Large rally at Capitol in Madison over bill supporters say could lead to destruction of burial sites

MADISON -- A large rally was held on the steps of the Capitol in Madison Tuesday, January 12th -- as Native American groups and supporters protested a bill they say could lead to the destruction of ancient burial sites.

The bill is aimed at property owners whose land is cataloged as a burial site by the Wisconsin Historical Society.

If the owner believes there are no human remains on the land, the owner would be able to search the property.

Opponents say such an investigation could end up disturbing sacred land.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) says he sees both sides, but he's currently uncomfortable with the bill.

"Wisconsin's a young state -- 1840s. We've been here for millennia, and so the very first thing I think of is 'let me take this chance to educate them,'" David Greendeer, Ho-Chunk legislator said.

"I think it requires an awful lot more study, an awful lot more conversation so I don`t intend to move the bill," Vos said.

Ho-Chunk officials say they were joined at the rally by several other tribes -- some coming from as far as Nebraska.

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