Notice2023-03281
Zero Suicide Initiative Coordinating Center
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
February 16, 2023
Issuing agencies
Health and Human Services DepartmentIndian Health Service
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 88 Issue 32 (Thursday, February 16, 2023)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 32 (Thursday, February 16, 2023)]
[Notices]
[Pages 10127-10135]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2023-03281]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Indian Health Service
Zero Suicide Initiative Coordinating Center
Announcement Type: New.
Funding Announcement Number: HHS-2023-IHS-ZSICC-0001.
Assistance Listing (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance or CFDA)
Number: 93.654.
Key Dates
Application Deadline Date: April 17, 2023.
Earliest Anticipated Start Date: May 17, 2023.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
Statutory Authority
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is accepting applications for
cooperative agreement for the IHS Zero Suicide Initiative Coordinating
Center (ZSICC). This program is authorized under the Snyder Act, 25
U.S.C. 13; the Transfer Act, 42 U.S.C. 2001(a); the Indian Health Care
Improvement Act, 25 U.S.C. 1665a; the Consolidated Appropriations Act,
2022, Public Law 117-103, 136 Stat. 49, 398 (2022), and subsequent
appropriation acts. This program is described in the Assistance
Listings located at <a href="https://sam.gov/content/home">https://sam.gov/content/home</a> (formerly known as the
CFDA) under 93.654.
Background
Since 1999, suicide rates within the United States (U.S.) have been
steadily increasing.\1\ On March 2, 2018, the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly report released
a data report, ``Suicides Among American Indian/Alaska Natives National
Violent Death Reporting System, 18 States, 2003 to 2014,'' which
highlights American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people having the
highest rates of suicide of any racial/ethnic group in the U.S. Suicide
rates for AI/AN adolescents and young adult ages 15 to 34 (19.1/
100,000) were 1.3 times that of the national average for that age group
(14/100,000).\2\ In June 2019, the National Center for Health
Statistics, Health E-Stat reported in ``Suicide Rates for Females and
Males by Race and Ethnicity: United States, 1999 and 2017,'' that
suicide rates increased for all race and ethnicity groups but the
largest increase occurred for AI/AN females (139 percent from 4.6 to
11.0 per 100,000). Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death among
all AI/AN people across all ages and may be underestimated.
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\1\ Curtin SC, Hedegaard H. Suicide rates for females and males
by race and ethnicity: United States, 1999 and 2017. NCHS Health E-
Stat. 2019.
\2\ Leavitt RA, Ertle AE, Sheats K, Petrosky E, Ivey-Stephenson
A, Fowler KA (2018) Suicides Among American Indian/Alaska Natives--
National Violent Death Reporting System, 18 States, 2003 to 2014.
MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018;67: 37-240.
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The Zero Suicide Initiative (ZSI) is a key concept of the National
Strategy for Suicide Prevention and is a priority of the National
Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention (<a href="https://theactionalliance.org/">https://theactionalliance.org/</a>
). In fiscal year (FY) 2022, the IHS awarded eight grants to Tribes,
Tribal organizations, and Urban Indian organizations to combat the
suicide public health crisis in Indian Country. This program aims to
improve the system of care for those at risk for suicide by
implementing a comprehensive, culturally informed, multi-setting
approach to suicide prevention in Indian health systems. Applicants are
encouraged to view the list of funded sites <a href="https://www.ihs.gov/sites/zerosuicide/themes/responsive2017/display_objects/documents/ZSIAwards20222027.pdf">https://www.ihs.gov/sites/zerosuicide/themes/responsive2017/display_objects/documents/ZSIAwards20222027.pdf</a> and are encouraged to visit <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/suicide-prevention/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/suicide-prevention/index.html</a>
to access a copy of the 2012 National Strategy.
In FY 2023, the IHS intends to fund ten health care facilities and
systems sites operated by the IHS that will solely focus on the
implementation of only one out of the seven Zero Suicide model
elements. The element entitled ``Improve'' focuses on applying a data-
driven, quality improvement approach to inform system changes that will
lead to improved patient outcomes and better care for those at risk.
Health care facilities and systems, operated by the IHS, that provide
direct care services to AI/AN patients to raise awareness of suicide,
establish an integrated system of care, and improve outcomes for such
individuals in FY 2023 to FY 2028.
Purpose
The purpose of this cooperative agreement is to build capacity of
ZSI projects to improve the system of care for those at risk for
suicide by implementing a comprehensive, culturally informed, multi-
setting approach to suicide prevention in Indian health systems. The
ZSICC will provide technical assistance in the areas of data
collection, reporting, training, resources, and implementation of the
Zero Suicide approach in Indian Country. The ZSICC technical assistance
will be framed to promote the core Seven Elements of the Zero Suicide
model that was developed by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center
(SPRC) at <a href="https://zerosuicide.edc.org/toolkit/zero-suicide-toolkit">https://zerosuicide.edc.org/toolkit/zero-suicide-toolkit</a>.
1. Lead--Create and sustain a leadership-driven, safety-oriented
culture committed to dramatically reducing suicide among people under
care. Include survivors of suicide attempts and suicide loss in
leadership and planning roles.
2. Train--Develop a competent, confident, and caring workforce.
3. Identify--Systematically identify and assess suicide risk among
people receiving care.
4. Engage--Ensure every individual has a pathway to care that is
both timely and adequate to meet his or her needs.
[[Page 10128]]
Include collaborative safety planning and restriction of lethal means.
5. Treat--Use effective, evidence-based treatments that directly
target suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
6. Transition--Provide continuous contact and support, especially
after acute care.
7. Improve--Apply a data-driven quality improvement approach to
inform system changes that will lead to improved patient outcomes and
better care for those at risk.
Required Activities
The ZSICC award funds must be used primarily to provide training
and technical assistance to all ZSI projects in the implementation of
the ZSI model and support projects in meeting data collection, program
evaluation and reporting requirements. The awardee will be required to:
1. Establish staffing with expertise to implement and complete
required activities.
2. Review all ZSI projects applications and proposed work plans for
implementing the ZSI model and provide a brief project summary report.
3. All training materials produced should be 508 compliant and
culturally informed in the prevention of suicide in Indian health
systems.
4. Coordinate all the logistics including securing a web platform,
development of materials, agenda, meeting summaries, and PowerPoints
for teleconferences and trainings.
