DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
(12/22/21)
Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs, Notice of Meeting
86 FR 72687, (PDF)
American Indian Probate Regulations
86 FR 72068, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of the Interior (Department) is finalizing updates to its regulations governing probate of property that the United States holds in trust or restricted status for American Indians, in an effort to continually improve the services the Department provides to individual Indians and Tribes. These updates allow the Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) to adjudicate probate cases more efficiently by, among other things, establishing an expedited process for small, funds-only estates, reorganizing the purchase-at-probate process so that estates may be closed more quickly, and specifying which reasons justify reopening of closed probate estates. The revisions also enhance OHA's processing by adding certainty as to how estates should be distributed when certain circumstances arise that are not addressed in the statute, and improve notification to interested parties by, among other things, requiring posting of probate notices on a devoted OHA web page.
Draft Programmatic Agreement Between the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Navajo Nation Tribal Historic Preservation Office, New Mexico State Historic Preservation Office, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and United Nuclear Corporation Regarding the United Nuclear Corporation Mill Site and Northeast Church Rock Mine Site Located in McKinley County, New Mexico
86 FR 69103, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is requesting comment on a draft Programmatic Agreement (PA) between the NRC, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Navajo Nation Tribal Historic Preservation Office (NNTHPO), New Mexico State Historic Preservation Office (NMSHPO), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), and United Nuclear Corporation (UNC). The purpose of this draft PA is to resolve any adverse effects to historic properties identified during consultation for a proposed license amendment application for the UNC Mill Site.
Living Languages Grant Program (LLGP); Solicitation of Proposals
86 FR 69065, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Office of Indian Economic Development (OIED), through its Living Languages Grant Program (LLGP), is soliciting proposals from federally recognized Tribes and Tribal organizations for grants to fund Native language instruction and immersion programs for Native students not enrolled at Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) schools, including those Tribes in States without BIE-funded schools.
Notice for Public Comment on Administration for Native Americans' Program Policies and Procedures
86 FR 68672, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Pursuant to Section 814 of the Native American Programs Act of 1974 (NAPA), as amended, the Administration for Native Americans (ANA) is required to provide members of the public an opportunity to comment on proposed changes in interpretive rules and general statements of policy and to give notice of the proposed changes no less than 30 days before such changes become effective.
Air Plan Approval; South Carolina; Catawba Indian Nation Portion of the Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill Area Limited Maintenance Plan for the 1997 8-Hour Ozone NAAQS
86 FR 67402, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve a state implementation plan (SIP) revision submitted by the State of South Carolina, through the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), via a letter dated July 7, 2020. The SIP revision includes the 1997 8-hour ozone national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) Limited Maintenance Plan (LMP) for the Catawba Indian Nation portion (hereinafter referred to as the Catawba Area) of the Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill NC-SC 1997 8-hour ozone maintenance area (hereinafter referred to as the Charlotte NC-SC 1997 8-hour NAAQS Area). The Charlotte NC-SC 1997 8-hour NAAQS Area is comprised of Cabarrus, Gaston, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Union and a portion of Iredell County (i.e., Davidson and Coddle Creek Townships) in North Carolina and a portion of York County, South Carolina which includes the Catawba Area. EPA is proposing to approve the Catawba Area LMP because it provides for the maintenance of the 1997 8-hour ozone NAAQS within the Catawba Area through the end of the second 10-year portion of the maintenance period. The effect of this action would be to make certain commitments related to maintenance of the 1997 8-hour ozone NAAQS in the Catawba Area federally enforceable as part of the South Carolina SIP.
National Advisory Council on Indian Education (NACIE); Meeting
86 FR 66543, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Notice of this meeting is required by Section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) and is intended to notify members of the public of an upcoming NACIE open teleconference meeting.
Self-Governance PROGRESS Act Negotiated Rulemaking Committee Establishment; Proposed Membership
86 FR 66491, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) is announcing the proposed members to form the Self-Governance PROGRESS Act Negotiated Rulemaking Committee (Committee). The Committee will advise the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) on a proposed rule to implement the Practical Reforms and Other Goals To Reinforce the Effectiveness of Self-Governance and Self-Determination for Indian Tribes Act of 2019 (PROGRESS Act) to revise the regulations on Tribal Self-Governance Annual Funding Agreements Under the Tribal Self-Governance Act Amendments to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Act. This document solicits comments on the proposed membership and the proposal to establish the Committee and invites additional nominations for Committee members who will adequately represent the interests that are likely to be significantly affected by the proposed rule. The Secretary also proposes to appoint Federal representatives to the Committee as listed.
Proposed Information Collection Activity; Tribal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program Form 1: Demographic and Service Utilization Data (OMB #0970-0389)
86 FR 66314, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Child Care (OCC) is requesting a 3-year extension of the Tribal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program's Form 1: Demographic and Service Utilization Data (OMB #0970-0389; expiration 6/30/2022). There are minor updates to the existing Form 1.
Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; 2021 Tribal Fishery Allocations for Pacific Whiting; Reapportionment Between Tribal and Non-Tribal Sectors
86 FR 66218, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This document announces the reapportionment of 34,645 metric tons of Pacific whiting from the tribal allocation to the non-tribal commercial fishery sectors via automatic action on September 15, 2021. This reapportionment is to allow full utilization of the Pacific whiting resource.
Extension of the Deadline for Nomination of Delegates; Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity Tribal Advisory Committee; Solicitation of Nominations for Delegates
86 FR 64951, (PDF)
SUMMARY: On October 1, 2021, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) published a notice in the Federal Register inviting nominations of qualified candidates to serve as primary and alternate delegates for the Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity Tribal Advisory Committee (CIIHE TAC), including a submission deadline of October 29, 2021. This notice extends the deadline date for submission of nominations to January 7, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
Applications for New Awards; American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services
86 FR 63345, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for Federal fiscal year (FFY) 2022 for American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services (AIVRS)--Assistance Listing Number 84.250P--to partner with Indian Tribes in providing eligible American Indians with disabilities with vocational rehabilitation (VR) services. This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1820-0018.
Notice of Intent To Establish a Tribal Intergovernmental Advisory Committee; Request for Comments on Committee Structure
86 FR 63051, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice announces HUD's intention to form the Department's first standing Tribal advisory committee. The committee will be called the `Tribal Intergovernmental Advisory Committee' (TIAC). This notice also solicits comments and recommendations regarding the establishment and structure of the TIAC. The TIAC will be made up of a diverse group of duly elected Tribal leaders representing small, medium, and large federally recognized Tribes. The TIAC is intended to further communications between HUD and federally recognized Tribes on HUD programs, make recommendations to HUD regarding current program regulations, provide advice in the development of HUD's American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) housing priorities, and encourage peer learning and capacity building among Tribes and non-Tribal entities. Consistent with HUD's Tribal Government-to-Government Consultation Policy, this notice solicits input on the proposed structure of the TIAC.
