FY2017 COVERDELL FORMULA SOL.PDF

U.S. Department of Justice OMB No. 1121-0329
Office of Justice Programs Approval Expires 12/31/2018
National Institute of Justice
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), National Institute of
Justice (NIJ) is seeking applications for formula (“base”) funding under the FY 2017 Paul
Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program. This program furthers the
Department’s mission by providing states with tools needed to meet the challenges of crime and
justice. Specifically, this program seeks to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science
and medical examiner/coroner’s office services, including services provided by laboratories
operated by states and/or units of local government.
Paul Coverdell Forensic Science
Improvement Grants Program – Formula
Applications Due: March 10, 2017
Eligibility
Eligible applicants are limited to states (including territories). State Administering Agencies
(SAAs) apply on behalf of states, including any state government entity. For additional eligibility
information, see Section C. Eligibility Information.
Deadline
Applicants must register in the OJP Grants Management System (GMS) prior to submitting an
application under this solicitation. All applicants must register, even those that previously
registered in GMS. Previously registered applicants should ensure, prior to applying, that the
user profile is up to date in GMS (including, but not limited to, address, legal name of agency
and authorized representative) as this information is populated in any new application from the
user profile. Select the “Apply Online” button associated with the solicitation title. All
registrations and applications are due by 11:59 p.m. eastern time on March 10, 2017.
For additional information, see How to Apply in Section D. Application and Submission
Information.
Contact Information
For technical assistance with submitting an application, contact the Grants Management System
Support Hotline at 888-549-9901, option 3, or via e-mail at GMS.HelpDesk@usdoj.gov. The
GMS Support Hotline operates 24 hours every day, including on federal holidays.
An applicant that experiences unforeseen GMS technical issues beyond its control that prevent
it from submitting its application by the deadline must email the NIJ contact identified below
within 24 hours after the application deadline to request approval to submit its application
after the deadline. For information on reporting technical issues, see “Experiencing Unforeseen
GMS Technical Issues” under How to Apply in Section D. Application and Submission
Information.
For assistance with any other requirements of this solicitation, contact the National Criminal
Justice Reference Service (NCJRS) Response Center: toll-free at 1-800-851-3420; via TTY at

