Office of Direct Service and Contracting Tribes; Tribal Management Grant Program, 31401-31410 [2018-14426]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
• Indian Health Service

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 129 (Thursday, July 5, 2018)]
[Notices]
[Pages 31401-31410]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-14426]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Indian Health Service


Office of Direct Service and Contracting Tribes; Tribal 
Management Grant Program

    Announcement Type: New and Competing Continuation.
    Funding Announcement Number: HHS-2018-IHS-TMD-0001.
    Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number (CFDA): 93.228.

Key Dates

    Application Deadline Date: August 17, 2018.
    Review Date: August 20-24, 2018.
    Earliest Anticipated Start Date: September 1, 2018.
    Signed Tribal Resolutions Due Date: August 17, 2018.
    Proof of Non-Profit Status Due Date: August 17, 2018.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

Statutory Authority

    The Indian Health Service (IHS) is accepting competitive grant 
applications for the Tribal Management Grant (TMG) Program. This 
program is authorized under 25 U.S.C. Sec.  5322(b)(2) and 25 U.S.C. 
Sec.  5322(e) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance 
Act (ISDEAA), Public Law (P.L.) 93-638, as amended. This program is 
described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) under 
93.228.

Background

    The TMG Program is a competitive grant program that is capacity 
building and developmental in nature and has been available for 
federally recognized Indian Tribes and Tribal Organizations (T/TOs) 
since shortly after enactment of the ISDEAA in 1975. The TMG Program 
was established to assist T/TOs to prepare for assuming all or part of 
existing IHS programs, functions, services, and activities (PFSAs) and 
further develop and improve Tribal health management capabilities. The 
TMG Program provides competitive grants to T/TOs to establish goals and 
performance measures for current health programs; assess current 
management capacity to determine if new components are appropriate; 
analyze programs to determine if a Tribe or Tribal Organization's 
management is practicable; and develop infrastructure systems to manage 
or organize PFSAs.

Purpose

    The purpose of this IHS grant announcement is to announce the 
availability of the TMG Program to enhance and develop health 
management infrastructure and assist T/TOs in assuming all or part of 
existing IHS PFSAs through a Title I contract and assist established 
Title I contractors and Title V compactors to further develop and 
improve management capability. In addition, Tribal Management Grants 
are available to T/TOs under the authority of 25 U.S.C. 5322(e) for the 
following: (1) Obtaining technical assistance from providers designated 
by the Tribe/Tribal Organization (including T/TOs that operate mature 
contracts) for the purposes of program planning and evaluation, 
including the development of any management systems necessary for 
contract management, and the development of cost allocation plans for 
indirect cost rates; and (2) planning, designing, monitoring, and 
evaluating Federal programs serving T/TOs, including Federal 
administrative functions.

II. Award Information

Type of Award

    Grant.

Estimated Funds Available

    The total amount of funding identified for the current fiscal year 
(FY) 2018 is approximately $2,412,000. Individual award amounts are 
anticipated to be between $50,000 and $100,000. The amount of funding 
available for new and competing continuation awards issued under this 
grant 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 grant 
announcement.

Anticipated Number of Awards

    Approximately 16-18 awards will be issued under this grant 
announcement.

Period of Performance

    The Tribal Management Grant (TMG Project) period of performance 
vary based on the project type selected. Period of performance could 
run from 1 to 3 years and will run consecutively from the earliest 
anticipated start date of September 1, 2018 through August 31, 2019, 
for 1-year projects; September 1, 2018, through August 31, 2020, for 2-
year projects; and September 1, 2018, through August 31, 2021, for 3-
year projects. Please refer to ``Eligible TMG Project Types, Maximum 
Funding Levels, and Periods of Performance,'' for additional details. 
State the number of years for the period of performance and include the 
exact dates.

III. Eligibility Information

    I.

1. Eligibility

    Eligible Applicants: ``Indian Tribes'' and ``Tribal Organizations'' 
(T/TOs) as defined by the ISDEAA are eligible to apply for the TMG 
Program. The definitions for each entity type are outlined below. Only 
one application per Tribe/Tribal organization is allowed.
    Definitions: ``Indian Tribe'' means any Indian tribe, band, nation, 
or other organized group or community, including any Alaska Native 
village or regional or village corporation as defined in or established 
pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (85 Stat. 688) [43 
U.S.C. 1601 et seq.], which is recognized as eligible for the special 
programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because 
of their status as Indians. 25 U.S.C. 5304(e).
    ``Tribal organization'' means the recognized governing body of any 
Indian Tribe; any legally established organization of Indians which is 
controlled, sanctioned, or chartered by such governing body or which is 
democratically elected by the adult

[[Page 31402]]

