Negotiation Cooperative Agreement is to provide Tribes with resources to help defray the costs associated with preparing for and engaging in TSGP negotiations. TSGP negotiations are a dynamic, evolving, and Tribally-driven process that requires careful planning, preparation, and sharing of precise, up-to-date information by both Tribal and Federal parties. Because each Tribal situation is unique, a Tribe's successful transition into the TSGP, or expansion of their current program, requires focused discussions between the Federal and Tribal negotiation teams about the Tribe's specific health care concerns and plans. One of the hallmarks of the TSGP is the collaborative nature of the negotiations process, which is designed to: (1) enable a Tribe to set its own priorities when assuming responsibility for IHS PSFAs; (2) observe and respect the government-to-government relationship between the U.S. and each Tribe; and (3) involve the active participation of both Tribal and IHS representatives, including the OTSG. Negotiations are a method of determining and agreeing upon the terms and provisions of a Tribe's Compact and FA, the implementation documents required for the Tribe to enter into the TSGP. The Compact sets forth the general terms of the government-to-government relationship between the Tribe and the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The FA: (1) describes the length of the agreement (whether it will be annual or multi-year); (2) identifies the PSFAs, or portions thereof, the Tribe will assume; (3) specifies the amount of funding associated with the Tribal assumption; and (4) includes terms required by Federal statutes and other terms agreed to by the parties. Both documents are required to participate in the TSGP and they are mutually negotiated agreements that become legally binding and mutually enforceable after both parties sign the documents. Either document can be renegotiated at the request of the Tribe.

The negotiation process has four major stages, including: (1) planning; (2) pre-negotiations; (3) negotiations; and (4) post-negotiations. Title V of the ISDEAA requires that a Tribe or Tribal Organization (T/TO) complete a planning phase to the satisfaction of the Tribe. The planning phase must include legal and budgetary research and internal Tribal government planning and organizational preparation relating to the administration of health care programs. See 25 U.S.C. 5383(d). The planning phase is critical to the negotiation process and assists Tribes with making informed decisions about which PSFAs to assume and what organizational changes or modifications are necessary to support those PSFAs. A thorough planning phase improves timeliness and efficient negotiations and ensures that the Tribe is fully prepared to assume the transfer of IHS PSFAs to the Tribal health program.

During pre-negotiations, the Tribal and Federal negotiation teams review and discuss issues identified during the planning phase. Pre-negotiations provide an opportunity for the Tribe and the IHS to identify and discuss issues directly related to the Tribe's Compact, FA, and Tribal shares.

In advance of final negotiations, the Tribe should work with the IHS to secure the following: (1) program titles and descriptions; (2) financial tables and information; (3) information related to the identification and justification of residuals; and (4) the basis for determining Tribal shares (distribution formula). The Tribe may also wish to discuss financial materials that show estimated funding for next year and the increases or decreases in funding it may receive in the current year, as well as the basis for those changes.

During the final negotiation, both the Federal and Tribal negotiation teams work together in good faith to determine and agree upon the terms and provisions of the Tribe's Compact and FA. Negotiations are not an allocation process; they provide an opportunity to mutually review and discuss budget and program issues to reach agreement and finalize documents.

There are various entities involved throughout the negotiation process. For example, a Tribal government selects its representative(s) for the Tribal negotiation team, which may include a Tribal leader from the governing body, a Tribal health director, technical and program staff, legal counsel, and other consultants. Regardless of the composition of the Tribal team, Tribal representatives must have decision-making authority from the Tribal governing body to successfully negotiate and agree to the provisions within the agreements. The Federal negotiation team is led by the ALN and may include area and headquarters subject matter experts, OTSG staff, the Office of Finance and Accounting, and the Office of the General Counsel. The ALN is the only member of the Federal negotiation team with delegated authority to negotiate on behalf of the IHS Director. The ALN is the designated official that provides Tribes with Self-Governance information, assists Tribes in planning, organizes meetings between the Tribe and the IHS, and coordinates the agency's response to Tribal questions during the negotiation process. The ALN role requires detailed knowledge of the IHS, awareness of current policy and practice, and understanding of the rights and authorities available to a Tribe under Title V of the ISDEAA.