5. Provide an accessible web portal for all ZSI projects to access
the ZSICC's materials.
6. Provide a web portal to share information and resources in
compliance with Information Technology (IT) policies and prepare all
materials to be transferred back to the IHS at the end of the period of
performance.
7. Coordinate logistics as mentioned above and identify Subject
Matter Experts for seven webinars focused on each of the seven ZSI
model elements using the IHS Tele-Behavioral Health Center of
Excellence (TBHCE) web platform.
8. Coordinate logistics as mentioned above and participate in
virtual or face-to-face site visits with ZSI Projects (not exceed three
per period of performance) with program official. After each site
visit, a report will be generated by the ZSICC.
9. Coordinate logistics as mentioned above and participate in web
conferences with the program official to report on the status of
technical assistance activities.
10. Communicate four times each budget year with key stakeholders
such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's
(SAMHSA) SPRC and other identified organizations to best meet the
suicide prevention needs of Tribal communities with a focus on policy
and resource development and on issues related to suicide prevention in
AI/AN communities.
11. Submit one annual summary report of technical assistance
activities provided to ZSI projects completed each budget period. This
will be submitted directly to the assigned program official as a Grant
Note in GrantSolutions. The ZSICC should submit a draft template for
approval at least 30 days prior to submission. The template is subject
to change at the request of the program official.
12. Ensure the technical assistance strategies address the needs of
AI/AN people at risk for suicide, older adults, veterans, the LGBTQIA+
community, and individuals with serious mental illness.
13. Execute succession planning and transfer all deliverables to
IHS program official at the end of the period of performance.
14. Develop a National Evaluation Plan for the ZSI projects within
60 days of receiving funding:
i. Coordinate a cross-site evaluation with the ZSI projects to
cover their existing activities and data;
ii. Provide a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
compliant, online data collection instrument to collect and organize a
quantitative and qualitative data set for each ZSI project that
combines the data entered into one database at the end of each budget
year. Data elements will be developed in consultation with the National
Data Coordinator of the Division of Behavioral Health, IHS. At a
minimum, the data elements will include the clinical pathway (series of
actions) taken by the staff in order to prepare for and respond to a
patient at risk for suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, or death by
suicide and the outcomes of those actions. Awardee will complete the
following, within 60 days of receiving the complete data set outlined
in the Data Collection and Reporting section of this announcement;
iii. Complete an Evaluation Report within 30 days of the end of
each budget year; and
iv. Create standard tables, slides, and talking points from the
Evaluation Report within 30 days of the end of each budget year.
Pre-Conference Grant Requirements
The awardee is required to comply with the ``HHS Policy on
Promoting Efficient Spending: Use of Appropriated Funds for Conferences
and Meeting Space, Food, Promotional Items, and Printing and
Publications,'' dated January 23, 2015 (Policy), as applicable to
conferences funded by grants and cooperative agreements. The Policy is
available at <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/grants/contracts/contract-policies-regulations/efficient-spending/index.html?language=es">https://www.hhs.gov/grants/contracts/contract-policies-regulations/efficient-spending/index.html?language=es</a>.
The awardee is required to:
Provide a separate detailed budget justification and narrative for
each conference anticipated. The cost categories to be addressed are as
follows: (1) Contract/Planner, (2) Meeting Space/Venue, (3)
Registration website, (4) Audio Visual, (5) Speakers Fees, (6) Non-
Federal Attendee Travel, (7) Registration Fees, and (8) Other (explain
in detail and cost breakdown). For additional questions please contact
Pamela End of Horn by phone at (301) 443-8028 or by email at
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#edbd8c8088818cc3a88389828ba5829f83ad84859ec38a829b"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="82d2e3efe7eee3acc7ece6ede4caedf0ecc2ebeaf1ace5edf4">[email protected]</span></a>.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument--Cooperative Agreement
Estimated Funds Available
The total funding identified for FY 2023 is approximately $850,000.
The award amount for the first year is anticipated to be up to
$850,000. The funding available for competing and subsequent
continuation 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
One award will be issued under this program announcement.
Period of Performance
The period of performance is for 5 years.
Cooperative Agreement
Cooperative agreements awarded by the Department of Health and
Human Services (HHS) are administered under the same policies as
grants. However, the funding agency, IHS, is anticipated to have
substantial programmatic involvement in the project during the entire
period of performance. Below is a detailed description of the level of
involvement required of the IHS.
[[Page 10129]]
Substantial Agency Involvement Description for Cooperative Agreement
A. Liaise with ZSI projects to ensure the ZSICC is able to provide
timely and appropriate technical assistance.
B. Facilitate linkages to other IHS/Federal government resources
and promote collaboration with other IHS and Federal health and
behavioral health initiatives, including the SAMHSA, the National
Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention, the National Suicide Prevention
Lifeline, the SPRC, and the Zero Suicide Institute.
C. Provide input and monitor the technical assistance being
administered by the ZSICC. Ensure that the ZSICC receives ZSI project
data according to IHS polices.
D. Provide written feedback, suggested revisions, or comments for
all materials developed as deemed necessary by Program officials.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligibility
To be eligible for this funding opportunity applicant must be one
of the following:
<bullet> A federally recognized Indian Tribe as defined by 25
U.S.C. 1603(14). The term ``Indian Tribe'' means any Indian Tribe,
band, nation, or other organized group or community, including any
Alaska Native village or group, 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 U.S. to Indians because of their status as Indians.
<bullet> A Tribal organization as defined by 25 U.S.C. 1603(26).
The term ``Tribal organization'' has the meaning given the term in
section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act
(25 U.S.C. 5304(l)): ``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
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: provided that, in any case where a contract is let or
grant made to an organization to perform services benefiting more than
one Indian Tribe, the approval of each such Indian Tribe shall be a
prerequisite to the letting or making of such contract or grant.
Applicant shall submit letters of support and/or Tribal Resolutions
from the Tribes to be served.
<bullet> An Urban Indian organization, as defined by 25 U.S.C.
1603(29), that is currently administering a contract or receiving a
grant pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 1653. The term ``Urban Indian
organization'' means a nonprofit corporate body situated in an urban
center, governed by an urban Indian controlled board of directors, and
providing for the maximum participation of all interested Indian groups
and individuals, which body is capable of legally cooperating with
other public and private entities for the purpose of performing the
activities described in 25 U.S.C. 1653(a). Applicants must provide
proof of nonprofit status with the application, e.g., 501(c)(3).
