House Bill 8-15-1, HD2, SD1 ensures that historical and cultural properties located in Palau are protected from destruction from both intentional and unintentional actions.
The measure calls for the increase in penalties because the current fees are inadequate.The measure increases the penalty from $1,000 to $5,000 and imprisonment of a minimum of three years.Violation of the law can also mean both penalty and imprisonment, according to the proposed measure.“Given the importance of historical sites, cultural property, and lagoon monuments to Palau’s own cultural preservation, and to the tourism and diving industries, the Olbiil Era Kelulau feels that the current penalties for the destruction or theft of historical sites or artifacts are inadequate. These sites and artifacts are priceless in terms of cultural significance and monetary value because of their irreplaceable nature. In order to demonstrate the Republic’s dedication to cultural preservation and to show that Palau will not tolerate the destruction and plundering of its heritage, the Olbiil Era Kelulau finds that it is necessary to increase the penalties associated with the removal, theft, damage, or destruction of historical sites, tangible cultural property, and lagoon monuments,” the measure said.The measure also increases 60 percent from 40 percent of the amount of each fine collected which will be allocated to the state government of the state in which the violation occurred. While only 40 percent of the amount will be given to the national government.