In post-negotiations, the mutually agreed to and negotiated Compact and FA are signed by the authorizing Tribal official and submitted to the OTSG in preparation for the IHS Director's signature. Once the Compact and FA have been signed by both parties, they become legally binding and enforceable agreements. A signed Compact and FA are necessary for the payment process to begin. The negotiating Tribe then becomes a “Self-Governance Tribe” and a participant in the TSGP.

Acquiring a Negotiation Cooperative Agreement is not a prerequisite to enter the TSGP. A Tribe may use other resources to develop and negotiate its Compact and FA. See 42 CFR 137.26. Tribes that receive a Negotiation Cooperative Agreement are not obligated to participate in Title V and may choose to delay or decline participation or expansion in the TSGP.

II. Award Information

Funding Instrument—Cooperative Agreement

Estimated Funds Available

The total funding identified for fiscal year (FY) 2024 is approximately $420,000. The IHS anticipates individual award amounts will be $84,000. The funding available for competing awards issued under this announcement is subject to the availability of appropriations and budgetary priorities of the Agency. The IHS is under no obligation to make awards to applicants selected for funding under this announcement.

Anticipated Number of Awards

The IHS anticipates issuing approximately five awards under this program announcement.

Period of Performance

The period of performance is for 1 year.

Cooperative Agreement

Cooperative agreements awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) are administered under the same policies as grants. However, the funding agency, IHS, is anticipated to have substantial programmatic involvement in the project during the entire period of performance. Below is a detailed description of the level of involvement required of the IHS.

Substantial Agency Involvement Description for Cooperative Agreement

A. Provide descriptions of PSFAs and associated funding at all organizational levels (service unit, area, and headquarters) including funding formulas and methodologies related to determining Tribal shares.

B. Meet with Negotiation Cooperative Agreement recipients to provide program information and discuss methods currently used to manage and deliver health care.

C. Identify and provide statutes, regulations, and policies that provide authority for administering IHS programs.

D. Provide technical assistance on the IHS budget, Tribal shares, and other topics as needed.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligibility

To be eligible for this opportunity, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

• Applicant must be an “Indian Tribe” as defined in 25 U.S.C. 5304(e); a “Tribal Organization” as defined in 25 U.S.C. 5304(l); or an “Inter-Tribal Consortium” as defined at 42 CFR 137.10. Please note that Tribes prohibited from contracting pursuant to the ISDEAA are not eligible. See section 424(a) of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014, Public Law 113–76, as amended by section 445 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Public Law 117–328, and the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act, Public Law 118–15.
• Pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 5383(c)(1)(B), applicant must request participation in self-governance by resolution or other official action by the governing body of each Indian Tribe to be served.
• Pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 5383(c)(1)(C), applicant must demonstrate financial stability and financial management capability for 3 consecutive fiscal years prior to the application submission.

Meeting the eligibility criteria for a Negotiation Cooperative Agreement does not mean that a T/TO is eligible for participation in the IHS TSGP under title V of the ISDEAA. See 25 U.S.C. 5383, 42 CFR 137.15–23. For additional information on the eligibility for the IHS TSGP, please visit the “Eligibility and Funding” page on the OTSG website located at https://www.ihs.gov/​SelfGovernance.

The Division of Grants Management (DGM)will notify any applicants deemed ineligible.

2. Additional Information on Eligibility

The IHS does not fund concurrent projects. If an applicant is successful under this announcement, any subsequent applications in response to other Tribal Self-Governance Negotiation Cooperative Agreement Program announcements from the same applicant will not be funded. Applications on behalf of individuals (including sole proprietorships) and foreign organizations are not eligible and will be disqualified from competitive review and funding under this funding opportunity.

Note:

Please refer to Section IV.2 (Application and Submission Information/Subsection 2, Content and Form of Application Submission) for additional proof of applicant status documents required, such as Tribal Resolutions, proof of nonprofit status, etc.

3. Cost Sharing or Matching

The IHS does not require matching funds or cost sharing for grants or cooperative agreements.

4. Other Requirements

Applications with budget requests that exceed the highest dollar amount outlined under Section II Award Information, Estimated Funds Available, or exceed the period of performance outlined under Section II Award Information, Period of Performance, are considered not responsive and will not be reviewed. The DGM will notify the applicant.

