Rep. Hastings opposes NAGPRA regulation

Wednesday, January 16, 2008  

Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Washington) says the Interior Department is proposing a regulation that would block study of the Kennewick Man.

The rule affects the handling of certain remains under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. Hastings says Interior doesn't have authority to issue the rule.

The 9,200-year-old Kennewick Man remains were found on federal land in Hastings' district. They were claimed by several tribes but the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that they were not covered by NAGPRA because they were too old.

Tribal advocates proposed an amendment to NAGPRA to cover future situations. Hastings countered with a bill that would ensure study of remains found on federal land.

Get the Story:
Study of 'Kennewick Man' Could be Threatened (KNDO 1/16)

Get the Bill:
A bill to amend certain laws relating to Native Americans to make technical corrections, and for other purposes (S.2087)

Court Decision:
BONNICHSEN v. US (February 4, 2004)

Relevant Links:
National NAGPRA - http://www.cr.nps.gov/nagpra

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