Title 20—Employees' Benefits--Volume 1
PART 668—INDIAN AND NATIVE AMERICAN PROGRAMS UNDER TITLE I OF THE WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACT
§ 668.100   What is the purpose of the programs established to serve Native American peoples (INA programs) under section 166 of the Workforce Investment Act?
(a) The purpose of WIA INA programs is to support comprehensive employment and training activities for Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian individuals in order to:
(1) Develop more fully their academic, occupational, and literacy skills;
(2) Make them more competitive in the workforce;
(3) Promote the economic and social development of Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities according to the goals and values of such communities; and
(4) Help them achieve personal and economic self-sufficiency.
(b) The principal means of accomplishing these purposes is to enable tribes and Native American organizations to provide employment and training services to Native American peoples and their communities. Services should be provided in a culturally appropriate manner, consistent with the principles of Indian self-determination. (WIA sec. 166(a)(1).)
§ 668.120   How must INA programs be administered?
(a) We will administer INA programs to maximize the Federal commitment to support the growth and development of Native American people and communities as determined by representatives of such communities.
(b) In administering these programs, we will observe the Congressional declaration of policy set forth in the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, at 25 U.S.C. section 450a, as well as the Department of Labor's “American Indian and Alaska Native Policy,” dated July 29, 1998.
(c) The regulations in this part are not intended to abrogate the trust responsibilities of the Federal Government to Native American bands, tribes, or groups in any way.
(d) We will administer INA programs through a single organizational unit and consistent with the requirements in section 166(h) of the Act. We have designated the Division of Indian and Native American Programs (DINAP) within the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) as this single organizational unit required by WIA section 166(h)(1).
(e) We will establish and maintain administrative procedures for the selection, administration, monitoring, and evaluation of Native American employment and training programs authorized under this Act. We will utilize staff who have a particular competence in this field to administer these programs. (WIA sec. 166(h).)
§ 668.130   What obligation do we have to consult with the INA grantee community in developing rules, regulations, and standards of accountability for INA programs?
We will consult with the Native American grantee community as a full partner in developing policies for the INA programs. We will actively seek and consider the views of all INA grantees, and will discuss options with the grantee community prior to establishing policies and program regulations. The primary consultation vehicle is the Native American Employment and Training Council. (WIA sec. 166(h)(2).)
§ 668.140   What WIA regulations apply to the INA program?
(a) The regulations found in this subpart.
(b) The general administrative requirements found in 20 CFR part 667, including the regulations concerning Complaints, Investigations and Hearings found at 20 CFR part 667, subpart E through subpart H.
(c) The Department's regulations codifying the common rules implementing Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circulars which generally apply to Federal programs carried out by Indian tribal governments and nonprofit organizations, at 29 CFR parts 95, 96, 97, and 99 as applicable.
(d) The Department's regulations at 29 CFR part 37, which implement the nondiscrimination provisions of WIA section 188, apply to recipients of financial assistance under WIA section 166.
§ 668.150   What definitions apply to terms used in the regulations in this part?
In addition to the definitions found in WIA sections 101 and 166 and 20 CFR 660.300, the following definitions apply:
DINAP means the Division of Indian and Native American Programs within the Employment and Training Administration of the Department.
Governing body means a body of representatives who are duly elected, appointed by duly elected officials, or selected according to traditional tribal means. A governing body must have the authority to provide services to and to enter into grants on behalf of the organization that selected or designated it.
Grant Officer means a Department of Labor official authorized to obligate Federal funds. Indian or Native American (INA) Grantee means an entity which is formally designated under subpart B of this part to operate an INA program and which has a grant agreement under § 668.292.
NEW means the Native Employment Works Program, the tribal work program authorized under section 412(a)(2) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (Public Law 104-193).
Underemployed means an individual who is working part time but desires full time employment, or who is working in employment not commensurate with the individual's demonstrated level of educational and/or skill achievement.
§ 668.200   What are the requirements for designation as an “Indian or Native American (INA) grantee”?
(a) To be designated as an INA grantee, an entity must have:
(1) A legal status as a government or as an agency of a government, private non-profit corporation, or a consortium which contains at least one of these entities;
(2) The ability to administer INA program funds, as defined at § 668.220; and
(3) A new (non-incumbent) entity must have a population within the designated geographic service area which would provide funding under the funding formula found at § 668.296(b) in the amount of at least $100,000, including any amounts received for supplemental youth services under the funding formula at § 668.440(a). Incumbent grantees which do not meet this dollar threshold for Program Year (PY) 2000 and beyond will be grandfathered in. We will make an exception for grantees wishing to participate in the demonstration program under Public Law 102-477 if all resources to be consolidated under the Public Law 102-477 plan total at least $100,000, with at least $20,000 derived from section 166 funds as determined by the most recent Census data. Exceptions to this $20,000 limit may be made for those entities which are close to the limit and which have demonstrated the capacity to administer Federal funds and operate a successful employment and training program.
(b) To be designated as a Native American grantee, a consortium or its members must meet the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section and must:
(1) Be in close proximity to one another, but they may operate in more than one State;
(2) Have an administrative unit legally authorized to run the program and to commit the other members to contracts, grants, and other legally-binding agreements; and
(3) Be jointly and individually responsible for the actions and obligations of the consortium, including debts.
(c) Entities potentially eligible for designation under paragraph (a)(1) or (b)(1) of this section are:
(1) Federally-recognized Indian tribes;
(2) Tribal organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 450b;
(3) Alaska Native-controlled organizations representing regional or village areas, as defined in the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act;
(4) Native Hawaiian-controlled entities;
(5) Native American-controlled organizations serving Indians; and
(6) Consortia of eligible entities which individually meets the legal requirements for a consortium described in paragraph (c) of this section.
