Massachusetts House Bill H3248

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/12/24

Caption

To protect Native American heritage

Impact

If enacted, H3248 will amend existing laws to reinforce the accountability of agencies, organizations, or entities receiving state funding in relation to the handling of Native American heritage items. By aligning state laws with the federal standards set by the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, the bill aims to safeguard the rights of Native American communities over their cultural heritage, potentially impacting museum practices, academic institutions, and local governments.

Summary

House Bill 3248 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing protections for Native American heritage within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It seeks to ensure that the penalties and requirements established by the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act are strictly enforced. The bill is motivated by a desire to address the deaccessioning of Native American funerary objects, human remains, sacred objects, and other culturally significant items that may occur within state-funded organizations or local governments.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill include the balance between public interest in cultural artifacts and the rights of Native American tribes to reclaim sacred and funerary objects. Opponents may argue that strict enforcement could limit local entities' ability to curate historical artifacts for educational purposes. Supporters, however, advocate for the necessity of protecting Native American heritage from exploitation and ensuring that such items are treated with respect as part of indigenous rights.