Planning Cooperative Agreement Applications: Tribal Self-Governance Program

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2015)

Federal Register Volume 80, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2015)

Notices

Pages 9271-9277

From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office www.gpo.gov

FR Doc No: 2015-03206

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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Indian Health Service

Planning Cooperative Agreement Applications: Tribal Self-

Governance Program

Office of Tribal Self-Governance

Planning Cooperative Agreement

Announcement Type: New--Limited Competition.

Funding Announcement Number: HHS-2015-IHS-TSGP-0001.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number: 93.444.

Key Dates

Application Deadline Date: June 3, 2015.

Review Date: June 10, 2015.

Earliest Anticipated Start Date: July 1, 2015.

Signed Tribal Resolutions Due Date: June 10, 2015.

1. Funding Opportunity Description.

   Statutory Authority

   The Indian Health Service (IHS) Office of Tribal Self-Governance (OTSG) is accepting limited competition Planning Cooperative Agreement applications for the Tribal Self-Governance Program (TSGP). This program is authorized under Title V of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA), 25 U.S.C. 458aaa-2(e). This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA), available at https://www.cfda.gov/, under 93.444.

   Background

   The TSGP is more than an IHS program; it is an expression of the government-to-government relationship between the United States 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 is one of three ways that Tribes can choose to obtain health care from the Federal Government for their members. Specifically, Tribes can choose to: (1) Receive health care services directly from the IHS, (2) contract with the IHS to administer individual PSFAs that the IHS would otherwise provide (referred to as Title I Self-Determination Contracting), or (3) compact with the IHS to assume control over healthcare PSFAs that 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. Participation in the TSGP affords Tribes the most flexibility to tailor health care PSFAs to the needs of their communities.

   The TSGP is a Tribally-driven initiative and strong Tribal/Federal partnerships are essential for program success. The IHS established the OTSG to implement Tribal Self-Governance authorities. The OTSG: (1) Serves as the primary liaison and advocate for Tribes participating in the TSGP, (2) develops, directs, and implements Tribal Self-Governance policies and procedures, (3) provides information and technical

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   assistance to Self-Governance Tribes, and (4) advises 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, who has the authority to negotiate Self-Governance Compacts and Funding Agreements. A Tribe should contact the respective ALN to begin the Self-Governance planning process or, if currently an existing Self-Governance Tribe, discuss methods to expand current PSFAs. The ALN shall provide an overview of the TSGP and provide technical assistance on the planning process or expanding current PSFAs.

   Purpose

   The purpose of this Planning Cooperative Agreement is to provide resources to Tribes interested in entering the TSGP and to existing Self-Governance Tribes interested in assuming new or expanded PSFAs. Title V of the ISDEAA requires a Tribe or Tribal organization 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 organization preparation relating to the administration of health care programs. See 25 U.S.C. 458aaa-2(d).

   The planning phase helps Tribes make informed decisions about which PSFAs to assume and what organizational changes or modifications are necessary to successfully support those PSFAs. A thorough planning phase improves timeliness and efficiency of negotiations and ensures that the Tribe is fully prepared to assume the transfer of IHS PSFAs to the Tribal health program.

   A Planning Cooperative Agreement is not a prerequisite to enter the TSGP and a Tribe may use other resources to meet the planning requirements. Tribes that receive a Planning Cooperative Agreement are not obligated to participate in the TSGP and may choose to delay or decline participation based on the outcome of their planning activities. This also applies to existing Self-Governance Tribes exploring the option to expand their current PSFAs or assume additional PSFAs.

   Limited Competition Justification

   There is limited competition under this announcement because the authorizing legislation restricts eligibility to Tribes that meet specific criteria. See 25 U.S.C. 458aaa-2(e); 42 CFR 137.24-26; see also 42 CFR 137.10.

2. Award Information

   Type of Award

   Cooperative Agreement.

   Estimated Funds Available

   The total amount of funding identified for the current fiscal year (FY) 2015 is approximately $600,000. Individual award amounts are anticipated to be $120,000. The amount of 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 that are selected for funding under this announcement.