Tribal Self-Governance Planning Cooperative Agreement Program
86 FR 62820, (PDF)
4-in-1 Grant Program
86 FR 62546, (PDF)
HEARTH Act Approval of Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona Residential Leasing Ordinance
86 FR 60897, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) approved the Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona Residential Leasing Ordinance under the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act of 2012 (HEARTH Act). With this approval, the Tribe is authorized to enter into residential leases without further BIA approval.
HEARTH Act Approval of Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation Business Leasing Regulations
86 FR 60897, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) approved the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation Business Leasing Regulations under the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act of 2012 (HEARTH Act). With this approval, the Tribe is authorized to enter into business leases without further BIA approval.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; Notice of Closed Meetings
86 FR 60896, (PDF)
Zero Suicide Initiative
86 FR 60883, (PDF)
Domestic Violence Prevention Program
86 FR 60875, (PDF)
Behavioral Health Integration Initiative
86 FR 60867, (PDF)
Substance Abuse and Suicide Prevention Program: Substance Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Aftercare
86 FR 60850, (PDF)
Domestic Violence Prevention: Forensic Healthcare Services
86 FR 60843, (PDF)
Indian Youth Service Corps Program Draft Guidelines and Tribal Consultations
86 FR 60066, (PDF)
SUMMARY: In accordance with the John S. McCain III 21st Century Conservation Service Corps Act, the National Park Service (NPS) is giving notice that the Department of the Interior is holding consultation with Tribes, Alaska Native corporations, and the Native Hawaiian community to announce the availability of draft guidelines for the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, and Interior to implement the Indian Youth Service Corps Program. This notice provides a link to the draft guidelines and provides information for how to register for each of the consultation sessions.
Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for the Navajo Nation Integrated Weed Management Plan, Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah
86 FR 60065, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice advises the public that the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) as the lead Federal agency, with the Navajo Nation as a cooperating agency, intends to file a Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (DPEIS) with the Environmental Protection Agency for the proposed Navajo Nation Integrated Weed Management Plan (NNIWMP). This notice also announces that the DPEIS is now available for public review and comment and that a public hearing will be held to receive comments on the DPEIS.
Living Languages Grant Program (LLGP); Solicitation of Proposals
86 FR 59419, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Office of Indian Economic Development (OIED), through its Living Languages Grant Program (LLGP), is soliciting proposals from federally recognized Tribes for grants to fund Native language instruction and immersion programs for Native students not enrolled at Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) schools, including those Tribes in States without BIE-funded schools.
Acquisition Regulations; Buy Indian Act; Procedures for Contracting
86 FR 59338, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of the Interior proposes to revise regulations implementing the Buy Indian Act, which provides the Department with authority to set aside procurement contracts for Indian-owned and controlled businesses. These revisions would eliminate barriers to Indian Economic Enterprises from competing on certain construction contracts, expand Indian Economic Enterprises' ability to subcontract construction work consistent with other socio-economic set-aside programs, and give greater preference to Indian Economic Enterprises when a deviation from the Buy Indian Act is necessary, among other updates.
Request for Information and Notice of Listening Session on Efforts To Advance Health Equity Among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Populations
86 FR 59168, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) seeks input from Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) communities, NHPI-serving organizations, and other interested parties regarding efforts of the new Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity (Center). The Center is tasked with supporting education, service and policy development, and research related to advancing sustainable solutions, to address health disparities and advance health equity among NHPI and American Indian/ Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations. This is NOT a solicitation for proposals or proposal abstracts. Please Note: This RFI and notice of a listening session is for planning purposes only. It is not a notice for a proposal and does not commit the federal government to issue a solicitation, make an award, or pay any costs associated with responding to this announcement. All submitted information shall remain with the federal government and will not be returned. All responses will become part of the public record and will not be held confidential. The federal government reserves the right to use the information provided by respondents for purposes deemed necessary and legally appropriate. Respondents are advised that the federal government is under no obligation to acknowledge receipt of the information received or provide feedback to respondents concerning any information submitted. Responses will not be accepted after the due date.
National Advisory Council on Indian Education; Meeting
86 FR 58899, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Notice of this meeting is required by Section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) and is intended to notify members of the public of an upcoming National Advisory Council on Indian Education (NACIE) open teleconference meeting. Pursuant to 41 CFR 102- 3.150, notice for this meeting is given less than 15 calendar days prior to the meeting due to exceptional circumstances. It is imperative that the Council hold the meeting as scheduled to complete the annual report on the activities of the Council for fiscal year 2021, as required under 20 U.S.C. 7471, and to accommodate the scheduling priorities of the members to ensure a quorum will be present.
2020 Census Tribal Consultation; Virtual Public Meeting
86 FR 57804, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Census Bureau will conduct a tribal consultation on the next set of 2020 Census Data Products on November 18, 2021, through a national webinar. The tribal consultation meeting reflects the Census Bureau's continuous commitment to strengthen government-to-government relationships with federally recognized tribes. The Census Bureau's procedures for outreach, notice, and consultation ensure involvement of tribes, to the extent practicable and permitted by law, before making decisions or implementing policies, rules, or programs that affect federally recognized tribal governments. These meetings are open to citizens of federally and state recognized tribes by invitation.
Proposed Information Collection Activity; Child Care and Development Fund Plan for Tribes for FY 2023-2025 (ACF-118A)
86 FR 57434, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is requesting a 3-year extension of the form ACF-118A: Child Care and Development Fund for Tribes (OMB #0970-0198, expiration 06/30/2022) for FFY 2023-2025. There are changes requested to the form to improve formatting, and clarify and streamline questions. ACF is also requesting public comment on revising the thresholds used to determine tribes with small, medium, and large allocations.
Agency Information Collection Activities; Delegated and Cooperative Activities With States and Indian Tribes and Discretionary Grants
86 FR 56288, (PDF)
SUMMARY: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (``PRA''), ONRR is proposing to renew an information collection. Currently, the information collection is authorized by the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') under OMB Control Number 1012-0003, which expires on December 31, 2021. Through this Information Collection Request (``ICR''), ONRR seeks renewed authority to collect information to review and approve a delegation proposal from a State that is seeking to perform royalty management functions and to prepare a cooperative agreement with a State or Indian Tribe seeking to perform royalty audits and investigations.
Tribal Listening Sessions on Climate Change and Discretionary Grants
86 FR 55632, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department invites representatives of federally recognized Tribes to participate in three upcoming virtual listening sessions focused on climate change and Tribal Nations and two upcoming virtual listening sessions focused on Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) discretionary grants for Tribes. The Department also invites Tribal youth to the first scheduled climate listening session, which is focused on Tribal youth and climate. Climate change, equity, and environmental justice are among this Administration's top priorities. The Department would like to ensure that its efforts and the initiatives it develops to meet these priorities and to effectively administer discretionary grants programs are shaped and designed based on feedback and information received from across Indian Country and Alaska Native Villages.
Indian Child Welfare Act; Designated Tribal Agents for Service of Notice
86 FR 54709, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The regulations implementing the Indian Child Welfare Act provide that Federally recognized Indian Tribes may designate an agent other than the Tribal Chairman for service of notice of proceedings under the Act. This notice includes the current list of designated Tribal agents for service of notice.
Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity Tribal Advisory Committee; Solicitation of Nominations for Delegates
86 FR 54462, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) hereby gives notice that OMH is establishing a Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity Tribal Advisory Committee (CIIHE TAC) and accepting nominations of qualified candidates to serve as primary and alternate delegates for the CIIHE TAC, in alignment with the 12 geographic areas served by the Indian Health Service (IHS).
Election of Officers of the Osage Minerals Council
86 FR 54364, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is finalizing revisions to its regulations governing elections of the Osage Nation. These revisions update and limit the Secretary's role to the task of compiling a list of voters for Osage Minerals Council elections. These changes reaffirm the inherent sovereign rights of the Osage Nation to determine its membership and form of government.
Tribal Consultation; Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Implementation of the Effectiveness in Serving Employers Performance Indicator
86 FR 54244, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Labor is announcing that it will be conducting a tribal consultation. This virtual meeting is to obtain input from tribes as the Department of Labor is considering incorporating a standard definition for the effectiveness in serving employers performance indicator in the regulations for the Indian and Native American Programs authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Protection and Restoration of Tribal Homelands
86 FR 51373, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department invites representatives of federally recognized Tribes to consult on several topics related to the protection and restoration of Tribal homelands, including but not limited to: the land-into-trust process, leasing and rights-of-way, and sacred sites and treaty rights.
Annual Meeting Under Indian Employment, Training and Related Services Act, as Amended
86 FR 51372, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), is announcing the annual meeting of the Federal agencies and Tribes that participate in the Indian Employment, Training, and Related Services Act of 2017, also known as ``Public Law 477'' Work Group. For the safety of all individuals, the meeting will be conducted virtually via MS TEAMs and by telephone.
Eagle Permits; Incidental Take
86 FR 51094, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service, or we) seeks public and regulated-community input on potential approaches for further expediting and simplifying the permit process authorizing incidental take of eagles. This document also advises the public that the Service may, as a result of public input, prepare a draft environmental review pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended. We are furnishing this advance notice of proposed rulemaking to advise other agencies and the public of our intentions and obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to include in the environmental review. Public and regulated community responses will be used to improve and make more efficient the permitting process for incidental take of eagles in a manner that is compatible with the preservation of bald and golden eagles.
Indian Business Incubators Program
86 FR 50251, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Office of Indian Economic Development (OIED) is finalizing a new regulation to implement the Native American Business Incubators Program Act. The Indian Business Incubators Program (IBIP), also known as the Native American Business Incubators Program, is a program in which OIED provides competitive grants to eligible applicants to establish and operate business incubators that serve Tribal reservation communities. These regulations establish who is eligible for the program, how to apply, how OIED will evaluate applications and make awards, and how OIED will administer the program.
Agency Information Collection Activities; Tribal Reassumption of Jurisdiction Over Child Custody Proceedings, Secretarial Elections, Bureau of Indian Affairs Housing Improvement Program
86 FR 50153, (PDF)
SUMMARY: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, we, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) are proposing to renew three information collections.
Access to Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) for Employees of Certain Tribally Controlled Schools
86 FR 49461, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is issuing an interim final rule to expand eligibility for enrollment in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program to additional tribal employees. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (FY21 CAA) amended section 409 of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act and expanded entitlement to Indian tribes or tribal organizations carrying out programs under the Tribally Controlled Schools Act of 1988 (TCSA) to purchase coverage, rights, and benefits under the FEHB Program for their employees.
Notice To Announce Request for Information for the Modification of the Eligibility Requirements for the Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants Program
86 FR 49356, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This Request for Information (RFI) is intended to gather broad input to assist the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) in making a determination whether or not to modify the eligibility requirements for the Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants program (Enhancement Grant). Currently, to be eligible for Enhancement Grant funding, an applicant is required to first submit a Native American Library Services Basic Grant (Basic Grant) application in the same year. IMLS is considering the elimination of this specific eligibility requirement to reduce application and administrative burdens for applicants and awardees and to allow applicants to choose the grant program(s) best suited to their needs.
Notice of Proposed Information Collection Requests: 2022-2024 IMLS Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants Notice of Funding Opportunity (3137-0110)
86 FR 49355, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, conducts a pre-clearance consultation program to provide the general public and Federal agencies with an opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing collections of information in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. This pre-clearance consultation program helps to ensure that requested data can be provided in the desired format, reporting burden (time and financial resources) is minimized, collection instruments are clearly understood, and the impact of collection requirements on respondents can be properly assessed. The purpose of this Notice is to solicit comments concerning a plan to modify the eligibility criteria and to update performance measurement requirements for Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants. A copy of the proposed information collection request can be obtained by contacting the individual listed below in the ADDRESSES section of this Notice.
Notice of Proposed Reissuance of the NPDES General Permits for Wastewater Lagoon Systems in Indian Country in EPA, Region 8
86 FR 47492, (PDF)
SUMMARY: EPA, Region 8 (R8) is providing for comment the draft 2021 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permits for Wastewater Lagoon Systems in Indian Country in R8. These draft permits are renewals of existing permits and will authorize discharge of wastewater from lagoons located in R8 Indian country in accordance with the terms and conditions described therein. EPA proposes to issue these permits for five (5) years and is seeking public comment on the draft permits.
Native American Employment and Training Council
86 FR 47329, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Pursuant to the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), notice is hereby given of the next meeting of the Native American Employment and Training Council (Council), as constituted under WIOA.
Cross-Media Electronic Reporting: Authorized Program Revision Approval, Gila River Indian Community
86 FR 47102, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted an information collection request (ICR), Federal Implementation Plans under the Clean Air Act for Indian Reservations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington (EPA ICR Number 2020.08, OMB Control Number 2060-0558), to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. This is a proposed extension of the ICR, which is currently approved through August 31, 2021. Public comments were previously requested via the Federal Register on February 12, 2021 during a 60-day comment period. This notice allows for an additional 30 days for public comments. A fuller description of the ICR is given below, including its estimated burden and cost to the public. An agency may not conduct or sponsor and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Indian Land Title and Records
86 FR 45631, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This final rule revises Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) regulations governing the Land Title and Records Office (LTRO) to reflect modernization of the LTRO. The LTRO maintains title documents for land held in trust or restricted status for individual Indians and Tribes (Indian land). This rule replaces outdated provisions and allows for more widespread efficiencies by reflecting current practices, while creating a framework for future LTRO operations.
Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Grants to Indian Organizations for Off-Reservation Indian Child and Family Service Programs
86 FR 44741, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Secretary of the Interior (Secretary), through the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), is soliciting grant proposals from Indian Organizations to establish and operate off-reservation Indian child and family service programs. The intent of the Indian child and family service programs are to provide services for stabilizing Indian families and Tribes, preventing the breakup of Indian families and, in particular, to ensure that the permanent removal of an Indian child from the custody of his/her Indian parent or Indian custodian shall be a last resort. This notice updates the original solicitation to extend the application deadline, raise the award ceiling, and remove a restriction on the number of applications per applicant.
