A 2029 New York Assembly · 2023 Regular Session

Enacts the "unmarked burial site protection act", to regulate the discovery of burial grounds, human remains and funerary objects

Summary
Enacts the "unmarked burial site protection act"; requires the cessation of all ground disturbing activities upon the discovery of a burial ground, human remains or funerary objects; requires the reporting of such discovery to the local coroner; provides that if such remains are more than 50 years old, the state archaeologist shall be notified; requires state archaeologist to determine whether the remains are of Native American origin; provides that the lineal descendants or culturally affiliated group of such remains shall be notified and be given possession thereof; establishes the Native American burial site review committee to provide for notice and disposition of Native American remains; establishes criminal penalties for the violation of such provisions relating to the disturbance or failure to report the discovery of any such site, remains or objects; grants the attorney general and aggrieved parties a civil right of action for the violations of such provisions; requires inquiry by state agency preservation officers to determine whether any proposed project undertaken, funded or approved by a state agency will disturb burial grounds.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2023
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 23, 2023 Last action Jan 3, 2024