   Anticipated Number of Awards

   Approximately five awards will be issued under this program announcement.

   Project Period

   The project period is for 12 months and runs from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016.

   Cooperative Agreement

   Cooperative agreements awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) are administered under the same policies as a grant. The funding agency (IHS) is required to have substantial programmatic involvement in the project during the entire award segment. Below is a detailed description of the level of involvement required for both IHS and the grantee. IHS will be responsible for activities listed under section A and the grantee will be responsible for activities listed under section B as stated:

   Substantial Involvement Description for the TSGP Planning Cooperative Agreement

   1. IHS Programmatic Involvement

      (1) 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.

      (2) Meet with Planning Cooperative Agreement recipient to provide program information and discuss methods currently used to manage and deliver health care.

      (3) Identify and provide statutes, regulations, and policies that provide authority for administering IHS programs.

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

   2. Grantee Planning Cooperative Agreement Award Activities

      (1) Research and analyze the complex IHS budget to gain a thorough understanding of funding distribution at all organizational levels and to determine which PSFAs the Tribe may elect to assume or expand.

      (2) Establish a process by which Tribes may approach the IHS to identify PSFAs and associated funding that may be incorporated into their current programs.

      (3) Determine the Tribe's share of each PSFA and evaluate the current level of healthcare services being provided to make an informed decision on new or expanded program assumption(s).

3. Eligibility Information

   1. Eligibility

      To be eligible for this Limited Competition Planning Cooperative Agreement under this announcement, an applicant must:

      1. Be an ``Indian Tribe'' as defined in 25 U.S.C. 450b(e); a ``Tribal Organization'' as defined in 25 U.S.C. 450b(l); or an ``Inter-

         Tribal Consortium'' as defined at 42 CFR 137.10. However, Alaska Native Villages or Alaska Native Village Corporations are not eligible if they are located within the area served by an Alaska Native regional health entity. See Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014, Public Law 113-76. By statute, the Native Village of Eyak, Eastern Aleutian Tribes, and the Council for Athabascan Tribal Governments have also been deemed Alaska Native regional health entities and therefore are eligible to apply. Those Alaska Tribes not represented by a Self-Governance Tribal consortium Funding Agreement within their area may still be considered to participate in the TSGP.

      2. Submit a Tribal resolution from the appropriate governing body of each Indian Tribe to be served by the ISDEAA Compact authorizing the submission of the Planning Cooperative Agreement application. Tribal consortia applying for a TSGP Planning Cooperative Agreement shall submit Tribal Council resolutions from each Tribe in the consortium. Tribal resolutions can be attached to the electronic online application. Applications by Tribal organizations will not require a specific Tribal resolution if the current Tribal resolution(s) under which they operate would encompass the proposed grant activities.

         Draft Tribal resolutions are acceptable in lieu of an official signed resolution

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         and must be submitted along with the electronic application submission prior to the official application deadline date or prior to the start of the Objective Review Committee (ORC) date. However, an official signed Tribal resolution must be received by the Division of Grants Management (DGM) prior to the beginning of the Objective Review. If an official signed resolution is not received by the Review Date listed under the Key Dates section on page one of this announcement, the application will be considered incomplete and ineligible for review or further consideration.

         Mail the official signed resolution to the DGM, Attn: Mr. John Hoffman, 801 Thompson Avenue, TMP Suite 360, Rockville, MD 20852. Applicants submitting Tribal resolutions after or aside from the required online electronic application submission must ensure that the information is received by the IHS/DGM. It is highly recommended that the documentation be sent by a delivery method that includes delivery confirmation and tracking. Please contact Mr. Hoffman by telephone at (301) 443-5204 prior to the review date regarding submission questions.

      3. Demonstrate, for three fiscal years, financial stability and financial management capability. The Indian Tribe must provide evidence that, for the three years prior to participation in Self-Governance, 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. 458aaa-2; 42 CFR 137.15-23.

         For Tribes or Tribal organizations that expended $750,000 or more ($500,000 for FYs ending after December 31, 2003) in Federal awards, the OTSG shall retrieve the audits directly from the Federal Audit Clearinghouse.

