Maine § 2842-B. - Native American human remains

Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 2842-B. — Native American human remains, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2842-B.. Native American human remains

1.  Transfer of remains.  Except as provided in subsections 2 and 3, a person or entity who possesses any human remains identified as Native American human remains shall transfer the remains to the intertribal repatriation organization that is appointed by the Passamaquoddy Tribe, Penobscot Nation, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians and Mi'kmaq Nation for reburial. The intertribal repatriation organization shall make reasonable inquiry to locate the next of kin of the deceased. If next of kin are located, the intertribal repatriation organization shall transfer the remains to the next of kin.

2.  Medical Examiner cases.  In cases within the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner Act, the Chief Medical Examiner has authority over Native American human remains until the remains are no longer required for legal purposes. At that time, the Chief Medical Examiner shall make reasonable inquiry to locate the next of kin of the deceased. If next of kin are located, the Chief Medical Examiner shall release the remains to the next of kin of the deceased. If no next of kin are located, the remains must be released to the intertribal repatriation organization for reburial.

3.  Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.  Subsection 1 does not apply to any human remains or any person or entity subject to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, 25 United States Code, Chapter 32.

4.  Memorandum of understanding.  The Chief Medical Examiner, the Maine Historic Preservation Commission and the Maine State Museum shall enter into a memorandum of understanding concerning the disposition of human remains in the possession of the Chief Medical Examiner that are subject to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 2842-B.

What does Maine Revised Statutes § 2842-B. cover?

Section 2842-B. ("Native American human remains") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maine § 2842-B.?

A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 2842-B." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maine law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.

How does Maine § 2842-B. apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.