(d) Under WIA section 166(d)(2)(B), individuals who were eligible to participate under section 401 of JTPA on August 6, 1998, remain eligible to participate under section 166 of WIA. State-recognized tribal organizations serving such individuals are considered to be “Native American controlled” for WIA section 166 purposes.
§ 668.210   What priority for designation is given to eligible organizations?
(a) Federally-recognized Indian tribes, Alaska Native entities, or consortia that include a tribe or entity will have the highest priority for designation. To be designated, the organizations must meet the requirements in this subpart. These organizations will be designated for those geographic areas and/or populations over which they have legal jurisdiction. (WIA sec. 166(c)(1).)
(b) If we decide not to designate Indian tribes or Alaska Native entities to serve their service areas, we will enter into arrangements to provide services with entities which the tribes or Alaska Native entities involved approve.
(c) In geographic areas not served by Indian tribes or Alaska Native entities, entities with a Native American-controlled governing body and which are representative of the Native American community or communities involved will have priority for designation.
§ 668.220   What is meant by the “ability to administer funds” for designation purposes?
An organization has the “ability to administer funds” if it:
(a) Is in compliance with Departmental debt management procedures, if applicable;
(b) Has not been found guilty of fraud or criminal activity which would affect the entity's ability to safeguard Federal funds or deliver program services;
(c) Can demonstrate that it has or can acquire the necessary program and financial management personnel to safeguard Federal funds and effectively deliver program services; and
(d) Can demonstrate that it has successfully carried out, or has the capacity to successfully carry out activities that will strengthen the ability of the individuals served to obtain or retain unsubsidized employment.
§ 668.230   How will we determine an entity's “ability to administer funds”?
(a) Before determining which entity to designate for a particular service area, we will conduct a review of the entity's ability to administer funds.
(b) The review for an entity that has served as a grantee in either of the two designation periods before the one under consideration, also will consider the extent of compliance with the WIA regulations. Evidence of the ability to administer funds may be established by a satisfactory Federal audit record. It may also be established by a recent record showing substantial compliance with Federal record keeping, reporting, program performance standards, or similar standards imposed on grantees by this or other public sector supported programs.
(c) For other entities, the review includes the experience of the entity's management in administering funds for services to Native American people. This review also includes an assessment of the relationship between the entity and the Native American community or communities to be served.
§ 668.240   What is the process for applying for designation as an INA grantee?
(a) Every entity seeking designation must submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) which complies with the requirements of the Solicitation for Grant Application (SGA). An SGA will be issued every two years, covering all areas except for those for which competition is waived for the incumbent grantee under WIA section 166(c)(2).
(b) NOI's must be submitted to the Chief of DINAP, bearing a U.S. Postal Service postmark indicating its submission no later than October 1st of the year which precedes the first year of a new designation cycle (unless the SGA provides a later date). For NOI's received after October 1, only a timely official U.S. Postal Service postmark is acceptable as proof of timely submission. Dates indicating submission by private express delivery services or metered mail are unacceptable as proof of the timely submission of designation documents.
(c) NOI's must include the following:
(1) Documentation of the legal status of the entity, as described in § 668.200(a)(1);
(2) A Standard Form (SF) 424b;
(3) The assurances required by 29 CFR 37.20;
(4) A specific description, by State, county, reservation or similar area, or service population, of the geographic area for which the entity requests designation;
(5) A brief summary of the employment and training or human resource development programs serving Native Americans that the entity currently operates or has operated within the previous two-year period;
(6) A description of the planning process used by the entity, including the involvement of the governing body and local employers;
(7) Evidence to establish an entity's ability to administer funds under §§ 668.220 through 668.230.
§ 668.250   What happens if two or more entities apply for the same area?
(a) Every two years, unless there has been a waiver of competition for the area, we issue a Solicitation for Grant Application (SGA) seeking applicants for INA program grants.
(b) If two or more entities apply for grants for the same service area, or for overlapping service areas, and a waiver of competition under WIA section 166(c)(2) is not granted to the incumbent grantee, the following additional procedures apply:
(1) The Grant Officer will follow the regulations for priority designation at § 668.210.
(2) If no applicant is entitled to priority designation, DINAP will inform each entity which submitted a NOI, including the incumbent grantee, in writing, of all the competing Notices of Intent no later than November 15 of the year the NOI's are received.
(3) Each entity will have an opportunity to describe its service plan, and may submit additional information addressing the requirements of § 668.240(c) or such other information as the applicant determines is appropriate. Revised Notices must be received or contain an official U.S. Postal Service postmark, no later than January 5th (unless a later date is provided in DINAP's information notice).
(4) The Grant Officer selects the entity that demonstrates the ability to produce the best outcomes for its customers.
§ 668.260   How are INA grantees designated?
(a) On March 1 of each designation year, we designate or conditionally designate Native American grantees for the coming two program years. The Grant Officer informs, in writing, each entity which submitted a Notice of Intent that the entity has been:
(1) Designated;
(2) Conditionally designated;
(3) Designated for only a portion of its requested area or population; or
(4) Denied designation.
(b) Designated Native American entities must ensure and provide evidence to DOL that a system is in place to afford all members of the eligible population within their service area an equitable opportunity to receive employment and training activities and services.
§ 668.270   What appeal rights are available to entities that are denied designation?
Any entity that is denied designation in whole or in part for the area or population that it requested may appeal the denial to the Office of the Administrative Law Judges using the procedures at 20 CFR 667.800 or the alternative dispute resolution procedures at 20 CFR 667.840. The Grant Officer will provide an entity whose request for designation was denied, in whole or in part, with a copy of the appeal procedures.
§ 668.280   Are there any other ways in which an entity may be designated as an INA grantee?