         For Tribes or Tribal organizations that expended less than $750,000 ($500,000 for FYs ending after December 31, 2003) in Federal awards, the Tribe or Tribal organization must provide evidence of the program review correspondence from IHS or Bureau of Indian Affairs officials. See 42 CFR 137.21-23.

         Meeting the eligibility criteria for a Planning Cooperative Agreement does not mean that a Tribe or Tribal organization is eligible for participation in the IHS TSGP under Title V of the ISDEAA. See 25 U.S.C. 458aaa-2; 42 CFR 137.15-23. For additional information on eligibility for the IHS TSGP, please visit the Eligibility and Funding page on the OTSG Web site, located at: http://www.ihs.gov/SelfGovernance.

         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 non-profit status, etc.

   2. Cost Sharing or Matching

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

   3. Other Requirements

      If application budgets exceed the highest dollar amount outlined under the ``Estimated Funds Available'' section within this funding announcement, the application will be considered ineligible and will not be reviewed for further consideration. If deemed ineligible, IHS will not return the application. The applicant will be notified by email by the DGM of this decision.

4. Application and Submission Information

   1. Obtaining Application Materials

      The application package and detailed instructions for this announcement can be found at http://www.Grants.gov or https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/index.cfm?module=dsp_dgm_funding.

      Questions regarding the electronic application process may be directed to Mr. Paul Gettys at (301) 443-2114.

   2. Content and Form Application Submission

      The applicant must include the project narrative as an attachment to the application package. Mandatory documents for all applicants include:

      Table of contents.

      Abstract (one page) summarizing the project.

      Application forms:

      cir SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance.

      cir SF-424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs.

      cir SF-424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.

      Budget Justification and Narrative (must be single spaced and not exceed five pages).

      Project Narrative (must be single spaced and not exceed ten pages).

      cir Background information on the Tribe or Tribal organization.

      cir Proposed scope of work, objectives, and activities that provide a description of what will be accomplished, including a one-

      page Timeframe Chart.

      Tribal Resolution(s).

      501(c)(3) Certificate (if applicable).

      Biographical sketches for all Key Personnel.

      Contractor/Consultant resumes or qualifications and scope of work.

      Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL).

      Certification Regarding Lobbying (GG-Lobbying Form).

      Copy of current Negotiated Indirect Cost rate (IDC) agreement (required) in order to receive IDC.

      Organizational Chart (optional).

      Public Policy Requirements: All Federal-wide public policies apply to IHS grants and cooperative agreements with exception of the Discrimination policy.

      Requirements for Project and Budget Narratives

      1. Project Narrative: This narrative should be a separate Word document that is no longer than ten pages and must: Be single-spaced, be type written, have consecutively numbered pages, use black type not smaller than 12 characters per one inch, and be printed on one side only of standard size 8\1/2\ x 11 paper.

         Be sure to succinctly address and answer all questions listed under the narrative and place them under the evaluation criteria (refer to Section V.1, Evaluation criteria in this announcement), and place all responses and required information in the correct section (noted below), or it shall not be considered or scored. These narratives will assist the ORC in becoming familiar with the applicant's activities and accomplishments prior to a cooperative agreement award. If the narrative exceeds the page limit, only the first ten pages will be reviewed. The 10-page limit for the narrative does not include the work plan, standard forms, Tribal resolutions, table of contents, budget and budget justifications/narratives, and/or other appendix items.

         There are three parts to the narrative, including: (1) Part A--

         Program Information; (2) Part B--Program Planning and Evaluation; and (3) Part C--Program Report. See below for additional details about what must be included in the narrative.

         Part A: Program Information (4 Page Limitation)

         Section 1: Needs

         Introduction and Need for Assistance

         Describe the Tribe's current health program activities, including: how long it has been operating, the programs or services currently being provided, and if the applicant is currently administering any ISDEAA Title I Self-Determination

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         Contracts or Title V Self-Governance Compacts. Identify the need for assistance and how the Planning Cooperative Agreement would benefit the health activities the Tribe is currently administering.