Information Collection Request Submitted to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Federal Implementation Plans Under the Clean Air Act for Indian Reservations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington (Renewal)
86 FR 44708, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted an information collection request (ICR), Federal Implementation Plans under the Clean Air Act for Indian Reservations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington (EPA ICR Number 2020.08, OMB Control Number 2060-0558), to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. This is a proposed extension of the ICR, which is currently approved through August 31, 2021. Public comments were previously requested via the Federal Register on February 12, 2021 during a 60-day comment period. This notice allows for an additional 30 days for public comments. A fuller description of the ICR is given below, including its estimated burden and cost to the public. An agency may not conduct or sponsor and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Notice of Proposals To Engage in or To Acquire Companies Engaged in Permissible Nonbanking ActivitiesNotice of Proposals To Engage in or To Acquire Companies Engaged in Permissible Nonbanking Activities
86 FR 43663, (PDF)
Request for Public Comment: 60 Day Notice for Extension of the Indian Health Service Loan Repayment Program (LRP)
86 FR 43257, (PDF)
SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Indian Health Service (IHS) invites the general public to take this opportunity to comment on the information collection Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Control Number 0917-0014, titled, ``IHS Loan Repayment Program (LRP).''
Office of the Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs; Not Invisible Act of 2019
86 FR 42878, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of the Interior (Department), in coordination with the U.S. Department of Justice, is hosting public meetings to obtain stakeholder input related to implementation of the Not Invisible Act of 2019, which was enacted to increase intergovernmental coordination to identify and combat violent crime on Indian lands and against Indians.
Bureau of Indian Education Strategic Direction 2018-2023
86 FR 42877, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) invites Tribes and stakeholders to listening sessions on its BIE Strategic Direction for 2018-2023 document for input on whether adjustments are appropriate for years 2022 and 2023, given the unforeseen events of the past year and a half.
Not Invisible Act Joint Commission on Reducing Violent Crime Against Indians
86 FR 42871, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice requests public nominations for the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI)'s Joint Commission on Reducing Violent Crime Against Indians (Commission) as outlined in Section 4 of the Not Invisible Act of 2019. The Commission will develop recommendations for the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) and the Attorney General on actions the Federal Government can take to increase intergovernmental coordination to identify and combat violent crime on Indian lands and against Indians. The DOI is soliciting comments and nominations for qualified individuals to serve as non-Federal Commission members.
Notice of Final Determination for the Sharing of Formula Area Data as the Result of Expansion of Formula Area
86 FR 41506, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice advises the public of HUD's final determination to approve a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Kalispel Indian Community (KIC), Colville Indian Housing Authority (CIHA) and Spokane Indian Housing Authority (SIHA) to allocate Needs data under the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) program. This MOA resulted from HUD's decision to include the balance of Pend Oreille, Spokane and Stevens counties in the state of Washington into the Formula Area of the KIC, creating overlapping Formula Areas for the KIC, CHIA and SIHA. Consistent with IHBG program regulations HUD is announcing its final determination to approve the MOA.
Community Health Aide Program: Tribal Assessment & Planning
86 FR 41051, (PDF)
Community Health Aide Program: Tribal Planning & Implementation
86 FR 41044, (PDF)
Request for Nominations for Membership on the Native American Employment and Training Council
86 FR 40877, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
The Department of Labor (DOL) invites interested parties to submit nominations for individuals to serve on the Native American Employment and Training Council (NAETC) and announces the procedures for those nominations. When submitting nomination materials, please indicate the Region or Discipline for which the nominee would like to be considered. Information regarding the NAETC can be found at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/dinap/council.
Tribal Energy Resource Agreements
86 FR 40147, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is confirming the interim final rule published on May 24, 2021, updating regulations governing Tribal Energy Resource Agreements (TERAs) between the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) and Indian Tribes. The interim final rule added the statutory requirement that that any application for a Tribal Energy Development Organization (TEDO) be submitted by the Tribe and corrected cross-references.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) No.: 10.443-Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers
86 FR 39990, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice announces the availability of funds for fiscal year (FY) 2021 and solicits applications from community-based and non- profit organizations, institutions of higher education, and Tribal entities to compete for financial assistance through the Outreach and technical assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program (hereinafter referred to as the ``2501 Program''). The overall goal of the 2501 Program is to encourage and assist socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers, veteran farmers and ranchers, and beginning farmers and ranchers with owning and operating farms and ranches and in participating equitably in the full range of agricultural, forestry, and related programs offered by USDA. In partnership with the OPPE, eligible entities may compete for funding on projects that provide education and training in agriculture, agribusiness, forestry, agriculturally related services, and USDA programs, and to conduct outreach initiatives designed to accomplish those goals. This partnership includes working closely with OPPE, attend OPPE-led events in your proposed service territory, and collaborate with your State Food and Agriculture Council (SFAC). The SFAC consists of leadership in each state of the following agencies: Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Rural Development.
Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Assessment To Consider Opening Lands Subject to ANCSA 17(d)(1) Withdrawals to Selection Under the Alaska Native Vietnam-Era Veterans Land Allotment Program of 2019
86 FR 39053, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), as amended; the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA), as amended; the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 (ANILCA), as amended; the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), as amended; and the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act of 2019 (Dingell Act), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) intends to prepare an Environmental Assessment (EA) to consider the effects of opening lands withdrawn pursuant to Section 17(d)(1) of ANCSA to selection by eligible individuals under the Dingell Act.
Applications for New Awards; American Rescue Plan-American Indian Resilience in Education (ARP-AIRE)
86 FR 36716, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications (NIA) for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for the American Rescue Plan--American Indian Resilience in Education (ARP-AIRE) program, Assistance Listing Number 84.299C. This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1894-0006.
Subject 30-Day Notice of a Tribal Consultation Meeting
86 FR 36776, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is an independent federal agency whose funding helps to support cultural programs nationwide. Established in 1965, the NEA's operating budget in FY20 was $162 million, which is utilized in the form of project and partnership grants, special initiatives, and honorific fellowships to support arts learning, affirm and celebrate America's rich and diverse cultural heritage, and to extend and promote equal access to the arts in every community. On April 7, 2021, the NEA convened a Tribal Consultation with the goal of developing a formal Tribal Consultation Policy. The draft policy will be the basis of our August 10 consultation call. More information about the NEA's work with Native Arts and Culture is available here: https://www.arts.gov/impact/native-arts-and-culture.