Yes, for an area which would otherwise go unserved. The Grant Officer may designate an entity, which has not submitted an NOI, but which meets the qualifications for designation, to serve the particular geographic area. Under such circumstances, DINAP will seek the views of Native American leaders in the area involved about the decision to designate the entity to serve that community. DINAP will inform the Grant Officer of their views. The Grant Officer will accommodate their views to the extent possible.
§ 668.290   Can an INA grantee's designation be terminated?
(a) Yes, the Grant Officer can terminate a grantee's designation for cause, or the Secretary or another DOL official confirmed by the Senate can terminate a grantee's designation in emergency circumstances where termination is necessary to protect the integrity of Federal funds or ensure the proper operation of the program. (WIA sec. 184(e).)
(b) The Grant Officer may terminate a grantee's designation for cause only if there is a substantial or persistent violation of the requirements in the Act or the WIA regulations. The grantee must be provided with written notice 60 days before termination, stating the specific reasons why termination is proposed. The appeal procedures at 20 CFR 667.800 apply.
(c) The Secretary must give a grantee terminated in emergency circumstances prompt notice of the termination and an opportunity for a hearing within 30 days of the termination.
§ 668.292   How does a designated entity become an INA grantee?
A designated entity becomes a grantee on the effective date of an executed grant agreement, signed by the authorized official of the grantee organization and the Grant Officer. The grant agreement includes a set of certifications and assurances that the grantee will comply with the terms of the Act, the WIA regulations, and other appropriate requirements. Funds are released to the grantee upon approval of the required planning documents, as described in §§ 668.710 through 668.740.
§ 668.294   Do we have to designate an INA grantee for every part of the country?
No, beginning with the PY 2000 grant awards, if there are no entities meeting the requirements for designation in a particular area, or willing to serve that area, we will not allocate funds for that service area. The funds allocated to that area will be distributed to the remaining INA grantees, or used for other program purposes such as technical assistance and training (TAT). Unawarded funds used for technical assistance and training are in addition to, and not subject to the limitations on, amounts reserved under § 668.296(e). Areas which are unserved by the INA program may be restored during a subsequent designation cycle, when and if a current grantee or other eligible entity applies for and is designated to serve that area.
§ 668.296   How are WIA funds allocated to INA grantees?
(a) Except for reserved funds described in paragraph (e) of this section and funds used for program purposes under § 668.294, all funds available for WIA section 166(d)(2)(A)(i) comprehensive workforce investment services program at the beginning of a Program Year will be allocated to Native American grantees for their designated geographic service areas.
(b) Each INA grantee will receive the sum of the funds calculated under the following formula:
(1) One-quarter of the funds available will be allocated on the basis of the number of unemployed Native American persons in the grantee's designated INA service area(s) compared to all such persons in all such areas in the United States.
(2) Three-quarters of the funds available will be allocated on the basis of the number of Native American persons in poverty in the grantee's designated INA service area(s) as compared to all such persons in all such areas in the United States.
(3) The data and definitions used to implement these formulas is provided by the U.S. Bureau of the Census.
(c) In years immediately following the use of new data in the formula described in paragraph (b) of this section, based upon criteria to be described in the SGA, we may utilize a hold harmless factor to reduce the disruption in grantee services which would otherwise result from changes in funding levels. This factor will be determined in consultation with the grantee community and the Native American Employment and Training Council.
(d) We may reallocate funds from one INA grantee to another if a grantee is unable to serve its area for any reason, such as audit or debt problems, criminal activity, internal (political) strife, or lack of ability or interest. Funds may also be reallocated if a grantee has carry-in excess of 20 percent of the total funds available to it. Carry-in amounts greater than 20 percent but less than 25 percent of total funds available may be allowed under an approved waiver issued by DINAP.
(e) We may reserve up to one percent (1 percent) of the funds appropriated under WIA section 166(d)(2)(A)(i) for any Program Year for TAT purposes. Technical assistance will be provided in consultation with the Native American Employment and Training Council.
§ 668.300   Who is eligible to receive services under the INA program?
(a) A person is eligible to receive services under the INA program if that person is:
(1) An Indian, as determined by a policy of the Native American grantee. The grantee's definition must at least include anyone who is a member of a Federally-recognized tribe; or
(2) An Alaska Native, as defined in section 3(b) of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), 43 U.S.C. 1602(b); or
(3) A Native Hawaiian, as defined in WIA section 166(b)(3).
(b) The person must also be any one of the following:
(1) Unemployed; or
(2) Underemployed, as defined in § 668.150; or
(3) A low-income individual, as defined in WIA section 101(25); or
(4) The recipient of a bona fide lay-off notice which has taken effect in the last six months or will take effect in the following six month period, who is unlikely to return to a previous industry or occupation, and who is in need of retraining for either employment with another employer or for job retention with the current employer; or
(5) An individual who is employed, but is determined by the grantee to be in need of employment and training services to obtain or retain employment that allows for self-sufficiency.
(c) If applicable, male applicants must also register or be registered for the Selective Service.
(d) For purposes of determining whether a person is a low-income individual under paragraph (b)(3) of this section, we will issue guidance for the determination of family income. (WIA sec. 189(h).)
§ 668.340   What are INA grantee allowable activities?
(a) The INA grantee may provide any services consistent with the purposes of this section that are necessary to meet the needs of Native Americans preparing to enter, reenter, or retain unsubsidized employment. (WIA sec. 166(d)(1)(B).) Comprehensive workforce investment activities authorized under WIA section 166(d)(2) include:
(b) Core services, which must be delivered in partnership with the One-Stop delivery system, include:
(1) Outreach;
(2) Intake;
(3) Orientation to services available;
(4) Initial assessment of skill levels, aptitudes, abilities and supportive service needs;
(5) Eligibility certification;
(6) Job Search and placement assistance;
(7) Career counseling;
(8) Provision of employment statistics information and local, regional, and national Labor Market Information;
(9) Provision of information about filing of Unemployment Insurance claims;
(10) Assistance in establishing eligibility for Welfare-to-Work programs;
(11) Assistance in establishing eligibility for financial assistance for training;
(12) Provision of information about supportive services;
(13) Provision of performance and cost information relating to training providers and training services; and
(14) Follow-up services.
