York County News

The Senate of Pennsylvania has passed a measure aimed at supporting the efficient management of Pennsylvania's private and not-for-profit museums and historical societies. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill, addresses the ownership challenges faced by these entities regarding abandoned, unclaimed, or undocumented property left in their care.

"In many cases, the abandoned or unclaimed property in question has low monetary value and was documented in the museum's inventory decades ago, with lenders, if known at all, now deceased," Phillips-Hill stated. "The bill not only addresses challenges faced by museums but also sets a precedent for responsible and ethical practices in the management of these invaluable institutions."

The legislation provides a systematic process for claiming or disposing of unclaimed property when lenders are deceased, heirs cannot be found, or proof of claim is absent. This forward-looking approach aligns with recent legislation passed by many other states.

The bill aims to establish a more efficient use of funds and a streamlined process for conserving, displaying, and ethically disposing of historical artifacts. It allows these entities to establish title to abandoned, unclaimed, or undocumented property, providing them with the necessary authority to manage and care for these artifacts.

Senate Bill 228 will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration. If passed, it will contribute to the responsible and ethical management of Pennsylvania's museums and historical societies, ensuring the preservation and display of the state's rich history for future generations.