IL SB3585

Transfers governance of the Illinois State Museum from the Illinois State Museum Society Board to the Department of Natural Resources, with an 11-member Advisory Board appointed by the Governor.

Requires that starting July 1, 2026, the Board shall include 9 members with at least 5 years of experience in natural sciences, anthropology, art, history or business from diverse backgrounds and geographic locations, plus 2 representatives from community-based organizations, with 6 members from historically marginalized identities.

Clarifies that cooperation between the State Museum and the Illinois State Academy of Science and the Illinois State Museum Society shall not grant those organizations any special rights, authority, or privileges.

Expands the State Museum's duties to include work with Native Americans on interpretation of Native histories and art directed by Tribal partners, and compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).

Changes Board member appointment terms to 2 years for all members appointed after January 1, 2025, and allows the Governor to remove members for incompetency, dereliction of duty, or malfeasance.