BJA FY25 Missing and Unidentified Human Remains (MUHR) Program

The Missing and Unidentified Human Remains (MUHR) Program, administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) within the U.S. Department of Justice, aims to support state, local, and national efforts to enhance the identification of missing persons and unidentified human remains (UHR). Grounded in the authority of Public Law 116-277, this program is specifically designed to bolster the capacity of jurisdictions to report, process, identify, and repatriate MP and UHR cases, with a particular emphasis on improving coordination and forensic techniques across sectors. The BJA, through this initiative, seeks to increase public safety and deliver justice by resolving cases that may otherwise remain unsolved due to lack of resources or infrastructure. The program offers three categories of funding: Category 1 supports statewide projects with awards of up to $1 million, Category 2 funds local-level initiatives with awards up to $500,000, and Category 3 provides national-scale services for small, rural, or tribal entities with up to $1 million in funding. Eligible applicants vary by category but include state and local governments, accredited public forensic laboratories, medical examiner offices, nonprofits (with or without 501(c)(3) status), and public higher education institutions. Specific eligibility requirements are detailed in the NOFO, including collaboration prerequisites and certifications for certain applicant types. Funds may be used for a broad array of activities, including DNA analysis, forensic anthropology, data entry into NamUs and CODIS, and the transportation and repatriation of remains. However, activities must comply with stringent federal requirements regarding data privacy, accreditation standards, and forensic genetic genealogy (FGG). Expenses such as training (capped at 5%), lab equipment, and family reference sample processing are permitted, while costs such as funerals and general administrative overhead exceeding 10% are prohibited. Applicants must submit their SF-424 through Grants.gov by October 10, 2025, and complete the full application in JustGrants by November 20, 2025. While no pre-application (LOI or concept paper) is required, a detailed narrative, budget form, MOUs or letters of intent (if applicable), and various certifications are mandatory. Submissions must also include responses to the MUHR Program Inventory Question Set and, if proposing DNA or FGG activities, corresponding certifications. Applications are evaluated first for eligibility and basic minimum requirements, then reviewed on merit based on problem statement, project design, team capacity, and budget clarity. Awards are anticipated to begin on October 1, 2025, and each grant has a 36-month period of performance. Though non-recurring, the program is likely to continue in future years based on congressional funding, with recipients expected to maintain reporting into NamUs, NCIC, and ViCAP. Contacts for assistance include the OJP Response Center at OJP.ResponseCenter@usdoj.gov or 800-851-3420.