FY_2024_IPR_NOFO_04-10-24_Final_508AB.pdf

FY 2024 IPR NOFO

The U. S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

Fiscal Year 2024 Intercity Passenger Rail Program

All entities wishing to do business with the federal government must have a unique entity identifier (UEI). The UEI number is issued by the system. Requesting a UEI using System for Award Management (SAM.gov) can be found at: https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration.

Updates in Grant Application Forms:

The Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number was replaced by a new, non-proprietary identifier requested in, and assigned by SAM.gov. This new identifier is the Unique Entity Identifier.

Additional Information can be found on Grants.gov: https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-development/planned-uei-updates.

https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-development/planned-uei-updates https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-development/planned-uei-updates

Table of Contents Updates in Grant Application Forms:

A. Program Description

1. Issued By

2. Assistance Listings Number

3. Assistance Listings Title

4. Funding Opportunity Title

5. Funding Opportunity Number

6. Authorizing Authority for Program

7. Appropriation Authority for Program

8. Announcement Type

9. Program Category

10. Program Overview, Objectives, and Priorities

11. Performance Measures

B. Federal Award Information

1. Available Funding for the NOFO: $9,000,000

2. Period of Performance: 36 months

3. Projected Period of Performance Start Date(s): 09/01/2024

4. Projected Period of Performance End Date(s): 08/31/2027

5. Projected Budget Period(s)

6. Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement

C. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

2. Applicant Eligibility Criteria

3. Subawards and Beneficiaries

4. Other Eligibility Criteria/Restrictions

a. National Incident Management System (NIMS) Implementation

5. Cost Share or Match

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Key Dates and Times

a. Application Start Date: 04/16/2024

b. Application Submission Deadline: 06/24/2024 at 5 p.m. ET

c. Anticipated Funding Selection Date: No later than August 23, 2024

d. Anticipated Award Date: No later than September 30, 2024

e. Other Key Dates:

2. Agreeing to Terms and Conditions of the Award

3. Address to Request Application Package

4. Requirements: Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and Register in the System for

Award Management (SAM.gov)

5. Steps Required to Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier, Register in the System for Award

Management (SAM), and Submit an Application

6. Electronic Delivery

7. How to Register to Apply

a. General Instructions:

b. Obtain an UEI Number:

c. Obtain Employer Identification Number

d. Create a login.gov account:

e. Register with SAM:

g. Register in FEMA GO, Add the Organization to the System, and Establish the AOR:

8. Submitting the Application

9. Timely Receipt Requirements and Proof of Timely Submission

10. Content and Form of Application Submission

a. Standard Required Application Forms and Information

b. Program-Specific Required Forms and Information

11. Intergovernmental Review

12. Funding Restrictions and Allowable Costs

a. Prohibitions on Expending FEMA Award Funds for Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services

b. Pre-Award Costs

c. Management and Administration (M&A) Costs

d. Indirect Facilities & Administrative (F&A) Costs

e. Evaluation Costs

f. Other Direct Costs

g. Unallowable Costs

h. Excess Funds

E. Application Review Information

1. Application Evaluation Criteria

a. Programmatic Criteria

b. Financial Integrity Criteria

c. Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review

2. Review and Selection Process F. Federal Award Administration Information

1. Notice of Award

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

a. DHS Standard Terms and Conditions

b. Ensuring the Protection of Civil Rights

c. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation (EHP) Compliance

d. National Incident Management System (NIMS) Implementation

e. Mandatory Disclosures

3. Reporting

4. Monitoring and Oversight

G. DHS Awarding Agency Contact Information

1. Contact and Resource Information

a. Program Office Contact

b. FEMA Grants News

c. Grant Programs Directorate (GPD) Award Administration Division

d. Equal Rights

e. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation

2. Systems Information

a. FEMA GO

H. Additional Information

1. Termination Provisions

a. Noncompliance

b. With the Consent of the Recipient

c. Notification by the Recipient

2. Program Evaluation

3. Financial Assistance Programs for Infrastructure

a. Build America, Buy America Act

b. Waivers

c. Definitions

4. Report issues of fraud, waste, abuse

A. Program Description

1. Issued By

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)/Grant Programs Directorate (GPD)

2. Assistance Listings Number 97.075

3. Assistance Listings Title Rail and Transit Security Grant Program

4. Funding Opportunity Title Fiscal Year 2024 Intercity Passenger Rail Program (IPR)

5. Funding Opportunity Number

DHS-24-GPD-075-00-98

6. Authorizing Authority for Program Section 1513 of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (Pub. L. No. 110-53) (6 U.S.C. § 1163)

7. Appropriation Authority for Program Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024, Pub. L. No. 118-47, Title III, “Protection, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery”

8. Announcement Type Initial

9. Program Category Preparedness: Infrastructure Security

10. Program Overview, Objectives, and Priorities

a. Overview The Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Intercity Passenger Rail (IPR) – Amtrak program is one of four grant programs that constitute DHS/FEMA’s focus on transportation infrastructure security activities. These grant programs are part of a comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by DHS to help strengthen the Nation’s critical infrastructure against potential terrorist attacks. The IPR provides funds to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) to protect critical surface transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism.

