Opinion ID: 154307
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Administrative Interpretations

Text: Administrative interpretations support the Pueblo’s contention that repatriation is not limited by when a Native American object was found. First, regulations issued to carry out the provisions of NAGPRA distinguish between ownership and repatriation. “An administrative agency’s interpretation of a statute which the agency is entrusted to administer is entitled to considerable deference by a reviewing court.” Bernstein v. Sullivan, 914 F.2d 1395, 1400 (10th Cir. 1990). -8- NAGPRA Regulations are subdivided into two distinct subparts that separately address repatriation and ownership. Subpart B concerns the disposition of Native American items discovered or excavated, either inadvertently or intentionally, on federal lands after November 16, 1990. 43 C.F.R. §§ 10.3(a) & 10.4(a) (1995). Subpart C addresses repatriation of Native American objects in possession of federal agencies and museums. 43 C.F.R. §§ 10.8 - 10.10 (1995). Regulations concerning repatriation do not contain a limiting date and, therefore, support the conclusion that the Pueblo stated a claim under NAGPRA to establish federal subject matter jurisdiction.