Additional Required Documentation

Tribal Resolution

The DGM must receive an official, signed Tribal Resolution prior to issuing a Notice of Award (NoA) to any T/TO selected for funding. An applicant that is proposing a project affecting another Indian Tribe must include resolutions from all affected Tribes to be served. However, if an official signed Tribal Resolution cannot be submitted with the application prior to the application deadline date, a draft Tribal Resolution must be submitted with the application by the deadline date in order for the application to be considered complete and eligible for review. The draft Tribal Resolution is not in lieu of the required signed resolution but is acceptable until a signed resolution is received. If an application without a signed Tribal Resolution is selected for funding, the applicant will be contacted by the Grants Management Specialist (GMS) listed in this funding announcement and given 90 days to submit an official signed Tribal Resolution to the GMS. If the signed Tribal Resolution is not received within 90 days, the award will be forfeited.

Applicants organized with a governing structure other than a Tribal council may submit an equivalent document commensurate with their governing organization.

IV. Application and Submission Information

Grants.gov uses a Workspace model for accepting applications. The Workspace consists of several online forms and three forms in which to upload documents—Project Narrative, Budget Narrative, and Other Documents. Give your files brief descriptive names. The filenames are key in finding specific documents during the merit review and in processing awards. Upload all requested and optional documents individually, rather than combining them into a single file. Creating a single file creates confusion when trying to find specific documents. Such confusion can contribute to delays in processing awards, and could lead to lower scores during the merit review.

1. Obtaining Application Materials

The application package and detailed instructions for this announcement are available at https://www.Grants.gov.

Please direct questions regarding the application process to [e-mail].

2. Content and Form Application Submission

Mandatory documents for all applications are listed below. An application is complete if any of the listed mandatory documents are missing. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

• Application forms:

1. SF–424, Application for Federal Assistance.

2. SF–424A, Budget Information—Non-Construction Programs.

3. SF–424B, Assurances—Non-Construction Programs.

4. Project Abstract Summary form.

• Budget Narrative (not to exceed 5 pages). See Section IV.2.B, Budget Narrative for instructions.
• One-page Timeframe of award activities.
• Tribal Resolution(s) as described in Section III, Eligibility.
• Biographical sketches for all Key Personnel.
• Certification Regarding Lobbying (GG-Lobbying Form).

The documents listed here may be required. Please read this list carefully.

• Tribal Resolution(s) as described in Section III, Eligibility.
• Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF–LLL), if applicant conducts reportable lobbying.
• Copy of current Negotiated Indirect Cost (IDC) rate agreement (required in order to receive IDC).
• Organizational Chart (optional).
• Documentation sufficient to demonstrate financial stability and financial management capability for 3 fiscal years. The Indian Tribe must provide evidence that, for the 3 fiscal years prior to requesting participation in the TSGP, the Indian Tribe has had no uncorrected significant and material audit exceptions in the required annual audit of the Indian Tribe's Self-Determination Contracts or Self-Governance Funding Agreements with any Federal agency. See 25 U.S.C. 5383, 42 CFR 137.15–23. For T/TO that expended $500,000 or more in Federal awards, the OTSG shall retrieve the audits directly from the Federal Audit Clearinghouse. For T/TO that expended less than $500,000 in Federal awards, the T/TO must provide evidence of the program review correspondence from the IHS or Bureau of Indian Affairs officials. See 42 CFR 137.21–23.
• Documentation of current Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Financial Audit.

Acceptable forms of documentation include:

1. Email confirmation from Federal Audit Clearinghouse (FAC) that audits were submitted; or

2. Face sheets from audit reports. Applicants can find these on the FAC website at  https://facdissem.census.gov/​.

Additional documents can be uploaded as Other Attachments in Grants.gov. These can include:

• Work plan, logic model, and/or timeline for proposed objectives.
• Position descriptions for key staff.
• Resumes of key staff that reflect current duties.
• Consultant or contractor proposed scope of work and letter of commitment (if applicable).
• Organizational chart.
• Map of area identifying project location(s).
• Additional documents to support narrative (for example, data tables, key news articles).

Public Policy Requirements

All Federal public policies apply to IHS grants and cooperative agreements. Pursuant to 45 CFR 80.3(d), an individual shall not be deemed subjected to discrimination by reason of their exclusion from benefits limited by Federal law to individuals eligible for benefits and services from the IHS. See https://www.hhs.gov/​grants/​grants/​grants-policies-regulations/​index.html.