Office of Indian Economic Development, Tribal Tourism Grant Program (TTGP), Part of the NATIVE Act
86 FR 36765, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Secretary of the Interior (Secretary), through the Office of Indian Economic Development (OIED), Division of Economic Development (DED), solicits proposals from Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations (as defined in the NATIVE Act) to receive grants to support Tribal tourism feasibility studies and/or Tribal tourism business plan development. The Program supports Tribes and Tribal organizations to increase their capacity to plan, develop and manage tourism and related infrastructure in support of economic development and the NATIVE Act. The Program will provide funding for Tribes and Tribal organizations to conduct tourism feasibility studies that will empower them to make informed decisions on potential tourism project(s). The Program will also provide funding for Tribes and Tribal organizations to develop business plans on completed tourism feasibility studies. In addition to the feasibility study, tourism grants may fund business plans for Tribal tourism businesses recovering from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Native American Employment and Training Council
86 FR 36161, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Secretary of Labor (Department) announces the renewal of the Native American Employment and Training Council (NAETC) charter.
Use of Bureau-Operated Schools by Third Parties Under Lease Agreements and Fundraising Activity by Bureau-Operated School Personnel
86 FR 34943, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Congress authorized the Director of the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE or Bureau) to enter into agreements with third parties to lease the land or facilities of a Bureau-operated school in exchange for funding that benefits the school. This final rule establishes standards for the appropriate use of lands and facilities under a lease agreement, provisions for establishment and administration of mechanisms for the acceptance of consideration for the use and benefit of a school, accountability standards to ensure ethical conduct, and provisions for monitoring the amount and terms of consideration received, the manner in which the consideration is used, and any results achieved by such use. This final rule also establishes standards to implement authority provided by Congress for BIE personnel to fundraise on behalf of Bureau-operated schools.
Environmental Impact Statement for the Yahthumb Solar Project on the Moapa River Indian Reservation, Clark County, Nevada
86 FR 33728, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), as lead agency in cooperation with the Moapa Band of Paiute Indians (Moapa Band), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and other agencies, intend to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that will evaluate the development of the Yahthumb Solar Project (Project) on the Moapa River Indian Reservation (Reservation). This notice announces the beginning of the scoping process to solicit public comments and identify potential issues related to the EIS. The BIA requests comments concerning the scope of the analysis, and identification of relevant information, studies, and analyses. It also announces that two public scoping meetings will be held virtually to identify potential issues, alternatives, and mitigation to be considered in the EIS.
Land Acquisitions; Wilton Rancheria
86 FR 32974, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs made a final agency determination to acquire 35.92 acres, more or less, in the City of Elk Grove, Sacramento County, California (Site) in trust for the Wilton Rancheria for gaming and other purposes on January 19, 2017.
Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Grants to Indian Organizations for Off-Reservation Indian Child and Family Service Programs
86 FR 32970, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Secretary of the Interior (Secretary), through the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), is soliciting grants from Indian Organizations to establish and operate off-reservation Indian child and family service programs. The intent of the Indian child and family service programs are to provide services for stabilizing Indian families and Tribes, preventing the breakup of Indian families and, in particular, to ensure that the permanent removal of an Indian child from the custody of his/her Indian parent or Indian custodian shall be a last resort.
60-Day Notice for IAF Questions Related to Consultation With Indigenous Grantees and Tribal Nations (PRA)
86 FR 31523, (PDF)
SUMMARY: VA, Veterans Health Administration (VHA) will facilitate a tribal consultation regarding VA's Indian Health Service/Tribal Health Program (IHS/THP) Reimbursement Agreements Program. VA is seeking input on adopting a pharmacy reimbursement rate for the lower 48 states.
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Review Committee: Notice of Nomination Solicitation
86 FR 30626, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The National Park Service is soliciting nominations for one member of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Review Committee (Committee). The Secretary of the Interior will appoint one member from nominations submitted by Indian tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, or traditional Native American religious leaders. The nominee must be a traditional Indian religious leader.
Solicitation of Nominations for Appointment to the Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs, Amended
86 FR 29592, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs (OPIA), Office of Tribal Government Relations (OTGR), is seeking nominations of qualified candidates to be considered for appointment as a member of the Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs (``the Committee'').
VA's Indian Health Service/Tribal Health Program Reimbursement Agreements Program-Pharmacy Reimbursement Rate for the Lower 48 States
86 FR 29882, (PDF)
SUMMARY: VA, Veterans Health Administration (VHA) will facilitate a tribal consultation regarding VA's Indian Health Service/Tribal Health Program (IHS/THP) Reimbursement Agreements Program. VA is seeking input on adopting a pharmacy reimbursement rate for the lower 48 states.
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Review Committee Notice of Public Meetings
86 FR 29592, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The National Park Service is hereby giving notice that the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Review Committee (Committee) will hold six virtual meetings as indicated below. The Committee will meet via teleconference on June 28, 2021; July 7, 2021; July 13, 2021; July 21, 2021; August 10, 2021; and August 19, 2021, from 3:00 p.m. until approximately 6:00 p.m. (Eastern). All meetings are open to the public.
Applications for New Awards; Native Hawaiian Education Program
86 FR 28812, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for the Native Hawaiian Education (NHE) program, Assistance Listing Number 84.362A. This is the first grant competition for this program under section 11006(2) of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021. This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1894-0006.
Applications for New Awards; Native Hawaiian Education Program
86 FR 28812, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for the Native Hawaiian Education (NHE) program, Assistance Listing Number 84.362A. This is the first grant competition for this program under section 11006(2) of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021. This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1894-0006.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act; Native American Employment and Training Council
86 FR 28384, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Pursuant to the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), notice is hereby given of the next meeting of the Native American Employment and Training Council (Council), as constituted under WIOA.
Tribal Energy Resource Agreements
86 FR 26492, (PDF)
SUMMARY: On December 18, 2019, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) amended its regulations governing Tribal Energy Resource Agreements (TERAs) between the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) and Indian Tribes. That document inadvertently failed to include the statutory requirement that any application for a Tribal Energy Development Organization (TEDO) be submitted by the Tribe, rather than the TEDO itself, and incorrectly listed three cross- references. This interim final rule would correct that omission and cross-references.
Notice of Tribal Consultation on the Department of Veterans Affairs' State Home Programs
86 FR 27145, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking Tribal consultation to assist VA in implementing the requirements of section 3004 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 (the Act), The Act amended the statutory authorities of two VA programs (the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program and the State Home Per Diem Program) so that Indian tribes were included in definitions for ``state'' and ``state home.'' VA is required to consult with Indian tribes to determine if any legislative or administrative action is necessary to modify these state home programs to function efficiently in support of state Veterans homes operated by Indian tribes pursuant to the amendments made by section 3004 of the Act. VA seeks input on the legislative, regulatory and administrative modifications that may be necessary to support State Veterans Homes operated by American Indian and Alaska Native tribes in response to these amendments.