301-240-6310 (hearing impaired only); email grants@ncjrs.gov; fax to 301-240-5830; or web
chat at https://webcontact.ncjrs.gov/ncjchat/chat.jsp. The NCJRS Response Center operates
from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. eastern time, Monday through Friday, and from 10:00 a.m. until
8:00 p.m. eastern time on the solicitation close date. General information on applying for NIJ
awards can be found at www.nij.gov/funding/Pages/welcome.aspx. Answers to frequently asked
questions that may assist applicants are posted at www.nij.gov/funding/Pages/faqs.aspx.
Release date: January 10, 2017
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Contents
A. Program Description .............................................................................................................. 4
Overview ................................................................................................................................ 4
Program-Specific Information ................................................................................................. 4
Goals, Objectives, and Deliverables ....................................................................................... 5
B. Federal Award Information ..................................................................................................... 6
Type of Award ........................................................................................................................ 7
Financial Management and System of Internal Controls ......................................................... 7
Budget Information ................................................................................................................. 8
Cost Sharing or Match Requirement .....................................................................................10
Pre-Agreement Costs (also known as Pre-award Costs) .......................................................10
Costs Associated with Language Assistance (if applicable) ..................................................11
C. Eligibility Information .............................................................................................................11
D. Application and Submission Information ...............................................................................16
What an Application Should Include ......................................................................................16
How to Apply .........................................................................................................................26
E. Application Review Information .............................................................................................29
Review Process ....................................................................................................................29
F. Federal Award Administration Information ............................................................................30
Federal Award Notices ..........................................................................................................30
Administrative, National Policy, and Other Legal Requirements ............................................30
General Information About Post-Federal Award Reporting Requirements .............................31
G. Federal Awarding Agency Contact(s) ...................................................................................32
H. Other Information..................................................................................................................32
Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552 and 5 U.S.C. 552a) ....................32
Provide Feedback to OJP .....................................................................................................32
Appendix 1. Estimated Amount of FY 2017 Base Funds, by State. ...........................................36
Appendix 2. Templates for Coverdell Statutory Certifications ....................................................37
Appendix 3. Template for “External Investigations” Attachment ................................................43
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Paul Coverdell Forensic Science
Improvement Grants Program – Formula
CFDA No. 16.742
A. Program Description
Overview
With this solicitation, NIJ seeks proposals for formula (“base”) funding under the Paul Coverdell
Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program (the Coverdell program), which awards grants
to States and units of local government to help improve the quality and timeliness of forensic
science and medical examiner/coroner’s office services. Among other things, funds may be
used to eliminate a backlog in the analysis of forensic evidence and to train and employ forensic
laboratory personnel and medicolegal death investigators, as needed, to eliminate such a
backlog. Under the Coverdell program, State Administering Agencies (SAAs) may apply for both
“base” (formula) and competitive funds. This solicitation is ONLY for SAAs applying for the
formula (“base”) funds.1
Statutory Authority: The Coverdell program is authorized by Title I of the Omnibus Crime
Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, Part BB, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 3797j-3797o (the
Coverdell law).
IMPORTANT NOTE
All awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds and to any modifications or
additional requirements that may be imposed by law.
As of the writing of this solicitation, no full-year appropriation for the Department of Justice or for
the Coverdell program for FY 2017 has been enacted. No final decision as to the amount of
funds, if any, to be provided under this FY 2017 program should be expected until after a full-
year appropriation is enacted.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to check for updates to this solicitation prior to submitting
applications.
Please refer to “Available Funding” under “Program-Specific Information,” below.
Program-Specific Information
This solicitation seeks applications for funding from States to improve the quality and timeliness
of forensic science and medical examiner/coroner’s office services, including services provided
by laboratories operated by States and/or units of local government. Among other things, funds
1 An applicant that seeks to apply for Coverdell competitive funds (consistent with 42 U.S.C. 3797l(a)(1)) available for
grants to eligible states and units of local government would need to apply under NIJ’s FY 2017 Paul Coverdell
Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program (Competitive) solicitation.
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may be used to eliminate backlogs in the analysis of general forensic evidence or to train and
employ forensic laboratory personnel and medicolegal death investigators to eliminate such
backlogs.
Goals, Objectives, and Deliverables
Available Funding
As of the writing of this solicitation, no full-year appropriation has been enacted for the
Department of Justice for FY 2017 and thus the amount (if any) that will be made available
for the Coverdell program is not known. The figures and calculations reflected in this
solicitation (for example, the estimated minimum award to states and the estimated amount
of “base” funds, by State) are based on an estimated total amount available of $11,500,000,
although the amount ultimately made available could be higher or lower (or even zero).
Applicants are strongly advised to check for updates to the solicitation prior to submitting
applications.
All awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds and to any
modifications or additional requirements that may be imposed by law.
1. “Base” Funds for States
Approximately 85 percent of the funds available for Coverdell grants will be allocated
among eligible States based on population (State “base” funds). The approximate
amount each eligible State would receive if $11,500,000 were made available for FY
2017 is listed in Appendix 1: “Estimated Amount of FY 2017 Base Funds, by State.”2
These are the ONLY funds that will be distributed among eligible applicants under this
solicitation.3
2. Minimum Awards to States
The Coverdell law sets a floor for the total amount an eligible applicant State will receive
as its Coverdell grant. If $11,500,000 were to become available for FY 2017, the
minimum Coverdell grant to an eligible State would be not less than $115,000.4 In that
case, if the amount a State would otherwise receive as its total Coverdell grant (including
both base funds and any competitive funds) is less than $115,000, NIJ will increase that
State’s total grant to $115,000.
Grant Purposes
A State or unit of local government that receives a Coverdell grant must use the grant for
one or more of these six purposes:
1. To carry out all or a substantial part of a program intended to improve the quality and
timeliness of forensic science or medical examiner/coroner’s office services in the State,
2 Under the provisions of the Coverdell law, several factors (including the number of eligible state applicants) affect
“base” amounts.
3 An applicant that seeks to apply for Coverdell competitive funds (consistent with 42 U.S.C. 3797l(a)(2)) available for
grants to eligible states and units of local government would need to apply under NIJ’s FY 2017 Paul Coverdell
Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program (Competitive) solicitation.
4 Minimum awards for America Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands would be lower.
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including those services provided by laboratories operated by the State and those
operated by units of local government within the State.
2. To eliminate a backlog in the analysis of forensic science evidence,5 including, among
other things, a backlog with respect to firearms examination, latent prints, impression
evidence, toxicology, digital evidence, fire evidence, controlled substances, forensic
pathology, questioned documents, and trace evidence.
3. To train, assist, and employ forensic laboratory personnel and medicolegal death
investigators, as needed to eliminate such a backlog.
4. To address emerging forensic science issues (such as statistics, contextual bias, and
uncertainty of measurement) and emerging forensic science technology (such as high
throughput automation, statistical software, and new types of instrumentation).
5. To educate and train forensic pathologists.
6. To fund medicolegal death investigation systems to facilitate accreditation of medical
examiner and coroner offices and certification of medicolegal death investigators.
Expected Results and Outcomes
The result of Coverdell grants to applicant States should be a demonstrated improvement
over current operations in the quality and/or timeliness of forensic science or medical
examiner/coroner’s office services provided in the State, including services provided by
laboratories operated by the State and services provided by laboratories operated by units
of local government within the State. Reduction of forensic analysis backlogs is considered
an improvement in timeliness of services.
The Goals, Objectives, and Deliverables are directly related to the performance measures set
out in the table in Section D. Application and Submission Information, under "Program
Narrative."
B. Federal Award Information
NIJ expects to make up to 55 awards, with award amounts allocated among eligible States
based on population. The approximate amount each eligible State would receive if $11,500,000
were made available for FY 2017 is listed in Appendix 1: “Estimated Amount of FY 2017 Base
Funds, by State.” NIJ will make awards for a 12-month period of performance, to begin on
January 1, 2018. Applicants should be aware that the total period of an award, including one
that receives a project period extension, ordinarily will not exceed three (3) years.
All awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds and to any modifications or
additional requirements that may be imposed by law.
5 A backlog in the analysis of forensic science evidence exists if forensic evidence has been stored in a laboratory,
medical examiner’s office, coroner’s office, law enforcement storage facility, or medical facility; and has not been
subjected to all appropriate forensic testing because of lack of resources or personnel.
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Type of Award
NIJ expects that any award under this solicitation will be in the form of a grant. See
Administrative, National Policy, and Other Legal Requirements, under Section F. Federal Award
Administration Information, for a brief discussion of important statutes, regulations, and award
conditions that apply to many (or in some cases, all) OJP grants.
Financial Management and System of Internal Controls
Award recipients and subrecipients (including recipients or subrecipients that are pass-through
entities6) must, as described in the Part 200 Uniform Requirements7 as set out at 2 C.F.R.
200.303:
a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that
provides reasonable assurance that [the recipient (and any subrecipient)] is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations,
and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls
should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the
Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States and
the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
b) Comply with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal
awards.
c) Evaluate and monitor [the recipient’s (and any subrecipient’s)] compliance with
statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of Federal awards.
d) Take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including
noncompliance identified in audit findings.
e) Take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information
and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as
sensitive or [the recipient (or any subrecipient)] considers sensitive consistent with
applicable Federal, state, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and obligations of
confidentiality.
To help ensure that applicants understand administrative requirements and cost principles, OJP
encourages prospective applicants to enroll, at no charge, in the DOJ Grants Financial
Management Online Training, available here.
6 For purposes of this solicitation, the phrase “pass-through entity” includes any recipient or subrecipient that provides
a subaward ("subgrant”) to carry out part of the funded award or program.
7 The "Part 200 Uniform Requirements” means the DOJ regulation at 2 C.F.R Part 2800, which adopts (with certain
modifications) the provisions of 2 C.F.R. Part 200.
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Budget Information
Permissible Expenses
The types of expenses listed below generally may be paid with Coverdell funds.
Note: The following list details the types of expenses allowed under the Coverdell program.
These expenses should NOT be used as budget categories — instead they are to be
incorporated into the appropriate standard OJP budget categories. For more information on
OJP’s standard budget format, see the section titled “What an Application Should Include.”
1. Personnel. Funds may be used for forensic science or medical examiner/coroner’s
office personnel, overtime, fellowships, visiting scientists, interns, consultants, or
temporary staff.
2. Computerization. Funds may be used to upgrade, replace, lease, or purchase
computer hardware and software for forensic analyses and data management.
3. Laboratory equipment. Funds may be used to upgrade, lease, or purchase forensic
laboratory or medical examiner/coroner’s office equipment and instrumentation.
4. Supplies. Funds may be used to acquire forensic laboratory or medical
examiner/coroner’s office supplies.
Note: To help ensure compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
and Department of Justice regulations, Coverdell awardees that intend to use funds for
activities involving the use or purchase of chemicals will be required to submit additional
information. See Section F. Federal Award Administration Information, later in this
solicitation, for a link to OJP webpages containing information about NEPA and other
legal requirements.
Recipients may encounter delays in the release of award funds pending satisfactory
completion of the NEPA review process for applications involving the use or purchase of
chemicals.
5. Accreditation. Funds may be used to prepare for laboratory accreditation by the
ASCLD/LAB, FQS, NAME, the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation
(A2LA), International Association of Coroners & Medical Examiners (IAC&ME) or other,
appropriate, accrediting bodies. Funds also may be used for application and
maintenance fees charged by appropriate accrediting bodies. An applicant that proposes
to use any portion of the grant amount to fund a forensic science laboratory system that
is not accredited (as set out in the Coverdell law) will be required to use (or, as
applicable, must require any unaccredited subrecipient forensic science laboratory
system to use) a portion of the grant amount for accreditation purposes. Coverdell
awardees must use grant funds to prepare and apply for accreditation of any FY 2017
Coverdell grant-funded unaccredited forensic laboratory system not more than two (2)
years after the FY 2017 Coverdell award date.
6. Education, training, and certification. Funds may be used for appropriate internal and
external training of staff that are involved directly and substantially in providing forensic
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science or medical examiner/coroner’s office services. In appropriate cases, funds also
may be used for fees charged by appropriate certifying bodies for certification of staff in
specific forensic discipline areas. All education, training, and certification activities must
be designed to improve the quality and/or timeliness of forensic science or medical
examiner/coroner’s office services. The grant application should demonstrate that the
proposed training or certification is directly related to the job position and duties of the
individual(s) receiving the training or seeking certification.
OJP recognizes the benefit of attending discipline-related conferences to receive training
and/or education; however, it is recommended that the applicant consider the cost-
effectiveness of this option compared to other viable modes of training. For example,
hosting on-site training or attending a local program may be more suitable for the
applicant’s personnel and organization.
7. Facilities. Funds may be used for program expenses relating to facilities, provided the
expenses are directly attributable to improving the quality and/or timeliness of forensic
science or medical examiner/coroner’s office services. Funds also may be used for
renovation and/or construction undertaken as part of the applicant’s program to improve
the quality and/or timeliness of forensic science or medical examiner/coroner’s office
services.
Limitations on use of funds for costs of new facility. The Coverdell law limits the
amount of funds that may be used for the costs of a new facility or facilities (see 42
U.S.C. § 3797m(c)). Maximum amounts are determined by the total amount of the
Coverdell grants received (including both base and competitive funds) and the total
amount of funds available for Coverdell grants nationwide. The maximum amounts that
may be used for costs of new facilities are as follows. (Estimates and calculations are
based on the assumption that the total available funds for Coverdell awards in FY 2017
will be $11,500,000. Please refer to the discussion under “Available Funding.”)
Grants that exceed 0.6 percent of the total available funds. If an applicant State receives
total grants that exceed 0.6 percent of the total available funds (estimated here at
$69,000), the amount of the grant that can be used for the costs of any new facility
cannot exceed the sum of 80 percent of 0.6 percent of the total available funds (such 80
percent estimated here at $55,200) plus 40 percent of the amount of the grant in excess
of 0.6 percent of the total available funds.
For example, if $11,500,000 were to become available for Coverdell awards in FY 2017
and a state were to receive a total Coverdell grant of $200,000, no more than $113,120
may be used for the costs of any new facility.
A sample calculation for a $200,000 grant would be as follows:
Eighty percent of 0.6 percent of the total available funds: $69,000 x .80 = $55,200.
Amount in excess of $55,200: $200,000 - $55,200 = $144,800
Forty percent of amount in excess of $55,200: $144,800 x .40 = $57,920.
Sum of $55,200+ $57,920= $113,120.
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Note: To help ensure compliance with NEPA and Department of Justice regulations,
Coverdell awardees that intend to use funds for activities involving the renovation or
construction of facilities will be required to submit additional information. See Section F.
Federal Award Administration Information, later in this solicitation, for a link to OJP
webpages containing information about NEPA and other legal requirements.
Recipients may encounter delays in the release of award funds pending satisfactory
completion of the NEPA review process for applications involving construction or
renovation.
8. Administrative expenses. Not more than 10 percent of the total amount of a Coverdell
grant may be used for a recipient’s administrative expenses.
Expenses That Are Not Permitted
1. Expenses other than those listed above (including expenses for general law
enforcement functions or non-forensic investigatory functions).
2. Costs for any new facility that exceed the limits described above.
3. Recipient administrative expenses (direct or indirect) that exceed 10 percent of the total
grant amount.
4. The use of funds for the purchase and/or lease of vehicles, such as crime scene vans.
Cost Sharing or Match Requirement
This program does not require a match. However, if a successful application proposes a
voluntary match amount, and OJP approves the budget, the total match amount incorporated
into the approved budget becomes mandatory and subject to audit.
Pre-Agreement Costs (also known as Pre-award Costs)
Pre-agreement costs are costs incurred by the applicant prior to the start date of the period of
performance of the grant award.
OJP does not typically approve pre-agreement costs; an applicant must request and obtain the
prior written approval of OJP for all such costs. All such costs incurred prior to award and prior
to approval of the costs are incurred at the sole risk of the applicant. (Generally, no applicant
should incur project costs before submitting an application requesting federal funding for those
costs.) Should there be extenuating circumstances that make it appropriate for OJP to consider
approving pre-agreement costs, the applicant may contact the point of contact listed on the title
page of this solicitation for the requirements concerning written requests for approval. If
approved in advance by OJP, award funds may be used for pre-agreement costs, consistent
with the recipient’s approved budget and applicable cost principles. See the section on Costs
Requiring Prior Approval in the DOJ Grants Financial Guide, for more information.
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Costs Associated with Language Assistance (if applicable)
If an applicant proposes a program or activity that would deliver services or benefits to
individuals, the costs of taking reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to those services
or benefits for individuals with limited English proficiency may be allowable. Reasonable steps
to provide meaningful access to services or benefits may include interpretation or translation
services, where appropriate.
For additional information, see the "Civil Rights Compliance" section under “Overview of Legal
Requirements Generally Applicable to OJP Grants and Cooperative Agreements” in the OJP
Funding Resource Center.
C. Eligibility Information
States8 may apply for FY 2017 formula Coverdell funds. States may be eligible for both “base”
(formula) and competitive funds. This solicitation is ONLY for the formula (“base”) funds. Any
state application for funding MUST be submitted by the Coverdell SAA (see list of SAAs on the
OJP Web site at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/saa/index.htm). (Other interested state agencies or
departments must coordinate with their respective SAAs.)
The Coverdell law (at 42 U.S.C. § 3797k) requires that, to request a grant, an applicant for
Coverdell funds must submit:
1. A certification and description regarding a plan for forensic science laboratories.
Each applicant must submit a certification that the State has developed a plan for
forensic science laboratories under a program intended to improve the quality and
timeliness of forensic science or medical examiner services in the State, including such
services provided by the laboratories operated by the State and those operated by units
of local government within the State. Applicants must also specifically describe the
manner in which the grant will be used to carry out that plan.
2. A certification regarding use of generally accepted laboratory practices. Each
applicant must submit a certification that any forensic science laboratory system,
medical examiner’s office, or coroner’s office in the State, including any laboratory
operated by a unit of local government within the state, that will receive any portion of
the grant amount (whether directly or through a subgrant) uses generally accepted
laboratory practices and procedures established by accrediting organizations or
appropriate certifying bodies.
3. A certification regarding forensic science laboratory accreditation. Each applicant
must submit a certification that any forensic science laboratory system in the State,
including any laboratory operated by a unit of local government within the State, that will
receive any portion of the grant amount (whether directly or through a subgrant) either is
accredited, or, is not so accredited, but will (or will be required in a legally binding and
enforceable writing to) use a portion of the grant amount to prepare and apply for such
8 For purposes of the Coverdell program, the term “state” means each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands. For certain purposes, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands are treated as one state.
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accreditation not more than two (2) years after the date on which a grant is awarded
under the FY 2017 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program.
4. A certification and description regarding costs of new facilities. Each applicant
must submit a certification that the amount of the grant used for the costs of any new
facility constructed as part of a program to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic
science or medical examiner services will not exceed certain limitations set forth in the
Coverdell law at 42 U.S.C. § 3797m(c). (See information on “permissible expenses” in
the next section of this solicitation.) Applicants must also specifically describe any new
facility to be constructed as well as the estimated costs of the facility.
5. A certification regarding external investigations into allegations of serious
negligence or misconduct. Each applicant must submit a certification that “a
government entity exists and an appropriate process is in place to conduct independent
external investigations into allegations of serious negligence or misconduct substantially
affecting the integrity of the forensic results committed by employees or contractors of
any forensic laboratory system, medical examiner office, coroner’s office, law
enforcement storage facility, or medical facility in the state that will receive a portion of
the grant amount.”
Applicants are expected to carefully review the requirements of each certification before
determining whether the certification properly may be made. Any certification that is submitted
must be executed by an official who is both familiar with the requirements of the certification,
and authorized to make the certification on behalf of the applicant agency (that is, the agency
applying directly to NIJ). Certifications must be submitted using the templates that appear
in Appendix 2.
Certifications made on behalf of subrecipients of award funds — rather than certifications made
on behalf of the agency applying directly to NIJ — are not acceptable to satisfy the certification
requirements and should not be submitted.
In connection with the certification regarding external investigations (described above),
applicants must provide, prior to receiving award funds, the name(s) of the existing
“government entity” (or government entities). This information is to be provided as an
attachment to the program narrative section of the application. See “What an Application Should
Include,” and Appendix 3, which includes a template for the attachment.
In connection with the certification regarding forensic science laboratory accreditation
(described above), applicants must demonstrate, prior to receiving award funds, that any
forensic science laboratory system that will receive any portion of the grant amount either is
accredited or will (or will be required to) prepare and apply for accreditation consistent with the
Coverdell law. See “What an Application Should Include,” which describes the documentation
and information an applicant is to provide regarding its accreditation or its plans to prepare and
apply for accreditation.
Please note that funds will not be made available to applicant agencies that fail to provide the
necessary information.
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Important Note on Referrals in Connection With Allegations of Serious Negligence or
Serious Misconduct.
The highest standards of integrity in the practice of forensic science are critical to the
enhancement of the administration of justice. NIJ assumes that recipients (and subrecipients) of
Coverdell funds will make use of the process referenced in their certification as to external
investigations and will refer allegations of serious negligence or misconduct substantially
affecting the integrity of forensic results to government entities with an appropriate process in
place to conduct independent external investigations, such as the government entities identified
in the grant application.
For each fiscal year of an award made under this solicitation, recipients will be required to report
to NIJ on an annual basis —
1. The number and nature of any such allegations;
2. Information on the referrals of such allegations (e.g., the government entity or entities to
which referred, the date of referral);
3. The outcome of such referrals (if known as of the date of the report); and
4. If any such allegations were not referred, the reason(s) for the non-referral.
Payments to recipients (including payments under future awards) may be withheld if the
required information is not submitted on a timely basis.
Special Guidance on Certification Regarding External Investigations Into Allegations of
Serious Negligence or Misconduct.
The certification regarding external investigations has a number of requirements, each of which
must be satisfied before the certification may be made. The official authorized to make the
certification on behalf of the applicant agency must carefully review each of the statutory
elements and this guidance before determining whether a certification properly may be made.
After reviewing the information and guidance provided here, the official, on behalf of the
applicant agency, must determine whether:
 A government entity exists.
 With an appropriate process in place.
 To conduct independent, external investigations.
 Into allegations of serious negligence or misconduct.
 Substantially affecting the integrity of the forensic results.
 Committed by employees or contractors.
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 Of any forensic laboratory system, medical examiner’s office, coroner’s office, law
enforcement storage facility, or medical facility in the state that will receive a portion of
the grant amount.
Note: In making this certification, the certifying official is certifying that these requirements are
satisfied not only with respect to the applicant itself, but also with respect to each entity that will
receive a portion of the grant amount. Certifying officials are advised that:
(1) A false statement in the certification or in the grant application that it supports may be
the subject of criminal prosecution, including under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 and 42 U.S.C. §
3795a; and
(2) Office of Justice Programs grants, including certifications provided in connection with
such grants, are subject to review by the Office of Justice Programs and/or by the
Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General.
The following guidance, provided by way of examples for applicants’ review, is designed to
illustrate elements of the external investigation certification that the official authorized to make
the certification on behalf of the applicant agency must take into account in determining whether
the certification properly may be made.
Because it is not possible for NIJ to provide examples relating to every type of government
entity with an appropriate process in place to conduct independent, external investigations into
allegations of serious negligence or misconduct substantially affecting the integrity of the
forensic results committed by employees or contractors, this guidance should not be viewed as
all inclusive. In addition, this guidance is not intended to constitute legal advice from NIJ on the
question of whether the required certification properly may be made on behalf of the applicant.
Such a determination must be made by an appropriate official based on the statutory
requirements of the certification after review of this guidance.
Illustrative Examples:
1. A State intends to distribute Coverdell award funds to State and local forensic
laboratories and medical examiners’ offices. There is an Office of the Inspector General
(OIG) in the State with authority to conduct investigations into allegations of serious
negligence or misconduct by employees and contractors of forensic laboratories and
medical examiner/coroner’s offices, both at the State and local levels.
Guidance: Execution of the certification might be appropriate under these facts.
Nevertheless, the certifying official must be satisfied that the State IG’s authority in this
regard is not circumscribed in such a way that the IG’s ability to conduct independent
investigations is limited (for example, through a reporting hierarchy that does not provide
for the IG to report directly to the chief executive officer or another equally independent
State official or office).
2. An applicant agency determines that the forensics laboratory director (or some other
individual in the chain of command at the laboratory) has sole responsibility to conduct
investigations into allegations of serious negligence or misconduct committed by
laboratory employees.
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Paul Coverdell