Examples of recent IPR accomplishments include successfully executed full-scale and tabletop exercises building upon the outcomes of previously funded exercises with a focus on response plans, policies, and procedures. Additional examples of IPR accomplishments include efforts to increase security awareness through public campaigns (e.g., Text-a-Tip, passenger security awareness videos displayed through kiosks) as well providing training for law enforcement personnel focusing on railroad infrastructure and counter-terrorism.

For FY 2024, DHS is focused on the criticality of information sharing and collaboration to building a national culture of preparedness and protecting against terrorism and other threats to our national security. DHS and its homeland security mission were born from the “failures among federal agencies and between the federal agencies and state and local authorities to share critical information related to the threat of terrorism” prior to the September 11, 2001, attacks.1 The threat profile has changed in the last two decades – we now face continuous cyber threats by sophisticated actors, threats to soft targets and crowded places, threats to our democratic election process and threats from new and emerging technologies. But information sharing and cooperation between state, local, tribal, and territorial authorities, and federal agencies, including all DHS officials, is just as vital, and perhaps even more vital, today. Therefore, we have identified two priority areas for 2024 related to some of the most serious threats that Amtrak should address with IPR funds. These two priorities areas include enhancing cybersecurity and enhancing the protection of soft targets/crowded places. DHS also will continue to forge partnerships to strengthen information sharing and collaboration in each of these priority areas.

For FY 2023, one application was received and one approved for funding. Amtrak is the only permitted recipient for this grant.

b. Goals, Objectives, and Priorities Goals: Strengthen the nation’s critical transportation infrastructure against risks associated with potential terrorist attacks.

Objectives: IPR achieves this goal through the following objectives:

1) Building and sustaining Amtrak’s core capabilities (Core capabilities are the means required to deal with the security risks Amtrak is most likely to face, an assessment of which will describe the security and resilience posture for Amtrak. Core capabilities are outlined in the National Preparedness Goal);

2) Building and sustaining Amtrak’s capabilities in the national priority areas (see below for the FY 2024 priorities); and

3) Addressing and closing gaps identified in Amtrak’s Vulnerability Assessment and Security Plan (e.g., based on the Baseline Assessment for Security Enhancement).

Priorities: Given the evolving threat landscape, it is incumbent upon DHS/FEMA to continuously evaluate the national risk profile and set priorities that help ensure the

1 Homeland Security Act of 2002: Report Together with Minority and Dissenting Views 222, Select Committee on Homeland Security: 107th Congress, U.S. House of Representatives (2002) (H. Rpt. 107-609).

https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/national_preparedness_goal_2nd_edition.pdf appropriate allocation of scarce security dollars. In assessing the national risk profile for FY 2024, two areas attract the most concern. As a result, DHS is requiring a minimum percentage of the FY 2024 IPR be spent in the following areas:

1) Enhancing cybersecurity – (no minimum percent); and

2) Enhancing the protection of soft targets/crowded places – 5%.

For more information about these priorities, see Section D.10.b.

Additionally, there are several enduring security needs that crosscut the homeland security enterprise. The following are second-tier priorities that help recipients implement a comprehensive approach to securing critical transportation infrastructure:

1) Effective planning;

2) Training and awareness campaigns;

3) Equipment and capital projects; and

4) Exercises.

The table below provides a breakdown of these priority areas for the FY 2024 IPR, showing both the core capabilities enhanced and lifelines supported, as well as examples of eligible project types for each area. More information on allowable investments can be found in the Funding Restrictions and Allowable Costs section below.

FY 2024 IPR Funding Priorities All priorities in this table concern the Safety and Security and Transportation Lifelines.

Priority Areas Core Capabilities Example Project Types

National Priorities Enhancing Cybersecurity

• Cybersecurity

• Intelligence and information sharing

• Planning

• Public information and warning

• Operational coordination

• Screening, search, and detection

• Access control and identity verification

• Supply chain integrity and security

• Risk management for protection programs and activities

• Long-term vulnerability reduction

• Situational assessment

• Infrastructure systems

• Operational communications

• Cybersecurity risk assessments

• Projects that address vulnerabilities identified in cybersecurity risk assessments

• Improving cybersecurity of critical infrastructure to meet minimum levels identified by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework (Version 1.1)

• Adoption of cybersecurity performance goals (CISA's Cross-Sector Cybersecurity Performance Goals)

• Cybersecurity training and planning https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework https://www.cisa.gov/cpg

Priority Areas Core Capabilities Example Project Types Enhancing the Protection of Soft Targets/Crowded Places

• Operational coordination

• Public information and warning

• Intelligence and

Information Sharing

• Interdiction and disruption

• Screening, search, and detection

• Access control and identity verification

• Physical protective measures

• Risk management for protection programs and activities

• Physical security enhancements at Amtrak-owned stations ο Closed-circuit television security cameras ο Security screening equipment and technology for people and baggage ο Access controls: Fencing, gates, barriers, etc.