         Part B: Program Planning and Evaluation (4 Page Limitation)

         Section 1: Program Plans

         Project Objective(s), Work Plan and Approach

         State in measurable terms the objectives and appropriate activities to achieve the following Cooperative Agreement Recipient Award Activities:

         (a) Research and analyze the complex IHS budget to gain a thorough understanding of funding distribution at all organizational levels and determine which PSFAs the Tribe may elect to assume or expand.

         (b) Establish a process to identify PSFAs and associated funding that may be incorporated into current programs.

         (c) Determine the Tribe's share of each PSFA and evaluate the current level of health care services being provided to make an informed decision on new program assumption(s).

         Describe how the objectives are consistent with the purpose of the program, the needs of the people to be served, and how they will be achieved within the proposed time frame. Identify the expected results, benefits, and outcomes or products to be derived from each objective of the project.

         Organizational Capabilities, Key Personnel and Qualifications

         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.

         Section 2: Program Evaluation

         Define the criteria to be used to evaluate planning activities. Describe fully and clearly the methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified are being met and if the outcomes are being achieved. This section must address the following questions:

         (a) Are the goals and objectives measurable and consistent with the purpose of the program and the needs of the people to be served?

         (b) Are they achievable within the proposed time frame?

         Part C: Program Report (2 Page Limitation)

         Section 1: Describe major accomplishments over the last 24 months. Please identify and describe significant health related accomplishments 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. This section should highlight major program achievements over the last 24 months.

         Section 2: Describe major activities over the last 24 months.

         Please provide an overview of significant program activities associated with the delivery of quality health services over the last 24 months. This section should address significant program activities including those related to the accomplishments listed in the previous section.

      2. Budget Narrative: This narrative must include a line item budget with a narrative justification for all expenditures identifying reasonable and allowable costs necessary to accomplish the goals and objectives as outlined in the project narrative. Budget should match the scope of work described in the project narrative. The page limitation should not exceed five pages.

   3. Submission Dates and Times

      Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the Application Deadline Date listed in the Key Dates section on page one of this announcement. Any application received after the application deadline will not be accepted for processing, nor will it be given further consideration for funding. Grants.gov will notify the applicant via email if the application is rejected.

      If technical challenges arise and assistance is required with the electronic application process, contact Grants.gov Customer Support via email to support@grants.gov or at (800) 518-4726. Customer Support is available to address questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except on Federal holidays). If problems persist, contact Mr. Paul Gettys (Paul.Gettys@ihs.gov), DGM Grants Systems Coordinator, by telephone at (301) 443-2114. Please be sure to contact Mr. Gettys at least ten 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.

      If the applicant needs to submit a paper application instead of submitting electronically through Grants.gov, a waiver must be requested. Prior approval must be requested and obtained from Ms. Tammy Bagley, Acting Director of DGM, (see Section IV.6 below for additional information). The waiver must: (1) Be documented in writing (emails are acceptable), before submitting a paper application, and (2) include clear justification for the need to deviate from the required electronic grants submission process. A written waiver request must be sent to GrantsPolicy@ihs.gov with a copy to Tammy.Bagley@ihs.gov. Once the waiver request has been approved, the applicant will receive a confirmation of approval email containing submission instructions and the mailing address to submit the application. A copy of the written approval must be submitted along with the hardcopy of the application that is mailed to DGM. Paper applications that are submitted without a copy of the signed waiver from the Acting Director of the DGM will not be reviewed or considered for funding. The applicant will be notified via email of this decision by the Grants Management Officer of the DGM. Paper applications must be received by the DGM no later than 5 p.m., EST, on the Application Deadline Date listed in the Key Dates section on page one of this announcement. Late applications will not be accepted for processing or considered for funding.

   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 appropriate indirect costs.

      Only one grant/cooperative agreement will be awarded per applicant per grant cycle. Tribes cannot apply for both the Planning Cooperative Agreement and the Negotiation Cooperative Agreement within the same grant cycle.

      IHS will not acknowledge receipt of applications.

