# Understanding the Safeguard Tribal Objects of Patrimony Act

This bill is about protecting Native American cultural items and archaeological artifacts from being illegally exported out of the United States. Think of it as creating stronger rules and enforcement to keep sacred objects, burial items, and ancient artifacts from being sold or smuggled to other countries.

The bill makes several key changes. First, it significantly increases the penalties for people who illegally traffic in Native American cultural items. If someone is caught violating these laws, they could face up to 10 years in prison instead of the current 5 years, and fines can be much higher. Second, it creates a new certification system: before anyone can legally export a Native American cultural item or archaeological artifact from the U.S., they need to get permission from the relevant Native American tribe or Hawaiian organization. If a tribe hasn't approved the export, customs officials will stop the item at the border. Third, the bill allows the President to work with foreign governments to prevent these items from being smuggled across borders and to bring back items that have already been illegally exported.

The law also sets up a system to help people and organizations voluntarily return stolen or illegally held items without facing prosecution, encouraging museums and private collectors to do the right thing. It creates working groups—both within the federal government and with tribal leaders—to coordinate efforts across different agencies. Additionally, the bill protects sensitive information that tribes provide to the government, keeping it confidential rather than making it public through freedom of information requests. Finally, it encourages people to buy contemporary art made by Native artists instead of seeking out ancient artifacts, supporting living Native communities economically.

Safeguard Tribal Objects of Patrimony Act of 2021

Safeguard Tribal Objects of Patrimony Act of 2021 This bill prohibits the exportation of Native American cultural items and archaeological resources that were illegally obtained; provides for the return of such items, including voluntary returns; and establishes and increases related criminal penalties. The bill requires the Department of the Interior and the Department of State to each designate a liaison to facilitate and hold trainings and workshops on the voluntary return of human remains and cultural items. Additionally, Interior must <ul> <li>refer individuals and organizations to Indian tribes and Native Hawaiian organizations to facilitate the voluntary return of human remains and cultural items; </li> <li>convene an interagency working group; and </li> <li>convene a Native working group consisting of representatives of Indian tribes and Native Hawaiian organizations to provide advice on issues concerning the return of, and illegal trade in, human remains and cultural items. </li> </ul> The bill also increases from 5 years to 10 years the maximum prison term for an individual convicted of selling, purchasing, using for profit, or transporting for sale or profit human remains or cultural items that were illegally obtained.