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Idaho statutes regarding protection of graves and human remains are inadequate in their current form. The neighboring state of Washington provides an excellent model for the implementation of more effective and ethical legislation in this matter. What follows is a comparison of the statutes in both states as well as a strong critique of the current policies in Idaho, which among other things, allow for personal possession and purchase of human remains. A brief historical review and case studies are provided to support the argument that more stringent protections of human remains are required, and the historical background of current law is offered to place the differences between these two states into perspective. Finally, suggestions are offered regarding possible future directions in Idaho and ways of improving the current legislation. A rationale for the creation of national legislation is also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]