Requirements for Project and Budget Narratives

A. Project Narrative

This narrative should be a separate document that is no more than 10 pages and must: (1) have consecutively numbered pages; (2) use black font 12 points or larger (applicants may use 10 point font for tables); (3) be single-spaced; and (4) be formatted to fit standard letter paper (8 1/2 x 11 inches). Do not combine this document with any others.

Be sure to succinctly answer all questions listed under the evaluation criteria (refer to Section V.1, Evaluation Criteria), and place all responses and required information in the correct section noted below or they will not be considered or scored. If the narrative exceeds the overall page limit, the reviewers will be directed to ignore any content beyond the page limit. The 10 page limit for the project narrative does not include the work plan, standard forms, Tribal Resolutions, budget, budget narratives, and/or other items. Page limits for each section within the project narrative are guidelines, not hard limits.

There are three parts to the project narrative: Part 1—Program Information; Part 2—Program Planning and Evaluation; and Part 3—Program Report. See below for additional details about what must be included in the narrative.

The page limits below are for each narrative and budget submitted.

Part 1: Program Information (Limit—4 Pages)

Section 1: Needs

Demonstrate that the Tribe has conducted previous Self-Governance planning activities by clearly stating the results of what was learned during the planning process. Explain how the Tribe has determined it has the knowledge and expertise to assume or expand PSFAs and the administrative infrastructure to support the assumption of PSFAs. Identify the need for assistance and how the Negotiation Cooperative Agreement would benefit the health activities the Tribe is preparing to assume or expand.

Part 2: Program Planning and Evaluation (Limit—4 Pages)

Section 1: Program Plans

State in measurable terms the objectives and appropriate activities to achieve the following Negotiation Cooperative Agreement recipient award activities:

(A) Determine the PSFAs that will be negotiated into the Tribe's Compact and FA. Prepare and discuss each PSFA in comparison to the current level of services provided so that an informed decision can be made on new or expanded program assumption.

(B) Identify Tribal shares associated with the PSFAs that will be included in the FA.

(C) Develop the terms and conditions that will be set forth in both the Compact and FA to submit to the ALN prior to negotiations.

Describe fully and clearly how the Tribe's proposal will result in an improved approach to managing the PSFAs to be assumed or expanded. Include how the Tribe plans to demonstrate improved health services to the community and incorporate the proposed timelines for negotiations.

Section 2: Program Evaluation

Describe fully and clearly how the goals and proposed activities will improve the health care system and identify the anticipated or expected benefits for the Tribe. Define the criteria to be used to evaluate objectives associated with the project using a model for tracking.

Part 3: Program Report (Limit—2 Pages)

Section 1

Describe your organization's significant program activities and accomplishments over the past several years associated with the goals of this announcement and leading up to the negotiation phase.

Please identify and describe significant program activities and achievements associated with the delivery of quality health services. Provide a comparison of the actual accomplishments to the goals established for the project period or, if applicable, provide justification for the lack of progress.

B. Budget Narrative (Limit—5 Pages)

Provide a budget narrative that explains the amounts requested for each line item of the budget from the SF–424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs) for the project. The applicant can submit with the budget narrative a more detailed spreadsheet than is provided by the SF–424A (the spreadsheet will not be considered part of the budget narrative). The budget narrative should specifically describe how each item would support the achievement of proposed objectives. Be very careful about showing how each item in the “Other” category is justified. Do NOT use the budget narrative to expand the project narrative.

3. Submission Dates and Times

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the Application Deadline Date. Any application received after the application deadline will not be accepted for review. Grants.gov will notify the applicant via email if the application is rejected.

If technical challenges arise and assistance is required with the application process, contact Grants.gov Customer Support (see contact information at https://www.Grants.gov). If problems persist, contact Mr. Paul Gettys, Deputy Director, DGM, by email at [e-mail]. Please be sure to contact Mr. Gettys at least 10 days prior to the application deadline. Please do not contact the DGM until you have received a Grants.gov tracking number. In the event you are not able to obtain a tracking number, call the DGM as soon as possible by email at [e-mail].

The IHS will not acknowledge receipt of applications.

4. Intergovernmental Review

Executive Order 12372 requiring intergovernmental review is not applicable to this program.

5. Funding Restrictions

• Pre-award costs are not allowable.
• The available funds are inclusive of direct and indirect costs.
• Only one cooperative agreement may be awarded per applicant.

