TVA Turns Tender: Power Agency Preps Native Remains for Repatriation
Published Date: 9/10/2025
Notice
Summary
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) plans to return human remains and funerary items taken from Federal or Tribal lands to the rightful Native American descendants or tribes. This respectful action follows important laws to honor Native heritage and happens soon. If you’re connected to these items, get ready for the handover process and any related updates.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation of Native Remains
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) intends to return human remains and associated funerary objects removed from Federal or Tribal lands to lineal descendants, Indian Tribes, or Native Hawaiian organizations under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). If you are a named descendant, tribe, or organization with priority for disposition, TVA plans to transfer those remains and items to you.
Handover Process and Notifications
TVA indicates that people or groups connected to the remains and funerary items should prepare for the handover process and related updates. If you are an eligible descendant, tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization, expect communications and steps to complete the disposition.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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