The Unmarked Burial Site Protection Act of 2023 establishes a process for the discovery of human remains and funerary objects from unmarked graves (Executive Law 5171).  

Unmarked Native American burial sites are the responsibility of the Native American Burial Site Review Committee pursuant to the statute.

     Non-Native American burial sites are the responsibility of the State Archaeologist.

     Disposition is determined in consultation with lineal descendants or culturally-affliated groups and the property owner.

     Human remains and objects may only be handled or removed by a professional archaeologist or the State Archaeologist.

    Criminal penalties apply in the event of noncompliance.