<bullet> Domestic public and private non-profit entities.
Applicants must provide proof of nonprofit status with the application,
e.g., 501(c)(3).
<bullet> Domestic for-profit entities.
<bullet> Domestic Public and state controlled institutions of
higher education.
<bullet> Private institutions of higher education.
Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility, and Voluntary Exclusion
Certification
<bullet> You certify on behalf of the applicant organization, by
submission of your proposal, that neither you nor your principals are
presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared
ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this
transaction by any Federal department or agency.
<bullet> Failure to make required disclosures can result in any of
the remedies described in 45 CFR 75.371, including suspension or
debarment. (See also 2 CFR parts 180 and 376, and 31 U.S.C. 3354).
<bullet> If you are unable to attest to the statements in this
certification, you must include an explanation in your application.
Upload this in the Other Documents section in the <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> Workspace.
The Division of Grants Management (DGM) will notify any applicants
deemed ineligible.
Note: Please refer to Section IV.2 (Application and Submission
Information/Subsection 2, Content and Form of Application
Submission) for additional proof of applicant status documents
required, such as Tribal Resolutions, proof of nonprofit status,
etc.
2. Cost Sharing or Matching
The IHS does not require matching funds or cost sharing for grants
or cooperative agreements.
3. Other Requirements
Applications with budget requests that exceed the highest dollar
amount outlined under Section II Award Information, Estimated Funds
Available, or exceed the period of performance outlined under Section
II Award Information, Period of Performance, are considered not
responsive and will not be reviewed. The DGM will notify the applicant.
Additional Required Documentation
Tribal Resolution
The DGM must receive an official, signed Tribal Resolution prior to
issuing a Notice of Award (NoA) to any Tribe or Tribal organization
selected for funding. An applicant that is proposing a project
affecting another Indian Tribe must include resolutions from all
affected Tribes to be served. However, if an official signed Tribal
Resolution cannot be submitted with the application prior to the
application deadline date, a draft Tribal Resolution must be submitted
with the application by the deadline date in order for the application
to be considered complete and eligible for review. The draft Tribal
Resolution is not in lieu of the required signed resolution but is
acceptable until a signed resolution is received. If an application
without a signed Tribal Resolution is selected for funding, the
applicant will be contacted by the Grants Management Specialist (GMS)
listed in this funding announcement and given 90 days to submit an
official signed Tribal Resolution to the GMS. If the signed Tribal
Resolution is not received within 90 days, the award will be forfeited.
Applicants organized with a governing structure other than a Tribal
council may submit an equivalent document commensurate with their
governing organization. Note that this requirement does not require a
Tribe or Tribal organization applicant to obtain resolutions from all
current ZSI grantees.
Proof of Nonprofit Status
Organizations claiming nonprofit status must submit a current copy
of the 501(c)(3) Certificate with the application.
IV. Application and Submission Information
<a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> uses a Workspace model for accepting applications. The
[[Page 10130]]
Workspace consists of several online forms and three forms in which to
upload documents--Project Narrative, Budget Narrative, and Other
Documents. Give your files brief descriptive names. The filenames are
key in finding specific documents during the objective review and in
processing awards. Upload all requested and optional documents
individually, rather than combining them into a package. Creating a
package creates confusion when trying to find specific documents. Such
confusion can contribute to delays in processing awards, and could lead
to lower scores during the objective review.
1. Obtaining Application Materials
The application package and detailed instructions for this
announcement are available at <a href="https://www.Grants.gov">https://www.Grants.gov</a>.
Please direct questions regarding the application process to
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#4a0e0d070a232239642d253c"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="6226252f220b0a114c050d14">[email protected]</span></a>.
2. Content and Form Application Submission
Mandatory documents for all applicants include:
<bullet> Application forms:
1. SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance.
2. SF-424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs.
3. SF-424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.
4. Project Abstract Summary form.
<bullet> Project Narrative (not to exceed 12 pages). See Section
IV.2.A, Project Narrative for instructions.
<bullet> Budget Narrative (not to exceed 5 pages). See Section
IV.2.B, Budget Narrative for instructions.
<bullet> One-page Timeframe Chart.
<bullet> Tribal Resolution(s) as described in Section III,
Eligibility, if applicable.
<bullet> Letters of Support from organization's Board of Directors,
if applicable. Letters of support must be dated and specifically
indicate a commitment to the project/program (in-kind services,
dollars, staff, space, equipment, etc.).
<bullet> 501(c)(3) Certificate, if applicable.
<bullet> Biographical sketches for all Key Personnel.
<bullet> Contractor/Consultant resumes or qualifications and scope
of work.
<bullet> Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL), if applicant
conducts reportable lobbying.
<bullet> Certification Regarding Lobbying (GG-Lobbying Form).
<bullet> Copy of current Negotiated Indirect Cost (IDC) rate
agreement (required in order to receive IDC).
<bullet> Organizational Chart.
<bullet> Documentation of current Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) Financial Audit (if applicable).
Acceptable forms of documentation include:
1. Email confirmation from Federal Audit Clearinghouse (FAC) that
audits were submitted; or
2. Face sheets from audit reports. Applicants can find these on the
FAC website at <a href="https://facdissem.census.gov/">https://facdissem.census.gov/</a>.
Public Policy Requirements
All Federal public policies apply to IHS grants and cooperative
agreements. Pursuant to 45 CFR 80.3(d), an individual shall not be
deemed subjected to discrimination by reason of their exclusion from
benefits limited by Federal law to individuals eligible for benefits
and services from the IHS. See <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/grants/grants/grants-policies-regulations/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/grants/grants/grants-policies-regulations/index.html</a>.
Requirements for Project and Budget Narratives
A. Project Narrative: This narrative should be a separate document
that is no more than 12 pages and must: (1) have consecutively numbered
pages; (2) use black font 12 points or larger (applicants may use 10
point font for tables); (3) be single-spaced; and (4) be formatted to
fit standard letter paper (8\1/2\ x 11 inches). Do not combine this
document with any others.
