The Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) Kaneohe Bay plans to handle the transfer of human remains found on federal or tribal lands back to the rightful Native Hawaiian descendants or organizations, as required by the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). These remains, representing at least one Native Hawaiian individual, were found during an archaeological test in January 2024. If a claim isn't made by March 19, 2026, the remains will be considered unclaimed. Several Native Hawaiian organizations and individuals have been prioritized for receiving the remains, but others can also submit claims by proving they have a right to do so.
Simple Explanation
The Marine Corps Base in Hawaii found some very old bones and wants to give them back to Native Hawaiian groups, like giving a lost toy back to its owner. If nobody asks for them by March 19, 2026, they might not know who to give them to.