• Use of visible, unpredictable deterrence, to include Operational Packages:

ο Explosives Detection Canine Teams ο Mobile Explosives Detection Screening Teams ο Anti-Terrorism Teams

• Directed/Surge Patrols on Overtime

Enduring Needs Planning • Planning

• Risk management for protection programs and activities

• Risk & disaster resilience assessment

• Threats and hazards identification

• Operational coordination

• Development of:

ο System-wide Security Risk Management Plans ο Continuity of Operations Plans ο Response Plans/Station Action Plans ο System-wide and/or asset-specific vulnerability assessments Assessments should consider the impacts of climate change on investments to close identified security gaps2

• Efforts to strengthen governance integration between/among regional partners

Training & Awareness

• Long-term vulnerability reduction

• Public information & warning

• Active shooter training, including integrating the needs of persons with disabilities

• Security training for employees

• Public awareness/preparedness campaigns

Equipment & Capital Projects

• Long-term vulnerability reduction

• Infrastructure systems

• Operational communications

• Interdiction & disruption

• Screening, search, and detection

• Access control and identity verification

• Physical protective measures

• Top Transit Asset List (TTAL) risk remediation

• Protection of other high-risk, high-consequence areas or systems that have been identified through system-wide risk assessments

• Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive detection, prevention, response and recovery equipment

• Explosive Detection Canine Teams

• Security screening equipment and technology for people and baggage

• Unmanned Aircraft Systems and detection technologies Exercises • Long-term vulnerability reduction

• Response exercises

2 For more information on considering the impacts of climate change, please see Executive Order 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad and Executive Order 14030, Climate-Related Financial Risk https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/27/executive-order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis-at-home-and-abroad/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/27/executive-order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis-at-home-and-abroad/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/05/20/executive-order-on-climate-related-financial-risk/

c. Alignment to Program Purpose and the DHS and FEMA Strategic Plan

Among the five basic homeland security missions noted in the DHS Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020-2024, the IPR supports the goal to Strengthen Preparedness and Resilience.

The 2022-2026 FEMA Strategic Plan outlines three bold, ambitious goals in order to position FEMA to address the increasing range and complexity of disasters, support the diversity of communities we serve, and complement the nation’s growing expectations of the emergency management community. The IPR supports Goal 3 to Promote and Sustain a Ready FEMA and Prepared Nation. We invite our stakeholders and partners to also adopt these priorities and join us in building a more prepared and resilient nation.

11. Performance Measures

Performance metrics for this program are as follows:

• Percentage of funding allocated by the recipient to core capabilities to build or sustain the national priorities identified in the section above.

B. Federal Award Information

1. Available Funding for the NOFO: $9,000,000

2. Period of Performance: 36 months

Extensions to the period of performance are allowed. For additional information on period of performance extensions, please refer to the Preparedness Grants Manual (FM-207-23-001).

3. Projected Period of Performance Start Date(s): 09/01/2024

4. Projected Period of Performance End Date(s): 08/31/2027

5. Projected Budget Period(s)

There will be only a single budget period with the same start and end dates as the period of performance.

6. Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement

Program authority and responsibility under this Cooperative Agreement reside with DHS/FEMA. DHS/FEMA retains the right to terminate all or part of the Cooperative Agreement as permitted by 2 C.F.R. § 200.340 and may conduct site visits and monitoring throughout the period of performance.

DHS/FEMA will work with Amtrak to develop and refine the details of executing this award, for example, including work plans, goals and objectives, timelines, deliverables and effectiveness measures, selection of key partners, development of outreach or educational materials, coordination of multistate efforts, and defining eligible and ineligible tasks to https://www.dhs.gov/publication/department-homeland-securitys-strategic-plan-fiscal-years-2020-2024 https://www.dhs.gov/publication/department-homeland-securitys-strategic-plan-fiscal-years-2020-2024 https://www.fema.gov/about/strategic-plan https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/manual ensure that the program is effectively implemented. Amtrak shall not develop or engage in the development of tasks not approved in the application without prior approval and the issuance of an amendment to the award by DHS/FEMA.