(c) Allowable intensive services which include:
(1) Comprehensive and specialized testing and assessment;
(2) Development of an individual employment plan;
(3) Group counseling;
(4) Individual counseling and career planning;
(5) Case Management for seeking training services;
(6) Short term pre-vocational services;
(7) Work experience in the public or private sector;
(8) Tryout employment;
(9) Dropout prevention activities;
(10) Supportive services; and
(11) Other services identified in the approved Two Year Plan.
(d) Allowable training services which include:
(1) Occupational skill training;
(2) On-the-job training;
(3) Programs that combine workplace training with related instruction, which may include cooperative education programs;
(4) Training programs operated by the private sector;
(5) Skill upgrading and retraining;
(6) Entrepreneurial and small business development technical assistance and training;
(7) Job readiness training;
(8) Adult basic education, GED attainment, literacy training, and English language training, provided alone or in combination with training or intensive services described paragraphs (c)(1) through (11) and (d)(1) through (10) of this section;
(9) Customized training conducted with a commitment by an employer or group of employers to employ an individual upon successful completion of training; and
(10) Educational and tuition assistance.
(e) Allowable activities specifically designed for youth are identified in section 129 of the Act and include:
(1) Improving educational and skill competencies;
(2) Adult mentoring;
(3) Training opportunities;
(4) Supportive services, as defined in WIA section 101(46);
(5) Incentive programs for recognition and achievement;
(6) Opportunities for leadership development, decision-making, citizenship and community service;
(7) Preparation for postsecondary education, academic and occupational learning, unsubsidized employment opportunities, and other effective connections to intermediaries with strong links to the job market and local and regional employers;
(8) Tutoring, study skills training, and other drop-out prevention strategies;
(9) Alternative secondary school services;
(10) Summer employment opportunities that are directly linked to academic and occupational learning;
(11) Paid and unpaid work experiences, including internships and job shadowing;
(12) Occupational skill training;
(13) Leadership development opportunities, as defined in 20 CFR 664.420;
(14) Follow-up services, as defined in 20 CFR 664.450;
(15) Comprehensive guidance and counseling, which may include drug and alcohol abuse counseling and referral; and
(16) Information and referral.
(f) In addition, allowable activities include job development and employment outreach, including:
(1) Support of the Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) program;
(2) Negotiation with employers to encourage them to train and hire participants;
(3) Establishment of linkages with other service providers to aid program participants;
(4) Establishment of management training programs to support tribal administration or enterprises; and
(5) Establishment of linkages with remedial education, such as Adult Basic Education (ABE), basic literacy training, and English-as-a-second-language (ESL) training programs, as necessary.
(g) Participants may be enrolled in more than one activity at a time and may be sequentially enrolled in multiple activities.
(h) INA grantees may provide any services which may be carried out by fund recipients under any provisions of the Act. (WIA sec. 166(d).)
(i) In addition, INA grantees must develop programs which contribute to occupational development, upward mobility, development of new careers, and opportunities for nontraditional employment. (WIA sec. 195(1).)
§ 668.350   Are there any restrictions on allowable activities?
(a) All occupational training must be for occupations for which there are employment opportunities in the local area or another area to which the participant is willing to relocate. (WIA sec. 134(d)(4)(A)(iii).)
(b) INA grantees must provide OJT services consistent with the definition provided in WIA section 101(31) and other limitations in the Act. Individuals in OJT must:
(1) Be compensated at the same rates, including periodic increases, as trainees or employees who are similarly situated in similar occupations by the same employer and who have similar training, experience, and skills (WIA sec. 181(a)(1)); and
(2) Be provided benefits and working conditions at the same level and to the same extent as other trainees or employees working a similar length of time and doing the same type of work. (WIA sec. 181(b)(5).)
(c) In addition, OJT contracts under this title must not be entered into with employers who have:
(1) Received payments under previous contracts and have exhibited a pattern of failing to provide OJT participants with continued, long-term employment as regular employees with wages and employment benefits and working conditions at the same level and to the same extent as other employees working a similar length of time and doing the same work; or
(2) Who have violated paragraphs (b)(1) and/or (2) of this section. (WIA sec. 195(4).)
(d) INA grantees are prohibited from using funds to encourage the relocation of a business, as described in WIA section 181(d) and 20 CFR 667.268.
(e) INA grantees must only use WIA funds for activities which are in addition to those that would otherwise be available to the Native American population in the area in the absence of such funds. (WIA sec. 195(2).)
(f) INA grantees must not spend funds on activities that displace currently employed individuals, impair existing contracts for services, or in any way affect union organizing.
(g) Under 20 CFR 667.266, sectarian activities involving WIA financial assistance or participants are limited in accordance with the provisions of 29 CFR 37.6(f). (WIA sec. 181(b).)
§ 668.360   What is the role of INA grantees in the One-Stop system?
(a) In those local workforce investment areas where an INA grantee conducts field operations or provides substantial services, the INA grantee is a required partner in the local One-Stop delivery system and is subject to the provisions relating to such partners described in 20 CFR part 662. Consistent with those provisions, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the INA grantee and the Local Board over the operation of the One-Stop Center(s) in the Local Board's workforce investment area also must be executed. Where the Local Board is an alternative entity under 20 CFR 661.330, the INA grantee must negotiate with the alternative entity on the terms of its MOU and the scope of its on-going role in the local workforce investment system, as specified in 20 CFR 661.310(b)(2). In local areas with a large concentration of potentially eligible INA participants, which are in an INA grantee's service area but in which the grantee does not conduct operations or provide substantial services, the INA grantee should encourage such individuals to participate in the One-Stop system in that area in order to receive WIA services.