6. Electronic Submission Requirements

All applications must be submitted via Grants.gov. Please use the https://www.Grants.gov website to submit an application. Find the application by selecting the “Search Grants” link on the homepage. Follow the instructions for submitting an application under the Package tab. No other method of application submission is acceptable.

If you cannot submit an application through Grants.gov, you must request a waiver prior to the application due date. You must submit your waiver request by email to [e-mail]. Your waiver request must include clear justification for the need to deviate from the required application submission process. The IHS will not accept any applications submitted through any means outside of Grants.gov without an approved waiver.

If the DGM approves your waiver request, you will receive a confirmation of approval email containing submission instructions. You must include a copy of the written approval with the application submitted to the DGM. Applications that do not include a copy of the waiver approval from the DGM will not be reviewed. The Grants Management Officer of the DGM will notify the applicant via email of this decision. Applications submitted under waiver must be received by the DGM no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the Application Deadline Date. Late applications will not be accepted for processing. Applicants that do not register for both the System for Award Management (SAM) and Grants.gov and/or fail to request timely assistance with technical issues will not be considered for a waiver to submit an application via alternative method.

Please be aware of the following:

• Please search for the application package in https://www.Grants.gov by entering the Assistance Listing number or the Funding Opportunity Number. Both numbers are located in the header of this announcement.

• If you experience technical challenges while submitting your application, please contact Grants.gov Customer Support (see contact information at https://www.Grants.gov).

• Upon contacting Grants.gov, obtain a tracking number as proof of contact. The tracking number is helpful if there are technical issues that cannot be resolved and a waiver from the agency must be obtained.

• Applicants are strongly encouraged not to wait until the deadline date to begin the application process through Grants.gov as the registration process for SAM and Grants.gov could take up to 20 working days.

• Please follow the instructions on Grants.gov to include additional documentation that may be requested by this funding announcement.

• Applicants must comply with any page limits described in this funding announcement.

• After submitting the application, you will receive an automatic acknowledgment from Grants.gov that contains a Grants.gov tracking number. The IHS will not notify you that the application has been received.

System for Award Management

Organizations that are not registered with the System for Award Management (SAM) must access the SAM online registration through the SAM home page at https://sam.gov. Organizations based in the U.S. will also need to provide an Employer Identification Number from the Internal Revenue Service that may take an additional 2–5 weeks to become active. Please see SAM.gov for details on the registration process and timeline. Registration with the SAM is free of charge but can take several weeks to process. Applicants may register online at https://sam.gov.

Unique Entity Identifier

Your SAM.gov registration now includes a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), generated by SAM.gov, which replaces the DUNS number obtained from Dun and Bradstreet. SAM.gov registration no longer requires a DUNS number.

Check your organization's SAM.gov registration as soon as you decide to apply for this program. If your SAM.gov registration is expired, you will not be able to submit an application. It can take several weeks to renew it or resolve any issues with your registration, so do not wait.

Check your Grants.gov registration. Registration and role assignments in Grants.gov are self-serve functions. One user for your organization will have the authority to approve role assignments, and these must be approved for active users in order to ensure someone in your organization has the necessary access to submit an application.

The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, as amended (“Transparency Act”), requires all HHS recipients to report information on sub-awards. Accordingly, all IHS recipients must notify potential first-tier sub-recipients that no entity may receive a first-tier sub-award unless the entity has provided its UEI number to the prime recipient organization. This requirement ensures the use of a universal identifier to enhance the quality of information available to the public pursuant to the Transparency Act.

Additional information on implementing the Transparency Act, including the specific requirements for SAM, are available on the DGM Grants Management, Policy Topics web page at https://www.ihs.gov/​dgm/​policytopics/​.

V. Application Review Information

Possible points assigned to each section are noted in parentheses. The project narrative and budget narrative should include the proposed activities for the entire period of performance. The project narrative should be written in a manner that is clear to outside reviewers unfamiliar with prior related activities of the applicant. It should be well organized, succinct, and contain all information necessary for reviewers to fully understand the project. Attachments requested in the criteria do not count toward the page limit for the narratives. Points will be assigned to each evaluation criteria adding up to a total of 100 possible points. Points are assigned as follows:

1. Evaluation Criteria

A. Introduction and Need for Assistance (25 Points)

Demonstrate that the Tribe has conducted previous Self-Governance planning activities by clearly stating the results of what was learned during the planning process. Explain how the Tribe has determined it has the knowledge and expertise to assume or expand PSFAs and the administrative infrastructure to support the assumption of PSFAs. Identify the need for assistance and how the Negotiation Cooperative Agreement would benefit the health activities the Tribe is preparing to assume or expand.