members of the Indian community to be served by such organization and 
which includes the maximum participation of Indians in all phases of 
its activities. 25 U.S.C. 5304(l).
    A Tribal Organization must provide proof of non-profit status.
    Eligible TMG Project Types, Maximum Funding Levels, and Project 
Periods: The TMG Program consists of four project types: (1) 
Feasibility study; (2) planning; (3) evaluation study; and (4) health 
management structure. Tribal applicants may submit applications for one 
project type only. An application must state the project type selected. 
Any application that address more than one project type will be 
considered ineligible and will not be reviewed. The maximum funding 
levels noted must include both direct and indirect costs. Application 
budgets may not exceed the maximum funding level or period of 
performance identified for a project type. Any application with a 
budget or period of performance that exceeds the maximum funding level 
or period of performance will be considered ineligible and will not be 
reviewed. Please refer to Section IV.5, ``Funding Restrictions,'' for 
further information regarding ineligible project activities.
    1. FEASIBILITY STUDY (Maximum funding/project period: $70,000/12 
months).
    A Feasibility Study must include a study of a specific IHS program 
or segment of a program to determine if Tribal management of the 
program is possible. The study shall present the planned approach, 
training, and resources required to assume Tribal management of the 
program. The study must include the following four components:
     Health needs and health care service assessments that 
identify existing health care services and delivery systems, program 
divisibility issues, health status indicators, unmet needs, volume 
projections, and demand analysis.
     Management analysis of existing management structures, 
proposed management structures, implementation plans and requirements, 
and personnel staffing requirements and recruitment barriers.
     Financial analysis of historical trends data, financial 
projections, and new resource requirements for program management costs 
and analysis of potential revenues from Federal/non-Federal sources.
     Decision statement/report that incorporates findings; 
conclusions; and recommendations; the presentation of the study and 
recommendations to the Tribal governing body for determination 
regarding whether Tribal program assumption is desirable or warranted.
    2. PLANNING (Maximum funding/project period: $50,000/12 months).
    Planning projects involve data collection to establish goals and 
performance measures for health programs operation or anticipated PFSAs 
under a Title I contract. Planning projects will specify the design of 
health programs and the management systems (including appropriate 
policies and procedures) to accomplish the health priorities of the 
Tribe or Tribal Organization. For example, planning projects could 
include the development of a Tribe-specific Health Plan or a Strategic 
Health Plan, etc. Please note that updated Healthy People information 
and Healthy People 2020 objectives are available in electronic format 
at the following website: https://www.health.gov/healthypeople/publications. The United States (U.S.) Public Health Service (PHS) 
encourages applicants submitting strategic health plans to address 
specific objectives of Healthy People 2020.
    3. EVALUATION STUDY (Maximum funding/project period: $50,000/12 
months).
    An Evaluation Study must include a systematic collection, analysis, 
and interpretation of data for the purpose of determining the value of 
a program. The extent of the evaluation study could relate to the goals 
and objectives, policies and procedures, or programs regarding targeted 
groups. The evaluation study could also be used to determine the 
effectiveness and efficiency of a Tribe or Tribal Organization's 
program operations (i.e., direct services, financial management, 
personnel, data collection and analysis, third-party billing, etc.), as 
well as to determine the appropriateness of new components of a Tribe 
or Tribal Organization's program operations that will assist efforts to 
improve Tribal health care delivery systems.
    4. HEALTH MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE (Average funding/project period: 
$100,000/12 months; maximum funding/project period: $300,000/36 
months).
    The first year maximum funding level is limited to $150,000 for 
multi-year projects. The Health Management Structure component allows 
for implementation of systems to manage or organize PFSAs. Management 
structures include health department organizations, health boards, and 
financial management systems, including systems for accounting, 
personnel, third-party billing, medical records, management information 
systems, etc. This includes the design, improvement, and correction of 
management systems that address weaknesses identified through quality 
control measures, internal control reviews, and audit report findings 
under required financial audits and ISDEAA requirements.
    For the minimum standards for the management systems used by a 
Tribe or Tribal Organization when carrying out Self-Determination 
contracts, please see 25 CFR part 900, Contracts Under the Indian Self-
Determination and Education Assistance Act, Subpart F--``Standards for 
Tribal or Tribal Organization Management Systems,'' Sec. Sec.  900.35-
900.60. For operational provisions applicable to carrying out Self-
Governance compacts, please see 42 CFR part 137, Tribal Self-
Governance, Subpart I,--``Operational Provisions,'' Sec. Sec.  137.160-
137.220.
    Please refer to Section IV, ``Application and Submission 
Information,'' for information on how to obtain a copy of the TMG 
application package.

    Note:  Please refer to Section IV, (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 the application budget exceeds the highest dollar amount 
outlined under the ``Estimated Funds Available'' section within this 
grant announcement, the application will be considered ineligible and 
will not be reviewed. If deemed ineligible, the IHS will not return the 
application. The applicant will be notified by email by the IHS 
Division of Grants Management (DGM) of this decision.
    The following documentation is required.

Tribal Resolution

    A. An Indian Tribe or Tribal Organization that is proposing a 
project affecting another Tribe must include Tribal Resolutions from 
each affected Tribe served. 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.
    A signed Tribal Resolution must be received by the IHS DGM prior to 
a Notice of Award being issued to any

[[Page 31403]]

applicant selected for funding. However, if a signed Tribal Resolution 
cannot be submitted with the electronic application submission prior to 
the official application deadline date, a draft Tribal Resolution must 
be submitted by the application deadline for the application to be 
considered complete and eligible for review. The draft Tribal 
Resolution is not in lieu of the required signed Tribal Resolution, but 
is acceptable until a signed Tribal Resolution is received. If a signed 
Tribal Resolution is not received by IHS DGM when funding decisions are 
made, then a Notice of Award will not be issued to that applicant and 
they will not receive any IHS funds until such time as they have 
submitted a signed Tribal Resolution to the Grants Management 
Specialist listed in this grant announcement.
    B. Tribal Organizations applying for technical assistance and/or 
training grants must provide written notice that the Tribal 
Organization is applying upon the request of the Indian Tribe and/or 
Tribes it intends to serve.
    C. Documentation for Priority I participation requires a copy of 
the Federal Register notice or letter from the Bureau of Indian Affairs 
verifying establishment of recognized Tribal status within the past 5 
years. The date on the documentation must reflect that Federal 
recognition was received during or after March 2013.
    D. Documentation for Priority II participation requires a copy of 
the most current transmittal letter and Attachment A from the 
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Inspector 
General (OIG), National External Audit Review Center (NEAR). See 
``Funding Priorities'' for more information. If an applicant is unable 
to provide a copy of the most recent transmittal letter or needs 
assistance with audit issues; information or technical assistance may 
be obtained by contacting the IHS Office of Finance and Accounting, 
Division of Audit by telephone at (301) 443-1270, or toll-free at the 
NEAR help line at (800) 732-0679 or (816) 426-7720. Recognized Indian 
Tribes or Tribal Organizations not subject to Single Audit Act 
requirements must provide a financial statement identifying the Federal 
dollars received in the footnotes. The financial statement must also 
identify specific weaknesses/recommendations that will be addressed in 
the TMG proposal and that are related to 25 CFR part 900, subpart F--
``Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization Management Systems.''
    E. Documentation of Consortium participation--If an applicant is a 
member of an eligible intertribal consortium, the Tribe must:

--Identify the consortium.
--Indicate if any of the consortium member Tribes intend to submit a 
TMG application.
--Demonstrate that the Tribe's application does not duplicate or 
overlap any objectives of the consortium's application.
--Identify all consortium member Tribes.
--Identify if any of the consortium member Tribes intend to submit a 
TMG application of their own.
--Demonstrate that the consortium's application does not duplicate or 
overlap any objectives of other consortium members who may be 
submitting their own TMG application.

    Funding Priorities: The IHS has established the following funding 
priorities for TMG awards:
     PRIORITY I--Any Indian Tribe that has received Federal 
recognition (including restored, funded, or unfunded) within the past 5 
years, specifically received during or after March 2013, will be 
considered Priority I.
     PRIORITY II--Federally recognized Indian T/TOs submitting 
a new application or a competing continuation application for the sole 
purpose of addressing audit material weaknesses will be considered 
Priority II. Priority II participation is only applicable to the Health 
Management Structure project type. For more information, see ``Eligible 
TMG Project Types, Maximum Funding Levels, and Project Periods,'' in 
Section II.
     PRIORITY III--Eligible Direct Service and Title I 
recognized Indian T/TOs submitting a new application or a competing 
continuation application will be considered Priority III.
     PRIORITY IV--Eligible Title V Self-Governance recognized 
Indian T/TOs submitting a new application or a competing continuation 
application will be considered Priority IV.
    The funding of approved Priority I applicants will occur before the 
funding of approved Priority II applicants. Priority II applicants will 
be funded before approved Priority III applicants. Priority III 
applicants will be funded before approved Priority IV applicants. Funds 
will be distributed until depleted.
    The following definitions are applicable to the PRIORITY II 
category:
    Audit finding--deficiencies that the auditor is required by 45 CFR 
Sec.  75.516, to report in the schedule of findings and questioned 
costs.
    Material weakness--``Statements on Auditing Standards 115'' defines 
material weakness as a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in 
internal control, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a 
material misstatement of the entity's financial statements will not be 
prevented, or detected and corrected on a timely basis.
    Significant deficiency--``Statements on Auditing Standards 115,'' 
defines significant deficiency as a deficiency, or a combination of 
deficiencies, in internal control that is less severe than a material 
weakness, yet important enough to merit attention by those charged with 
governance.
    The audit findings are identified in Attachment A of the 
transmittal letter received from the HHS/OIG/NEAR. Please identify the 
material weaknesses to be addressed by underlining the item(s) listed 
in Attachment A.
    Federally Recognized T/TOs not subject to Single Audit Act 
requirements must provide a financial statement identifying the Federal 
dollars received in the footnotes. The financial statement should also 
identify specific weaknesses/recommendations that will be addressed in 
the TMG proposal and that are related to 25 CFR part 900, ``Subpart F, 
``Standards for Tribal and Tribal Organization Management Systems.''

Proof of Non-Profit Status

    Organizations claiming non-profit status must submit proof. A copy 
of the 501(c)(3) Certificate must be received with the application 
submission by the Application Deadline Date listed under the Key Dates 
section on the first page of this announcement.
    An applicant submitting any of the above additional documentation 
after the initial application submission due date is required to ensure 
the information was received by the IHS DGM by obtaining documentation 
confirming delivery (e.g., FedEx tracking, postal return receipt, etc.)

    Note:  A decision to award a TMG does not represent a 
determination from the IHS regarding the T/TO's eligibility to 
contract for a specific PFSA under the ISDEAA. An application for a 
TMG does not constitute a contract proposal.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Obtaining Application Materials

    The TMG application package and detailed instructions for this 
announcement can be found at https://www.Grants.gov or https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/funding/.

[[Page 31404]]

    Questions regarding the electronic application process may be 
directed to Mr. Paul Gettys by telephone at (301) 443-2114 or (301) 
443-5204.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

    Each applicant must include the project narrative as an attachment 
to the TMG application package. Mandatory documents for all applicants 
include:
     Table of contents.
     Abstract (1 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 5 pages).
     Project Narrative (must be single spaced and not exceed 15 
pages).
    [cir] Background information on the organization.
    [cir] Proposed scope of work, objectives, and activities that 
provide a description of what will be accomplished, including a 1-page 
Timeframe Chart.
     Tribal Resolution(s).
     501(c)(3) Certificate (if applicable).
     Position descriptions for 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 (IDC) rate 
agreement (required) in order to receive Indirect Cost.
     Organizational Chart (optional).
     Documentation of current Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB) Financial Audit (if applicable).
    [cir] Email confirmation from the Federal Audit Clearinghouse (FAC) 
that audits were submitted; or
    [cir] Face sheets from audit reports. These can be found on the FAC 
Website at https://harvester.census.gov/facdissem/Main.aspx.

Public Policy Requirements

    All Federal public policies apply to IHS grants and cooperative 
agreements, with exception of the discrimination policy.