(b) At a minimum, the MOU must contain provisions related to:
(1) The services to be provided through the One-Stop Service System;
(2) The methods for referral of individuals between the One-Stop operator and the INA grantee which take into account the services provided by the INA grantee and the other One-Stop partners;
(3) The exchange of information on the services available and accessible through the One-Stop system and the INA program;
(4) As necessary to provide referrals and case management services, the exchange of information on Native American participants in the One-Stop system and the INA program;
(5) Arrangements for the funding of services provided by the One-Stop(s), consistent with the requirements at 20 CFR 662.280 that no expenditures may be made with INA program funds for individuals who are not eligible or for services not authorized under this part.
(c) The INA grantee's Two Year Plan must describe the efforts the grantee has made to negotiate MOU's consistent with paragraph (b) of this section, for each planning cycle during which Local Boards are operating under the terms of WIA.
§ 668.370   What policies govern payments to participants, including wages, training allowances or stipends, or direct payments for supportive services?
(a) INA grantees may pay training allowances or stipends to participants for their successful participation in and completion of education or training services (except such allowance may not be provided to participants in OJT). Allowances or stipends may not exceed the Federal or State minimum wage, whichever is higher.
(b) INA grantees may not pay a participant in a training activity when the person fails to participate without good cause.
(c) If a participant in a WIA-funded activity, including participants in OJT, is involved in an employer-employee relationship, that participant must be paid wages and fringe benefits at the same rates as trainees or employees who have similar training, experience and skills and which are not less than the higher of the applicable Federal, State or local minimum wage. (WIA sec. 181(a)(1).)
(d) In accordance with the policy described in the two-year plan, INA grantees may pay incentive bonuses to participants who meet or exceed individual employability or training goals established in writing in the individual employment plan.
(e) INA grantees must comply with other restrictions listed in WIA sections 181 through 199, which apply to all programs funded under title I of WIA.
(f) INA grantees must comply with the provisions on labor standards in WIA section 181(b).
§ 668.380   What will we do to strengthen the capacity of INA grantees to deliver effective services?
We will provide appropriate TAT, as necessary, to INA grantees. This TAT will assist INA grantees to improve program performance and enhance services to the target population(s), as resources permit. (WIA sec. 166(h)(5).)
§ 668.400   What is the purpose of the supplemental youth services program?
The purpose of this program is to provide supplemental employment and training and related services to Native American youth on or near Indian reservations, or in Oklahoma, Alaska, and Hawaii. (WIA sec. 166(d)(2)(A)(ii).)
§ 668.410   What entities are eligible to receive supplemental youth services funding?
Eligible recipients for supplemental youth services funding are limited to those tribal, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian and Oklahoma tribal grantees funded under WIA section 166(d)(2)(A)(i), or other grantees serving those areas and/or populations specified in § 668.400, that received funding under title II-B of the Job Training Partnership Act, or that are designated to serve an eligible area as specified in WIA section 166(d)(2)(A)(ii).
§ 668.420   What are the planning requirements for receiving supplemental youth services funding?
Beginning with PY 2000, eligible INA grantees must describe the supplemental youth services which they intend to provide in their Two Year Plan (described more fully in §§ 668.710 and 668.720). This Plan includes the target population the grantee intends to serve, for example, drop-outs, juvenile offenders, and/or college students. It also includes the performance measures/standards to be utilized to measure program progress.
§ 668.430   What individuals are eligible to receive supplemental youth services?
(a) Participants in supplemental youth services activities must be Native Americans, as determined by the INA grantee according to § 668.300(a), and must meet the definition of Eligible Youth, as defined in WIA section 101(13).
(b) Youth participants must be low-income individuals, except that not more than five percent (5%) who do not meet the minimum income criteria, may be considered eligible youth if they meet one or more of the following categories:
(1) School dropouts;
(2) Basic skills deficient as defined in WIA section 101(4);
(3) Have educational attainment that is one or more grade levels below the grade level appropriate to their age group;
(4) Pregnant or parenting;
(5) Have disabilities, including learning disabilities;
(6) Homeless or runaway youth;
(7) Offenders; or
(8) Other eligible youth who face serious barriers to employment as identified by the grantee in its Plan. (WIA sec. 129(c)(5).)
§ 668.440   How is funding for supplemental youth services determined?
(a) Beginning with PY 2000, supplemental youth funding will be allocated to eligible INA grantees on the basis of the relative number of Native American youth between the ages of 14 and 21, inclusive, in the grantee's designated INA service area as compared to the number of Native American youth in other eligible INA service areas. We reserve the right to redetermine this youth funding stream in future program years, in consultation with the Native American Employment and Training Council, as program experience warrants and as appropriate data become available.
(b) The data used to implement this formula is provided by the U.S. Bureau of the Census.
(c) The hold harmless factor described in § 668.296(c) also applies to supplemental youth services funding. This factor also will be determined in consultation with the grantee community and the Native American Employment and Training Council.
(d) The reallocation provisions of § 668.296(d) also apply to supplemental youth services funding.
(e) Any supplemental youth services funds not allotted to a grantee or refused by a grantee may be used for the purposes outlined in § 668.296(e), as described in § 668.294. Any such funds are in addition to, and not subject to the limitations on, amounts reserved under § 668.296(e).
§ 668.450   How will supplemental youth services be provided?
(a) INA grantees may offer supplemental services to youth throughout the school year, during the summer vacation, and/or during other breaks during the school year at their discretion;
(b) We encourage INA grantees to work with Local Educational Agencies to provide academic credit for youth activities whenever possible;
(c) INA grantees may provide participating youth with the activities listed in 20 CFR 668.340(e).
§ 668.460   Are there performance measures and standards applicable to the supplemental youth services program?