   6. Electronic Submission Requirements

      All applications must be submitted electronically. Please use the http://www.Grants.gov Web site to submit an application electronically and select the ``Find Grant Opportunities'' link on the homepage. Download a copy of the application package, complete it offline, and then upload and submit the completed application via the http://

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      www.Grants.gov Web site. Electronic copies of the application may not be submitted as attachments to email messages addressed to IHS employees or offices.

      If the applicant receives a waiver to submit paper application documents, they must follow the rules and timelines that are noted below. The applicant must seek assistance at least ten days prior to the Application Deadline Date listed in the Key Dates section on page one of this announcement.

      Applicants that do not adhere to the timelines for System for Award Management (SAM) and/or http://www.Grants.gov registration or that fail to request timely assistance with technical issues will not be considered for a waiver to submit a paper application.

      Please be aware of the following:

      Please search for the application package in http://www.Grants.gov by entering the CFDA 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 electronically, please contact Grants.gov Support directly at: support@grants.gov or (800) 518-4726. Customer Support is available to address questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except on Federal holidays).

      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.

      If it is determined that a waiver is needed, the applicant must submit a request in writing (emails are acceptable) to GrantsPolicy@ihs.gov with a copy to Tammy.Bagley@ihs.gov. Please include a clear justification for the need to deviate from the standard electronic submission process.

      If the waiver is approved, the application should be sent directly to the DGM by the Application Deadline Date listed in the Key Dates section on page one of this announcement.

      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 fifteen working days.

      Please use the optional attachment feature in Grants.gov to attach additional documentation that may be requested by the DGM.

      All applicants must comply with any page limitation requirements described in this Funding Announcement.

      After electronically submitting the application, the applicant will receive an automatic acknowledgment from Grants.gov that contains a Grants.gov tracking number. The DGM will download the application from Grants.gov and provide necessary copies to the appropriate agency officials. Neither the DGM nor the OTSG will notify the applicant that the application has been received.

      Email applications will not be accepted under this announcement.

      Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Numbering System

      All IHS applicants and grantee organizations are required to obtain a UEI number and maintain an active registration in the SAM database. The UEI number is a unique 9-digit identification number provided to each entity. The UEI number is site specific; therefore, each distinct performance site may be assigned a UEI number. Obtaining a UEI number is easy, and there is no charge. To obtain a UEI number, please contact Mr. Paul Gettys at (301) 443-2114.

      All HHS recipients are required by the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, as amended (``Transparency Act''), to report information on subawards. Accordingly, all IHS grantees must notify potential first-tier subrecipients that no entity may receive a first-tier subaward unless the entity has provided its UEI number to the prime grantee 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.

      System for Award Management (SAM)

      Organizations that were not registered with Central Contractor Registration (CCR) and have not registered with SAM will need to obtain a UEI number first and then access the SAM online registration through the SAM home page at https://www.sam.gov (U.S. organizations 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). Completing and submitting the registration takes approximately one hour to complete and SAM registration will take 3-5 business days to process. Registration with the SAM is free of charge. Applicants may register online at https://www.sam.gov.

      Additional information on implementing the Transparency Act, including the specific requirements for UEI and SAM, can be found on the IHS Grants Management, Grants Policy Web site: https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/index.cfm?module=dsp_dgm_policy_topics.

5. Application Review Information

   The instructions for preparing the application narrative also constitute the evaluation criteria for reviewing and scoring the application. Weights assigned to each section are noted in parentheses. The ten-page narrative section should be written in a manner that is clear and concise 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 understand the project fully. Points will be assigned to each evaluation criteria adding up to a total of 100 points. A minimum score of 60 points is required for funding. Points are assigned as follows:

   1. Criteria

      1. Introduction and Need for Assistance (25 Points)

         Describe the Tribe's current health program activities, including: How long it has been operating, programs or services currently being provided and if the applicant is currently administering any ISDEAA Title I Self-Determination Contracts or Title V Self-Governance Compacts. Identify the need for assistance and how the Planning Cooperative Agreement would benefit the health activities the Tribe is currently administering.

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

         State in measurable terms the objectives and appropriate activities to achieve the following Cooperative Agreement Recipient Award Activities:

         (1) Research and analyze the complex IHS budget to gain a thorough understanding of funding distribution at all organizational levels and to determine which PSFAs the Tribe may elect to assume or expand.

