Program Overview

The Tribal Voluntary Bison Inspection Fee Coverage Program is supported through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Tribal Relations. This program aims to provide reimbursement of USDA voluntary bison inspection fees to Native American-owned establishments or those operating on Tribal lands.

Objective

The objective of this program is to implement a reimbursement process for voluntary bison inspection fees, in accordance with Sec. 765 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 (Public Law 118-42). This program will reimburse voluntary meat inspection fees associated with the slaughtering or processing of bison/ buffalo.

Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to:

• Must be a Native American-owned establishment or operating on Tribal lands

• Must be slaughtering or processing USDA inspected bison/ buffalo

• Must have an active Federal Grant of Inspection

• Must have paid USDA-FSIS Inspection fees on or after October 1, 2023

How do I Apply for Reimbursement

To apply for this program please contact hmoore@flowerhill.institute to receive an application.

Applicants must submit:

• one page application form

• W-9 tax form

• copy of Federal Grant of Inspection

• proof of Native American ownership or proof of business operating on Tribal lands.

Once confirmed you are an eligible entity you will need to submit itemized FSIS invoices and proof of payment.

**Funds are limited and reimbursements are paid on a first-come, first-served basis. Requests received after all funds are obligated will not be paid.