Bill > H698

This bill establishes a special commission to study and protect the archaeological, geological, and fossil resources of western Massachusetts, particularly within the Connecticut River Valley. This commission will be composed of representatives from the House of Representatives, the Senate, appointees by the Governor with expertise in archaeology, geology, environmental law, land ownership, historical commissions, and Native American heritage, and a member appointed by the Secretary of the Commonwealth knowledgeable about the region's historical resources. The commission's task is to review existing laws and regulations to determine if they adequately protect these valuable resources and ensure public access for educational purposes, while also considering how institutions handle discoveries, preservation, and the return of sacred items to Native American tribes. The commission is authorized to receive funding from various sources and is required to submit its findings and recommendations to the joint committee on natural resources and agriculture and the clerks of the House and Senate by October 1, 2016.