Guidance: Under these circumstances, execution of the certification would not be
appropriate because there is no process in place to conduct independent, external
investigations into allegations of serious negligence or misconduct committed by
laboratory employees and contractors.
3. A State applicant intends to distribute Coverdell award funds to forensic laboratories at
both the state and local level. An independent commission established by the Governor
has authority to investigate allegations of serious negligence or misconduct by
employees, including employees of units of local government within the State.
Guidance: Under these circumstances, the existence of this commission is not itself a
sufficient basis for execution of the certification. In this regard, the commission does not
have authority to investigate allegations of serious negligence or misconduct by
contractors of State and local government forensic laboratories that receive Coverdell
funds. (If, however, some other government entity, distinct from the commission, has a
process in place to conduct independent external investigations of allegations of serious
negligence or misconduct by such contractors, execution of the certification might be
appropriate depending on all the facts.)
4. A local forensic laboratory, which is intended to receive a portion of the funds from a
Coverdell award to a State, notifies the State applicant that a quality assurance official is
responsible for investigating allegations of serious negligence or misconduct by
employees and contractors of the local forensic laboratory. The quality assurance official
reports to the director of the forensic laboratory.
Guidance: Under these circumstances, execution of the certification would not be
appropriate because the quality assurance official reports to the director of the forensic
laboratory; therefore, there is no process in place to conduct independent, external
investigations of allegations against the forensics laboratory as required to make the
certification.
5. An applicant agency (a forensics laboratory) intends to employ a contractor or a
nongovernmental organization to conduct investigations into allegations of serious
negligence or misconduct committed by laboratory employees.
Guidance: Under these circumstances, execution of the certification would not be
appropriate as there is neither a government entity, nor an appropriate process in place
to conduct independent, external investigations of allegations against the laboratory,
whether alleged to be committed by laboratory employees and/or contractors, because
the contractor or nongovernmental entity is employed by and responsible to the
forensics laboratory.
6. An applicant agency is accredited by an independent accrediting or certifying
organization such as the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies
(CALEA), the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors / Laboratory Accreditation
Board (ASCLD/LAB), the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME), Forensic
Quality Services (FQS), etc.
Guidance: In this situation, execution of the certification would not be appropriate. The
fact of accreditation or certification by an outside entity on its own does not demonstrate
that the agency has a process in place to investigate allegations of serious negligence or
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Paul Coverdell