Be sure to succinctly answer all questions listed under the
evaluation criteria (refer to Section V.1, Evaluation Criteria) and
place all responses and required information in the correct section
noted below or they will not be considered or scored. If the narrative
exceeds the overall page limit, the reviewers will be directed to
ignore any content beyond the page limit. The 12-page limit for the
project narrative does not include the work plan, standard forms,
Tribal Resolutions, budget, budget narratives, and/or other items. Page
limits for each section within the project narrative are guidelines,
not hard limits.
There are three parts to the project narrative: Part 1--Program
Information; Part 2--Program Planning and Evaluation; and Part 3--
Program Report. See below for additional details about what must be
included in the narrative.
The page limits below are for each narrative and budget submitted.
Part 1: Program Information (Limit--5 pages)
Section 1: Must include the applicant's background information, a
description of technical assistance capacity in the areas of suicide
prevention, Zero Suicide model, and program evaluation and history of
support for such activities. Applicants need to include current public
health technical assistance activities, what program services they
currently provide, and interactions with other public health
authorities in the region (state, local, or Tribal).
Section 2: Organizational Capabilities
The applicant must describe staff capabilities or hiring plans for
the key personnel with appropriate expertise in suicide prevention,
Zero Suicide model, epidemiology, health sciences, and program
management. The applicant must also demonstrate access to specialized
expertise, such as a Masters level public health and/or a program
evaluator. Applicants must include an organizational chart and provide
position descriptions and biographical sketches of key personnel
including consultants or contractors. The position description should
clearly describe each position and its duties. Resumes should indicate
that proposed staff is qualified to carry out the project activities.
Part 2: Program Planning and Evaluation (Limit--5 pages)
Section 1: Program Plans
The applicant must include a work plan that describes program
goals, objectives, activities, timeline, and responsible person for
carrying out the objectives/activities.
The work plan should only include the first year of the project
period showing dates, key activities, and responsible staff for key
requirements.
Describe the proposed technical assistance recipients and the
methods you will use to engage them. In your response, describe your
expertise and experience in providing suicide prevention technical
assistance to federally recognized Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations,
Urban Indian organizations, domestic public/private entities, community
organizations, or faith-based organizations.
Discuss the service gaps, barriers, and other problems related to
the need for technical assistance in the area of suicide prevention in
Indian Country.
Section 2: Program Evaluation
Applicant must define the criteria they will use to evaluate
activities listed in the work plan under the Required Activities
section. They must explain the methodology they will use to determine
if the needs identified for the objectives are being met and if the
outcomes identified are being achieved, and describe how evaluation
findings will be disseminated to the IHS, co-funders, and the
population served. The evaluation plan must include a logic model (not
counted in the page limit)
[[Page 10131]]
with at least one measurable outcome per required activity.
Provide specific information about how you will collect the
required data for this program and how you will use such data to
manage, monitor, and enhance the program.
Part 3: Program Report (Limit--2 pages)
Section 1: Describe major accomplishments over the last 24 months
providing technical assistance, training, and in the area of suicide
prevention and mental health.
B. Budget Narrative (Limit--5 pages)
Provide a budget narrative that explains the amounts requested for
each line item of the budget from the SF-424A (Budget Information for
Non-Construction Programs) for the first year of the project. The
applicant can submit with the budget narrative a more detailed
spreadsheet than is provided by the SF-424A (the spreadsheet will not
be considered part of the budget narrative). The budget narrative
should specifically describe how each item would support the
achievement of proposed objectives. Be very careful about showing how
each item in the ``Other'' category is justified. Do NOT use the budget
narrative to expand the project narrative.
3. Submission Dates and Times
Applications must be submitted through <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> by 11:59 p.m.
Eastern Time on the Application Deadline Date. Any application received
after the application deadline will not be accepted for review.
<a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> will notify the applicant via email if the application is
rejected.
If technical challenges arise and assistance is required with the
application process, contact <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> Customer Support (see contact
information at <a href="https://www.Grants.gov">https://www.Grants.gov</a>). If problems persist, contact
Mr. Paul Gettys, Deputy Director, DGM, by telephone at (301) 443-2114
or by email at <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6c282b212c05041f420b031a"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="ffbbb8b2bf96978cd1989089">[email protected]</span></a>. 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 <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> tracking number. In the
event you are not able to obtain a tracking number, call the DGM as
soon as possible.
The IHS will not acknowledge receipt of applications.
4. Intergovernmental Review
Executive Order 12372 requiring intergovernmental review is not
applicable to this program.
5. Funding Restrictions
<bullet> Pre-award costs are not allowable.
<bullet> The available funds are inclusive of direct and indirect
costs.
<bullet> Only one cooperative agreement may be awarded per
applicant.
<bullet> The purchase of food (i.e., as supplies, for meetings or
events, etc.) is not an allowable cost with this grant funding and
should not be included in the budget/budget justification.
6. Electronic Submission Requirements
All applications must be submitted via <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a>. Please use the
<a href="https://www.Grants.gov">https://www.Grants.gov</a> website to submit an application. Find the
application by selecting the ``Search Grants'' link on the homepage.
Follow the instructions for submitting an application under the Package
tab. No other method of application submission is acceptable.
If you cannot submit an application through <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a>, you must
request a waiver prior to the application due date. You must submit
your waiver request by email to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7632313b361f1e0558111900"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="3276757f725b5a411c555d44">[email protected]</span></a>, with a copy to Mr. Gettys
by email at <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#3b7f7c767b525348155c544d"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="4004070d002928336e272f36">[email protected]</span></a>. Your waiver request must include clear
justification for the need to deviate from the required application
submission process. The IHS will not accept any applications submitted
through any means outside of <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> without an approved waiver.
If the DGM approves your waiver request, you will receive a
confirmation of approval email containing submission instructions. You
must include a copy of the written approval with the application
submitted to the DGM. Applications that do not include a copy of the
signed waiver from the Deputy Director of the DGM will not be reviewed.
The Grants Management Officer of the DGM will notify the applicant via
email of this decision. Applications submitted under waiver must be
received by the DGM no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the
Application Deadline Date. Late applications will not be accepted for
processing. Applicants that do not register for both the System for
Award Management (SAM) and <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> and/or fail to request timely
assistance with technical issues will not be considered for a waiver to
submit an application via alternative method.
Please be aware of the following:
<bullet> Please search for the application package in <a href="https://www.Grants.gov">https://www.Grants.gov</a> by entering the Assistance Listing (CFDA) number or the
Funding Opportunity Number. Both numbers are located in the header of
this announcement.