IPR Program Management: Roles and Responsibilities at DHS (Substantial Role of Agency) Effective management of the IPR program entails a collaborative effort and partnership within DHS/FEMA. For the FY 2024 IPR program, DHS/FEMA is responsible for designing and operating the required administrative mechanisms to implement and manage the grant program. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) within DHS provides programmatic subject matter expertise for the transportation industry. TSA assists by coordinating the intelligence information and risk/vulnerability assessments resulting in ranking and rating rail and mass transit assets nationwide against threats associated with potential terrorist attacks and in defining the parameters for identifying, protecting, deterring, responding, and recovering from such incidents. Together, these two DHS agencies, with the additional assistance and cooperation of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), determine the primary security architecture of the IPR program.

DHS/FEMA and DHS/TSA provide substantial federal involvement with the following activities:

• Review and approve the Investment Justifications before submitting the formal application;

• Retain the authority to halt Amtrak’s funded activity immediately if Amtrak does not meet all conditions as listed in the award;

• Review Amtrak’s project management plans and decisions;

• Require Amtrak to maintain close collaboration with federal program staff for the purpose of controlling all aspects of Amtrak’s performance of grant program activities; and

• On a quarterly basis, review Amtrak’s progress towards resolution of identified project issues.

C. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

The National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) is the only eligible entity per the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024, Pub. L. No. 118-47, Title III, “Protection, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery.”

2. Applicant Eligibility Criteria

Sections 1512 and 1513 of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (6 U.S.C. §§ 1162 and 1163) require a recipient to complete a vulnerability assessment and develop a security plan. To be eligible for the FY 2024 IPR, Amtrak must have developed, or updated, its security plan. The security plan must be based on a security assessment, such as the Baseline Assessment for Security Enhancement, which is performed by TSA’s Transportation Security Inspectors-Surface. This security assessment must have been conducted within the last three years prior to receiving the FY 2024 IPR award. A copy of the security plan and security assessment must be provided to DHS/FEMA upon request.

Please see the Preparedness Grants Manual for more information on security plan requirements.

Amtrak, in receiving funds through this program, must participate in Regional Transit Security Working Groups (RTSWGs) in participating urban areas. The RTSWG should serve as the forum for regional partners to discuss risk, planning efforts, and mitigation strategies.

These discussions should be held regardless of funding to continue enhancing the overall security of the region. Regional working groups are a best practice for enhancing security and are encouraged for all jurisdictions.

An application submitted by an otherwise eligible non-federal entity (i.e., the applicant) may be deemed ineligible when the person that submitted the application is not: 1) a current employee, personnel, official, staff or leadership of the non-federal entity; and 2) duly authorized to apply for an award on behalf of the non-federal entity at the time of application.

Further, the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) and Signatory Authority (SA) must be a duly authorized current employee, personnel, official, staff or leadership of the recipient and provide an email address unique to the recipient at the time of application and upon any change in assignment during the period of performance. Consultants or contractors of the recipient are not permitted to be the AOR or the SA of the recipient. It is the sole responsibility of the recipient to keep their points of contact for the organization up-to-date and accurate in all federal systems.

The AOR is responsible for submitting programmatic and financial performance reports, accepting award packages, signing assurances and certifications, and submitting award amendments.

3. Subawards and Beneficiaries

a. Subaward allowability Subawards are not allowed under the IPR Program.

b. Beneficiaries or Participants This NOFO and any subsequent federal awards create no rights or causes of action for any participant or beneficiary.

4. Other Eligibility Criteria/Restrictions

a. National Incident Management System (NIMS) Implementation Prior to allocation of any federal preparedness awards, recipients must ensure and maintain adoption and implementation of NIMS. The list of objectives used for progress and achievement reporting is on FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/nims/implementation-training.

Please see the Preparedness Grants Manual for more information on NIMS.

https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/nims/implementation-training https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/178291

5. Cost Share or Match There is no cost share or cost match requirement for the FY 2024 IPR program.

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Key Dates and Times

a. Application Start Date: 04/16/2024

b. Application Submission Deadline: 06/24/2024 at 5 p.m. ET

All applications must be received by the established deadline.

FEMA’s Grants Outcomes System (FEMA GO) automatically records proof of timely submission and the system generates an electronic date/time stamp when FEMA GO successfully receives the application. The individual with the AOR role that submitted the application will also receive the official date/time stamp and a FEMA GO tracking number in an email serving as proof of their timely submission. For additional information on how an applicant will be notified of application receipt, see the subsection titled “Timely Receipt Requirements and Proof of Timely Submission” in Section D of this NOFO.

FEMA will not review applications that are received after the deadline or consider these late applications for funding. FEMA may, however, extend the application deadline on request for any applicant who can demonstrate that good cause exists to justify extending the deadline. Good cause for an extension may include technical problems outside of the applicant’s control that prevent submission of the application by the deadline, other exigent or emergency circumstances, or statutory requirements for FEMA to make an award.

Applicants experiencing technical problems outside of their control must notify FEMA as soon as possible and before the application deadline. Failure to timely notify FEMA of the issue that prevented the timely filing of the application may preclude consideration of the award. “Timely notification” of FEMA means the following: prior to the application deadline and within 48 hours after the applicant became aware of the issue.

