Protecting Native American Heritage: Stricter Penalties and Export Control
This new law strengthens the protection of Native American graves and cultural items, making it harder to illegally export them from the U.S. It increases penalties for trafficking these items and introduces an export certification system to prevent their loss. The aim is to facilitate the return of these items to their rightful owners.
Key points
Increased prison sentences for illegal trafficking of Native American cultural items from 5 to 10 years, and for a first violation from 12 months to 1 year and 1 day.
Prohibition of the export of illegally obtained Native American cultural and archaeological resources.
Establishment of an export certification system for cultural and archaeological items, requiring approval for their removal from the U.S.
Creation of interagency and Native working groups to improve cooperation and support the voluntary return of cultural heritage.
Sensitive information submitted by Native American tribes is protected from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.
VOTING RESULTS
2021-12-02
86%
For
364
Against
57
Abstain
0
Became Law
Citizen Poll