         (2) Establish a process to identify PSFAs and associated funding that may be incorporated into current programs.

         (3) Determine the Tribe's share of each PSFA and evaluate the current level of health care services being provided to make an informed decision on new program assumption(s).

         Describe how the objectives are consistent with the purpose of the program, the needs of the people to be served, and how the objectives will be achieved within the proposed time frame. Identify the expected results, benefits, and outcomes or products to be

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         derived from each objective of the project.

      3. Program Evaluation (25 Points)

         Define the criteria to be used to evaluate planning activities. Clearly describe the methodologies and parameters that will be used to determine if the needs identified are being met and if the outcomes identified are being achieved. Are the goals and objectives measurable and consistent with the purpose of the program and meet the needs of the people to be served? Are they achievable within the proposed time frame? Describe how the assumption of PSFAs enhances sustainable health delivery. Ensure the measurement includes activities that will lead to sustainability.

      4. 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.

      5. 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.

         Additional documents can be uploaded as Appendix Items in Grants.gov.

         Work plan, logic model and/or time line 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).

         Current Indirect Cost Agreement.

         Organizational chart.

         Map of area identifying project location(s).

         Additional documents to support narrative (i.e. data tables, key news articles, etc.).

   2. Review and Selection

      Each application will be prescreened by the DGM staff for eligibility and completeness as outlined in the funding announcement. Applications that meet the eligibility criteria shall be reviewed for merit by the ORC based on evaluation criteria in this funding announcement. The ORC could be composed of both Tribal and Federal reviewers appointed by the OTSG to review and make recommendations on these applications. The technical review process ensures selection of quality projects in a national competition for limited funding. Incomplete applications and applications that are non-responsive to the eligibility criteria will not be referred to the ORC. The applicant will be notified via email of this decision by the Grants Management Officer of the DGM. Applicants will be notified by DGM, via email, to outline minor missing components (i.e., budget narratives, audit documentation, key contact form) needed for an otherwise complete application. All missing documents must be sent to DGM on or before the due date listed in the email of notification of missing documents required.

      To obtain a minimum score for funding by the ORC, applicants must address all program requirements and provide all required documentation

6. Award Administration Information

   1. Award Notices

      The Notice of Award (NoA) is a legally binding document signed by the Grants Management Officer and serves as the official notification of the grant award. The NoA will be initiated by the DGM in our grant system, GrantSolutions (https://www.grantsolutions.gov). Each entity that is approved for funding under this announcement will need to request or have a user account in GrantSolutions in order to retrieve their NoA. 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 grant, the terms and conditions of the award, the effective date of the award, and the budget/project period.

      Disapproved Applicants

      Applicants who received a score less than the recommended funding level for approval (60 points), and were deemed to be disapproved by the ORC, will receive an Executive Summary Statement from the IHS program office within 30 days of the conclusion of the ORC outlining the strengths and weaknesses of their application submitted. The OTSG will also provide additional contact information as needed to address questions and concerns as well as provide technical assistance if desired.

      Approved But Unfunded Applicants

      Approved but unfunded applicants that met the minimum scoring range and were deemed by the ORC to be ``Approved'', but were not funded due to lack of funding, will have their applications held by DGM for a period of one year. If additional funding becomes available during the course of FY 2015, the approved but unfunded application may be re-

      considered by the OTSG for possible funding. The applicant will also receive an Executive Summary Statement from the OTSG within 30 days of the conclusion of the ORC.

      Note: Any correspondence other than the official NoA signed 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 IHS.

   2. Administrative Requirements

      Cooperative agreements are administered in accordance with the following regulations, policies, and OMB cost principles:

      1. The criteria as outlined in this Program Announcement.

      2. Administrative Regulations for Grants:

         45 CFR part 75, Uniform Administrative Requirements Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for HHS Awards.

      3. Grants Policy:

         HHS Grants Policy Statement, Revised 01/07.

