Bill > HB2118

This bill, known as the Museum Unclaimed Loaned Property Act, establishes rules for handling property loaned to museums that is no longer being claimed by its owner. It aims to protect valuable cultural items and clarify responsibilities between lenders and museums. The act requires museums to maintain detailed records of loaned items, including lender information and loan dates, and to provide lenders with receipts or loan agreements. Lenders are obligated to inform museums of any changes to their contact information or ownership of the loaned property. If a lender cannot be contacted for a significant period (20 years for indefinite loans or 5 years after a definite loan expires), the museum can initiate a process to terminate the loan. This process involves a diligent search for the lender and providing notice through restricted certified mail or publication. If the lender still does not respond within 90 days of the notice, the museum can acquire title to the unclaimed property. The bill also addresses museum liability, stating that museums are generally not liable for issues arising from unclaimed loaned property unless there's evidence of bad faith or gross negligence, and it allows museums to place liens on property for reasonable care expenses. Importantly, this act does not apply to stolen property or property covered by federal laws like the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.

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https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/hb2118