B. Project Objective(s), Work Plan and Approach (25 Points)

State in measurable terms the objectives and appropriate activities to achieve the following Negotiation Cooperative Agreement recipient award activities:

1. Determine the PSFAs that will be negotiated into the Tribe's Compact and FA. Prepare and discuss each PSFA in comparison to the level of services provided so that an informed decision can be made on new or expanded program assumption.

2. Identify Tribal shares associated with the PSFAs that will be included in the FA.

3. Develop the terms and conditions that will be set forth in both the Compact and FA to submit to the ALN prior to negotiations. Clearly describe how the Tribe's proposal will result in an improved approach to managing the PSFAs to be assumed or expanded. Include how the Tribe plans to demonstrate improved health care services to the community and incorporate the proposed timelines for negotiations.

C. Program Evaluation (25 Points)

Describe fully the improvements that will be made by the Tribe to manage the health care system and identify the anticipated or expected benefits for the Tribe. Define the criteria to be used to evaluate objectives associated with the project and how they will be measured.

D. Organizational Capabilities, Key Personnel, and Qualifications (15 Points)

Describe the organizational structure of the Tribe and its ability to manage the proposed project. Include resumes or position descriptions of key staff showing requisite experience and expertise. If applicable, include resumes and scope of work for consultants that demonstrate experience and expertise relevant to the project.

E. Categorical Budget and Budget Justification (10 Points)

Submit a budget with a narrative describing the budget request and matching the scope of work described in the project narrative. Justify all expenditures identifying reasonable and allowable costs necessary to accomplish the goals and objectives as outlined in the project narrative.

2. Review and Selection

Each application will be prescreened for eligibility and completeness as outlined in this funding announcement. The Review Committee (RC) will review applications that meet the eligibility criteria. The RC will review the applications for merit based on the evaluation criteria. Incomplete applications and applications that are not responsive to the administrative thresholds (budget limit, period of performance limit) will not be referred to the RC and will not be funded. The DGM will notify the applicant of this determination.

Applicants must address all program requirements and provide all required documentation.

3. Notifications of Disposition

All applicants will receive an Executive Summary Statement from the OTSG within 30 days of the conclusion of the RC outlining the strengths and weaknesses of their application. The summary statement will be sent to the Authorizing Official identified on the face page (SF–424) of the application.

A. Award Notices for Funded Applications

The NoA is the authorizing document for which funds are dispersed to the approved entities and reflects the amount of Federal funds awarded, the purpose of the award, the terms and conditions of the award, the effective date of the award, the budget period, and period of performance. Each entity approved for funding must have a user account in GrantSolutions in order to retrieve the NoA. Please see the Agency Contacts list in Section VII for the system's contact information.

B. Approved but Unfunded Applications

Approved applications not funded due to lack of available funds will be held for 1 year. If funding becomes available during the course of the year, the application may be reconsidered.

Note:

Any correspondence, other than the official NoA executed by an IHS grants management official announcing to the project director that an award has been made to their organization, is not an authorization to implement their program on behalf of the IHS.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Administrative Requirements

Awards issued under this announcement are subject to, and are administered in accordance with, the following regulations and policies:

A. The criteria as outlined in this program announcement.

B. Administrative Regulations for Awards:

• Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for HHS Awards currently in effect or implemented during the period of award, other Department regulations and policies in effect at the time of award, and applicable statutory provisions. At the time of publication, this includes 45 CFR part 75, at https://www.govinfo.gov/​content/​pkg/​CFR-2022-title45-vol1/​pdf/​CFR-2022-title45-vol1-part75.pdf.

• If you receive an award, HHS may terminate it if any of the conditions in 2 CFR 200.340(a)(1)–(4) are met. Please review all HHS regulatory provisions for Termination at 45 CFR 75.372, at the time of this publication located at https://www.govinfo.gov/​content/​pkg/​CFR-2022-title45-vol1/​pdf/​CFR-2022-title45-vol1-sec75-372.pdf.

