The California State University (CSU) system is taking significant steps to address the repatriation of ancestral remains and cultural items to Native American tribes, following a recent audit highlighting compliance issues. During a joint hearing of the Legislative Audit Committee and the Assembly Select Committee on Native American Affairs on August 29, 2023, Chancellor Garcia emphasized the university's commitment to working closely with tribal leaders to fulfill both legal and moral obligations regarding these cultural items.

The Heritage Commission is actively developing enforcement regulations under the California Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (Cal NAGPRA). These regulations aim to impose fines and punitive measures on institutions that fail to comply with repatriation processes. The Commission's representatives stressed the urgency of accountability, stating that institutions must take immediate action to return ancestral remains and cultural artifacts to their rightful tribes.

The audit revealed that 15 CSU campuses require a full-time repatriation coordinator to manage the return of artifacts, as recommended when a campus holds over 100 items. Currently, many campuses have only part-time or faculty members handling these responsibilities. The CSU system is now working towards appointing full-time coordinators to ensure compliance with the audit's recommendations.

This commitment to accountability and action marks a pivotal moment for the CSU system, as it seeks to rectify past oversights and strengthen relationships with California's Native American communities. The ongoing discussions and developments signal a renewed focus on cultural sensitivity and the importance of returning ancestral items to their rightful owners. As the Chancellor prepares to provide further details in October, stakeholders are hopeful for tangible progress in these critical areas.