<bullet> If you experience technical challenges while submitting
your application, please contact <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> Customer Support (see
contact information at <a href="https://www.Grants.gov">https://www.Grants.gov</a>).
<bullet> Upon contacting <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a>, 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.
<bullet> Applicants are strongly encouraged not to wait until the
deadline date to begin the application process through <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> as
the registration process for SAM and <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> could take up to 20
working days.
<bullet> Please follow the instructions on <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> to include
additional documentation that may be requested by this funding
announcement.
<bullet> Applicants must comply with any page limits described in
this funding announcement.
<bullet> After submitting the application, you will receive an
automatic acknowledgment from <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> that contains a <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a>
tracking number. The IHS will not notify you that the application has
been received.
System for Award Management
Organizations that are not registered with SAM must access the SAM
online registration through the SAM home page at <a href="https://sam.gov">https://sam.gov</a>.
Organizations based in the U.S. will also need to provide an Employer
Identification Number from the Internal Revenue Service that may take
an additional 2-5 weeks to become active. Please see <a href="http://SAM.gov">SAM.gov</a> for
details on the registration process and timeline. Registration with the
SAM is free of charge but can take several weeks to process. Applicants
may register online at <a href="https://sam.gov">https://sam.gov</a>.
Unique Entity Identifier
Your <a href="http://SAM.gov">SAM.gov</a> registration now includes a Unique Entity Identifier
(UEI), generated by <a href="http://SAM.gov">SAM.gov</a>, which replaces the DUNS number obtained
from Dun and Bradstreet. <a href="http://SAM.gov">SAM.gov</a> registration no longer requires a DUNS
number. Check your organization's <a href="http://SAM.gov">SAM.gov</a> registration as soon as you
decide to apply for this program. If your <a href="http://SAM.gov">SAM.gov</a> registration is
expired, you will not be able to submit an application. It can take
several weeks to renew it or resolve any issues with your registration,
so do not wait.
Check your <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> registration. Registration and role
assignments in <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a> are self-serve functions. One user for your
organization will have the authority to approve role assignments, and
these must be approved for active users in order to ensure someone in
your organization has the necessary access to submit an application.
[[Page 10132]]
The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, as
amended (``Transparency Act''), requires all HHS awardees to report
information on sub-awards. Accordingly, all IHS awardees must notify
potential first-tier sub-awardees that no entity may receive a first-
tier sub-award unless the entity has provided its UEI number to the
prime awardee organization. This requirement ensures the use of a
universal identifier to enhance the quality of information available to
the public pursuant to the Transparency Act.
Additional information on implementing the Transparency Act,
including the specific requirements for SAM, are available on the DGM
Grants Management, Policy Topics web page at <a href="https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/">https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/</a>.
V. Application Review Information
Possible points assigned to each section are noted in parentheses.
The project narrative and budget narrative should include only the
first year of activities. The project narrative should be written in a
manner that is clear to outside reviewers unfamiliar with prior related
activities of the applicant. It should be well organized, succinct, and
contain all information necessary for reviewers to fully understand the
project. Attachments requested in the criteria do not count toward the
page limit for the narratives. Points will be assigned to each
evaluation criteria adding up to a total of 100 possible points. Points
are assigned as follows:
1. Evaluation Criteria
A. Program Information (20 Points)
Describe the applicant's current public health activities,
including Technical Assistance services currently provided,
interactions with other public health authorities in the regions
(Federal, state, local, or Tribal) and how long it has been operating.
Specifically, describe current technical assistance capacity and
history of support for such activities.
Describe staff capabilities or hiring plans for the key personnel
with appropriate expertise in suicide prevention, Zero Suicide model,
epidemiology, health sciences, and program management.
B. Project Objectives, Work Plan, and Approach (45 Points)
1. Describe the goals and measure objectives of your proposed
project and align them with the Statement of Need.
2. Describe how you will implement the Required Activities. Also,
describe how you will assess your activities, identify resources, and
reassess recipient needs.
3. Provide a work plan depicting a realistic timeline for the first
year of the project period showing dates, key activities, and
responsible staff. These key activities should include the
requirements.
C. Program Evaluation (15 Points)
Applicants need to clearly demonstrate the ability to collect and
report on required data associated with this project and lead all
aspects of the cross-site program evaluation. Provide specific
information on the development of the annual data report for this
program and how such data will be used to manage, monitor, and enhance
the program.
1. Define the criteria to be used to evaluate activities listed in
the work plan under the Required Activities.
2. Explain the methodology that will be used to determine if the
needs identified for the objectives are being met and if the outcomes
identified are being achieved. Be explicit about how the logic model
relates to the objectives and activities.
3. Explain how the applicant will lead the cross-recipient site
organization evaluation activities.
D. Organizational Capabilities, Key Personnel, and Qualifications (15
Points)
1. Explain both the management and administrative structure of the
organization, including documentation of current certified financial
management systems from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, IHS, or a
Certified Public Accountant, and an updated organizational chart.
2. Describe the ability of the organization to manage a program of
the proposed scope.
3. Provide position descriptions and biographical sketches of key
personnel, including those of consultants or contractors. Position
descriptions should very clearly describe each position and its duties,
indicating desired qualification and experience requirements related to
the project. Resumes should indicate that the proposed staff is
qualified to carry out the project activities. Applicants must include
an organizational chart.
4. The applicant must also demonstrate access to specialized
expertise, such as a Masters level epidemiologist and/or a
biostatistician. Applicants with expertise in epidemiology will receive
priority.
E. Categorical Budget and Budget Justification (5 Points)
1. Provide a justification by line item in the budget including
sufficient cost and other details to facilitate the determination of
cost allowance and relevance of these costs to the proposed project.
The funds requested should be appropriate and necessary for the scope
of the project.
2. If use of consultants or contractors is proposed or anticipated,
provide a detailed budget and scope of work that clearly defines the
activities' outcomes anticipated.
Additional documents (some of which are required) can be uploaded
as Other Attachments in <a href="http://Grants.gov">Grants.gov</a>. These can include:
<bullet> Work plan, logic model, and/or timeline for proposed
objectives.
<bullet> Position descriptions for key staff.
<bullet> Resumes of key staff that reflect current duties.
<bullet> Consultant or contractor proposed scope of work and letter
of commitment (if applicable).
