In December 2023, the Indian Health Service (IHS) issued two notices of funding opportunity for Tribes interested in transitioning to or expanding existing self-governance authorities for the provision of health care via the Tribal Self-Governance Program.[1] Under self-governance, Tribes assume responsibility for all or a portion of the health care formerly offered directly by the IHS. This allows Tribes the flexibility to tailor health care programs in a way that best fits the needs of their communities.
Entering into a self-governance agreement or expanding an existing one requires significant planning and negotiation. These two funding opportunities aim to help Tribes defray some of the associated administrative costs. Specifically, there are two different competitive grants available—
- Tribal Self-Governance Planning Cooperative Agreement Program (88 Fed. Reg. 88087), and
- Tribal Self-Governance Negotiation Cooperative Agreement Program (88 Fed. Reg. 88093).
The application deadline is February 19, 2024. This memorandum will outline each notice of funding opportunity in greater detail. Please let us know if you would like our assistance in moving forward with an application for either grant.
Tribal Self-Governance Planning Cooperative Agreement Program
Tribes are required to go through a planning phase prior to entering into a self-governance contract or compact. Specifically, Tribes must conduct legal and budgetary research, complete internal Tribal planning, and identify any necessary organizational modifications relating to the proposed self-administration of health care programs. This grant financially supports Tribes with the costs associated with this process. For FY 2024, the IHS anticipates to award approximately five grants of around $180,000. Tribes that have formally completed the planning phase are not eligible for this award.
Tribal Self-Governance Negotiation Cooperative Agreement Program
Tribes must also prepare for and participate in extensive negotiations with the IHS before signing a self-governance agreement. Specifically, two documents must be prepared—the Compact and the Funding Agreement. In general, these documents set forth the basis and terms of the agreement. For example, they will specify the health care programs that the Tribe will assume and the funding amount the Tribe will receive to do so. This grant may be used to support Tribes with the costs associated with the negotiation process. For FY 2024, the IHS anticipates to award approximately five grants of around $84,000.
Eligibility
Tribes,[2] Tribal Organizations,[3] and Intertribal Consortia[4] are eligible to apply for these grants. Tribes must submit all relevant application forms and an official, signed Tribal resolution indicating interest in self-governance in order to be eligible for this funding opportunity, among other documentation. More information on all required application materials can be found in the Federal Register notices.
Please let us know if we may provide any additional information or assistance with applying to these competitive grant opportunities.
[1] Authorized by the Snyder Act (25 U.S.C. 13); the Transfer Act (42 U.S.C. 2001(a)); and Title V of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5383(e))
[2] As defined in 25 U.S.C. 5304(e)
[3] As defined in 25 U.S.C. 5304(l)
[4] As defined at 42 CFR 137.10
