(a) Administration

To carry out this chapter, the Secretary may—

(1) acquire and maintain real or personal property;

(2) employ a person;

(3) make a grant; and

(4) notwithstanding chapter 63 of title 31, enter into a contract, cooperative agreement, memorandum of understanding, or other agreement.

(b) Tort claims

(1) In general

Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Secretary may pay a tort claim, in the manner authorized by the first paragraph of section 2672 of title 28, if the claim arises outside the United States in connection with an activity authorized under this chapter.

(2) Requirements

A claim may not be allowed under this subsection unless the claim is presented in writing to the Secretary not later than 2 years after the date on which the claim arises.