A list of FEMA contacts can be found in Section G of this NOFO, “DHS Awarding Agency Contact Information.” For technical assistance with the FEMA GO system, please contact the FEMA GO Helpdesk at femago@fema.dhs.gov or (877) 585-3242, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Eastern Time (ET). For programmatic or grants management questions, please contact your Preparedness Officer or Grants Management Specialist. If applicants do not know who to contact or if there are programmatic questions or concerns, please contact fema-grants-news@fema.dhs.gov, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET.

c. Anticipated Funding Selection Date: No later than August 23, 2024

d. Anticipated Award Date: No later than September 30, 2024 mailto:femago@fema.dhs.gov mailto:fema-grants-news@fema.dhs.gov

e. Other Key Dates:

2. Agreeing to Terms and Conditions of the Award

By submitting an application, applicants agree to comply with the requirements of this NOFO and the terms and conditions of the award, should they receive an award.

3. Address to Request Application Package Applications are processed through the FEMA GO system. To access the system, go to https://go.fema.gov/.

4. Requirements: Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and Register in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Each applicant, unless they have a valid exception under 2 CFR §25.110, must:

a. Be registered in Sam.Gov before application submission.

b. Provide a valid UEI in its application.

c. Continue to always maintain an active SAM registration with current information during the federal award process. Note: Per 2 C.F.R. § 25.300, subrecipients are NOT required to go through the full SAM registration process. First-tier subrecipients (meaning entities receiving funds directly from the recipient) are only required to obtain a UEI through SAM, but they are not required to complete the full SAM registration in order to obtain a UEI. Recipients may not make subawards unless the subrecipient has obtained and provided the UEI.

Lower-tier subrecipients (meaning entities receiving funds passed through by a higher-tier subrecipient) are not required to have a UEI and are not required to register in SAM.

Applicants are also not permitted to require subrecipients to complete a full registration in SAM beyond obtaining the UEI.

5. Steps Required to Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier, Register in the System for Award

Management (SAM), and Submit an Application Applying for an award under this program is a multi-step process and requires time to complete. Applicants are encouraged to register early as the registration process can take four weeks or more to complete. Therefore, registration should be done in sufficient time to

Event Suggested Deadline for Completion Obtaining Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number

Four weeks before actual submission deadline

Obtaining a valid Employer Identification Number (EIN) Four weeks before actual submission deadline

Creating an account with login.gov Four weeks before actual submission deadline Registering in SAM or updating SAM registration Four weeks before actual submission deadline

Registering Organization in FEMA GO Prior to beginning application

Submitting complete application in FEMA GO One week before actual submission deadline https://go.fema.gov/ https://sam.gov/content/home ensure it does not impact your ability to meet required submission deadlines. Please review the table above for estimated deadlines to complete each of the steps listed. Failure of an applicant to comply with any of the required steps before the deadline for submitting an application may disqualify that application from funding.

To apply for an award under this program, all applicants must:

a. Apply for, update, or verify their UEI number and Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service;

b. In the application, provide an UEI number;

c. Have an account with login.gov;

d. Register for, update, or verify their SAM account and ensure the account is active before submitting the application;

e. Register in FEMA GO, add the organization to the system, and establish the AOR.

The organization’s electronic business point of contact (EBiz POC) from the SAM registration may need to be involved in this step. For step-by-step instructions, see https://www.fema.gov/grants/guidance-tools/fema-go/startup;

f. Submit the complete application in FEMA GO; and

g. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency. As part of this, applicants must also provide information on an applicant’s immediate and highest-level owner and subsidiaries, as well as on all predecessors that have been awarded federal contracts or federal financial assistance within the last three years, if applicable.

Applicants are advised that FEMA may not make a federal award until the applicant has complied with all applicable SAM requirements. Therefore, an applicant’s SAM registration must be active not only at the time of application, but also during the application review period and when FEMA is ready to make a federal award. Further, as noted above, an applicant’s or recipient’s SAM registration must remain active for the duration of an active federal award. If an applicant’s SAM registration is expired at the time of application, expires during application review, or expires any other time before award, FEMA may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a federal award to another applicant.

Per 2 C.F.R. § 25.110(c)(2)(iii), if an applicant is experiencing exigent circumstances that prevents it from obtaining an UEI number and completing SAM registration prior to receiving a federal award, the applicant must notify FEMA as soon as possible by contacting fema-grants-news@fema.dhs.gov and providing the details of the circumstances that prevent completion of these requirements. If FEMA determines that there are exigent circumstances and FEMA has decided to make an award, the applicant will be required to obtain an UEI number, if applicable, and complete SAM registration within 30 days of the federal award date.

https://www.login.gov/ https://www.fema.gov/grants/guidance-tools/fema-go/startup mailto:fema-grants-news@fema.dhs.gov

6. Electronic Delivery DHS is participating in the Grants.gov initiative to provide the grant community with a single site to find and apply for grant funding opportunities. DHS encourages or requires applicants to submit their applications online through Grants.gov, depending on the funding opportunity.

