Being an archeologist in Aurora also means that I must be familiar with laws and regulations of findings. The law protects Native American skeletons and other purposes, such as artifacts. Legal authorities in federal and state government divisions protect the remains of Native American and artifacts. According to attorney Benderson, Archeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGRPA), are part of an organization that is in control, thus, the state is reliable for state-owned and controlled lands, also to those that are locally owned (USAO Department of Justice 3). Once the remains or artifacts of Native American are found they immediately become protected, thus must be secure …show more content…
The State Archaeologist/Deputy SHPO-Archeology at 303-866-2736, who is in association with National Park Service NAGPRA Grants program. From there Colorado Commission will consult with the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs and the Colorado Historical Society. In this case, the skeleton or artifacts found needs to be reported to the United States federal law NAGRPA, which indorsed first significant protection on 16 November 1990. Pub. L. 101-601, 25 U.S.C. 3001 et seq., 104 Stat. 3048 (Benderson 3). Different reasons could exemplify the importance of regulations and laws placed for skeletons and artifacts of Native Americans. Due to a high curiosity of Natives religious and spiritual history, artifacts and scientific possessions, many collectors and museums could potentially mistreat or sell components in their own interest. Based on the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990, Pub, L. 101-644, SS 104, 104 Stat. 4660 (1990) it states that “For a first-time violation of the Act, an individual can face civil or criminal penalties up to a $250,000 fine or a 5 years prison term, or both” (Benderson 5). Having laws and limitations for public and personal ownership does not only protects cultural resources but respects legal and moral obligation towards Native Americans. The law for discovered remains or artifacts applies