Permits a tribe to use amounts received through a bond issue to enter contracts: (1) for the design and engineering of the school; and (2) with financial advisors, underwriters, attorneys, trustees, and other professionals who would be able to provide assistance to the tribe in issuing bonds.
Makes any tribal school modernization bond issued by a tribe subject to a trust agreement.
Authorizes the Secretary to deposit not more than $30 million each fiscal year into a tribal school modernization escrow account beginning in FY 2004 from amounts made available for school replacement under the construction account of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Requires the Secretary to use any amounts deposited to make payments to trustees or for advance planning and design.
Declares that no bond shall be an obligation of, nor shall payment of the principal be guaranteed by, the United States, the tribes, or their schools. Exempts from Federal income tax any earnings through the investment of funds under the control of a trustee. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit to individuals who hold such bonds.