Becerra v. San Carlos Apache Tribe is a landmark Supreme Court case centered around the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA), which enables Tribes to enter into contracts with the Federal Government to operate their own health programs. The court's recent decision in favor of the San Carlos Apache Tribe affirmed the government's obligation to fully fund these contracts, including paying contract support costs. To dive deeper into the case and its impact for Indian Country, host and REDW National Tribal Practice Leader Wesley Benally welcomes Kevin Cronk, CPA, and Lloyd B. Miller of Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Miller & Monkman, LLP to the podcast.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to the Becerra v. San Carlos Apache Tribe Ruling
• 04:14 - The Importance of Contract Support Costs for Tribal Self-Determination
• 06:33 - Documentation Challenges and Tips for Making Successful Claims
• 15:03 - Expanding Programs and Negotiating Better Terms with Federal Agencies

Takeaways

• The recent Supreme Court ruling in Becerra v. San Carlos Apache Tribe is a significant win for tribal sovereignty and self-determination.
• Contract support costs are crucial for Tribes operating health programs under self-determination, as they cover the overhead expenses of running the program.
• Tribes should gather the necessary documentation, such as indirect cost agreements, proposals, and amendments, to support their claims for contract support costs.
• The ruling provides an opportunity for Tribes to negotiate better terms with federal agencies and expand their programs to better serve their communities.
• Tribes should consult with legal counsel to ensure their claims are properly prepared and comply with the requirements of the Contract Disputes Act.

Get connected to expert insights for Tribal Nations. Subscribe to the Insight in Indian Country Newsletter.

REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs. Thanks for listening!