misconduct committed by employees or contractors. There is insufficient information to
properly make the required certification in this situation.
For information on cost sharing or match requirements, see Section B. Federal Award
Information.
D. Application and Submission Information
What an Application Should Include
This section describes in detail what an application should include. An applicant should
anticipate that if it fails to submit an application that contains all of the specified elements, it may
negatively affect the review of its application; and, should a decision be made to make an
award, it may result in the inclusion of award conditions that preclude the recipient from
accessing or using award funds until the recipient satisfies the conditions and OJP makes the
funds available.
An applicant may combine the Budget Narrative and the Budget Detail Worksheet in one
document. If an applicant submits only one budget document, however, it must contain both
narrative and detail information. Please review the “Note on File Names and File Types” under
How to Apply to be sure applications are submitted in permitted formats.
OJP strongly recommends that applicants use appropriately descriptive file names (e.g.,
“Program Narrative,” “Budget Detail Worksheet and Budget Narrative,” “Timelines,”
“Memoranda of Understanding,” “Résumés”) for all attachments. Also, OJP recommends that
applicants include résumés in a single file.
1. Information to Complete the Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424)
The SF-424 is a required standard form used as a cover sheet for submission of pre-
applications, applications, and related information. GMS takes information from the
applicant’s profile to populate the fields on this form.
To avoid processing delays, an applicant must include an accurate legal name on its SF-
424. Current OJP recipients, when completing the field for “Legal Name” should use the
same legal name that appears on the prior year award document; this legal name is also the
legal name stored in OJP’s financial system. On the SF-424, enter the Legal Name in box 5
and Employer Identification Number (EIN) in box 6 exactly as it appears on the prior year
award document. An applicant with a current, active OJP award(s) must ensure that its GMS
profile is current. If an applicant’s profile is not current, it should submit a Grant Adjustment
Notice updating the information on its GMS profile prior to applying under this solicitation.
A new applicant must enter its official legal name and address in box 5 and its EIN in box 6
of the SF-424.
Applicants should ensure that the legal name is correct and matches on the SF-424, the five
required certifications, and the external investigations attachment.
Intergovernmental Review: This solicitation ("funding opportunity") is subject to Executive
Order 12372. An applicant may find the names and addresses of State Single Points of
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Paul Coverdell

Contact (SPOCs) at the following website: www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants_spoc/. If the
state appears on the SPOC list, the applicant must contact the state SPOC to find out about,
and comply with, the state’s process under E.O. 12372. In completing the SF-424, an
applicant whose state appears on the SPOC list is to make the appropriate selection in
response to question 19 once the applicant has complied with its state E.O. 12372 process.
(An applicant whose state does not appear on the SPOC list should answer question 19 by
selecting the response that the “Program is subject to E.O. 12372 but has not been selected
by the state for review.”)
2. Project Abstract
Applications should include a high-quality project abstract that summarizes the proposed
project in 250-400 words. Project abstracts should be—
 Written for a general public audience.
 Submitted as a separate attachment with “Project Abstract” as part of its file name.
 Single-spaced, using a standard 12-point font (Times New Roman) with 1-inch margins.
3. Program Narrative
The program narrative must specifically describe the manner in which Coverdell grant funds
will be used to carry out the State plan to improve the quality and/or timeliness of forensic
science or medical examiner/coroner’s office services over current operations. (Reduction of
forensic analysis backlogs is considered an improvement in timeliness of services.) States
are expected to consider the needs of laboratories operated by units of local
government as well as those operated by the State.
If grant funds are requested for costs of a new facility, the program narrative must
specifically describe the new facility to be constructed and the estimated costs of that
facility.
If grant funds are requested for accreditation, the program narrative must describe
accreditation activities and plans and, as applicable, the projected schedule for preparation
for and application for accreditation. Under the Coverdell program, any forensic science
laboratory system that is not accredited (as set out in the Coverdell law) and that will receive
a portion of the grant amount must use a portion of the grant amount to prepare and apply
for accreditation not more than two (2) years after the date of the Coverdell grant award.
The program narrative should be attached as a separate file with an appropriately
descriptive file name.
The following sections should be included as part of the program narrative:9
a. Description of the Issue.
9 For information on subawards (including the details on proposed subawards that should be included in the
application), see "Budget and Associated Documentation" under Section D. Application and Submission Information.
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Paul Coverdell

b. Project Design and Implementation.
c. Capabilities and Competencies.
d. Plan for Collecting the Data Required for this Solicitation’s Performance Measures.
OJP will require each successful applicant to submit specific performance measures
data as part of its reporting under the award (see “General Information about Post-
Federal Award Reporting Requirements” in Section F. Federal Award Administration
Information). The performance measures correlate to the goals, objectives, and
deliverables identified under "Goals, Objective, and Deliverables" in Section A. Program
Description.
The application should describe the applicant's plan for collection of all of the
performance measures data listed in the table below under “Data Recipient Provides,”
should it receive funding.
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Objective Performance Measure(s) Data Recipient Provides
To improve the quality and Outcome Measure 1. Average number of days to
timeliness of forensic services process a sample at the
and to reduce the number of 1. Reduction in the average number of days beginning of the grant period.
backlogged cases in forensic from the submission of a sample to a
laboratories forensic science laboratory to the delivery 2. Average number of days to
of test results to a requesting office or process a sample at the end
agency. of the grant period.
2. Percent reduction in the number of 3. Number of backlogged cases
backlogged forensic cases. at the beginning of the grant
period.
Output Measure
4. Number of backlogged cases
1. The number of forensic science or medical at the end of the grant period.
examiner/coroner’s office personnel who
completed appropriate training or 5. Number of forensic science
educational opportunities with FY 2017 personnel attending training.
Coverdell funds (if applicable to the grant).
6. Number of medical
examiner/coroner’s office
personnel attending training
programs.
To implement recommendations
as adopted by the National
Commission on Forensic
Sciences (NCFS) to strengthen
the forensic science Percent of agencies/organizations that Number of
communities are accredited with FY 2017 Coverdell agencies/organizations seeking
funding initial accreditation with FY
2017 Coverdell funding
Number of
agencies/organizations
obtaining initial accreditation
with FY 2017 Coverdell funding
Number of
agencies/organizations using
FY 2017 Coverdell funding for
fees to maintain accreditation
Number of
agencies/organizations
receiving funding
Percent of certified individuals Number of analysts
Number of analysts certified
Number of analysts seeking
certification with FY2017
Coverdell funding
Note on Project Evaluations
An applicant that proposes to use award funds through this solicitation to conduct project
evaluations should be aware that certain project evaluations (such as systematic investigations
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Paul Coverdell

designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge) may constitute “research” for
purposes of applicable DOJ human subjects protection regulations. However, project
evaluations that are intended only to generate internal improvements to a program or service, or
are conducted only to meet OJP’s performance measure data reporting requirements, likely do
not constitute “research.” Each applicant should provide sufficient information for OJP to
determine whether the particular project it proposes would either intentionally or unintentionally
collect and/or use information in such a way that it meets the DOJ regulatory definition of
research that appears at 28 C.F.R. Part 46 (“Protection of Human Subjects”).
Research, for the purposes of human subjects protection for OJP-funded programs, is defined
as “a systematic investigation, including research development, testing and evaluation,
designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge.” 28 C.F.R. 46.102(d).
For additional information on determining whether a proposed activity would constitute research
for purposes of human subjects protection, applicants should consult the decision tree in the
“Research and the Protection of Human Subjects” section of the "Requirements related to
Research" web page of the "Overview of Legal Requirements Generally Applicable to OJP
Grants and Cooperative Agreements" available through the OJP Funding Resource Center.
Every prospective applicant whose application may propose a research or statistical component
also should review the “Data Privacy and Confidentiality Requirements” section on that web
page.
4. Budget and Associated Documentation
Budget document(s) should be attached as a separate file with an appropriately
descriptive file name.
a. Budget Detail Worksheet
A sample Budget Detail Worksheet can be found at
www.ojp.gov/funding/Apply/Resources/BudgetDetailWorksheet.pdf. An applicant that
submits its budget in a different format should use the budget categories listed in the
sample budget worksheet. The Budget Detail Worksheet should break out costs by year.
For questions pertaining to budget and examples of allowable and unallowable costs,
see the DOJ Grants Financial Guide.
b. Budget Narrative
The budget narrative should thoroughly and clearly describe every category of expense
listed in the Budget Detail Worksheet. OJP expects proposed budgets to be complete,
cost effective, and allowable (e.g., reasonable, allocable, and necessary for project
activities).
An applicant should demonstrate in its budget narratives how it will maximize cost
effectiveness of award expenditures. Budget narratives should generally describe cost
effectiveness in relation to potential alternatives and the goals of the project. For
example, a budget narrative should detail why planned in-person meetings are
necessary, or how technology and collaboration with outside organizations could be
used to reduce costs, without compromising quality.
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Paul Coverdell