<bullet> Current Indirect Cost Rate Agreement.
<bullet> Organizational chart.
<bullet> Map of area identifying project location(s).
<bullet> Additional documents to support narrative (i.e., data
tables, key news articles, etc.).
<bullet> Other Relevant Documents.
Include any other documents that are relevant to the application.
2. Review and Selection
Each application will be prescreened for eligibility and
completeness as outlined in the funding announcement. Applications that
meet the eligibility criteria shall be reviewed for merit by the
Objective Review Committee (ORC) based on the evaluation criteria.
Incomplete applications and applications that are not responsive to the
administrative thresholds (budget limit, period of performance limit)
will not be referred to the ORC and will not be funded. The DGM will
notify the applicant of this determination.
Applicants must address all program requirements and provide all
required documentation.
3. Notifications of Disposition
All applicants will receive an Executive Summary Statement from the
IHS Office of Clinical and Preventive Services within 30 days of the
conclusion of the ORC outlining the strengths and weaknesses of their
application. The summary statement will be sent to the Authorizing
Official identified on the face page (SF-424) of the application.
[[Page 10133]]
A. Award Notices for Funded Applications
The NoA is the authorizing document for which funds are dispersed
to the approved entities and reflects the amount of Federal funds
awarded, the purpose of the award, the terms and conditions of the
award, the effective date of the award, the budget period, and period
of performance. Each entity approved for funding must have a user
account in GrantSolutions in order to retrieve the NoA. Please see the
Agency Contacts list in Section VII for the systems contact
information.
B. Approved but Unfunded Applications
Approved applications not funded due to lack of available funds
will be held for 1 year. If funding becomes available during the course
of the year, the application may be reconsidered.
Note: Any correspondence, other than the official NoA executed
by an IHS grants management official announcing to the project
director that an award has been made to their organization, is not
an authorization to implement their program on behalf of the IHS.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Administrative Requirements
Awards issued under this announcement are subject to, and are
administered in accordance with, the following regulations and
policies:
A. The criteria as outlined in this program announcement.
B. Administrative Regulations for Grants:
<bullet> Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and
Audit Requirements for HHS Awards currently in effect or implemented
during the period of award, other Department regulations and policies
in effect at the time of award, and applicable statutory provisions. At
the time of publication, this includes 45 CFR part 75, at <a href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2021-title45-vol1/pdf/CFR-2021-title45-vol1-part75.pdf">https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2021-title45-vol1/pdf/CFR-2021-title45-vol1-part75.pdf</a>.
<bullet> Please review all HHS regulatory provisions for
Termination at 45 CFR 75.372, at the time of this publication located
at <a href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2021-title45-vol1/pdf/CFR-2021-title45-vol1-sec75-372.pdf">https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2021-title45-vol1/pdf/CFR-2021-title45-vol1-sec75-372.pdf</a>.
C. Grants Policy:
<bullet> HHS Grants Policy Statement, Revised January 2007, at
<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/grants/grants/policies-regulations/hhsgps107.pdf">https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/grants/grants/policies-regulations/hhsgps107.pdf</a>.
D. Cost Principles:
<bullet> Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, ``Cost
Principles,'' at 45 CFR part 75 subpart E, at the time of this
publication located at <a href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2021-title45-vol1/pdf/CFR-2021-title45-vol1-part75-subpartE.pdf">https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2021-title45-vol1/pdf/CFR-2021-title45-vol1-part75-subpartE.pdf</a>.
E. Audit Requirements:
<bullet> Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards,
``Audit Requirements,'' at 45 CFR part 75 subpart F, at the time of
this publication located at <a href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2021-title45-vol1/pdf/CFR-2021-title45-vol1-part75-subpartF.pdf">https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2021-title45-vol1/pdf/CFR-2021-title45-vol1-part75-subpartF.pdf</a>.
F. As of August 13, 2020, 2 CFR part 200 was updated to include a
prohibition on certain telecommunications and video surveillance
services or equipment. This prohibition is described in 2 CFR part
200.216. This will also be described in the terms and conditions of
every IHS grant and cooperative agreement awarded on or after August
13, 2020.
2. Indirect Costs
This section applies to all awardees that request reimbursement of
IDC in their application budget. In accordance with HHS Grants Policy
Statement, Part II-27, the IHS requires applicants to obtain a current
IDC rate agreement and submit it to the DGM prior to the DGM issuing an
award. The rate agreement must be prepared in accordance with the
applicable cost principles and guidance as provided by the cognizant
agency or office. A current rate covers the applicable grant activities
under the current award's budget period. If the current rate agreement
is not on file with the DGM at the time of award, the IDC portion of
the budget will be restricted. The restrictions remain in place until
the current rate agreement is provided to the DGM.
Per 45 CFR 75.414(f) Indirect (F&A) costs,
any non-Federal entity (NFE) [i.e., applicant] that has never
received a negotiated indirect cost rate, . . . may elect to charge
a de minimis rate of 10 percent of modified total direct costs which
may be used indefinitely. As described in Section 75.403, costs must
be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs, but may
not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If chosen,
this methodology once elected must be used consistently for all
Federal awards until such time as the NFE chooses to negotiate for a
rate, which the NFE may apply to do at any time.
Electing to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent only applies to
applicants that have never received an approved negotiated indirect
cost rate from HHS or another cognizant Federal agency. Applicants
awaiting approval of their indirect cost proposal may request the 10
percent de minimis rate. When the applicant chooses this method, costs
included in the indirect cost pool must not be charged as direct costs
to the grant.
Available funds are inclusive of direct and appropriate indirect
costs. Approved indirect funds are awarded as part of the award amount,
and no additional funds will be provided.
Generally, IDC rates for IHS awardees are negotiated with the
Division of Cost Allocation at <a href="https://rates.psc.gov/">https://rates.psc.gov/</a> or the Department
of the Interior (Interior Business Center) at <a href="https://ibc.doi.gov/ICS/tribal">https://ibc.doi.gov/ICS/tribal</a>. For questions regarding the indirect cost policy, please call
the Grants Management Specialist listed under ``Agency Contacts'' or
write to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5c181b111c35342f723b332a"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="b2f6f5fff2dbdac19cd5ddc4">[email protected]</span></a>.