C. Grants Policy:

• HHS Grants Policy Statement, Revised January 2007, at https://www.hhs.gov/​sites/​default/​files/​grants/​grants/​policies-regulations/​hhsgps107.pdf.

D. Cost Principles:

• Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, “Cost Principles,” at 45 CFR part 75 subpart E, at the time of this publication located at https://www.govinfo.gov/​content/​pkg/​CFR-2022-title45-vol1/​pdf/​CFR-2022-title45-vol1-part75-subpartE.pdf.

E. Audit Requirements:

• Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, “Audit Requirements,” at 45 CFR part 75 subpart F, at the time of this publication located at https://www.govinfo.gov/​content/​pkg/​CFR-2022-title45-vol1/​pdf/​CFR-2022-title45-vol1-part75-subpartF.pdf.

F. As of August 13, 2020, 2 CFR part 200 was updated to include a prohibition on certain telecommunications and video surveillance services or equipment. This prohibition is described in 2 CFR 200.216. This will also be described in the terms and conditions of every IHS grant and cooperative agreement awarded on or after August 13, 2020.

2. Indirect Costs

This section applies to all recipients that request reimbursement of IDC in their application budget. In accordance with HHS Grants Policy Statement, Part II–27, the IHS requires applicants to obtain a current IDC rate agreement and submit it to the DGM prior to the DGM issuing an award. The rate agreement must be prepared in accordance with the applicable cost principles and guidance as provided by the cognizant agency or office. A current rate covers the applicable award activities under the current award's budget period. If the current rate agreement is not on file with the DGM at the time of award, the IDC portion of the budget will be restricted. The restrictions remain in place until the current rate agreement is provided to the DGM.

Per 2 CFR 200.414(f) Indirect (F&A) costs, found at https://www.govinfo.gov/​content/​pkg/​CFR-2023-title2-vol1/​pdf/​CFR-2023-title2-vol1-sec200-414.pdf.

Electing to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent can be used by applicants that have received an approved negotiated indirect cost rate from HHS or another cognizant Federal agency. Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect cost proposal may request the 10 percent de minimis rate. When the applicant chooses this method, costs included in the indirect cost pool must not be charged as direct costs to the award.

Available funds are inclusive of direct and appropriate indirect costs. Approved indirect funds are awarded as part of the award amount, and no additional funds will be provided.

Generally, IDC rates for IHS recipients are negotiated with the Division of Cost Allocation at https://rates.psc.gov/​ or the Department of the Interior (Interior Business Center) at https://ibc.doi.gov/​ICS/​tribal. For questions regarding the indirect cost policy, please write to [e-mail].

3. Reporting Requirements

The recipient must submit required reports consistent with the applicable deadlines. Failure to submit required reports within the time allowed may result in suspension or termination of an active award, withholding of additional awards for the project, or other enforcement actions such as withholding of payments or converting to the reimbursement method of payment. Continued failure to submit required reports may result in the imposition of special award provisions and/or the non-funding or non-award of other eligible projects or activities. This requirement applies whether the delinquency is attributable to the failure of the recipient organization or the individual responsible for preparation of the reports. Per DGM policy, all reports must be submitted electronically by attaching them as a “Grant Note” in GrantSolutions. Personnel responsible for submitting reports will be required to obtain a login and password for GrantSolutions. Please use the form under the Recipient User section of https://www.grantsolutions.gov/​home/​getting-started-request-a-user-account/​. Download the Recipient User Account Request Form, fill it out completely, and submit it as described on the web page and in the form.

The reporting requirements for this program are noted below.

A. Progress Reports

Program progress reports are required semi-annually. The progress reports are due within 30 days after the reporting period ends (specific dates will be listed in the NoA Terms and Conditions). These reports must include a brief comparison of actual accomplishments to the goals established for the period, a summary of progress to date or, if applicable, provide sound justification for the lack of progress, and other pertinent information as required. A final report must be submitted within 120 days of the period of performance end date.

B. Financial Reports

Federal Financial Reports are due 90 days after the end of each budget period, and a final report is due 120 days after the end of the period of performance. Recipients are responsible and accountable for reporting accurate information on all required reports: the Progress Reports and the Federal Financial Report. Failure to submit timely reports may result in adverse award actions blocking access to funds.

C. Federal Sub-Award Reporting System (FSRS)

This award may be subject to the Transparency Act sub-award and executive compensation reporting requirements of 2 CFR part 170.