Yes, WIA section 166(e)(5) requires that the program plan contain a description of the performance measures to be used to assess the performance of grantees in carrying out the activities assisted under this section. We will develop specific indicators of performance and levels of performance for supplemental youth services activities in partnership with the Native American Employment and Training Council, and will transmit them to INA grantees as an administrative issuance.
§ 668.500   What services may INA grantees provide to or for employers under section 166?
(a) INA grantees may provide a variety of services to employers in their areas. These services may include:
(1) Workforce planning which involves the recruitment of current or potential program participants, including job restructuring services;
(2) Recruitment and assessment of potential employees, with priority given to potential employees who are or who might become eligible for program services;
(3) Pre-employment training;
(4) Customized training;
(5) On-the-Job training (OJT);
(6) Post-employment services, including training and support services to encourage job retention and upgrading;
(7) Work experience for public or private sector work sites;
(8) Other innovative forms of worksite training.
(b) In addition to the services listed in paragraph (a) of this section, other grantee-determined services (as described in the grantee's Two Year Plan) which are intended to assist eligible participants to obtain or retain employment may also be provided to or for employers.
§ 668.510   What services may INA grantees provide to the community at large under section 166?
(a) INA grantees may provide services to the Native American communities in their designated service areas by engaging in program development and service delivery activities which:
(1) Strengthen the capacity of Native American-controlled institutions to provide education and work-based learning services to Native American youth and adults, whether directly or through other Native American institutions such as tribal colleges;
(2) Increase the community's capacity to deliver supportive services, such as child care, transportation, housing, health, and similar services needed by clients to obtain and retain employment;
(3) Use program participants engaged in education, training, work experience, or similar activities to further the economic and social development of Native American communities in accordance with the goals and values of those communities; and
(4) Engage in other community-building activities described in the INA grantee's Two Year Plan.
(b) INA grantees should develop their Two Year Plan in conjunction with, and in support of, strategic tribal planning and community development goals.
§ 668.520   Must INA grantees give preference to Indian/Native American entities in the selection of contractors or service providers?
Yes, INA grantees must give as much preference as possible to Indian organizations and to Indian-owned economic enterprises, as defined in section 3 of the Indian Financing Act of 1974 (25 U.S.C. 1452), when awarding any contract or subgrant.
§ 668.530   What rules govern the issuance of contracts and/or subgrants?
In general, INA grantees must follow the rules of OMB Circulars A-102 (for tribes) or A-110 (for private non-profits) when awarding contracts and/or subgrants under WIA section 166. The common rules implementing those circulars are codified for DOL-funded programs at 29 CFR part 97 (A-102) or 29 CFR part 95 (A-110), and covered in the WIA regulations at 20 CFR 667.200. These rules do not apply to OJT contract awards.
§ 668.600   To whom is the INA grantee accountable for the provision of services and the expenditure of INA funds?
(a) The INA grantee is responsible to the Native American community to be served by INA funds.
(b) The INA grantee is also responsible to the Department of Labor, which is charged by law with ensuring that all WIA funds are expended:
(1) According to applicable laws and regulations;
(2) For the benefit of the identified Native American client group; and
(3) For the purposes approved in the grantee's plan and signed grant document.
§ 668.610   How is this accountability documented and fulfilled?
(a) Each INA grantee must establish its own internal policies and procedures to ensure accountability to the INA grantee's governing body, as the representative of the Native American community(ies) served by the INA program. At a minimum, these policies and procedures must provide a system for governing body review and oversight of program plans and measures and standards for program performance.
(b) Accountability to the Department is accomplished in part through on-site program reviews (monitoring), which strengthen the INA grantee's capability to deliver effective services and protect the integrity of Federal funds.
(c) In addition to audit information, as described at § 668.850 and program reviews, accountability to the Department is documented and fulfilled by the submission of reports. For the purposes of report submission, a postmark or date indicating receipt by a private express delivery service is acceptable proof of timely submission. These report requirements are as follows:
(1) Each INA grantee must submit an annual report on program participants and activities. This report must be received no later than 90 days after the end of the Program Year, and may be combined with the report on program expenditures. The reporting format is developed by DINAP, in consultation with the Native American Advisory Council, and published in the Federal Register.
(2) Each INA grantee must submit an annual report on program expenditures. This report must be received no later than 90 days after the end of the Program Year, and may be combined with the report on program participants and activities.
(3) INA grantees are encouraged, but not required, to submit a descriptive narrative with their annual reports describing the barriers to successful plan implementation they have encountered. This narrative should also discuss program successes and other notable occurrences that effected the INA grantee's overall performance that year.
(4) Each INA grantee may be required to submit interim reports on program participants and activities and/or program expenditures during the Program Year. Interim reports must be received no later than 45 days after the end of the reporting period.
§ 668.620   What performance measures are in place for the INA program?
Indicators of performance measures and levels of performance in use for INA program will be those indicators and standards proposed in individual grantee plans and approved by us, in accordance with guidelines we will develop in consultation with INA grantees under WIA section 166(h)(2)(A).
§ 668.630   What are the requirements for preventing fraud and abuse under section 166?
(a) Each INA grantee must implement program and financial management procedures to prevent fraud and abuse. Such procedures must include a process which enables the grantee to take action against contractors or subgrantees to prevent any misuse of funds. (WIA sec. 184.)
(b) Each INA grantee must have rules to prevent conflict of interest by its governing body. These conflict of interest rules must include a rule prohibiting any member of any governing body or council associated with the INA grantee from voting on any matter which would provide a direct financial benefit to that member, or to a member of his or her immediate family, in accordance with 20 CFR 667.200(a)(4) and 29 CFR 97.36(b) or 29 CFR 95.42.