3. Reporting Requirements
The awardee must submit required reports consistent with the
applicable deadlines. Failure to submit required reports within the
time allowed may result in suspension or termination of an active
award, withholding of additional awards for the project, or other
enforcement actions such as withholding of payments or converting to
the reimbursement method of payment. Continued failure to submit
required reports may result in the imposition of special award
provisions and/or the non-funding or non-award of other eligible
projects or activities. This requirement applies whether the
delinquency is attributable to the failure of the awardee organization
or the individual responsible for preparation of the reports. Per DGM
policy, all reports must be submitted electronically by attaching them
as a ``Grant Note'' in GrantSolutions. Personnel responsible for
submitting reports will be required to obtain a login and password for
GrantSolutions. Please use the form under the Recipient User section of
<a href="https://www.grantsolutions.gov/home/getting-started-request-a-user-account/">https://www.grantsolutions.gov/home/getting-started-request-a-user-account/</a>. Download the Recipient User Account Request Form, fill it out
completely, and submit it as described on the web page and in the form.
The reporting requirements for this program are noted below.
A. Progress Reports
Program progress reports are required annually. The progress
reports are due within 30 days after the reporting period ends
(specific dates will be listed in the NoA Terms and Conditions). These
reports must include a brief comparison of actual accomplishments to
the goals established for the period, a summary of progress to date or,
if applicable, provide sound justification for the lack
[[Page 10134]]
of progress, and other pertinent information as required. A final
report must be submitted within 90 days of expiration of the period of
performance.
B. Financial Reports
Federal Financial Reports are due 90 days after the end of each
budget period, and a final report is due 120 days after the end of the
period of performance. Awardees are responsible and accountable for
reporting accurate information on all required reports: the Progress
Reports and the Federal Financial Report.
Failure to submit timely reports may result in adverse award
actions blocking access to funds.
C. Data Collection and Reporting
Awardee will be required to collect and report data pertaining to
activities, processes, and outcomes. The IHS will provide additional
guidance on data collection and reporting for evaluation purposes.
Programmatic reporting must be submitted within 30 days after the
budget period ends for each project year (specific dates will be listed
in the Notice of Award Terms and Conditions). All reporting items will
be submitted via GrantSolutions. Technical assistance for web-based
data entry will be timely and readily available to awardee by assigned
DBH staff. Awardee is responsible and accountable for accurate
information being submitted by required due dates for Data Collection
and Reporting.
The IHS will provide ZSI project data and any aggregate program
statistics including associated community-level GPRA health care
facility data available in the National Data Warehouse as needed.
Awardee will collect data from ZSI projects and will be required to
compile a cross-site evaluation that will include both qualitative and
qualitative analysis. The project site data reports will include the
following data points:
Treat
<bullet> Number of patient visits.
<bullet> Number of patients screened for suicide risk.
<bullet> Number of patients placed on suicide care pathway or
registry.
<bullet> Number of patients hospitalized for suicide risk.
<bullet> Number of patients with safety plan.
<bullet> Number of patients counseled on access to lethal means.
<bullet> Number of approved ZSI Policies for Screening, Assessment,
Safety-Planning, Means Restriction, Transfer, and Follow-up.
<bullet> Number of Protocol Guide of culturally informed practices
and activities to be used with Evidence Based Practices (EBP).
<bullet> Number of Integrated Electronic Health Records (EHR).
Train
<bullet> Number of staff trained in EBP for Screening.
<bullet> Number of staff trained in EBP for Assessment.
<bullet> Number of staff trained in EBP for Treatment.
<bullet> Number of staff trained, number of trainings, type of
trainings, and number of staff trained in each health care profession
in evidence-based treatment of suicide risk.
<bullet> Number of staff that report feeling competent to deliver
suicide care.
<bullet> Number of staff that report feeling confident to deliver
suicide care.
<bullet> Number of patients who received a suicide screening during
the reporting period.
<bullet> Number of staff using EBP to provide treatment of suicide
risk.
<bullet> Number of staff incorporating culturally informed
practices and activities with EBP.
<bullet> Number of culturally informed practices and activities
used.
<bullet> Number of patients with a Safety Plan that receive follow-
up within 8 hours of missed appointment.
<bullet> Number of patients who receive follow-up within 24 hours
of inpatient emergency department visit.
Improve
<bullet> Existence of multidisciplinary ZSI Leadership Succession
Team.
<bullet> Existence of Approved ZSI Policies for screening,
assessment, safety-planning, means restriction, prescription, and
follow-up.
<bullet> Protocol Guide of culturally informed practices and
activities to be used with EBP.
<bullet> Existence of Integrated EHR.
<bullet> Existence of data collection and surveillance processes in
place.
<bullet> Results from Organizational Self-Study.
<bullet> Results from the Workforce Survey (WFS).
<bullet> Existence of trained, competent staff as evidenced by
results of WFS.
<bullet> Existence of approved Implementation Work Plan.
D. Post Conference Grant Reporting
The following requirements were enacted in Section 3003 of the
Consolidated Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013, Public Law 113-6, 127
Stat. 198, 435 (2013), and; Office of Management and Budget Memorandum
M-17-08, Amending OMB Memorandum M-12-12: All HHS/IHS awards containing
grants funds allocated for conferences will be required to complete a
mandatory post award report for all conferences. Specifically: The
total amount of funds provided in this award/cooperative agreement that
were spent for ``Conference X'' must be reported in final detailed
actual costs within 15 calendar days of the completion of the
conference. Cost categories to address should be: (1) Contract/Planner,
(2) Meeting Space/Venue, (3) Registration website, (4) Audio Visual,
(5) Speakers Fees, (6) Non-Federal Attendee Travel, (7) Registration
Fees, and (8) Other.
E. Federal Sub-Award Reporting System (FSRS)
This award may be subject to the Transparency Act sub-award and
executive compensation reporting requirements of 2 CFR part 170.
The Transparency Act requires the OMB to establish a single
searchable database, accessible to the public, with information on
financial assistance awards made by Federal agencies. The Transparency
Act also includes a requirement for awardees 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 threshold met for any specific
reporting period.
For the full IHS award term implementing this requirement and
additional award applicability information, visit the DGM Grants
Management website at <a href="https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/">https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/</a>.
