1. Learn about Self-Governance and how it allows Tribes to assume control over programs previously managed by federal agencies, such as the Indian Health Service (IHS) and Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).
Assess Readiness: Evaluate whether your Tribe has the capacity and resources to manage these programs effectively.
2. Tribal Resolution and Leadership Commitment: Pass a Tribal Resolution indicating the Tribe’s intent to pursue Self-Governance. Secure commitment from Tribal leadership to support the process.
3. Contact the Office of Self-Governance (OSG): Reach out to the OSG within the Department of the Interior or the IHS Tribal Self-Governance Program. Request information about eligibility, requirements, and available resources.
4. Determine Eligibility: Demonstrate financial stability and management capability for at least three fiscal years. Ensure compliance with Single Audit Act requirements, showing no material audit findings.
5. Prepare a Planning and Negotiation Grant Application: Apply for a Planning Grant to assess which programs and services the Tribe will manage. Apply for a Negotiation Grant to fund discussions with federal agencies.
6. Conduct a Tribal Self-Governance Planning Process: Review programs, services, functions, and activities (PSFAs) your Tribe wants to take over. Conduct financial and program analyses to ensure readiness. Create a transition plan for assuming control.
7. Negotiate a Self-Governance Compact and Funding Agreement: Work with federal agency representatives to draft a Self-Governance Compact and Funding Agreement outlining:
Programs to be transferred.
Funding arrangements.
Terms and conditions.
8. Submit the Final Compact and Funding Agreement: Finalize the agreement with input from federal agencies and Tribal leadership. Submit for approval by the Secretary of the Interior or IHS Director.
9. Receive Approval and Begin Implementation: Once approved, the Tribe officially becomes a Self-Governance Tribe. Implement the compact and assume management of PSFAs.
10. Ongoing Evaluation and Reporting: Monitor program performance and compliance. Submit required reports to federal agencies to ensure accountability.
By following these steps, Tribes can successfully transition to Self-Governance, enhancing their ability to address community needs directly.