For this funding opportunity, FEMA requires applicants to submit applications through

FEMA GO.

7. How to Register to Apply

a. General Instructions:

Registering and applying for an award under this program is a multi-step process and requires time to complete. Read the instructions below about registering to apply for FEMA funds. Applicants should read the registration instructions carefully and prepare the information requested before beginning the registration process.

Reviewing and assembling the required information before beginning the registration process will alleviate last-minute searches for required information.

The registration process can take up to four weeks to complete. To ensure an application meets the deadline, applicants are advised to start the required steps well in advance of their submission.

Organizations must have an UEI number, an EIN, and an active SAM registration to apply for a federal award under this funding opportunity.

b. Obtain an UEI Number:

All entities applying for funding, including renewal funding, must have a UEI number. Applicants must enter the UEI number in the applicable data entry field on the SF-424 form.

For more detailed instructions for obtaining a UEI number, refer to: SAM.gov.

c. Obtain Employer Identification Number All entities applying for funding must provide an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The EIN can be obtained from the IRS by visiting:

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online.

d. Create a login.gov account:

Applicants must have a login.gov account in order to register with SAM or update their SAM registration. Applicants can create a login.gov account here:

https://secure.login.gov/sign_up/enter_email?request_id=34f19fa8-14a2-438c-8323-a62b99571fd3.

https://sam.gov/content/home https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online https://secure.login.gov/sign_up/enter_email?request_id=34f19fa8-14a2-438c-8323-a62b99571fd3 https://secure.login.gov/sign_up/enter_email?request_id=34f19fa8-14a2-438c-8323-a62b99571fd3

Applicants only have to create a login.gov account once. For applicants that are existing SAM users, use the same email address for the login.gov account as with SAM.gov so that the two accounts can be linked.

For more information on the login.gov requirements for SAM registration, refer to:

https://www.sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/loginFAQ.jsf.

e. Register with SAM:

All applicants applying online through FEMA GO must register with SAM. Failure to register with SAM will prevent an applicant from completing the application in FEMA GO. SAM registration must be renewed annually. Organizations will be issued a UEI number with the completed SAM registration.

For more detailed instructions for registering with SAM, refer to:

https://apply07.grants.gov/help/html/help/Register/RegisterWithSAM.htm.

Note: Per 2 C.F.R. § 25.200, applicants must also provide the applicant’s immediate and highest-level owner, subsidiaries, and predecessors that have been awarded federal contracts or federal financial assistance within the last three years, if applicable.

I. ADDITIONAL SAM REMINDERS

Existing SAM.gov account holders should check their account to make sure it is “ACTIVE.” SAM registration should be completed at the very beginning of the application period and should be renewed annually to avoid being “INACTIVE.”

Please allow plenty of time before the grant application submission deadline to obtain an UEI number and then to register in SAM. It may be four weeks or more after an applicant submits the SAM registration before the registration is active in SAM, and then it may be an additional 24 hours before FEMA’s system recognizes the information.

It is imperative that the information applicants provide is correct and current.

Please ensure that your organization’s name, address, and EIN are up to date in SAM and that the UEI number used in SAM is the same one used to apply for all other FEMA awards. Payment under any FEMA award is contingent on the recipient’s having a current SAM registration.

II. HELP WITH SAM

The SAM quick start guide for new recipient registration and SAM video tutorial for new applicants are tools created by the General Services Administration (GSA) to assist those registering with SAM. If applicants have questions or concerns about a SAM registration, please contact the Federal Support Desk at https://www.fsd.gov/fsd-gov/home.do or call toll free (866) 606-8220.

https://www.sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/loginFAQ.jsf https://apply07.grants.gov/help/html/help/Register/RegisterWithSAM.htm https://www.fsd.gov/fsd-gov/home.do

g. Register in FEMA GO, Add the Organization to the System, and Establish the

AOR:

Applicants must register in FEMA GO and add their organization to the system. The organization’s electronic business point of contact (EBiz POC) from the SAM registration may need to be involved in this step. For step-by-step instructions, see https://www.fema.gov/grants/guidance-tools/fema-go/startup.

Note: FEMA GO will support only the most recent major release of the following browsers:

• Google Chrome

• Internet Explorer

• Mozilla Firefox

• Apple Safari

• Microsoft Edge

Users who attempt to use tablet type devices or other browsers may encounter issues with using FEMA GO.

8. Submitting the Application

Applicants will be prompted to submit the standard application information and any program-specific information required as described in Section D.10 of this NOFO, “Content and Form of Application Submission.” The Standard Forms (SF) may be accessed in the Forms tab under the https://grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family. Applicants should review these forms before applying to ensure they have all the information required.