Requirements for Project and Budget Narratives

    A. Project Narrative: This narrative should be a separate Word 
document that is no longer than 15 pages and must be: Single-spaced, 
type written, have consecutively numbered pages, use black type not 
smaller than 12-point font, and be printed on one side only of standard 
size 8-\1/2\ by 11 inch paper.
    Be sure to succinctly answer all questions listed under the 
evaluation criteria (refer to Section V.1, ``Evaluation criteria'' in 
this grant announcement) and place all responses and required 
information in the correct section (noted below), or the application 
shall be considered ineligible and will not be reviewed. These 
narratives will assist the Objective Review Committee (ORC) in becoming 
familiar with the applicant's activities and accomplishments prior to 
this possible grant award. If the narrative exceeds the page limit, 
only the first 15 pages will be reviewed. The 15-page limit for the 
narrative does not include the work plan, standard forms, Tribal 
Resolution(s), table of contents, budget, budget justifications, 
narratives, and/or other appendix items.
    There are three parts to the narrative: Part A--Program 
Information; Part B--Program Planning and Evaluation; and Part C--
Program Report. See below for additional details about what must be 
included in the narrative.
Part A: Program Information (2-Page Limit)
    Section 1: Needs.
    Describe how the T/TO has determined the need to either enhance or 
develop Tribal management capability to either assume PFSAs or not in 
the interest of Self-Determination. Note the progression of previous 
TMG projects/awards if applicable.
Part B: Program Planning and Evaluation (11-Page Limit)
    Section 1: Program Plans.
    Describe fully and clearly the direction the Tribe or Tribal 
Organization plans to take with the selected TMG Project type in 
addressing their health management infrastructure, including how the T/
TO's plans to demonstrate improved health and services to the community 
or communities it serves. Include proposed timelines.
    Section 2: Program Evaluation.
    Describe fully and clearly the improvements that will be made by 
the Tribe or Tribal Organization that will impact their management 
capability or prepare them for future improvements to their 
organization that will allow them to manage their health care system 
and identify the anticipated or expected benefits for the Tribe.
Part C: Program Report (2-Page Limit)
    Section 1: Describe major accomplishments over the past 24 months.
    Please identify and describe significant program 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.
    Section 2: Describe major activities over the past 24 months.
    Please identify and summarize recent significant health related 
project activities of the work done during the project period.
B. Budget Narrative (5-Page Limit)
    This narrative must include a line item budget, with a 
justification for all expenditures that identify reasonable, allowable, 
and/or allocable 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.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 
11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on the Application Deadline 
Date listed in the Key Dates section on page 1 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 at [email protected] or toll-free at (800) 518-4726. Customer 
Support is available to address questions 24 hours per day, 7 days per 
week (except on Federal holidays). If problems persist, contact Mr. 
Gettys ([email protected]), DGM Grant Systems Coordinator, by 
telephone at (301) 443-2114 or (301) 443-5204. 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.

4. Intergovernmental Review

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

[[Page 31405]]

5. Funding Restrictions

     Pre-award costs are not allowable.
     The available funds are inclusive of direct and 
appropriate indirect costs.
     Only one grant will be awarded per applicant.
     The IHS will not acknowledge receipt of applications.
     The TMG may not be used to support recurring operational 
programs or to replace existing public and private resources. Funding 
received under a recurring Public Law 93-638 contract cannot be totally 
supplanted or totally replaced. Exception is allowed to charge a 
portion or percentage of salaries of existing staff positions involved 
in implementing the TMG grant, if applicable. However, this percentage 
of TMG funding must reflect supplementation of funding for the project 
and not supplantation of existing ISDEAA contract funds. 
Supplementation is defined as ``adding to a program'' whereas 
supplantation is defined as ``taking the place of'' funds. An entity 
cannot use the TMG funds to supplant the ISDEAA contract or recurring 
funding.
     Ineligible Project Activities--The inclusion of the 
following projects or activities in an application will render the 
application ineligible.
    [cir] Planning and negotiating activities associated with the 
intent of a Tribe to enter the IHS Self-Governance Project. A separate 
grant program is administered by the IHS for this purpose. If you are 
interested in this program, please contact Mr. Jeremy Marshall, Policy 
Analyst, Office of Tribal Self-Governance, or Ms. Roxanne Houston, 
Program Analyst, Office of Tribal Self-Governance, Indian Health 
Service, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop 08E05, Rockville, MD, 20857, 
(301) 443-7821, and request information concerning the ``Tribal Self-
Governance Program Planning Cooperative Agreement Announcement'' or the 
``Negotiation Cooperative Agreement Announcement.''
    [cir] Projects related to water, sanitation, and waste management.
    [cir] Projects that include direct patient care and/or equipment to 
provide those medical services to be used to establish, or augment, or 
continue direct patient clinical care. Medical equipment that is 
allowable under the Special Diabetes Program for Indians is not 
allowable under the TMG Program.
    [cir] Projects that include recruitment efforts for direct patient 
care services.
    [cir] Projects that include long-term care or provision of any 
direct services.
    [cir] Projects that include tuition, fees, or stipends for 
certification or training of staff to provide direct services.
    [cir] Projects that include pre-planning, design, and planning of 
construction for facilities, including activities relating to program 
justification documents.
    [cir] Projects that propose more than one project type. Refer to 
Section II, ``Award Information,'' specifically ``Eligible TMG Project 
Types, Maximum Funding Levels, and Project Periods,'' for more 
information. An example of a proposal with more than one project type 
that would be considered ineligible may include the creation of a 
strategic health plan (defined by TMG as a planning project type) and 
improving third-party billing structures (defined by TMG as a health 
management structure project type). Multi-year applications that 
include in the first year planning, evaluation, or feasibility 
activities with the remainder of the project years addressing 
management structure are also deemed ineligible.
    [cir] Any Alaska Native Village that is neither a Title I nor a 
Title V organization and does not have the legal authority to contract 
services under the ISDEAA as it is affiliated with one of the Alaska 
health corporations as a consortium member and has all of its IHS 
funding for the Village administered through an Alaska health 
corporation, a Title V compactor, is not eligible for consideration 
under the TMG program.
    Moreover, Congress has reenacted its moratorium in Alaska on new 
contracting under the ISDEAA with Alaska Native Tribes that do not 
already have contracts or compacts with the IHS under this Act. See the 
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 (Jan. 17, 2014), Public Law 113-
76, 128 Stat. 5, 343-44: Sec.  424. (a) Notwithstanding any other 
provision of law, and until October 1, 2018, the IHS may not disburse 
funds for the provision of health care services pursuant to Public Law 
93-638 (25 U.S.C. 5301 et seq.) to any Alaska Native Village or Alaska 
Native Village corporation that is located within the area served by an 
Alaska Native regional health entity.
    Consequently, Alaska Native Villages will not have any opportunity 
to enter into an ISDEAA contract with the IHS unless this law lapses on 
October 1, 2018, due to congressional inaction.
     Other Limitations--A current TMG recipient cannot be 
awarded a new, renewal, or competing continuation grant for any of the 
following reasons:
    [cir] The grantee will be administering two TMGs at the same time 
or have overlapping project/budget periods;
    [cir] The current project is not progressing in a satisfactory 
manner;
    [cir] The current project is not in compliance with program and 
financial reporting requirements; or
    [cir] The applicant has an outstanding delinquent Federal debt. No 
award shall be made until either:
    [ssquf] The delinquent account is paid in full; or
    [ssquf] A negotiated repayment schedule is established and at least 
one payment is received.