The budget narrative should be mathematically sound and correspond clearly with the
information and figures provided in the Budget Detail Worksheet. The narrative should
explain how the applicant estimated and calculated all costs, and how those costs are
necessary to the completion of the proposed project. The narrative may include tables
for clarification purposes, but need not be in a spreadsheet format. As with the Budget
Detail Worksheet, the budget narrative should describe costs by year.
Accreditation
The budget detail worksheet and budget narrative should clearly identify the cost for any
proposed accreditation activities, within the appropriate cost category (e.g., personnel,
fringe benefits, travel, equipment, supplies, and (procurement) contracts) of the budget
documents.
c. Information on Proposed Subawards (if any), as well as on Proposed Procurement
Contracts (if any)
Applicants for OJP awards typically may propose to make "subawards." Applicants also
may propose to enter into procurement "contracts" under the award.
Whether -- for purposes of federal grants administrative requirements -- a particular
agreement between a recipient and a third party will be considered a "subaward" or
instead considered a procurement "contract" under the award is determined by federal
rules and applicable OJP guidance. It is an important distinction, in part because the
federal administrative rules and requirements that apply to "subawards" and
procurement "contracts" under awards differ markedly.
In general, the central question is the relationship between what the third-party will do
under its agreement with the recipient and what the recipient has committed (to OJP) to
do under its award to further a public purpose (e.g., services the recipient will provide,
products it will develop or modify, research or evaluation it will conduct). If a third party
will provide some of the services the recipient has committed (to OJP) to provide, will
develop or modify all or part of a product the recipient has committed (to OJP) to
develop or modify, or conduct part of the research or evaluation the recipient has
committed (to OJP) to conduct, OJP will consider the agreement with the third party a
subaward for purposes of federal grants administrative requirements.
This will be true even if the recipient, for internal or other non-federal purposes, labels or
treats its agreement as a procurement, a contract, or a procurement contract. Neither
the title nor the structure of an agreement determines whether the agreement -- for
purposes of federal grants administrative requirements -- is a “subaward” or is instead a
procurement “contract” under an award.
Additional guidance on the circumstances under which (for purposes of federal grants
administrative requirements) an agreement constitutes a subaward as opposed to a
procurement contract under an award, is available (along with other resources) on the
OJP Part 200 Uniform Requirements web page.
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1. Information on proposed subawards
A recipient of an OJP award may not make subawards ("subgrants") unless the recipient
has specific federal authorization to do so. Unless an applicable statute or DOJ
regulation specifically authorizes (or requires) subawards, a recipient must have
authorization from OJP before it may make a subaward.
A particular subaward may be authorized by OJP because the recipient included a
sufficiently-detailed description and justification of the proposed subaward in the
application as approved by OJP. If, however, a particular subaward is not authorized by
federal statute or regulation, and is not sufficiently described and justified in the
application as approved by OJP, the recipient will be required, post-award, to request
and obtain written authorization from OJP before it may make the subaward.
If an applicant proposes to make one or more subawards to carry out the federal award
and program, and those subawards are not specifically authorized (or required) by
statute or regulation, the applicant should-- (1) identify (if known) the proposed
subrecipient(s), (2) describe in detail what each subrecipient will do to carry out the
federal award and federal program, and (3) provide a justification for the subaward(s),
with details on pertinent matters such as special qualifications and areas of expertise.
Pertinent information on subawards should appear not only in the Program Narrative, but
also in the Budget Detail Worksheet and budget narrative.
2. Information on proposed procurement contracts (with specific justification for
proposed noncompetitive contracts over $150,000)
Unlike a recipient contemplating a subaward, a recipient of an OJP award generally
does not need specific prior federal authorization to enter into an agreement that -- for
purposes of federal grants administrative requirements -- is considered a procurement
contract, provided that (1) the recipient uses its own documented procurement
procedures and (2) those procedures conform to applicable federal law, including the
Procurement Standards of the (DOJ) Part 200 Uniform Requirements (as set out at 2
C.F.R. 200.317 - 200.326). The Budget Detail Worksheet and budget narrative should
identify proposed procurement contracts. (As discussed above, subawards must be
identified and described separately from procurement contracts.)
The Procurement Standards in the Part 200 Uniform Requirements, however, reflect a
general expectation that agreements that (for purposes of federal grants administrative
requirements) constitute procurement “contracts” under awards will be entered into on
the basis of full and open competition. If a proposed procurement contract would exceed
the simplified acquisition threshold -- currently, $150,000 -- a recipient of an OJP award
may not proceed without competition, unless and until the recipient receives specific
advance authorization from OJP to use a non-competitive approach for the procurement.
An applicant that (at the time of its application) intends -- without competition -- to enter
into a procurement contract that would exceed $150,000 should include a detailed
justification that explains to OJP why, in the particular circumstances, it is appropriate to
proceed without competition. Various considerations that may be pertinent to the
justification are outlined in the DOJ Grants Financial Guide.
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d. Pre-Agreement Costs
For information on pre-agreement costs, see Section B. Federal Award Information.
5. Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (if applicable)
Indirect costs may be charged to an award only if:
(a) The recipient has a current (that is, unexpired), federally-approved indirect cost rate;
or
(b) The recipient is eligible to use, and elects to use, the “de minimis” indirect cost rate
described in the Part 200 Uniform Requirements, as set out at 2 C.F.R. 200.414(f).
An applicant with a current (that is, unexpired) federally-approved indirect cost rate is to
attach a copy of the indirect cost rate agreement to the application. An applicant that does
not have a current federally-approved rate may request one through its cognizant federal
agency, which will review all documentation and approve a rate for the applicant entity, or, if
the applicant’s accounting system permits, applicants may propose to allocate costs in the
direct cost categories.
For assistance with identifying the appropriate cognizant federal agency for indirect costs,
please contact the OCFO Customer Service Center at 1-800-458-0786 or at
ask.ocfo@usdoj.gov. If DOJ is the cognizant federal agency, applicants may obtain
information needed to submit an indirect cost rate proposal at
www.ojp.gov/funding/Apply/Resources/IndirectCosts.pdf.
Certain OJP recipients have the option of electing to use the “de minimis” indirect cost rate.
An applicant that is eligible to use the “de minimis” rate that wishes to use the "de minimis"
rate should attach written documentation to the application that advises OJP of both-- (1) the
applicant’s eligibility to use the “de minimis” rate, and (2) its election to do so. If an eligible
applicant elects the “de minimis” rate, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect
or direct costs, but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. The "de
minimis" rate may no longer be used once an approved federally-negotiated indirect cost
rate is in place. (No entity that ever has had a federally-approved negotiated indirect cost
rate is eligible to use the "de minimis" rate.)
6. Financial Management and System of Internal Controls Questionnaire (including
applicant disclosure of high-risk status)
Every applicant (other than an individual applying in his/her personal capacity) is to
download, complete, and submit the OJP Financial Management and System of Internal
Controls Questionnaire, as part of its application.
Among other things, the form requires each applicant to disclose whether it currently is
designated “high-risk” by a federal grant-making agency outside of DOJ. For purposes of
this disclosure, high-risk includes any status under which a federal awarding agency
provides additional oversight due to the applicant’s past performance, or other programmatic
or financial concerns with the applicant. If an applicant is designated high-risk by another
federal awarding agency, the applicant must provide the following information:
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 The federal awarding agency that currently designates the applicant high-risk.
 The date the applicant was designated high-risk.
 The high-risk point of contact at that federal awarding agency (name, phone number,
and email address).
 The reasons for the high-risk status, as set out by the federal awarding agency.
OJP seeks this information to help ensure appropriate federal oversight of OJP awards. An
applicant that is considered “high-risk” by another federal awarding agency is not
automatically disqualified from receiving an OJP award. OJP may, however, consider the
information in award decisions, and may impose additional OJP oversight of any award
under this solicitation (including through the conditions that accompany the award
document).
7. Disclosure of Lobbying Activities
An applicant that expends any funds for lobbying activities is to provide all of the information
requested on the form Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL).
8. Additional Attachments
a. Coverdell Statutory Certifications
As described above in the “Eligibility” section, the Coverdell law provides that, to request
a grant, each applicant must submit five (5) certifications specific to the Coverdell
Program. A certification may only be completed by an official familiar with its
requirements and authorized to certify on behalf of the applicant agency (i.e., the agency
applying directly to NIJ). Templates for the statutory certifications appear in Appendix 2.
All five (5) certifications must be completed using these templates. Certifications made
on behalf of subrecipients of award funds—rather than certifications made on behalf of
the agency applying directly to NIJ—are not acceptable to satisfy the certification
requirements.
The five required Coverdell statutory certifications are as follows—
1. Certification as to Plan for Forensic Science Laboratories—Application from a
State.
2. Certification as to Generally Accepted Laboratory Practices and Procedures.
3. Certification as to Forensic Science Laboratory System Accreditation.
4. Certification as to Use of Funds for New Facilities.
5. Certification as to External Investigations.
Please note: Specific information and guidance with respect to the “Certification as
to External Investigations” are provided above, under “Eligibility.” Certifying officials
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Paul Coverdell

