Bill to punish grave robbers sent to governor's desk

A Columbia lawmaker's bill to outline a legal framework and set penalties for prosecuting Louisiana grave robbers is headed to the governor's desk.

  

The Senate voted 31-0 Friday to give final passage to the proposal from Republican Sen. Neil Riser. The House unanimously supported the measure, which was described as an effort to curb the trafficking of human remains.

  

It outlines who could possess remains and where they could be possessed. The bill would not punish museum collections or anatomical donations.

  

Supporters say grave robbing has become a popular trend. The looters, they say, often traffic the stolen remains through internet sales.

  

If supported by the governor, violators of the provision would face up to a $5,000 fine and one year in prison.