On Tuesday, Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs Kevin K. Washburn announced that the Office of Indian Energy and Economic Development (IEED) is soliciting grant proposals from federally recognized tribes for projects that promote the development of energy on Indian trust lands. IEED has $11 million available in FY 2014 for grants.
While energy development in Indian Country has been slow going, recent changes in the law have provoked some interest in the initial stages of Indian Country energy development. While some legal scholars have questioned the sincerity of these changes in law -- particularly because "Congress has shown time and time again that it is willing to pass these laws, but not to fund them," -- it appears that the Bureau of Indian Affairs and its IIED may, finally, be putting its money where its mouth is.
The Department's published solicitation can be found here. Proposals must be submitted no later than 75 calendar days from the announcement date.
Ryan Dreveskracht is an Associate at Galanda Broadman PLLC, of Seattle, an American Indian majority-owned law firm. His practice focuses on representing businesses and tribal governments in public affairs, energy, gaming, taxation, and general economic development. He can be reached at 206.909.3842 or ryan@galandabroadman.com.
