Bill > SB996

This bill establishes a comprehensive legal framework for museums in Oklahoma to acquire legal title to undocumented and loaned property through a structured process. The legislation defines key terms such as "museum," "property," and "undocumented property," and provides specific procedures for museums to claim ownership of items in their possession. For undocumented property held for seven years or more, museums must publish two public notices in a local newspaper, providing a description of the property and intent to claim title if no valid claims are made within 90 days. For loaned property, museums must attempt to contact the lender after the loan's expiration, sending certified mail and subsequent notices if no response is received. The bill limits the time frame for legal actions against museums to two years and provides museums with protections when applying conservation measures to at-risk property. Museums are required to maintain detailed records of loaned items and notify lenders of address changes or potential actions. The legislation also addresses scenarios involving property ownership after a lender's death and provides museums with a mechanism to take ownership of unclaimed or abandoned items while establishing clear notice and communication requirements. The act is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, and aims to provide museums with a clear legal process for managing and potentially acquiring property in their collections.

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http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb996&Session=2600