Loss of State Jurisdiction To Administer the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 Within the Exterior Boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation in the State of Oklahoma
86 FR 26941, (PDF)
SUMMARY: We, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE), are notifying the public that the recent decision of the United States Supreme Court in McGirt v. Oklahoma, 140 S. Ct. 2452 (2020), which legally recognized the on-going existence of the historic Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation in the State of Oklahoma, necessarily forecloses the State of Oklahoma's authority to implement the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA) on Indian Lands within the exterior boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation. SMCRA designates OSMRE as the regulatory authority over surface coal mining and reclamation operations on Indian lands where a tribe has not obtained primacy. OSMRE has thus determined that Oklahoma cannot exercise its State program regulatory authority over surface coal mining and reclamation operations within the exterior boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation. Accordingly, for lands within the exterior boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, OSMRE is assuming jurisdiction over the SMCRA Title IV reclamation and Title V regulatory programs. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation consists of lands, wholly or partially within the following counties: Creek, Hughes, Seminole, McIntosh, Muskogee, Okfuskee, Okmulgee, Tulsa, Rogers, Mayes, and Wagoner.
120 Day Proposed Information Collection: Tribal Investment in Commercial Electronic Health Records
86 FR 26923, (PDF)
SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Indian Health Service (IHS) takes this opportunity to provide information on a new Office of Management and Budget (OMB) information collection, Control Number 0917-XXXX, titled, ``Tribal Investment in Commercial Electronic Health Records.'' This proposed information collection project has been granted an emergent review by OMB. The purpose of this notice is to provide the public a notice of the information sent directly to OMB. A copy of the supporting statement is available at www.regulations.gov (see Docket ID IHS_FRDOC_0001).
Applications for New Awards; Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Program
86 FR 26492, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) approved the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation (Tribe) leasing regulations under the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act of 2012 (HEARTH Act). With this approval, the Tribe is authorized to enter into business leases without further BIA approval.
Rate Adjustments for Indian Irrigation Projects
86 FR 24884, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) owns or has an interest in irrigation projects located on or associated with various Indian reservations throughout the United States. We are required to establish irrigation assessment rates to recover the costs to administer, operate, maintain, and rehabilitate these projects. We request your comments on the proposed rate adjustments.
HEARTH Act Approval of Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation
86 FR 24659, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) approved the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation (Tribe) leasing regulations under the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act of 2012 (HEARTH Act). With this approval, the Tribe is authorized to enter into business leases without further BIA approval.
Solicitation of Nominations for Appointment to the Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs
86 FR 24136, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs (OPIA), Office of Tribal Government Relations (OTGR), is seeking nominations of qualified candidates to be considered for appointment as a member of the Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs (``the Committee'').
Migratory Bird Hunting; Proposed Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations on Certain Federal Indian Reservations and Ceded Lands for the 2021-22 Season
86 FR 23641, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter, Service or we) proposes special migratory bird hunting regulations for certain Tribes on Federal Indian reservations, off-reservation trust lands, and ceded lands for the 2021-22 migratory bird hunting season. In issuing this proposed rule, we followed guidelines for a regulatory process that recognizes the reserved hunting rights and management authority of Indian Tribes while also ensuring that the migratory game bird resource receives necessary protection.
HEARTH Act Approval of Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians Title 105 Leasing Code
86 FR 23426, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) approved the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, Title 105 Leasing Code under the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act of 2012 (HEARTH Act). With this approval, the Tribe is authorized to enter into business, residential, agricultural, wind and solar leases without further BIA approval.
Applications for New Awards; Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions Program
86 FR 22037, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for the Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions (ANNH) Program, Assistance Listing Numbers 84.031R (Alaska Native) and 84.031V (Native Hawaiian). This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1840-0810.
Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the Chuckwalla Solar Projects on the Moapa River Indian Reservation, Clark County, Nevada
86 FR 21760, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), as lead agency in cooperation with the Moapa Band of Paiute Indians (Moapa Band), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and other agencies, intend to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that will evaluate the development of the Chuckwalla Solar Projects (Projects) on Moapa River Indian Reservation (Reservation) tribal lands. This notice announces the beginning of the scoping process to solicit public comments and identify potential issues related to the EIS. The BIA requests comments concerning the scope of the analysis, and identification of relevant information, studies, and analyses. It also announces that two public scoping meetings will be held virtually or in person to identify potential issues, alternatives, and mitigation to be considered in the EIS.
HEARTH Act Approval of Standing Rock Sioux Tribe of North & South Dakota Leasing Ordinance
86 FR 20706, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) approved the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Leasing Ordinance under the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act of 2012 (HEARTH Act). With this approval, the Tribe is authorized to enter into business, residential, wind and solar leases without further BIA approval.
2020 Census Tribal Consultation; Virtual Public Meeting
86 FR 20484, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau) will conduct a 2020 Census Disclosure Avoidance System (DAS) tribal consultation meeting on May 19, 2021, via a national webinar. The tribal consultation meeting reflects the Census Bureau's continuous commitment to strengthen government-to-government relationships with federally recognized tribes. The Census Bureau's procedures for outreach, notice, and consultation ensure involvement of tribes, to the extent practicable and permitted by law, before making decisions or implementing policies, rules, or programs that affect federally recognized tribal governments. These meetings are open to citizens of federally recognized tribes by invitation.
Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement, White Mountain Apache Tribe Rural Water System Project, Apache County, Arizona
86 FR 20406, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation), as the lead Federal agency, intends to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to evaluate the effects of the construction and operation of the proposed White Mountain Apache Tribe (WMAT) Rural Water System Project. The WMAT, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have been identified as cooperating agencies. Reclamation requests comments concerning the scope of the analysis and identification of relevant information, studies, and analyses.
Bureau of Indian Education School Reopening Plans
86 FR 20403, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) is seeking stakeholder input on its plans to rely upon the latest U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance regarding reopening its K-12 schools, residential facilities, and post- secondary schools for safe delivery of in-person and hybrid instruction and determine if BIE schools should include additional guidelines.
Alaska Native Claims Selection
86 FR 19637, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Land Management hereby provides constructive notice that it will issue an appealable decision modifying its September 9, 2015 decision (``original decision'') which approved lands for conveyance to Eklutna, Inc., pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. The original decision will be modified to make changes to public access easements to be reserved to the United States, to navigability information, and to make a technical correction. Notice of the original decision was published in the Federal Register on September 9, 2015.
American Indian Probate Regulations
86 FR 19585, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of the Interior (Department) proposed revisions to its regulations governing probate of property that the United States holds in trust or restricted status for American Indians. We are reopening the comment period to effectively extend original March 8, 2021 comment deadline. Any comments received after the original March 8, 2021 comment deadline and before the new comment deadline will be accepted as timely submitted. Comments previously submitted need not be resubmitted and will be fully considered in preparation of the final rule.
Student Progress and Promotion and Certificate of Completion
86 FR 19281, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) is seeking Tribal and public input on draft policies regarding progress and promotion and certificate of completion. The purpose of these two policies is to make certain that student promotion is based on the meeting of minimum standards, with high school graduation marking the culmination of a student's K-12 education, in recognition of all the learning that occurred during that journey.
Indian Business Incubators Program
86 FR 19162, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Office of Indian Energy and Economic Development (IEED) proposes a new regulation to implement the recently enacted Native American Business Incubators Program Act. The Indian Business Incubators Program (IBIP), also known as the Native American Business Incubators Program, is a program in which IEED provides competitive grants to eligible applicants to establish and operate business incubators that serve Tribal reservation communities. These regulations establish who is eligible for the program, how to apply, how IEED will evaluate applications and make awards, and how IEED will administer the program.
