OK HB2161

Museums may acquire legal title to undocumented property held for 7+ years with no valid claims by publishing two notices in the county newspaper, with 90 days between notices for potential claimants to respond.

Museums may acquire title to loaned property after 2 years of no written contact with the lender following loan expiration, after sending certified mail notice and publishing in the newspaper if delivery is unconfirmed.

Former owners have 2 years after title transfers to bring legal action against a museum; after this period, museums and their employees are protected from liability for good faith actions under the act.

Museums may apply conservation measures or dispose of loaned or undocumented property without permission if immediate action is needed to protect the property, other museum property, or public/staff health and safety.

Loaned property that would otherwise escheat to the state upon the owner's death instead becomes property of the museum holding it; effective date is November 1, 2025.