(a) Application

Each State or unit of local government that desires to receive a payment under this subpart for a fiscal year shall submit an application for the payment to the Secretary at such time and in such manner and containing such information as the Secretary shall require.

(b) Contents of application

Each application submitted under subsection (a) shall—

(1) describe the activities for which assistance under this section is sought; and

(2) provide such additional information and certifications as the Secretary determines to be essential to ensure compliance with the requirements of this subpart.

(c) Protection against actions based on information in application

(1) In general

No action may be brought under this chapter against a State or unit of local government on the basis of any information contained in the application submitted under subsection (a).

(2) Exception for criminal acts

Paragraph (1) may not be construed to limit the liability of a State or unit of local government for criminal acts or omissions.