To clarify the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act of 2016, to appropriately limit the application of defenses based on the passage of time and other non-merits defenses to claims under that Act.

# HR 4235 Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would modify the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act of 2016 to make it easier for people to recover artwork stolen by Nazi Germany during the Holocaust. Specifically, it would prevent museums and current art owners from using certain legal defenses—particularly arguments based on how much time has passed since the theft—to block claims from rightful owners or their heirs seeking to recover stolen artwork. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects Holocaust victims and their descendants seeking to reclaim family artwork taken during WWII, as well as museums and art collectors currently holding these pieces. It could require institutions to return valuable artwork even if they've possessed it for decades, potentially without compensation. **Current Status:** HR 4235 was introduced by Representative Laurel M.

Lee (R-FL) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill has not advanced to a floor vote as of this summary.