Indian Entities Recognized and Eligible To Receive Services From the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs; Correction
86 FR 18552, (PDF)
SUMMARY: On January 29, 2021, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) published in the Federal Register the current list of 574 Tribal entities recognized and eligible for funding and services from the Bureau of Indian Affairs by virtue of their status as Indian Tribes. The document contained three names that the named Tribes have requested we update.
Indian School Equalization Program (ISEP) and ISEP Student Transportation Funding Formulas
86 FR 17633, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) will conduct Tribal listening sessions to obtain oral and written comments on the Indian School Equalization Program (ISEP) and Student Transportation funding formulas to inform formal tribal consultation planned for the summer.
Office of Indian Education (OIE); Formula Grants to Local Educational Agencies
86 FR 17590, (PDF)
SUMMARY: On January 12, 2021, the Department of Education (Department) published in the Federal Register a notice inviting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for the Office of Indian Education (OIE) Formula Grants to Local Educational Agencies program, Assistance Listing Number 84.060A. This notice provides supplemental information to clarify the student count data year that will be considered by the Secretary when making awards for FY 2021.
Tribal HUD-VASH Expansion; Notice of Rating Factors
86 FR 16741, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The 2017 Consolidated Appropriations Act provided $7 million for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to use for the Tribal HUD-VASH demonstration program. HUD-VASH is a collaborative program between HUD and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that combines HUD housing vouchers with VA supportive services to help Veterans who are homeless and their families find and sustain permanent housing. The 2017 Appropriations Act also requires HUD to publish in the Federal Register the ``need'' and ``administrative capacity'' review and selection criteria HUD includes in the Tribal HUD-VASH Notice of Funding Availability. This Notice does not provide information on the application process. Those seeking to review all of the NOFA's content and/or apply for funds may do so at https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view- opportunity.html?oppId=330966.
Agenda and Notice of Public Meeting of the South Dakota Advisory Committee
86 FR 16578, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given, pursuant to the provisions of the rules and regulations of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights (Commission), and the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), that the South Dakota State Advisory Committee to the Commission will convene a meeting on March 31, 2021 at 3 p.m. (CT). The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Committee's Project on maternal health disparities for American Indian women in South Dakota.
60-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: Application for the Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) Program for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages
86 FR 15954, (PDF)
SUMMARY: HUD is seeking approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for the information collection described below. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, HUD is requesting comment from all interested parties on the proposed collection of information. The purpose of this notice is to allow for 60 days of public comment.
Applications for New Awards; American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Training and Technical Assistance Center
86 FR 14414, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Training and Technical Assistance Center (AIVRTTAC)--Assistance Listing Number 84.250Z--to provide training and technical assistance (TA) to governing bodies of Indian Tribes that have received an American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services (AIVRS) grant.
Rescission of the Source-Specific Federal Implementation Plan for Navajo Generating Station, Navajo Nation
86 FR 14392, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to rescind the federal implementation plan (FIP) that regulates emissions from the Navajo Generating Station (NGS), a coal-fired power plant that was located on the reservation lands of the Navajo Nation near Page, Arizona. NGS permanently ceased operations on November 18, 2019, and the Clean Air Act (CAA or ``Act'') operating permit for this facility has expired.
List of Programs Eligible for Inclusion in Funding Agreements Negotiated With Self-Governance Tribes by Interior Bureaus Other Than the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Fiscal Year 2021 Programmatic Targets
86 FR 14147, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice lists programs or portions of programs that are eligible for inclusion in self-governance funding agreements with Indian Tribes and lists Fiscal Year 2021 programmatic targets for each of the non-Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) bureaus in the Department of the Interior (Department), pursuant to Title IV of the Indian Self- Determination and Education Assistance Act (Act), as amended.
Request for Information Concerning a Report on Labor Market Information on the Native American Work Force
86 FR 13754, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Labor (the ``Department'') requests information on issues related to the development of a report concerning ``Labor Market Information on the Indian Workforce,'' pursuant to the requirement in the Indian Employment, Training and Related Services Consolidation Act of 2017. The law tasks the Secretary of Labor to ``in a consistent and reliable manner, develop, maintain and publish, not less than biennially'' information related to 574 federally recognized tribes who are eligible for services under the Bureau of Indian Affairs (in the Department of the Interior). The Department invites tribal leaders, representatives, data specialists, and tribal members, as well as researchers and other interested parties to submit information related to the discussion and questions identified in the Supplementary Information section below. Responses to this Request for Information (RFI) will help the Department to identify approaches for generating accurate, timely and useful labor market information, and will complement the Department's consultations, as required under the law, with the Department of the Interior, tribes, and the Census Bureau.
Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget for Review and Approval; Comment Request; American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Program
86 FR 12182, (PDF)
SUMMARY: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, ED is proposing a reinstatement without change of a previously approved collection.
Approval of the Tribal Implementation Plan for the Northern Cheyenne Tribe
86 FR 11674, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve a Tribal Implementation Plan (TIP) submitted by the Northern Cheyenne Tribe (Tribe) on September 25, 2017, to regulate air pollution within the exterior boundaries of the Tribe's Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation and four tribal trust parcels (collectively, the Reservation). The EPA is proposing to approve the TIP based on maintenance of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) through a permitted open burning program. The EPA is taking this action pursuant to sections 110(o), 110(k)(3), and 301(d) of the Clean Air Act (CAA or the Act).
Notice for Public Comment on Administration for Native Americans' Program Policies and Procedures
86 FR 10283, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Pursuant to Section 814 of the Native American Programs Act of 1974 (NAPA), as amended, ANA is required to provide members of the public an opportunity to comment on proposed changes in interpretive rules and general statements of policy and to give notice of the proposed changes no less than 30 days before such changes become effective. In accordance with notice requirements of NAPA, ANA herein describes proposed interpretive rules and general statements of policy that relate to ANA's funding opportunities in Fiscal Year (FY) 2021. Changes to FY 2021 funding opportunity announcements (FOAs) will be based on the following previously published programs: Environmental Regulatory Enhancement (ERE), HHS-2021-ACF-ANA-NR-1907; Native American Language Preservation and Maintenance-Esther Martinez Immersion (EMI), HHS-2021-ACF-ANA-NB-1958; Native American Language Preservation and Maintenance (P&M), HHS-2021-ACF-ANA-NL-1924; Social and Economic Development Strategies (SEDS), HHS-2021-ACF-ANA-NA-1906; Social and Economic Development Strategies-Alaska (SEDS-AK), HHS-2021-ACF-ANA-NK- 1902; and Social and Economic Development Strategies-Growing Organizations (SEDS-GO), HHS-2021-ACF-ANA-NN-1918.