F. Non-Discrimination Legal Requirements for Awardees of Federal
Financial Assistance
The awardee must administer the project in compliance with Federal
civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of race,
color, national origin, disability, age, and comply with applicable
conscience protections. The awardee must comply with applicable laws
that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex, which includes
discrimination on the basis of gender identity, sexual orientation, and
pregnancy. Compliance with these laws requires taking reasonable steps
to provide meaningful access to persons with limited English
proficiency and
[[Page 10135]]
providing programs that are accessible to and usable by persons with
disabilities. The HHS Office for Civil Rights provides guidance on
complying with civil rights laws enforced by HHS. See <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-providers/provider-obligations/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-providers/provider-obligations/index.html</a>
and <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/nondiscrimination/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/nondiscrimination/index.html</a>.
<bullet> Recipients of FFA must ensure that their programs are
accessible to persons with limited English proficiency. For guidance on
meeting your legal obligation to take reasonable steps to ensure
meaningful access to your programs or activities by limited English
proficiency individuals, see <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/special-topics/limited-english-proficiency/fact-sheet-guidance/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/special-topics/limited-english-proficiency/fact-sheet-guidance/index.html</a> and <a href="https://www.lep.gov">https://www.lep.gov</a>.
<bullet> For information on your specific legal obligations for
serving qualified individuals with disabilities, including reasonable
modifications and making services accessible to them, see <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/disability/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/disability/index.html</a>.
<bullet> HHS funded health and education programs must be
administered in an environment free of sexual harassment. See <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/sex-discrimination/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/sex-discrimination/index.html</a>.
<bullet> For guidance on administering your program in compliance
with applicable Federal religious nondiscrimination laws and applicable
Federal conscience protection and associated anti-discrimination laws,
see <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/conscience/conscience-protections/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/conscience/conscience-protections/index.html</a>
and <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/conscience/religious-freedom/index.html">https://www.hhs.gov/conscience/religious-freedom/index.html</a>.
G. Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System
(FAPIIS)
The IHS is required to review and consider any information about
the applicant that is in the FAPIIS at <a href="https://www.fapiis.gov/fapiis/#/home">https://www.fapiis.gov/fapiis/#/home</a> before making any award in excess of the simplified acquisition
threshold (currently $250,000) over the period of performance. An
applicant may review and comment on any information about itself that a
Federal awarding agency previously entered. The IHS will consider any
comments by the applicant, in addition to other information in FAPIIS,
in making a judgment about the applicant's integrity, business ethics,
and record of performance under Federal awards when completing the
review of risk posed by applicants, as described in 45 CFR 75.205.
As required by 45 CFR part 75 Appendix XII of the Uniform Guidance,
NFEs are required to disclose in FAPIIS any information about criminal,
civil, and administrative proceedings, and/or affirm that there is no
new information to provide. This applies to NFEs that receive Federal
awards (currently active grants, cooperative agreements, and
procurement contracts) greater than $10 million for any period of time
during the period of performance of an award/project.
Mandatory Disclosure Requirements
As required by 2 CFR part 200 of the Uniform Guidance, and the HHS
implementing regulations at 45 CFR part 75, the IHS must require an NFE
or an applicant for a Federal award to disclose, in a timely manner, in
writing to the IHS or pass-through entity all violations of Federal
criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations
potentially affecting the Federal award.
All applicants and awardees must disclose in writing, in a timely
manner, to the IHS and to the HHS Office of Inspector General all
information related to violations of Federal criminal law involving
fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the
Federal award. 45 CFR 75.113.
Disclosures must be sent in writing to:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Indian Health Service,
Division of Grants Management, ATTN: Marsha Brookins, Director, 5600
Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857 (Include
``Mandatory Grant Disclosures'' in subject line), Office: (301) 443-
4750, Fax: (301) 594-0899, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5216151f123b3a217c353d24"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="dd999a909db4b5aef3bab2ab">[email protected]</span></a>
AND
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector
General, ATTN: Mandatory Grant Disclosures, Intake Coordinator, 330
Independence Avenue SW, Cohen Building, Room 5527, Washington, DC
20201, URL: <a href="https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud/">https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud/</a> (Include
``Mandatory Grant Disclosures'' in subject line), Fax: (202) 205-0604
(Include ``Mandatory Grant Disclosures'' in subject line) or, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#236e424d4742574c515a6451424d574646674a50404f4c5056514650634c4a440d4b4b500d444c55"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="8dc0ece3e9ecf9e2fff4caffece3f9e8e8c9e4feeee1e2fef8ffe8fecde2e4eaa3e5e5fea3eae2fb">[email protected]</span></a>
Failure to make required disclosures can result in any of the
remedies described in 45 CFR 75.371 Remedies for noncompliance,
including suspension or debarment (see 2 CFR part 180 and 2 CFR part
376).
VII. Agency Contacts
1. Questions on program matters may be directed to: Pamela End of
Horn, DSW, LICSW Public Health Advisor, Indian Health Service, Division
of Behavioral Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 08N34-A, Rockville,
MD 20857, Telephone: (301) 443-8028, Fax: (301) 594-6213, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#491928242c2528670c272d262f01263b270920213a672e263f"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="afffcec2cac3ce81eac1cbc0c9e7c0ddc1efc6c7dc81c8c0d9">[email protected]</span></a>.
2. Questions on grants management and fiscal matters may be
directed to: Sheila Miller, Grants Management Specialist, Indian Health
Service, Division of Grants Management, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop:
09E70, Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: (240) 535-9308, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#0b58636e62676a25466267676e794b626378256c647d"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="eebd868b87828fc0a38782828b9cae87869dc0898198">[email protected]</span></a>.
3. Questions on systems matters may be directed to: Paul Gettys,
Deputy Director, Indian Health Service, Division of Grants Management,
5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: (301)
443-2114; or the DGM main line (301) 443-5204, E-Mail:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#4d1d2c3821630a283939343e0d24253e632a223b"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="217140544d0f664455555852614849520f464e57">[email protected]</span></a>.
VIII. Other Information
The Public Health Service strongly encourages all grant,
cooperative agreement, and contract awardees to provide a smoke-free
workplace and promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition,
Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in
certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of the facility) in
which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care, or
early childhood development services are provided to children. This is
consistent with the HHS mission to protect and advance the physical and
mental health of the American people.
Roselyn Tso,
Director, Indian Health Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-03281 Filed 2-15-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4165-16-P
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</html>Indexed from Federal Register on February 16, 2023.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.