6. Electronic Submission Requirements

    All applications must be submitted electronically. Please use the 
https://www.Grants.gov website to submit an application electronically 
and select the ``Find Grant Opportunities'' link on the homepage. 
Follow the instructions for submitting an application under the Package 
tab. Electronic copies of the application may not be submitted as 
attachments to email messages addressed to IHS employees or offices.
    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 Mr. 
Robert Tarwater, Director, DGM, IHS (see Section IV.6 below for 
additional information). A written waiver request must be sent to 
[email protected] with a copy to [email protected]. 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.
    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 waiver must be submitted along with the copy of the 
application that is mailed to DGM. Paper applications that are 
submitted without a copy of the signed waiver from the Director, 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 
5:00 p.m., EDT, on the Application Deadline Date listed in the Key 
Dates section on page 1 of this announcement. Late applications will 
not be accepted for processing or considered for funding. An applicant 
who does not adhere to the timelines for System for Award Management 
(SAM) and/or https://www.Grants.gov registration or who fails to request 
timely assistance with technical issues

[[Page 31406]]

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 https://www.Grants.gov by entering the CFDA number or the Funding Announcement 
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: [email protected] or toll-free at (800) 518-4726. 
Customer Support is available to address questions 24 hours per day, 7 
days per week (except on Federal holidays).
     Upon contacting https://www.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 https://www.Grants.gov as the registration process for SAM and https://www.Grants.gov could take up to 15 working days.
     Please use the optional attachment feature in https://www.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 https://www.Grants.gov that contains a tracking number. The DGM will download 
the application from https://www.Grants.gov and provide necessary copies 
to the appropriate Agency officials. Neither the DGM, nor the IHS 
Office of Direct Service and Contracting Tribes (ODSCT) will notify the 
applicant that the application has been received.
     Email applications will not be accepted under this 
announcement.
Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)
    All IHS applicants and grantee organizations are required to obtain 
a DUNS number and maintain an active registration in the SAM database. 
The DUNS number is a unique 9-digit identification number provided by 
D&B that uniquely identifies each entity. The DUNS number is site 
specific; therefore, each distinct performance site may be assigned a 
DUNS number. Obtaining a DUNS number is easy, and there is no charge. 
To obtain a DUNS number, you may access it through https://fedgov.dnb.com/webform, or to expedite the process, call (866) 705-
5711.
    All HHS recipients are required by the Federal Funding 
Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, as amended (Transparency 
Act), to report information on sub-awards. Accordingly, all IHS 
grantees must notify potential first-tier sub-recipients that no entity 
may receive a first-tier sub-award unless the entity has provided its 
DUNS 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 and have not registered with SAM will need to obtain a 
DUNS 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 DUNS and the SAM, can be found 
on the IHS Grants Management, Grants Policy website at https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/.

V. 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 15-page narrative should include only the first year of activities; 
information for multi-year projects should be included as an appendix. 
See ``Multi-Year Project Requirements,'' at the end of this section for 
more information. The narrative section 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 understand the 
project fully. Points will be assigned to each evaluation criteria 
adding up to a total of 100 points. A minimum score of 70 points is 
required for funding. Points are assigned as follows:

1. Criteria

A. Introduction and Need for Assistance (20 Points)
    (1) Describe the Tribe or Tribal Organization's current health 
operation. Include a list of programs and services that are currently 
provided (e.g., federally funded, State-funded, etc.), information 
regarding technologies currently used (e.g., hardware, software, 
services, etc.), and identify the source(s) of technical support for 
those technologies (i.e., Tribal staff, Area office IHS, vendor, etc.). 
Include information regarding whether the Tribe or Tribal Organization 
has a health department and/or health board and how long it has been 
operating.
    (2) Describe the population to be served by the proposed project. 
Include the total number of eligible IHS beneficiaries currently using 
the services.
    (3) Describe the geographic location of the proposed project, 
including any geographic barriers to health care users in the area to 
be served.
    (4) Identify all TMGs received since FY 2013, dates of funding, and 
a summary of project accomplishments. State how previous TMG funds 
facilitated the progression of health development relative to the 
current proposed project. (Copies of reports will not be accepted.)
    (5) Identify the eligible project type and priority group of the 
applicant.
    (6) Explain the need or reason for the proposed TMG project. 
Identify specific weaknesses and gaps in service or infrastructure that 
will be addressed by the proposal. Explain how these gaps and 
weaknesses will be assessed.
    (7) If the proposed TMG project includes information technology 
(i.e., hardware, software, etc.), provide further information regarding 
measures that have occurred or will occur to ensure the proposed 
project will not create other gaps in services or infrastructure (e.g., 
negatively affect or impact IHS interface capability, Government 
Performance and Results Act reporting requirements, contract reporting 
requirements, Information Technology (IT) compatibility, etc.) if 
applicable.
    (8) Describe the effect of the proposed TMG project on current 
programs (e.g., federally funded, State-funded, etc.), and if 
applicable, on current equipment (e.g., hardware, software, services, 
etc.). Include the effect of the proposed project on planned or 
anticipated programs and equipment.

[[Page 31407]]

    (9) Address how the proposed TMG project relates to the purpose of 
the TMG Program by addressing the appropriate description that follows:
     Identify whether the Tribe or Tribal Organization is an 
IHS Title I contractor. Address if the Self-Determination contract is a 
master contract of several programs or if individual contracts are used 
for each program. Include information regarding whether or not the 
Tribe or Tribal Organization participates in a consortium contract 
(i.e., more than one Tribe participating in a contract). Address what 
programs are currently provided through those contracts and how the 
proposed TMG project will enhance the organization's capacity to manage 
the contracts currently in place.
     Identify if the Tribe or Tribal Organization is not a 
Title I organization. Address how the proposed TMG project will enhance 
the organization's management capabilities, what programs and services 
the organization is currently seeking to contract and an anticipated 
date for contract.
     Identify if the Tribe or Tribal Organization is an IHS 
Title V compactor. Address when the Tribe or Tribal Organization 
entered into the compact and how the proposed project will further 
enhance the organization's management capabilities.
B. Project Objectives, Work Plan, and Approach (40 Points)
    (1) The proposed project objectives must be:
     Measureable and (if applicable) quantifiable.
     Results-oriented.
     Time-limited.
    Example: By installing new third-party billing software, the Tribe 
proposes to increase the number of claims processed by 15 percent 
within 12 months.
    (2) For each objective address how the proposed TMG project will 
result in change or improvement in program operations or processes. 
Also address what tangible products are expected from the project 
(i.e., policies and procedures manual, health plan, etc.)
    (3) Address the extent to which the proposed project will build 
local capacity to provide, improve, or expand services that address the 
needs of the target population.
    (4) Submit a work plan in the Appendix that includes the following:
     Provide action steps on a timeline for accomplishing the 
proposed project objectives.
     Identify who will perform the action steps.
     Identify who will supervise the action steps taken.
     Identify tangible products that will be produced during 
and at the end of the proposed project.
     Identify who will accept and/or approve work products 
during the duration of the proposed TMG project and at the end of the 
proposed project.
     Include a description of any training activities proposed. 
This description will identify the target audience and training 
personnel.
     Include work plan evaluation activities
    (5) If consultants or contractors will be used during the proposed 
project, please complete the following information in their scope of 
work. (If consultants or contractors will not be used, please make note 
in this section):
     Educational requirements.
     Desired qualifications and work experience.
     Expected work products to be delivered, including a 
timeline.
    If potential consultants or contractors have already been 
identified, please include a resume for each consultant or contractor 
in the Appendix.
    (6) Describe updates that will be required for the continued 
success of the proposed TMG project (i.e., revision of policies/
procedures, upgrades, technical support, etc.) Include a timeline of 
anticipated updates and source of funding to conduct the update and/or 
maintenance.
C. Program Evaluation (20 Points)
    Each proposed objective requires an evaluation activity to assess 
its progression and ensure completion. This should be included in the 
work plan.
    Describe the proposal's plan to evaluate project processes and 
outcomes. Outcome evaluation relates to the results identified in the 
objectives, and process evaluation relates to the work plan and 
activities of the project.
    (1) For outcome evaluation, describe:
     The criteria for determining whether or not each objective 
was met.
     The data to be collected to determine whether the 
objective was met.
     Data collection intervals.
     Who will be responsible for collecting the data and their 
qualifications.
     Data analysis method.
     How the results will be used.
    (2) For process evaluation, describe:
     The process for monitoring and assessing potential 
problems, then identifying quality improvements.
     Who will be responsible for monitoring and managing 
project improvements based on results of ongoing process improvements 
and their qualifications.
     Provide details with regards to the ways ongoing 
monitoring will be used to improve the project.
     Describe any products, such as manuals or policies, that 
might be developed and how they might lend themselves to replication by 
others.
     How the Tribe or Tribal Organization will document what is 
learned throughout the project period.
    (3) Describe any additional evaluation efforts planned after the 
grant period has ended.
    (4) Describe the ultimate benefit to the Tribe or Tribal 
Organization that is expected to result from this project. An example 
would be a Tribe or Tribal Organization's ability to expand preventive 
health services because of increased billing and third-party payments.
D. Organizational Capabilities, Key Personnel, and Qualifications (15 
Points)
    This section outlines the Tribe or Tribal Organization's capacity 
to complete the proposal outlined in the work plan. It includes the 
identification of personnel responsible for completing tasks and the 
chain of responsibility for completion of the proposed plan.
    (1) Provide the organizational structure of the Tribe or Tribal 
Organization.
    (2) Provide information regarding plans to obtain management 
systems if a Tribe or Tribal Organization does not have an established 
management system currently in place that complies with 25 CFR part 
900, subpart F, ``Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization 
Management Systems.'' State if management systems are already in place 
and how long the systems have been in place.
    (3) Describe the ability of the Tribe or Tribal Organization to 
manage the proposed project. Include information regarding similarly 
sized projects in scope and financial assistance as well as other 
grants and projects successfully completed.
    (4) Describe equipment (e.g., fax machine, telephone, computer, 
etc.) and facility space (i.e., office space) will be available for use 
during the proposed project. Include information about any equipment 
not currently available that will be purchased through the grant.
    (5) List key project personnel and their titles in the work plan. 
Provide the position descriptions and resumes for all key personnel in 
the Appendix. The included position descriptions should: (1) Clearly 
describe each position's