(c) Officers or agents of the INA grantee must not solicit or personally accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from any actual or potential contractor, subgrantee, vendor or participant. This rule must also apply to officers or agents of the grantee's contractors and/or subgrantees. This prohibition does not apply to:
(1) Any rebate, discount or similar incentive provided by a vendor to its customers as a regular feature of its business;
(2) Items of nominal monetary value distributed consistent with the cultural practices of the Native American community served by the grantee.
(d) No person who selects program participants or authorizes the services provided to them may select or authorize services to any participant who is such a person's husband, wife, father, mother, brother, sister, son, or daughter unless:
(1)(i) The participant involved is a low income individual; or
(ii) The community in which the participant resides has a population of less than 1,000 Native American people; and
(2) The INA grantee has adopted and implemented the policy described in the Two Year Plan to prevent favoritism on behalf of such relatives.
(e) INA grantees are subject to the provisions of 41 U.S.C. 53 relating to kickbacks.
(f) No assistance provided under this Act may involve political activities. (WIA sec. 195(6).)
(g) INA grantees may not use funds under this Act for lobbying, as provided in 29 CFR part 93.
(h) The provisions of 18 U.S.C. 665 and 666 prohibiting embezzlement apply to programs under WIA.
(i) Recipients of financial assistance under WIA section 168 are prohibited from discriminatory practices as outlined at WIA section 188, and the regulations implementing WIA section 188, at 29 CFR part 37. However, this does not affect the legal requirement that all INA participants be Native American. Also, INA grantees are not obligated to serve populations other than those for which they were designated.
§ 668.640   What grievance systems must a section 166 program provide?
INA grantees must establish grievance procedures consistent with the requirements of WIA section 181(c) and 20 CFR 667.600.
§ 668.650   Can INA grantees exclude segments of the eligible population?
(a) No, INA grantees cannot exclude segments of the eligible population. INA grantees must document in their Two Year Plan that a system is in place to afford all members of the eligible population within the service area for which the grantee was designated an equitable opportunity to receive WIA services and activities.
(b) Nothing in this section restricts the ability of INA grantees to target subgroups of the eligible population (for example, the disabled, substance abusers, TANF recipients, or similar categories), as outlined in an approved Two Year Plan. However, it is unlawful to target services to subgroups on grounds prohibited by WIA section 188 and 29 CFR part 37, including tribal affilitation (which is considered national origin). Outreach efforts, on the other hand, may be targeted to any subgroups.
§ 668.700   What process must an INA grantee use to plan its employment and training services?
(a) An INA grantee may utilize the planning procedures it uses to plan other activities and services.
(b) However, in the process of preparing its Two Year Plan for Native American WIA services, the INA grantee must consult with:
(1) Customers or prospective customers of such services;
(2) Prospective employers of program participants or their representatives;
(3) Service providers, including local educational agencies, which can provide services which support or are complementary to the grantee's own services; and
(4) Tribal or other community officials responsible for the development and administration of strategic community development efforts.
§ 668.710   What planning documents must an INA grantee submit?
Each grantee receiving funds under WIA section 166 must submit to DINAP a comprehensive services plan and a projection of participant services and expenditures covering the two-year planning cycle. We will, in consultation with the Native American Advisory Council, issue budget and planning instructions which grantees must use when preparing their plan.
§ 668.720   What information must these planning documents contain?
(a) The comprehensive services plan must cover the two Program Years included within a designation cycle. According to planning instructions issued by the Department, the comprehensive services plan must describe in narrative form:
(1) The specific goals of the INA grantee's program for the two Program Years involved;
(2) The method the INA grantee will use to target its services to specific segments of its service population;
(3) The array of services which the INA grantee intends to make available;
(4) The system the INA grantee will use to be accountable for the results of its program services. Such results must be judged in terms of the outcomes for individual participants and/or the benefits the program provides to the Native American community(ies) which the INA grantee serves. Plans must include the performance information required by § 668.620;
(5) The ways in which the INA grantee will seek to integrate or coordinate and ensure nonduplication of its employment and training services with:
(i) The One-Stop delivery system in its local workforce investment area, including a description of any MOU's which affect the grantee's participation;
(ii) Other services provided by Local Workforce Investment Boards;
(iii) Other program operators;
(iv) Other services available within the grantee organization; and
(v) Other services which are available to Native Americans in the community, including planned participation in the One-Stop system.
(b) Eligible INA grantees must include in their plan narratives a description of activities planned under the supplemental youth program, including items described in paragraphs (a)(1) through (5) of this section.
(c) INA grantees must be prepared to justify the amount of proposed Administrative Costs, utilizing the definition at 20 CFR 667.220.
(d) INA grantees' plans must contain a projection of participant services and expenditures for each Program Year, consistent with guidance issued by the Department.
§ 668.730   When must these plans be submitted?
(a) The two-year plans are due at a date specified by DINAP in the year in which the two-year designation cycle begins. We will announce exact submission dates in the biennial planning instructions.
(b) Plans from INA grantees who are eligible for supplemental youth services funds must include their supplemental youth plans as part of their regular Two Year Plan.
(c) INA grantees must submit modifications for the second year reflecting exact funding amounts, after the individual allotments have been determined. We will announce the time for their submission, which will be no later than June 1 prior to the beginning of the second year of the designation cycle.
§ 668.740   How will we review and approve such plans?
(a) We will approve a grantee's planning documents before the date on which funds for the program become available unless:
(1) The planning documents do not contain the information specified in the regulations in this part and Departmental planning guidance; or
(2) The services which the INA grantee proposes are not permitted under WIA or applicable regulations.
(b) We may approve a portion of the plan, and disapprove other portions. The grantee also has the right to appeal the decision to the Office of the Administrative Law Judges under the procedures at 20 CFR 667.800 or 667.840. While the INA grantee exercises its right to appeal, the grantee must implement the approved portions of the plan.