After submitting the final application, FEMA GO will provide either an error message or a successfully received transmission in the form of an email sent to the AOR that submitted the application. Applicants using slow internet connections, such as dial-up connections, should be aware that transmission can take some time before FEMA GO receives your application.

For additional application submission requirements, including program-specific requirements, please refer to the subsection titled “Content and Form of Application Submission” under Section D of this NOFO.

9. Timely Receipt Requirements and Proof of Timely Submission All applications must be completed in FEMA GO by the application deadline. FEMA GO automatically records proof of timely submission and the system generates an electronic date/time stamp when FEMA GO successfully receives the application. The individual with the AOR role that submitted the application will also receive the official date/time stamp and a FEMA GO tracking number in an email serving as proof of their timely submission on the date and time that FEMA GO received the application.

Applicants who experience system-related issues will be addressed until 3:00 PM ET on the date applications are due. No new system-related issues will be addressed after this https://www.fema.gov/grants/guidance-tools/fema-go/startup https://grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family deadline. Applications not received by the application submission deadline will not be accepted.

10. Content and Form of Application Submission

a. Standard Required Application Forms and Information Generally, applicants have to submit either the non-construction forms (i.e., SF-424A and SF-424B) or construction forms (i.e., SF-424C and SF-424D), meaning that applicants that only have construction work and do not have any non-construction work need only submit the construction forms (i.e., SF-424C and SF-424D) and not the non-construction forms (i.e., SF-424A and SF-424B), and vice versa. However, applicants who have both construction and non-construction work under this program need to submit both the construction and non-construction forms.

The following forms or information are required to be submitted via FEMA GO. The Standard Forms (SF) are also available at https://grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family.

• SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance

• Grants.gov Lobbying Form, Certification Regarding Lobbying

• SF-424A, Budget Information (Non-Construction) o For construction under an award, submit SF-424C, Budget Information (Construction), in addition to or instead of SF-424A

• SF-424B, Standard Assurances (Non-Construction) o For construction under an award, submit SF-424D, Standard

Assurances (Construction), in addition to or instead of SF-424B

• SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

b. Program-Specific Required Forms and Information

The following program-specific forms or information are required to be submitted in

FEMA GO:

• Associated Investment Justifications

• Detailed budgets

• Associated Memoranda of Understanding/Memoranda of Agreement

I. PRIORITY INVESTMENTS

Cybersecurity (no minimum percentage) Cybersecurity investments must support the security and functioning of critical infrastructure and core capabilities as they relate to achieving target capabilities related to preventing, preparing for, protecting against, or responding to acts of terrorism. Additional resources and information regarding cybersecurity and cybersecurity performance goals are available through the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Cross-Sector Cybersecurity Performance Goals, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

https://go.fema.gov/ https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework

Soft Targets and Crowded Places (5% minimum) Soft targets and crowded places are increasingly appealing to terrorists and other violent extremist actors because of their relative accessibility and the large number of potential targets. This challenge is complicated by the prevalent use of simple tactics and less sophisticated attacks. Segments of our society are inherently open to the general public, and by nature of their purpose do not incorporate strict security measures. Given the increased emphasis by terrorists and other violent extremist actors to leverage less sophisticated methods to inflict harm in public areas, it is vital that the public and private sectors collaborate to enhance security of locations such as transportation centers, parks, restaurants, shopping centers, special event venues, and similar facilities. Additional resources and information regarding securing soft targets and crowded places are available through the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

II. INVESTMENT JUSTIFICATION (IJ)

As part of the FY 2024 IPR application process, applicants must develop a formal IJ that addresses each initiative being proposed for funding, including a project’s management and administration (M&A) costs. Applicants may submit up to eight IJs. IJs must demonstrate how proposed projects address gaps and deficiencies in current programs and capabilities and link to one or more core capabilities identified in the National Preparedness Goal. Applicants are encouraged to submit a separate IJ for each proposed project. IPR projects must be: 1) feasible and effective at reducing the risks for which the project was designed, and 2) able to be fully completed within the three-year period of performance. Applicants must ensure that the IJs are consistent with all applicable requirements outlined in this NOFO. IJs must be submitted with the grant application as a file attachment within FEMA GO. Applicants must use the following file naming convention when submitting IJ attachments through FEMA GO as part of the FY 2024 IPR program:

Name of Applicant_IJ Number (Example: Amtrak_IJ 1)

Applicants must provide information in the following categories for each proposed investment:

1. Background

2. Strategic and Program Priorities

3. Impact

4. Funding/Implementation Plan

III. OPERATIONAL PACKAGES (OPACKS)

Applicants that meet basic OPack eligibility requirements may elect to pursue OPack funding for Canine Teams, Mobile Explosives Detection Screening Teams, and Anti-Terrorism Teams, for new capabilities, as well as to sustain existing OPacks. Applicants pursuing both new OPacks and sustainment funding for existing OPacks must indicate in their IJs which option is the higher priority for their agency. Additionally, applicants pursuing either new teams or https://www.cisa.gov/securing-public-gatherings sustainment of existing teams must include the number of OPack teams already in place (either funded by the agency or by IPR). In addition, recipients must commit to minimum training standards for all federally funded OPack positions.