      4. Cost Principles:

         45 CFR part 75, subpart E--Cost Principles.

      5. Audit Requirements:

         45 CFR part 75, subpart F--Audit Requirements.

   3. Indirect Costs

      This section applies to all grant recipients that request reimbursement of indirect costs (IDC) in their grant application. In accordance with HHS Grants Policy Statement, Part II-27, IHS requires applicants to obtain a current IDC rate agreement prior to 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 grant activities under the current award's budget period. If the current rate 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 is provided to the DGM.

      Generally, IDC rates for IHS grantees are negotiated with the Division of Cost

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      Allocation (DCA) https://rates.psc.gov/ and the Department of Interior (Interior Business Center) http://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/Indirect_Cost_Services/index.cfm. For questions regarding the indirect cost policy, please call the Grants Management Specialist listed under ``Agency Contacts'' or the main DGM office at (301) 443-5204.

   4. Reporting Requirements

      The grantee 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 grant, 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 one or both of the following: (1) The imposition of special award provisions; and (2) 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 grantee organization or the individual responsible for preparation of the reports. Reports must be submitted electronically via GrantSolutions. Personnel responsible for submitting reports will be required to obtain a login and password for GrantSolutions. Please see the Agency Contacts list in section VII for the systems contact information.

      The reporting requirements for this program are noted below.

      1. Progress Reports

         Program progress reports are required semi-annually, within 30 days after the budget period ends. These reports must include a brief comparison of actual accomplishments to the goals established for the period, or, if applicable, provide sound justification for the lack of progress, and other pertinent information as required. A final report must be submitted within 90 days of expiration of the budget/project period.

      2. Financial Reports

         Federal Financial Report FFR (SF-425), Cash Transaction Reports are due 30 days after the close of every calendar quarter to the Payment Management Services, HHS at: http://www.dpm.psc.gov. It is recommended that the applicant also send a copy of the FFR (SF-425) report to the Grants Management Specialist. Failure to submit timely reports may cause a disruption in timely payments to the organization.

         Grantees are responsible and accountable for accurate information being reported on all required reports: The Progress Reports and Federal Financial Report.

      3. Federal Subaward Reporting System (FSRS)

         This award may be subject to the Transparency Act subaward 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 grants to report information about first-tier subawards and executive compensation under Federal assistance awards.

         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 subaward obligation dollar threshold met for any specific reporting period. Additionally, all new (discretionary) IHS awards (where the project period is made up of more than one budget period) and where: (1) The project period start date was October 1, 2010 or after and (2) the primary awardee will have a $25,000 subaward obligation dollar threshold during any specific reporting period will be required to address the FSRS reporting. For the full IHS award term implementing this requirement and additional award applicability information, visit the DGM Grants Policy Web site at: https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/index.cfm?module=dsp_dgm_policy_topics.

         Telecommunication for the hearing impaired is available at: TTY (301) 443-6394.

7. Agency Contacts

   1. Questions on the programmatic issues may be directed to: Jeremy Marshall, Program Official, Office of Tribal Self-Governance, 801 Thompson Avenue, Suite 240, Rockville, MD 20852, Phone: (301) 443-7821, Fax: (301) 443-1050, Email: Jeremy.Marshall@ihs.gov, Web site: www.ihs.gov/selfgovernance.

   2. Questions on grants management and fiscal matters may be directed to: John Hoffman, Grants Management Specialist, Division of Grants Management, 801 Thompson Avenue, TMP Suite 360, Rockville, MD 20852, Phone: (301) 443-5204, Fax: (301) 443-9602, Email: John.Hoffman@ihs.gov.

   3. Questions on systems matters may be directed to: Paul Gettys, Grant Systems Coordinator, 801 Thompson Avenue, TMP Suite 360, Rockville, MD 20852, Phone: (301) 443-2114; or the DGM main line (301) 443-5204, Fax: (301) 443-9602, E-Mail: Paul.Gettys@ihs.gov.

8. Other Information

   The Public Health Service strongly encourages all 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.

   Dated: February 10, 2015.

   Robert G. McSwain,

   Deputy Director, Indian Health Service.

   FR Doc. 2015-03206 Filed 2-19-15; 8:45 am

   BILLING CODE 4165-16-P