Well, well, well, it turns out that for years, developers in New York have been building on top of Native American burial sites without even batting an eyelid. I mean, talk about rude, right? Shockingly, the state was one of four that offered zilch protection for graves on private property. But hold on to your hats, folks, because things are about to change thanks to Gov. Kathy Hochul and her trusty budget deal!

The deal includes a new measure that requires landowners to cease developing their land if they stubble upon a burial site. And get this, it’s now a crime to remove, deface or sell the remains or any funerary objects found there. What a relief, because nothing shouts, “I’m clueless” like a shiny, new condominium towering over a burial ground.

Assemblyman Fred Thiele, the Long Island Democrat and bill author, is beyond thrilled. He said, “This is a major victory for Native Americans across the state of New York. It’s something that should have been done decades ago.” No kidding, Fred! It’s not rocket science.

It’s taken almost two decades of nagging and pleading from representatives of the state’s indigenous tribes to finally get some protection for their deceased ancestors. But better late than never, right? A grave protection bill was passed last year with unanimous approval, only for Ms. Hochul to veto it. She cited property rights as the main factor. However, it appears she’s seen the light, and the new and improved bill is set to be signed into law imminently. Phew!

So, there you have it folks, developers in New York can no longer simply ignore ancient burial sites like yesterday’s news. And let’s face it; it’s good news because nobody wants to tell their grandkids how their apartment block is built on top of their great-great-great-great-great-granddad’s resting place.

Serious News: nytimes