[[Page 31408]]

duties; and (2) indicate desired qualifications and project associated 
experience. Each resume must include a statement indicating that the 
proposed key personnel is explicitly qualified to carry out the 
proposed project activities. If no current candidate for a position 
exists please provide a statement to that effect in the Appendix.
    (6) If an individual is partially funded by this grant, indicate 
the percentage of his or her time to be allocated to the project and 
identify the resources used to fund the remainder of that individual's 
salary.
    (7) Address how the Tribe/Tribal Organization will sustain the 
proposal created positions after the grant expires. Please indicate if 
the project requires additional personnel (i.e., IT support, etc.) If 
no additional personnel is required please indicate that in this 
section.
E. Categorical Budget and Budget Justification (5 Points)
    (1) Provide a categorical budget for each of the 12-month budget 
periods requested.
    (2) If indirect costs are claimed, indicate and apply the current 
negotiated rate to the budget. Include a copy of the rate agreement in 
the Appendix.
    (3) Provide a narrative justification explaining why each 
categorical budget line item is necessary and relevant to the proposed 
project. Include sufficient cost and other details to facilitate the 
determination of cost allowability (e.g., equipment specifications, 
etc.)
Multi-Year Project Requirements
    For projects requiring a second and/or third year, include only 
Year 2 and/or Year 3 narrative sections (objectives, evaluation 
components, and work plan) that differ from those in Year 1. For every 
project year, include a full budget justification and a detailed, 
itemized categorical budget showing calculation methodologies for each 
item. The same weights and criteria that are used to evaluate a 1-year 
project or the first year of a multi-year project will be applied when 
evaluating the second and third years of a multi-year application. A 
weak second and/or third year submission could negatively impact the 
overall score of an application and result in elimination of the 
proposed second and/or third years with a recommendation for only a 1-
year award.
Additional documents can be uploaded as Appendix Items in https://www.Grants.gov
     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).
     Current Indirect Cost Agreement.
     Organizational chart.
     Additional documents to support narrative (e.g., data 
tables, key news articles, etc.).

2. Review and Selection

    Each application will be prescreened by DGM staff for eligibility 
and completeness as outlined in this 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 
IHS program 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 DGM Grants Management Officer. Applicants will be 
notified by the DGM, via email, to outline minor missing components 
(e.g., budget narratives, audit documentation, key contact form, etc.) 
needed for an otherwise complete application. All missing documents 
must be sent to the 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.
    Please note that a decision to award a TMG does not represent a 
determination from the IHS regarding the Tribe or Tribal Organization's 
eligibility to contract for a specific PFSA under the ISDEAA. An 
application for a TMG does not constitute a contract proposal.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

    The Notice of Award (NoA) is a legally binding document signed by 
the Grants Management Officer that serves as the official notification 
of the TMG award. The NoA will be initiated by the DGM in our grant 
system, GrantSolutions (https://www.grantsolutions.gov). Each entity 
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 Applications
    Applicants that received a score less than the recommended funding 
level for approval (70 points) and that are deemed to be disapproved by 
the ORC, will receive an Executive Summary Statement from the IHS ODSCT 
within 30 days of the conclusion of the ORC, outlining the strengths 
and weaknesses of their application submitted. The summary statement 
will be sent to the Authorized Organizational Representative identified 
on the face page (SF-424) of the application. The IHS ODSCT will also 
provide additional contact information as needed to address questions 
and concerns, as well as provide technical assistance if desired.
Approved but Unfunded Applications
    Approved but unfunded applications that met the minimum scoring 
range and that are deemed by the ORC to be ``Approved,'' but were not 
funded due to lack of TMG funding, will have their applications held by 
DGM for a period of 1 year. If additional funding becomes available 
during the course of FY 2018, the approved, but unfunded application 
may be re-considered by the awarding program office for possible 
funding. The applicant will also receive an Executive Summary Statement 
from the IHS program office 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

    Grants are administered in accordance with the following 
regulations and policies:
    A. The criteria as outlined in this program announcement.
    B. Uniform Administrative Regulations for Grants:

[[Page 31409]]

     Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, 
located at 45 CFR part 75.
    C. Grants Policy:
     HHS Grants Policy Statement, Revised January 2007.
    D. Cost Principles:
     Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, ``Cost 
Principles,'' located at 45 CFR part 75, subpart E.
    E. Audit Requirements:
     Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, 
``Audit Requirements,'' located at 45 CFR part 75, subpart F.