must read and review this information and guidance prior to executing the
certification.
b. External Investigations Attachment
All applicants are to provide the name(s) of the existing “government entity” (or entities)
that is the subject of the certification (see Appendix 2) that—
A government entity exists and an appropriate process is in place to conduct
independent external investigations into allegations of serious negligence or
misconduct substantially affecting the integrity of the forensic results committed by
employees or contractors of any forensic laboratory system, medical examiner office,
coroner's office, law enforcement storage facility, or medical facility in the state that
will receive a portion of the grant amount.
Appendix 3 includes a template for this attachment. Note that funds will not be made
available to applicant agencies that fail to provide the necessary information.
The five certifications and the external investigations attachment should be attached
as a separate file with an appropriately descriptive file name.
c. Forensic Laboratory Accreditation Documentation (if applicable)
Applicants should provide documentation of current accreditation with the application for
any accredited laboratory (including a subrecipient laboratory) that is to receive funds
under the 2017 Coverdell award. Acceptable types of documentation of current
accreditation include: an electronic (scanned) copy of the current accreditation
certificate(s), a digital photograph of the current accreditation certificate(s), or a letter
from the accrediting body that includes the certificate number. Additionally, if a certificate
references another document that contains key information on the type or scope of the
accreditation, provide a copy of that supplemental documentation. Independent
accrediting or certifying organizations may include the American Society of Crime
Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD-LAB), Forensic Quality
Services (FQS), the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA), or other
appropriate accrediting bodies. Note that funds will not be made available to applicant
agencies that fail to provide the necessary information.
Accreditation document(s) should be attached as a separate file with an
appropriately descriptive file name.
d. Applicant Disclosure of Pending Applications
Each applicant is to disclose whether it has (or is proposed as a subrecipient under) any
pending applications for federally-funded grants or cooperative agreements that (1)
include requests for funding to support the same project being proposed in the
application under this solicitation, and (2) would cover all identical cost items outlined in
the submitted to OJP as part of the application under this solicitation. The applicant is to
disclose applications made directly to federal awarding agencies, and also applications
for subawards of federal funds (e.g., applications to state agencies that will subaward
(“subgrant”) federal funds).
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OJP seeks this information to help avoid any inappropriate duplication of funding.
Leveraging multiple funding sources in a complementary manner to implement
comprehensive programs or projects is encouraged and is not seen as inappropriate
duplication.
Each applicant that has one or more pending applications as described above is to
provide the following information about pending applications submitted within the last 12
months:
 The federal or state funding agency.
 The solicitation name/project name.
 The point of contact information at the applicable federal or state funding agency.
Federal or State Solicitation Name/Phone/E-mail for Point of
Funding Agency Name/Project Name Contact at Federal or State Funding
Agency
SAMPLE
DOJ/ Office of COPS Hiring Program Jane Doe, 202/000-0000;
Community Oriented jane.doe@usdoj.gov
Policing Services
(COPS)
Health and Human Drug-Free John Doe, 202/000-0000;
Services/Substance Communities john.doe@hhs.gov
Abuse & Mental Mentoring Program/
Health Services North County Youth
Administration Mentoring Program
Each applicant should include the table as a separate attachment to its application. The
file should be named “Disclosure of Pending Applications.” The applicant Legal Name on
the application must match the entity named on the disclosure of pending applications
statement.
Any applicant that does not have any pending applications as described above is to
submit, as a separate attachment, a statement to this effect: [Applicant Name on SF-
424] does not have (and is not proposed as a subrecipient under) any pending
applications submitted within the last 12 months for federally-funded grants or
cooperative agreements (or for subawards under federal grants or cooperative
agreements) that request funding to support the same project being proposed in this
application to OJP and that would cover all identical cost items outlined in the budget
submitted as part of this application.”
How to Apply
An applicant must submit its application through the Grants Management System (GMS), which
provides support for the application, award, and management of awards at OJP. Each applicant
entity must register in GMS for each specific funding opportunity. Although the registration
and submission deadlines are the same, OJP urges each applicant entity to register promptly,
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especially if this is the first time the applicant is using the system. Find complete instructions on
how to register and submit an application in GMS at www.ojp.gov/gmscbt/. An applicant that
experiences technical difficulties during this process should email GMS.HelpDesk@usdoj.gov or
call 888-549-9901 (option 3), 24 hours every day, including during federal holidays. OJP
recommends that each applicant register promptly to prevent delays in submitting an
application package by the deadline.
Note on File Types: GMS does not accept executable file types as application
attachments. These disallowed file types include, but are not limited to, the following
extensions: “.com,” “.bat,” “.exe,” “.vbs,” “.cfg,” “.dat,” “.db,” “.dbf,” “.dll,” “.ini,” “.log,” “.ora,” “.sys,”
and “.zip.”
Every applicant entity must comply with all applicable System for Award Management (SAM)
and unique entity identifier (currently, a Data Universal Numbering System [DUNS] number)
requirements. If an applicant entity has not fully complied with applicable SAM and unique
identifier requirements by the time OJP makes award decisions, OJP may determine that the
applicant is not qualified to receive an award and may use that determination as a basis for
making the award to a different applicant.
All applicants should complete the following steps:
1. Acquire a unique entity identifier (currently, a DUNS number). In general, the Office of
Management and Budget requires every applicant for a federal award (other than an
individual) to include a "unique entity identifier" in each application, including an application
for a supplemental award. Currently, a DUNS number is the required unique entity identifier.
A DUNS number is a unique nine-digit identification number provided by the commercial
company Dun and Bradstreet. This unique entity identifier is used for tracking purposes, and
to validate address and point of contact information for applicants, recipients, and
subrecipients. It will be used throughout the life cycle of an OJP award. Obtaining a DUNS
number is a free, one-time activity. Call Dun and Bradstreet at 866–705–5711 to obtain a
DUNS number or apply online at www.dnb.com. A DUNS number is usually received within
1-2 business days.
2. Acquire registration with the System for Award Management (SAM). SAM is the
repository for certain standard information about federal financial assistance applicants,
recipients, and subrecipients. All applicants for OJP awards (other than individuals) must
maintain current registrations in the SAM database. Each applicant must update or renew
its SAM registration at least annually to maintain an active status. SAM registration and
renewal can take as long as 10 business days to complete.
Information about SAM registration procedures can be accessed at www.sam.gov.
3. Acquire a GMS username and password. New users must create a GMS profile by
selecting the “First Time User” link under the sign-in box of the GMS home page. For more
information on how to register in GMS, go to www.ojp.gov/gmscbt. Previously registered
applicants should ensure, prior to applying, that the user profile is up to date in GMS
(including, but not limited to, address, legal name of agency and authorized representative)
as this information is populated in any new application.
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Paul Coverdell

4. Verify the SAM (formerly CCR) registration in GMS. OJP requires each applicant to verify
its SAM registration in GMS. Once logged into GMS, click the “CCR Claim” link on the left
side of the default screen. Click the submit button to verify the SAM (formerly CCR)
registration.
5. Search for the funding opportunity on GMS. After logging into GMS or completing the
GMS profile for username and password, go to the “Funding Opportunities” link on the left
side of the page. Select National Institute of Justice and the Paul Coverdell Forensic
Science Improvement Grants Program.
6. Register by selecting the “Apply Online” button associated with the funding
opportunity title. The search results from step 5 will display the “funding opportunity”
(solicitation) title along with the registration and application deadlines for this solicitation.
Select the “Apply Online” button in the “Action” column to register for this funding opportunity
and create an application in the system.
7. Follow the directions in GMS to submit an application consistent with this
solicitation. Once the application is submitted, GMS will display a confirmation screen
stating the submission was successful. Important: In some instances, applicants must wait
for GMS approval before submitting an application. OJP urges applicants to submit the
application at least 72 hours prior to the application due date.
Note: Application Versions
If an applicant submits multiple versions of the same application, OJP will review only the most
recent system-validated version submitted.
Experiencing Unforeseen GMS Technical Issues
An applicant that experiences unforeseen GMS technical issues beyond its control that prevent
it from submitting its application by the deadline may contact the GMS Help Desk or the SAM
Help Desk (Federal Service Desk) to report the technical issue and receive a tracking number.
The applicant must email the NIJ contact identified in the Contact Information section on the title
page within 24 hours after the application deadline to request approval to submit its
application after the deadline. The applicant’s email must describe the technical difficulties, and
must include a timeline of the applicant’s submission efforts, the complete grant application, the
applicant’s DUNS number, and any GMS Help Desk or SAM tracking number(s).
Note: OJP does not automatically approve requests to submit a late application. After
OJP reviews the applicant’s request, and contacts the GMS Help Desk to verify the reported
technical issues, OJP will inform the applicant whether the request to submit a late application
has been approved or denied. If OJP determines that the untimely application submission was
due to the applicant’s failure to follow all required procedures, OJP will deny the applicant’s
request to submit its application.
The following conditions generally are insufficient to justify late submissions:
 Failure to register in SAM or GMS in sufficient time (SAM registration and renewal can
take as long as 10 business days to complete).
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Paul Coverdell

 Failure to follow GMS instructions on how to register and apply as posted on the GMS
website.
 Failure to follow each instruction in the OJP solicitation.
 Technical issues with the applicant’s computer or information technology environment,
such as issues with firewalls.
E. Application Review Information
Base funds and minimum awards
Subject to the availability of appropriated funds, states that satisfy the specific requirements
(including eligibility requirements) outlined in this solicitation, the general requirements for NIJ
and OJP grants, and all other applicable legal requirements, may expect to be awarded "base"
funds or minimum awards determined in accordance with the Coverdell law.
Review Process
OJP is committed to ensuring a fair and open process for awarding grants. NIJ reviews the
application to make sure that the information presented is reasonable, understandable,
measurable, and achievable, as well as consistent with the solicitation. NIJ will also review
applications to ensure statutory requirements have been met.
Pursuant to the Part 200 Uniform Requirements, before awards are made, OJP also reviews
information related to the degree of risk posed by applicants. Among other things, to help
assess whether an applicant that has one or more prior federal awards has a satisfactory record
with respect to performance, integrity, and business ethics, OJP checks whether the applicant is
listed in SAM as excluded from receiving a federal award. In addition, if OJP anticipates that an
award will exceed $150,000 in federal funds, OJP also must review and consider any
information about the applicant that appears in the non-public segment of the integrity and
performance system accessible through SAM (currently, the Federal Awardee Performance and
Integrity Information System; "FAPIIS").
Important note on FAPIIS: An applicant, at its option, may review and comment on any
information about itself that currently appears in FAPIIS and was entered by a federal awarding
agency. OJP will consider any such comments by the applicant, in addition to the other
information in FAPIIS, in its assessment of the risk posed by applicants. The evaluation of risks
goes beyond information in SAM, however. OJP itself has in place a framework for evaluating
risks posed by applicants. OJP takes into account information pertinent to matters such as --
1. Applicant financial stability and fiscal integrity.
2. Quality of the management systems of the applicant, and the applicant’s ability to meet
prescribed management standards, including those outlined in the DOJ Grants Financial
Guide
3. Applicant’s history of performance under OJP and other DOJ awards (including
compliance with reporting requirements and award conditions), as well as awards from
other federal agencies
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Paul Coverdell

