San José State University Lists Unclaimed Native American Remains for Repatriation
Published Date: 12/17/2025
Notice
Summary
San José State University finished checking its collection of 13 human remains and found no living relatives or Native groups connected to them. Starting January 16, 2026, anyone interested can request to have these remains returned. This update affects tribes and researchers, with no costs mentioned, just a clear path for repatriation.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation requests open Jan 16, 2026
San José State University identified 13 Native American human remains and you can request their return starting January 16, 2026. Only a lineal descendant, an Indian Tribe, or a Native Hawaiian organization that shows by a preponderance of the evidence they are affiliated may request repatriation. If more than one group requests the same remains, the university must decide which requestor is most appropriate; joint requests count as a single request.
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