The Transparency Act requires the OMB to establish a single searchable database, accessible to the public, with information on financial assistance awards made by Federal agencies. The Transparency Act also includes a requirement for recipients of Federal awards to report information about first-tier sub-awards and executive compensation under Federal assistance awards.

The IHS has implemented a Term of Award into all IHS Standard Terms and Conditions, NoAs, and funding announcements regarding the FSRS reporting requirement. This IHS Term of Award is applicable to all IHS grant and cooperative agreements issued on or after October 1, 2010, with a $25,000 sub-award obligation threshold met for any specific reporting period.

For the full IHS award term implementing this requirement and additional award applicability information, visit the DGM Grants Management website at https://www.ihs.gov/​dgm/​policytopics/​.

D. Non-Discrimination Legal Requirements for Recipients of Federal Financial Assistance (FFA)

If you receive an award, you must follow all applicable nondiscrimination laws. You agree to this when you register in SAM.gov. You must also submit an Assurance of Compliance (HHS–690). To learn more, see https://www.hhs.gov/​civil-rights/​for-providers/​laws-regulations-guidance/​laws/​index.html. Pursuant to 45 CFR 80.3(d), an individual shall not be deemed subjected to discrimination by reason of their exclusion from benefits limited by Federal law to individuals eligible for benefits and services from the IHS.

E. Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS)

The IHS is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the FAPIIS at https://www.fapiis.gov/​fapiis/​#/​home before making any award in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $250,000) over the period of performance. An applicant may review and comment on any information about itself that a Federal awarding agency previously entered. The IHS will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to other information in FAPIIS, in making a judgment about the applicant's integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants, as described in 45 CFR 75.205.

As required by 45 CFR part 75 Appendix XII of the Uniform Guidance, NFEs are required to disclose in FAPIIS any information about criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings, and/or affirm that there is no new information to provide. This applies to NFEs that receive Federal awards (currently active grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts) greater than $10 million for any period of time during the period of performance of an award/project.

Mandatory Disclosure Requirements

As required by 2 CFR part 200 of the Uniform Guidance, and HHS implementing regulations at 45 CFR part 75, the IHS must require an NFE or an applicant for a Federal award to disclose, in a timely manner, in writing to the IHS or pass-through entity all violations of Federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the Federal award.

All applicants and recipients must disclose in writing, in a timely manner, to the IHS and to the HHS Office of Inspector General all information related to violations of Federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the Federal award. 45 CFR 75.113.

Disclosures must be sent in writing to:

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Indian Health Service, Division of Grants Management, ATTN: Marsha Brookins, Director, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857 (Include “Mandatory Grant Disclosures” in subject line), Office: (301) 443–5204, Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail].

AND

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, ATTN: Mandatory Grant Disclosures, Intake Coordinator, 330 Independence Avenue SW, Cohen Building, Room 5527, Washington, DC 20201, URL: https://oig.hhs.gov/​fraud/​report-fraud/​ (Include “Mandatory Grant Disclosures” in subject line), Fax: [phone] (Include “Mandatory Grant Disclosures” in subject line) or Email: [e-mail]

Failure to make required disclosures can result in any of the remedies described in 45 CFR 75.371 Remedies for noncompliance, including suspension or debarment (see 2 CFR part 180 and 2 CFR part 376).

VII. Agency Contacts

1. Questions on the program matters may be directed to: Roxanne Houston, Program Officer, Indian Health Service, Office of Tribal Self-Governance, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 08E09B, Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: [phone], Email: [e-mail], website: https://www.ihs.gov/​SelfGovernance/​.

2. Questions on awards management and fiscal matters may be directed to: Indian Health Service, Division of Grants Management, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857, Email: [e-mail].

3. For technical assistance with Grants.gov, please contact the Grants.gov help desk at 800–518–4726, or by email at [e-mail].

4. For technical assistance with GrantSolutions, please contact the GrantSolutions help desk at (866) 577–0771, or by email at [e-mail].

VIII. Other Information

The Public Health Service strongly encourages all grant, cooperative agreement, and contract recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition, Public Law 103–227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of the facility) in which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care, or early childhood development services are provided to children. This is consistent with the HHS mission to protect and advance the physical and mental health of the American people.

Roselyn Tso,

Director, Indian Health Service.