4. Reports and findings from audits of the applicant, including audits under the Part 200
Uniform Requirements
5. Applicant's ability to comply with statutory and regulatory requirements, and to effectively
implement other award requirements.
Absent explicit statutory authorization or written delegation of authority to the contrary, the
Assistant Attorney General will make all final award decisions.
F. Federal Award Administration Information
Federal Award Notices
Award notifications will be made by September 30, 2017. OJP sends award notification by email
through GMS to the individuals listed in the application as the point of contact and the
authorizing official. The email notification includes detailed instructions on how to access and
view the award documents, and steps to take in GMS to start the award acceptance process.
GMS automatically issues the notifications at 9:00 p.m. eastern time on the award date.
For each successful applicant, an individual with the necessary authority to bind the applicant
will be required to log in; execute a set of legal certifications and a set of legal assurances;
designate a financial point of contact; thoroughly review the award, including all award
conditions; and sign and accept the award. The award acceptance process requires physical
signature of the award document by the authorized representative and the scanning of the fully-
executed award document to OJP.
Administrative, National Policy, and Other Legal Requirements
If selected for funding, in addition to implementing the funded project consistent with the OJP-
approved application, the recipient must comply with award conditions, as well as all applicable
requirements of federal statutes, regulations, and executive orders (including applicable
requirements referred to in the assurances and certifications executed at the time of award
acceptance). OJP strongly encourages prospective applicants to review information on post-
award legal requirements and common OJP award conditions prior to submitting an application.
Applicants should consult the “Overview of Legal Requirements Generally Applicable to OJP
Grants and Cooperative Agreements”, available in the OJP Funding Resource Center. In
addition, applicants should examine the following two legal documents, as each successful
applicant must execute both documents before it may receive any award funds.
 Certifications Regarding Lobbying; Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility
Matters; and Drug-Free Workplace Requirements
 Standard Assurances
The web pages accessible through the “Overview of Legal Requirements Generally Applicable
to OJP Grants and Cooperative Agreements” are intended to give applicants for OJP awards a
general overview of important statutes, regulations, and award conditions that apply to many (or
in some cases, all) OJP grants and cooperative agreements awarded in FY 2017. Individual
OJP awards typically also will include additional award conditions. Those additional conditions
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Paul Coverdell

may relate to the particular statute, program, or solicitation under which the award is made; to
the substance of the funded application; to the recipient's performance under other federal
awards; to the recipient's legal status (e.g., as a for-profit entity); or to other pertinent
considerations.
General Information About Post-Federal Award Reporting Requirements
In addition to the deliverables described in Section A. Program Description, any recipient of an
award under this solicitation will be required to submit the following reports and data.
Required reports. Recipients typically must submit quarterly financial reports, semi-annual
progress reports, final financial and progress reports, and, if applicable, an annual audit report in
accordance with the Part 200 Uniform Requirements or specific award conditions. Future
awards and fund drawdowns may be withheld if reports are delinquent. (In appropriate cases,
OJP may require additional reports.)
In addition, Coverdell grantees are required to submit a final report that must, among other
things: (1) include a summary and assessment of the program carried out with FY 2017 grant
funds, (2) identify the number and type of cases accepted during the FY 2017 award period by
the forensic laboratory or laboratories that received FY 2017 grant funds, (3) cite the specific
improvements in the quality and/or timeliness of forensic science and medical
examiner/coroner’s office services (including any reduction in forensic analysis backlog) that
occurred as a direct result of the FY 2017 grant award, and (4) detail the progress of any
unaccredited forensic science service provider that received FY 2017 grant funds toward
obtaining accreditation.
Further, as noted earlier under “Eligibility,” for each fiscal year of an award, recipients will be
required to report to NIJ on an annual basis —
1) The number and nature of any allegations of serious negligence or misconduct
substantially affecting the integrity of forensic results;
2) Information on the referrals of such allegations (e.g., the government entity or entities to
which referred, the date of referral);
3) The outcome of such referrals (if known as of the date of the report); and
4) If any such allegations were not referred, the reason(s) for the non-referral.
Future awards and fund drawdowns may be withheld if reports are delinquent.
Awards that exceed $500,000 will include an additional condition that, under specific
circumstances, will require the recipient to report (to FAPIIS) information on civil, criminal, and
administrative proceedings connected with (or connected to the performance of) either the OJP
award or any other grant, cooperative agreement, or procurement contract from the federal
government. Additional information on this reporting requirement appears in the text of the
award condition posted on the OJP web site at http://ojp.gov/funding/FAPIIS.htm
Data on performance measures. In addition to required reports, each recipient of an award
under this solicitation also must provide data that measure the results of the work done under
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Paul Coverdell

the award. To demonstrate program progress and success, as well as to assist DOJ with
fulfilling its responsibilities under the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993
(GPRA), Public Law 103-62, and the GPRA Modernization Act of 2010, Public Law 111–352,
OJP will require any recipient, post award, to provide the data listed as “Data Recipient
Provides” in the performance measures table in Section D. Application and Submission
Information, under "Program Narrative," so that OJP can calculate values for this solicitation's
performance measures.
G. Federal Awarding Agency Contact(s)
For questions directed to the Federal Awarding Agency, see the title page.
For contact information for GMS, see the title page.
H. Other Information
Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552 and 5 U.S.C. 552a)
All applications submitted to OJP (including all attachments to applications) are subject to the
federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and to the Privacy Act. By law, DOJ may withhold
information that is responsive to a request pursuant to FOIA if DOJ determines that the
responsive information either is protected under the Privacy Act or falls within the scope of one
of nine statutory exemptions under FOIA. DOJ cannot agree in advance of a request pursuant
to FOIA not to release some or all portions of an application.
In its review of records that are responsive to a FOIA request, OJP will withhold information in
those records that plainly falls within the scope of the Privacy Act or one of the statutory
exemptions under FOIA. (Some examples include certain types of information in budgets, and
names and contact information for project staff other than certain key personnel.) In appropriate
circumstances, OJP will request the views of the applicant/recipient that submitted a responsive
document.
For example, if OJP receives a request pursuant to FOIA for an application submitted by a
nonprofit or for-profit organization or an institution of higher education, or for an application that
involves research, OJP typically will contact the applicant/recipient that submitted the
application and ask it to identify -- quite precisely -- any particular information in the application
that applicant/recipient believes falls under a FOIA exemption, the specific exemption it believes
applies, and why. After considering the submission by the applicant/recipient, OJP makes an
independent assessment regarding withholding information. OJP generally follows a similar
process for requests pursuant to FOIA for applications that may contain law-enforcement
sensitive information.
Provide Feedback to OJP
To assist OJP in improving its application and award processes, OJP encourages applicants to
provide feedback on this solicitation, the application submission process, and/or the application
review process. Provide feedback to OJPSolicitationFeedback@usdoj.gov.
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Paul Coverdell

IMPORTANT: This email is for feedback and suggestions only. OJP does not reply to
messages it receives in this mailbox. A prospective applicant that has specific questions on any
program or technical aspect of the solicitation must use the appropriate telephone number or
email listed on the front of this solicitation document to obtain information. These contacts are
provided to help ensure that prospective applicants can directly reach an individual who can
address specific questions in a timely manner.
If you are interested in being a reviewer for other OJP grant applications, please email your
résumé to ojppeerreview@lmsolas.com. (Do not send your résumé to the OJP Solicitation
Feedback email account.) Note: Neither you nor anyone else from your organization or entity
can be a peer reviewer in a competition in which you or your organization/entity has submitted
an application.
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Application Checklist
Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program – Formula
This application checklist has been created as an aid in developing an application.
What an Applicant Should Do:
Prior to Registering in GMS:
_____ Acquire a DUNS Number (see page 27)
_____ Acquire or renew registration with SAM (see page 27)
To Register with GMS:
_____ For new users, acquire a GMS username and password* (see page 27)
_____ For existing users, check GMS username and password* to ensure account access
(see page 27)
_____ Verify SAM registration in GMS (see page 28)
_____ Search for correct funding opportunity in GMS (see page 28)
_____ Register by selecting the “Apply Online” button associated with the funding opportunity
title (see page 28)
_____ If experiencing technical difficulties in GMS, contact NIJ (see page 28)
*Password Reset Notice – GMS users are reminded that while password reset capabilities exist,
this function is only associated with points of contacts designated within GMS at the time the
account was established. Neither OJP nor the GMS Help Desk will initiate a password reset
unless requested by the authorized official or a designated point of contact associated with an
award or application.
Overview of Post-Award Legal Requirements:
_____ Review the "Overview of Legal Requirements Generally Applicable to OJP Grants and
Cooperative Agreements" in the OJP Funding Resource Center.
Eligibility Requirement: See Section C. Eligibility Information
What an Application Should Include:
_____ Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) (see page 16)
_____ Intergovernmental Review (see page 17)
_____ Project Abstract (see page 17)
_____ Program Narrative (see page 17)
_____ Budget Detail Worksheet (see page 20)
_____ Budget Narrative (see page 20)
_____ Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (if applicable) (see page 23)
_____ Financial Management and System of Internal Controls Questionnaire (see page 23)
_____ Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL) (if applicable) (see page 24)
_____ Additional Attachments
_____ Coverdell Statutory Certifications (see page 24)
_____ Certification as to Plan for Forensic Science Laboratories—Application
from a State
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_____ Certification as to Generally Accepted Laboratory Practices and
Procedures
_____ Certification as to Forensic Science Laboratory System Accreditation
_____ Certification as to Use of Funds for New Facilities
_____ Certification as to External Investigations
_____ External Investigations Attachment (see page 25)
_____ Forensic Laboratory Accreditation Documentation (if applicable) (see page 25)
_____ Applicant Disclosure of Pending Applications (see page 25)
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Appendix 1. Estimated Amount of FY 2017 Base Funds, by State.10
*Note: If the amount a State would otherwise receive as its total Coverdell grant award, including
both base funds and any competitive funds, is less than the minimum grant amount set by the
Coverdell law, the total Coverdell grant award will be increased to the minimum grant amount,
which is estimated to be not less than $115,000. See “Available Funding” under “Program-Specific
Information” for additional details.
Alabama $146,024 Nevada* $86,877
Alaska* $22,192 New Hampshire* $39,988
Arizona $160,563 New Jersey $210,649
Arkansas $89,502 New Mexico* $62,663
California $920,496 New York $465,501
Colorado $128,312 North Carolina $236,158
Connecticut $107,915 North Dakota* $22,747
Delaware* $28,428 Ohio $273,091
District of Columbia* $20,202 Oklahoma $117,545
Florida $476,682 Oregon $121,080
Georgia $240,204 Pennsylvania $301,053
Hawaii* $43,023 Rhode Island* $31,744
Idaho* $49,735 South Carolina $115,134
Illinois $302,405 South Dakota* $25,799
Indiana $155,663 Tennessee $155,207
Iowa $93,881 Texas $645,940
Kansas $87,502 Utah $90,035
Kentucky $132,985 Vermont* $18,814
Louisiana $140,367 Virginia $197,127
Maine* $39,950 Washington $168,612
Maryland $141,241 West Virginia* $55,420
Massachusetts $159,772 Wisconsin $135,714
Michigan $233,331 Wyoming* $17,614
Minnesota $129,089 American Samoa/ $3,206
Northern Mariana Islands11*
Mississippi $89,927 Guam* $4,862
Missouri $143,058 Puerto Rico $104,408
Montana* $31,043 Virgin Islands* $3,113
Nebraska* $56,985
10 Under the provisions of the Coverdell law, several factors (including the number of eligible state applicants) affect
“base” amounts. Additionally, as noted earlier in the text, as of the writing of this solicitation, the amount (if any) that
will be made available for the Coverdell program for FY 2017 is not yet known. All awards are subject to the
availability of appropriated funds.
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Appendix 2. Templates for Coverdell Statutory Certifications
(Instructions: Scan signed certifications and submit image files electronically through GMS.)
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Paul Coverdell

