170.117—How can a tribe determine whether a new use of funds is allowable?
(a)
A tribe that proposes new uses of IRR Program funds must ask BIA in writing whether the proposed use is eligible under Federal law. The tribe must also provide a copy of its inquiry to FHWA.
(1)
In cases involving eligibility questions that refer to 25 U.S.C., BIA will determine whether the new proposed use of IRR Program funds is allowable and provide a written response to the requesting tribe within 45 days of receiving the written inquiry. Tribes may appeal a denial of a proposed use by BIA under 25 CFR part 2. The address is: Department of the Interior, BIA, Division of Transportation, 1849 C Street, NW., MS 4058-MIB, Washington, DC 20240.
(2)
In cases involving eligibility questions that refer to the IRR Program or 23 U.S.C., BIA will refer an inquiry to FHWA for decision. FHWA must provide a written response to the requesting tribe within 45 days of receiving the written inquiry from the tribe. Tribes may appeal denials of a proposed use by the FHWA to: FHWA, 400 7th St., SW., HFL-1, Washington, DC 20590.
(b)
To the extent practical, the deciding agency must consult with the IRR Program Coordinating Committee before denying a request. BIA and FHWA will send copies of all eligibility determinations to the IRR Program Coordinating Committee and BIA Regional offices.
(c)
If either BIA or FHWA fails to issue the requesting tribe a timely response to the eligibility inquiry, the proposed use will be deemed to be allowable for that specific project.