((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 , if the claim arises outside the United States in connection with an activity authorized under this chapter.section 2672 of title 28

((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.