Museum Prepares to Repatriate Remains to California Tribes
Published Date: 3/27/2026
Notice
Summary
The San Bernardino County Museum has finished checking its collection and found Native American human remains and a funerary object linked to the Serrano and Tataviam tribes. Starting April 27, 2026, these remains and objects can be returned to the tribes. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage with no cost to the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Tribes Can Request Repatriation Starting April 27
The San Bernardino County Museum identified human remains representing 10 Native American individuals and 10 associated funerary objects that are affiliated with the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation. Repatriation may occur on or after April 27, 2026, and written requests may be submitted by the named Tribes or by lineal descendants or other Tribes who show cultural affiliation; the museum will resolve competing requests and will consider joint repatriation as a single request.
Repatriation Will Cost No Public Funds
The notice states the repatriation step to return the remains and objects is being taken with no cost to the public. That means the museum will carry out repatriation activities without charging or imposing costs on the general public.
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