(c) If we disapprove all or part of an INA grantee's plan, and that disapproval is sustained in the appeal process, the INA grantee will be given the opportunity to amend its plan so that it can be approved.
(d) If an INA grantee's plan is amended but is still disapproved, the grantee will have the right to appeal the decision to the Offices of the Administrative Law Judges under the procedures at 20 CFR 667.800 or 667.840.
§ 668.750   Under what circumstances can we or the INA grantee modify the terms of the grantee's plan(s)?
(a) We may unilaterally modify the INA grantee's plan to add funds or, if required by Congressional action, to reduce the amount of funds available for expenditure.
(b) The INA grantee may request approval to modify its plan to add, expand, delete, or diminish any service allowable under the regulations in this part. The INA grantee may modify its plan without our approval, unless the modification reduces the total number of participants to be served annually under the grantee's program by a number which exceeds 25 percent of the participants previously proposed to be served, or by 25 participants, whichever is larger.
(c) We will act upon any modification within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt of the proposed modification. In the event that further clarification or modification is required, we may extend the thirty (30) day time frame to conclude appropriate negotiations.
§ 668.800   What systems must an INA grantee have in place to administer an INA program?
(a) Each INA grantee must have a written system describing the procedures the grantee uses for:
(1) The hiring and management of personnel paid with program funds;
(2) The acquisition and management of property purchased with program funds;
(3) Financial management practices;
(4) A participant grievance system which meets the requirements in section 181(c) of WIA and 20 CFR 667.600; and
(5) A participant records system.
(b) Participant records systems must include:
(1) A written or computerized record containing all the information used to determine the person's eligibility to receive program services;
(2) The participant's signature certifying that all the eligibility information he or she provided is true to the best of his/her knowledge; and
(3) The information necessary to comply with all program reporting requirements.
§ 668.810   What types of costs are allowable expenditures under the INA program?
Rules relating to allowable costs under WIA are covered in 20 CFR 667.200 through 667.220.
§ 668.820   What rules apply to administrative costs under the INA program?
The definition and treatment of administrative costs are covered in 20 CFR 667.210(b) and 667.220.
§ 668.825   Does the WIA administrative cost limit for States and local areas apply to section 166 grants?
No, under 20 CFR 667.210(b), limits on administrative costs for section 166 grants will be negotiated with the grantee and identified in the grant award document.
§ 668.830   How should INA program grantees classify costs?
Cost classification is covered in the WIA regulations at 20 CFR 667.200 through 667.220. For purposes of the INA program, program costs also include costs associated with other activities such as Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO), and supportive services, as defined in WIA section 101(46).
§ 668.840   What cost principles apply to INA funds?
The cost principles described in OMB Circulars A-87 (for tribal governments), A-122 (for private non-profits), and A-21 (for educational institutions), and the regulations at 20 CFR 667.200(c), apply to INA grantees, depending on the nature of the grantee organization.
§ 668.850   What audit requirements apply to INA grants?
The audit requirements established under the Department's regulations at 29 CFR part 99, which implement OMB Circular A-133, apply to all Native American WIA grants. These regulations, for all of WIA title I, are cited at 20 CFR 667.200(b). Audit resolution procedures are covered at 20 CFR 667.500 and 667.510.
§ 668.860   What cash management procedures apply to INA grant funds?
INA grantees must draw down funds only as they actually need them. The U.S. Department of Treasury regulations which implement the Cash Management Improvement Act, found at 31 CFR part 205, apply by law to most recipients of Federal funds. Special rules may apply to those grantees required to keep their funds in interest-bearing accounts, and to grantees participating in the demonstration under Public Law 102-477.
§ 668.870   What is “program income” and how is it regulated in the INA program?
(a) Program income is defined and regulated by WIA section 195(7), 20 CFR 667.200(a)(5) and the applicable rules in 29 CFR parts 95 and 97.
(b) For grants made under this part, program income does not include income generated by the work of a work experience participant in an enterprise, including an enterprise owned by an Indian tribe or Alaska Native entity, whether in the public or private sector.
(c) Program income does not include income generated by the work of an OJT participant in an establishment under paragraph (b) of this section.
§ 668.900   Does WIA provide regulatory and/or statutory waiver authority?
Yes, WIA section 166(h)(3) permits waivers of any statutory or regulatory requirement imposed upon INA grantees (except for the areas cited in § 668.920). Such waivers may include those necessary to facilitate WIA support of long term community development goals.
§ 668.910   What information is required to document a requested waiver?
To request a waiver, an INA grantee must submit a plan indicating how the waiver will improve the grantee's WIA program activities. We will provide further guidance on the waiver process, consistent with the provisions of WIA section 166(h)(3).
§ 668.920   What provisions of law or regulations may not be waived?
Requirements relating to:
(a) Wage and labor standards;
(b) Worker rights;
(c) Participation and protection of workers and participants;
(d) Grievance procedures;
(e) Judicial review; and
(f) Non-discrimination may not be waived. (WIA sec. 166(h)(3)(A).)
§ 668.930   May INA grantees combine or consolidate their employment and training funds?
Yes, INA grantees may consolidate their employment and training funds under WIA with assistance received from related programs in accordance with the provisions of the Indian Employment, Training and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992 (Public Law 102-477) (25 U.S.C. 3401 et seq. ). Also, Federally-recognized tribes that administer INA funds and funds provided by more than one State under other sections of WIA title I may enter into an agreement with the Governors to transfer the State funds to the INA program. (WIA sec. 166(f) and (h)(6).)
§ 668.940   What is the role of the Native American Employment and Training Council?
The Native American Employment and Training Council is a body composed of representatives of the grantee community which advises the Secretary on all aspects of Native American employment and training program implementation. WIA section 166(h)(4) continues the Council essentially as it is currently constituted, with the exception that all the Council members no longer have to be Native American. However, the nature of the consultative process remains essentially unchanged. We continue to support the Council.