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF JUSTICE
FY 2017 Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement
Grants Program
Certification as to Plan for Forensic Science Laboratories—
Application from a State
On behalf of the applicant agency named below, I certify the following to the National Institute of
Justice, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice:
The state has developed a plan for forensic science laboratories under a
program intended to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science or
medical examiner services in the state, including such services provided by the
laboratories operated by the state and those operated by units of local
government within the state.
I acknowledge that a false statement in this certification or in the grant application that it
supports may be the subject of criminal prosecution, including under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 and 42
U.S.C. § 3795a. I also acknowledge that Office of Justice Programs grants, including
certifications provided in connection with such grants, are subject to review by the Office of
Justice Programs and/or by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General.
I have authority to make this certification on behalf of the applicant agency (that is, the agency
applying directly to the National Institute of Justice).
___________________________________________
Signature of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Printed Name of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Title of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Name of Applicant Agency (Including Name of State)
____________________
Date
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Paul Coverdell

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF JUSTICE
FY 2017 Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement
Grants Program
Certification as to Generally Accepted Laboratory
Practices and Procedures
On behalf of the applicant agency named below, I certify the following to the National Institute of
Justice, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice:
Any forensic science laboratory system, medical examiner's office, or coroner's
office in the state, including any laboratory operated by a unit of local government
within the state, that will receive any portion of the grant amount uses generally
accepted laboratory practices and procedures, established by accrediting
organizations or appropriate certifying bodies.
I acknowledge that a false statement in this certification or in the grant application that it
supports may be the subject of criminal prosecution, including under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 and 42
U.S.C. § 3795a. I also acknowledge that Office of Justice Programs grants, including
certifications provided in connection with such grants, are subject to review by the Office of
Justice Programs and/or by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General.
I have authority to make this certification on behalf of the applicant agency (that is, the agency
applying directly to the National Institute of Justice).
___________________________________________
Signature of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Printed Name of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Title of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Name of Applicant Agency
(Including Name of State)
____________________
Date
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Paul Coverdell

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF JUSTICE
FY 2017 Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement
Grants Program
Certification as to Forensic Science Laboratory System Accreditation
On behalf of the applicant agency named below, I certify the following to the National Institute of Justice,
Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice:
Before receiving any funds under this grant, any forensic science laboratory system in the
state, including any laboratory operated by a unit of local government within the state,
that will receive any portion of the grant amount either—
a) is accredited by an accrediting body that is a signatory to an internationally recognized
arrangement and that offers accreditation to forensic science conformity assessment
bodies using an accreditation standard that is recognized by that internationally
recognized arrangement, or,
b) is not so accredited, but will (or will be required in a legally binding and enforceable
writing to) use a portion of the grant amount to prepare and apply for such accreditation
not more than 2 years after the date on which a grant is awarded under the FY 2017 Paul
Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program.
I acknowledge that a false statement in this certification or in the grant application that it supports may be
the subject of criminal prosecution, including under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 and 42 U.S.C. § 3795a. I also
acknowledge that Office of Justice Programs grants, including certifications provided in connection with
such grants, are subject to review by the Office of Justice Programs and/or by the Department of Justice’s
Office of the Inspector General.
I have authority to make this certification on behalf of the applicant agency (that is, the agency applying
directly to the National Institute of Justice).
___________________________________________
Signature of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Printed Name of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Title of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Name of Applicant Agency
(Including Name of State)
____________________
Date
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Paul Coverdell

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF JUSTICE
FY 2017 Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement
Grants Program
Certification as to Use of Funds for New Facilities
On behalf of the applicant agency named below, I certify the following to the National Institute of
Justice, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice:
The amount of the grant (if any) used for the costs of any new facility or facilities
to be constructed as part of a program to improve the quality and timeliness of
forensic science and medical examiner services will not exceed the limitations
set forth at 42 U.S.C. § 3797m(c) and summarized in the FY 2017 Coverdell
Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program solicitation.
I acknowledge that a false statement in this certification or in the grant application that it
supports may be the subject of criminal prosecution, including under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 and 42
U.S.C. § 3795a. I also acknowledge that Office of Justice Programs grants, including
certifications provided in connection with such grants, are subject to review by the Office of
Justice Programs and/or by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General.
I have authority to make this certification on behalf of the applicant agency (that is, the agency
applying directly to the National Institute of Justice).
___________________________________________
Signature of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Printed Name of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Title of Certifying Official
___________________________________________
Name of Applicant Agency
(Including Name of State)
____________________
Date
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Paul Coverdell

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF JUSTICE
FY 2017 Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement
Grants Program
Certification as to External Investigations
On behalf of the applicant agency named below, I certify the following to the National Institute of
Justice, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice:
A government entity exists and an appropriate process is in place to conduct
independent external investigations into allegations of serious negligence or
misconduct substantially affecting the integrity of the forensic results committed
by employees or contractors of any forensic laboratory system, medical
examiner's office, coroner's office, law enforcement storage facility, or medical
facility in the state that will receive a portion of the grant amount.
I personally read and reviewed the section entitled “Eligibility” in the Fiscal Year 2017 program
solicitation for the Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program. I acknowledge
that a false statement in this certification or in the grant application that it supports may be the
subject of criminal prosecution, including under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 and 42 U.S.C. § 3795a. I also
acknowledge that Office of Justice Programs grants, including certifications provided in
connection with such grants, are subject to review by the Office of Justice Programs and/or by
the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General.
I have authority to make this certification on behalf of the applicant agency (that is, the agency
applying directly to the National Institute of Justice).
__________________________________________
Signature of Certifying Official
__________________________________________
Printed Name of Certifying Official
__________________________________________
Title of Certifying Official
__________________________________________
Name of Applicant Agency
(Including Name of State)
___________________
Date
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Paul Coverdell

Appendix 3. Template for “External Investigations” Attachment
(Instructions: Scan the completed document and submit image file electronically through
GMS.)
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Paul Coverdell

FY 2017 Coverdell Forensic Science
Improvement Grants Program
Attachment: External Investigations
The “Certification as to External Investigations” that is submitted on behalf of the applicant
agency as part of this application certifies that—
A government entity exists and an appropriate process is in place to conduct independent
external investigations into allegations of serious negligence or misconduct substantially
affecting the integrity of the forensic results committed by employees or contractors of
any forensic laboratory system, medical examiner's office, coroner's office, law
enforcement storage facility, or medical facility in the state that will receive a portion of
the grant amount.
Prior to receiving funds, the applicant agency (that is, the agency applying directing to the National
Institute of Justice) must provide—for each forensic laboratory system, medical examiner’s office,
coroner’s office, law enforcement storage facility, or medical facility that will receive a portion of the grant
amount—the name of the “government entity” (or entities) that forms the basis for the certification. Please
use the template below to provide this information. (Applicants may adapt this template if necessary, but
should ensure that the adapted document provides all required information.)
IMPORTANT NOTE: If necessary for accuracy, list more than one entity with respect to each intended
recipient of a portion of the grant amount. For example, if no single entity has an appropriate process in
place with respect to allegations of serious negligence as well as serious misconduct, it will be necessary
to list more than one entity. Similarly, if no single entity has an appropriate process in place with respect
to allegations concerning contractors as well as employees, it will be necessary to list more than one
entity.
Additional guidance regarding the “Certification as to External Investigations” appears in the “Eligibility”
section of the program solicitation for the FY 2017 Coverdell program.
Name of Applicant Agency (including Name of State):
______________________________________
Date: _________________________________
Name of any forensic laboratory system, medical Existing government entity (entities) with an
examiner’s office, coroner’s office, law appropriate process in place to conduct
enforcement storage facility, or medical facility independent external investigations
that will receive a portion of the grant amount
1. ___________________________
_____________________________
2. ___________________________ _____________________________
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FY 2017 External Investigations Attachment (continued)
Name of Applicant Agency: _______________________________
3. ___________________________ _____________________________
_____________________________
4. ___________________________ _____________________________
_____________________________
5. ___________________________ _____________________________
_____________________________
6. ___________________________ _____________________________
_____________________________
7. ___________________________ _____________________________
_____________________________
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