In order for an application for an OPack to be considered eligible, it must include a Five-Year Security Capital and Operational Sustainment Plan. Please see www.grants.gov for the required template. Please refer to the Operational Activities section below for more information.

IV. DETAILED BUDGET

Applicants must provide detailed budgets for the funds requested. The detailed budgets must be submitted with the grant application as a file attachment within FEMA GO. The budgets must be complete, reasonable, and cost-effective in relation to the proposed projects. The budgets should provide the basis of computation of all project-related costs, any appropriate narrative, and a detailed justification of M&A costs. Applicants receiving funds may not obligate, expend, or draw down funds until budgets and budget narratives have been approved by DHS/FEMA. The budget detail worksheet on Grants.gov may be used as a guide to assist applicants in the preparation of budgets and budget narratives. Note:

Design and Planning/Engineering costs must be clearly identified in a separate line item in order for partial funding to be released prior to Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation (EHP) review and approval. Please see the Preparedness Grants Manual for information on the EHP review process.

Detailed budgets must be submitted with the grant application as a file attachment within FEMA GO. Applicants must use the following file naming convention when submitting detailed budgets as part of the IPR application process:

Agency Name_IJ Number_Budget (Example: Amtrak IJ _1_Budget)

V. SENSITIVE SECURITY INFORMATION (SSI) REQUIREMENTS

A portion of the information that is routinely submitted in the course of applying for funding, reporting under certain programs, or that is provided in the course of an entity’s grant management activities under those programs that are under federal control may be subject to protection under an SSI marking and must be properly identified and marked accordingly. SSI is a control designation used by DHS/FEMA to protect transportation security-related information. It is applied to information about security programs; vulnerability and threat assessments;

screening processes; technical specifications of certain screening equipment and objects used to test screening equipment; and equipment used for communicating security information relating to air, land, or maritime transportation. Further information can be found at 49 C.F.R. Part 1520, Protection of Sensitive Security Information.

For the purposes of the IPR, and due to the high frequency of SSI found in IPR-related IJs, all IPR IJs shall be considered SSI and treated as such until they have http://www.grants.gov/ https://go.fema.gov/ been subject to review for SSI by DHS/FEMA. Therefore, applicants shall label all application documents as SSI in accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 1520.13.

11. Intergovernmental Review

An intergovernmental review may be required. Applicants must contact their state’s Single Point of Contact (SPOC) to comply with the state’s process under Executive Order 12372 (See https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html;

Intergovernmental Review (SPOC List) (whitehouse.gov)

12. Funding Restrictions and Allowable Costs All costs charged to awards covered by this NOFO must comply with the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements at 2 C.F.R. Part 200, unless otherwise indicated in the NOFO, the terms and conditions of the award, or the Preparedness Grants Manual. This includes, among other requirements, that costs must be incurred, and products and services must be delivered, within the period of performance of the award. See 2 C.F.R. § 200.403(h) (referring to budget periods, which for FEMA awards under this program is the same as the period of performance).

Federal funds made available through this award may be used for the purpose set forth in this NOFO, the Preparedness Grants Manual, and the terms and conditions of the award and must be consistent with the statutory authority for the award. Award funds may not be used for matching funds for any other federal awards, lobbying, or intervention in federal regulatory or adjudicatory proceedings. In addition, federal funds may not be used to sue the Federal Government or any other government entity. See the Preparedness Grants Manual for more information on funding restrictions and allowable costs.

Additionally, costs charged to an IPR award must also be consistent with the cost principles in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 31.2 in lieu of 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Subpart E. Any conflicts between FAR Part 31.2 and 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Subpart E shall be resolved in favor of the applicable provision in FAR Part 31.2.

a. Prohibitions on Expending FEMA Award Funds for Covered Telecommunications

Equipment or Services See the Preparedness Grants Manual for information on prohibitions on expending FEMA award funds for covered telecommunications equipment or services.

b. Pre-Award Costs Pre-award costs are not allowable unless approved in writing by FEMA and included in the grant award.

c. Management and Administration (M&A) Costs

M&A costs are allowed by the FY 2024 Annual Appropriation (Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024, Pub. L. No. 118-47, Title III, “Protection, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery,” Section 302). Recipients may use up to 5% of the award for their M&A. M&A activities are those defined as directly relating to the management and administration of IPR funds, such as financial https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/SPOC-4-13-20.pdf https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/178291 https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/178291 management and monitoring.