3. Indirect Costs

    This section applies to all TMG recipients who request 
reimbursement of IDC in their grant application. In accordance with HHS 
Grants Policy Statement, Part II-27, the 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 Allocation (DCA) https://rates.psc.gov/ and the 
Department of the Interior (Interior Business Center) https://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-Cost-Services/indian-tribes. 
For questions regarding the IDC policy, please contact the Grants 
Management Specialist listed under ``Agency Contacts,'' or the main DGM 
office by telephone (301) 443-5204.

4. Reporting Requirements

    The grantee must submit required reports consistent with the 
applicable TMG 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 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/or (2) 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. Per IHS DGM policy, all reports are required to 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 see the Agency Contacts 
list in Section VII for systems contact information.
    The reporting requirements for this program are noted below.
A. Progress Reports
    Program progress reports are required semi-annually within 30 days 
after the budget period ends. These reports must include the following: 
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.
B. 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 https://pms.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 FFR.
C. Federal Sub-Award Reporting System (FSRS)
    This award may be subject to the Transparency Act sub-award and 
executive compensation reporting requirements at 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 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 dollar threshold met for any 
specific reporting period. Additionally, all new (discretionary) IHS 
awards (when the period of performance is made up of more than one 
budget period) and: (1) The period of performance start date was 
October 1, 2010, or after; and (2) the primary awardee will have a 
$25,000 sub-award 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 
website at https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/.
D. Compliance With Executive Order 13166 Implementation of Services 
Accessibility Provisions for All Grant Application Packages and Funding 
Opportunity Announcements
    Recipients of Federal financial assistance (FFA) from the HHS must 
administer their programs in compliance with Federal civil rights law. 
This means that recipients of HHS funds must ensure equal access to 
their programs without regard to a person's race, color, national 
origin, disability, age and, in some circumstances, sex and religion. 
HHS provides guidance to FFA recipients on meeting their legal 
obligation to take reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to 
their programs by persons with limited English proficiency. Please see 
https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/special-topics/limited-english-proficiency/guidance-federal-financial-assistance-recipients-title-VI/.
    The HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) also provides guidance on 
civil rights law enforcement compliance. Please see https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/section-1557/; and https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/. Recipients of FFA also have 
specific legal obligations for serving qualified individuals with 
disabilities. Please see https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/disability/. Please contact the HHS OCR for 
additional information about obligations and prohibitions under Federal 
civil rights laws at https://www.hhs.gov/ocr/about-us/contact-us/ or toll-free by telephone at (800) 368-1019 or TDD (800) 
537-7697. Also note it is an HHS goal to ensure access to quality, 
culturally competent care, including long-term services and supports, 
for vulnerable populations. For further guidance on providing 
culturally and linguistically appropriate services, recipients should 
review the

[[Page 31410]]

National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate 
Services in Health and Health Care at https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/browse.aspx?lvl=2&lvlid=53.
    Pursuant to 45 CFR 80.3(d), an individual shall not be deemed 
subjected to discrimination by reason of his or her exclusion from 
benefits limited by Federal law to individuals eligible for benefits 
and services from the IHS.
    Recipients will be required to sign the HHS-690 Assurance of 
Compliance form which can be obtained from the following website: 
https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/forms/hhs-690.pdf, and send it 
directly to the: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office 
for Civil Rights, 200 Independence Avenue SW, Room 509F, Washington, DC 
20201.
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 Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity 
Information System (FAPIIS) before making any award in excess of the 
simplified acquisition threshold (currently $150,000) 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 the applicant as 
described in 45 CFR 75.205.
    As required by 45 CFR part 75 Appendix XII of the Uniform Guidance, 
non-Federal entities (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 $10,000,000 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 the HHS 
implementing regulations at 45 CFR part 75, effective January 1, 2016, 
the IHS must require a non-Federal entity 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 gratutity violations potentially affecting the Federal 
award.
    Submission is required for all applicants and recipients, in 
writing, to the IHS and to the HHS Office of Inspector General. 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: Robert Tarwater, Director, 5600 Fishers Lane, 
Mailstop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857. (Include ``Mandatory Grant 
Disclosures'' in subject line).
    Telephone: (301) 443-5204.
    Fax: (301) 594-0899.
    Email: [email protected].

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.
     Website: https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/reportfraud/index.asp. (Include 
``Manatory Grant Disclosures'' in subject line).
    Fax: (202) 205-0604 (Include ``Mandatory Grant Disclosures'' in 
subject line) or
    Email: [email protected].
    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 Part 376, and 
31 U.S.C. 3321).

VII. Agency Contacts

    1. Questions on the programmatic issues may be directed to: Ms. 
Roselyn Tso, Director, Office of Direct Service and Contracting Tribes, 
Indian Health Service, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 08E17, Rockville, 
MD 20857, Telephone: (301) 443-1104, Email: [email protected].
    2. Questions on grants management and fiscal matters may be 
directed to: Ms. Vanietta Armstrong, Grants Management Specialist, 
Indian Health Service, OMS/DGM, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 09E70, 
Rockville, MD 20857, Telephone: (301) 443-4792, Fax: (301) 594-0899, 
Email: [email protected].
    3. Questions on technical systems matters may be directed to: Mr. 
Paul Gettys, Grant Systems Coordinator, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 
09E70, Rockville, MD 20857, Telephone: (301) 443-2114; or the DGM main 
line (301) 443-5204, Fax: (301) 594-0899, Email: [email protected]

VIII. Other Information

    The Public Health Service strongly encourages all recipients of 
cooperative agreement and contracts provide a smoke-free workplace and 
promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition, Pubic 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: June 26, 2018.
Michael D. Weahkee,
RADM, Assistant Surgeon General, USPHS, Acting Director, Indian Health 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-14426 Filed 7-3-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4165-16-P