Notice of Funds Availability Inviting Applications for Financial Assistance Awards or Technical Assistance Grants Under the Native American CDFI Assistance Fiscal Year 2021 Funding Round
86 FR 10413, (PDF)
SUMMARY: Through the NACA Program, the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund provides (i) FA awards of up to $1 million to Certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) serving Native American, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian populations or Native American areas defined as Federally- designated reservations, Hawaiian homelands, Alaska Native Villages and U.S. Census Bureau-designated Tribal Statistical Areas (collectively, ``Native Communities'') to build their financial capacity to lend to Eligible Markets and/or their Target Markets, and (ii) TA grants of up to $150,000 to build Certified, and Emerging CDFIs' organizational capacity to serve Eligible Markets and/or their Target Markets, and Sponsoring Entities ability to create Certified CDFIs that serve Native Communities. All awards provided through this NOFA are subject to funding availability.
Final Eligibility Determination for the Kalispel Tribe To Be Treated in the Same Manner as a State Under Provisions of the Clean Air Act
86 FR 9334, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice announces that on December 1, 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 10 Regional Administrator determined that the Kalispel Tribe meets the eligibility requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA) to be treated in the same manner as a state (TAS) for non-regulatory purposes under certain CAA provisions. None of the provisions for which the Kalispel Tribe requested eligibility entails the exercise of Tribal regulatory authority under the CAA.
Proposed Information Collection Request; Comment Request; Federal Implementation Plans Under the Clean Air Act for Indian Reservations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington
86 FR 9336, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or the Agency) is planning to submit an information collection request (ICR), Proposed Information Collection Request; Comment Request; Federal Implementation Plans under the Clean Air Act for Indian Reservations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. Before doing so, EPA is soliciting public comments on specific aspects of the proposed information collection as described in this document. This is a proposal to extend the current ICR, which expires on August 31, 2021. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity Supporting Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander and American Indian/Alaska Native Populations
86 FR 9353, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) seeks input from Federally-recognized Indian Tribes/American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) Tribes, Tribal organizations, Tribal-serving organizations, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and AI/AN--serving institutions of higher education to guide the development of a new Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity (Center). This is NOT a solicitation for proposals or proposal abstracts.
Proposed Reissuance of NPDES General Permit for Tribal Enhancement and Federal Research Marine Net Pen Facilities Within Puget Sound (WAG132000)
86 FR 8779, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Director of the Water Division, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 10, proposes to reissue the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for Tribal Enhancement and Federal Research Marine Net Pen Facilities Within Puget Sound (draft general permit). As proposed, eligible facilities include tribal enhancement net pens, which are permitted to raise up to 200,000 pounds of native salmonids over a four month growing period each year, and federal research net pen facilities, which are permitted to raise up to 100,000 pounds annually of native finfish. Currently, there are five tribal enhancement facilities and one federal research facility eligible for coverage under the general permit. Existing enhancement and research facilities may request authorization to discharge under the general permit by submitting a Notice of Intent (NOI) no more than ninety (90) days following the effective date of the permit. New enhancement or research facilities that begin operations after the effective date of the general permit must submit a NOI at least 180 days prior to initiation of operations. Upon receipt, EPA will review the NOI to ensure that all permit requirements are met. If determined appropriate by EPA, a discharger will be granted coverage under the general permit upon the date that EPA provides written notification. EPA is accepting public comments on the draft general permit.
Notice of Public Meeting of the Montana Advisory Committee
86 FR 8340, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to the provisions of the rules and regulations of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights (Commission) and the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) that the Montana Advisory Committee (Committee) to the Commission will hold a web hearing from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (MT) on Thursday, April 15, 2021. The purpose of the Montana Advisory Committee meeting is to hear testimony examining voting issues impacting Native Americans. This is the second of two web hearings focused on this topic. Meeting materials and presentations will be available before and after the event at http://bit.ly/MTSAC2021.
Self-Governance PROGRESS Act Negotiated Rulemaking Committee Establishment; Nominations
86 FR 7656, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) is announcing its intent to establish a Self-Governance PROGRESS Act Negotiated Rulemaking Committee (Committee) to negotiate and advise the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) on a proposed rule to implement the Practical Reforms and Other Goals To Reinforce the Effectiveness of Self-Governance and Self-Determination for Indian Tribes Act of 2019 (PROGRESS Act). The DOI is soliciting comments on its proposal to form a negotiated rulemaking committee; and invites nominations for Committee members who will adequately represent the interests that are likely to be significantly affected by the proposed rule.
Indian Entities Recognized by and Eligible To Receive Services From the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs
86 FR 7554, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
This notice publishes the current list of 574 Tribal entities recognized by and eligible for funding and services from the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) by virtue of their status as Indian Tribes.
60-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) Program
86 FR 6910, (PDF)
SUMMARY: HUD is seeking approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for the information collection described below. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, HUD is requesting comment from all interested parties on the proposed collection of information. The purpose of this notice is to allow for 60 days of public comment.
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: Designation of an Approved Native American Tribal Card Issued by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation as an Acceptable Document To Denote Identity and Citizenship for Entry in the United States at Land and Sea Ports of Entry
86 FR 6664, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice announces that the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection is designating an approved Native American tribal card issued by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to U.S. and Canadian citizen tribal members as an acceptable travel document for purposes of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. The approved card may be used to denote identity and citizenship of Muscogee (Creek) Nation members entering the United States from contiguous territory or adjacent islands at land and sea ports of entry.
2020 Census Tribal Consultation; Virtual Public Meeting
86 FR 6296, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
The Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau) will conduct its first calendar year 2021 tribal consultation meeting on February 18 via national webinar. The tribal consultation meeting reflects the Census Bureau's commitment to strengthen government-to-government relationships with federally recognized tribes. The Census Bureau will provide updates and seek input on the 2020 Census Disclosure Avoidance System (DAS). In preparation for the webinar, the Census Bureau request comments on various questions related to tribes' use of decennial census data.
Applications for New Awards; Native Hawaiian Career and Technical Education Program (NHCTEP)
86 FR 5163, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for the Native Hawaiian Career and Technical Education Program (NHCTEP), Assistance Listing number 84.259A. This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1830-0564.
HEARTH Act Approval of the Cahuilla Band of Indians, California Leasing Ordinance
86 FR 2450, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) approved the Cahuilla Band of Indians Leasing Ordinance under the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership Act of 2012 (HEARTH Act). With this approval, the Tribe is authorized to enter into business and residential leases without further BIA approval.
Proclaiming Certain Lands as Reservation for the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community of Minnesota
86 FR 2449, (PDF)
SUMMARY: This notice informs the public that the Acting Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs proclaimed two parcels as additions to the reservation of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community.
Applications for New Awards; Office of Indian Education Formula Grants to Local Educational Agencies
86 FR 2397, (PDF)
SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for Office of Indian Education (OIE) Formula Grants to Local Educational Agencies, Assistance Listing Number 84.060A. This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1810-0021.
Applications for New Awards; Alaska Native Education Program
86 FR 2392, (PDF)
SUMMARY:
The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2021 for the Alaska Native Education (ANE) program, Assistance Listing Number 84.356A. This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1894-0006.
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