Bills/S. 1884

Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act of 2025

Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act of 2025

Passed SenateJudiciarySenateSenate Bill · 119th Congress
Bill Progress · Senate
Introduced
Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Passed Both
Signed

Plain Language Summary

# Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act of 2025 — Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill creates legal pathways for victims of the Holocaust and their heirs to recover artwork and cultural property that was stolen by Nazi Germany during World War II. It addresses a long-standing issue: many valuable paintings, sculptures, and artifacts were seized from Jewish families and others persecuted by the Nazis, and some remain in museums, private collections, or government holdings today. The legislation would help facilitate lawsuits and claims to recover or obtain compensation for these stolen items. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects Holocaust victims and their descendants who lost art and cultural property during WWII.

It also impacts museums, galleries, and current holders of potentially looted artwork, as they may face legal claims. The legislation is part of broader efforts to right historical wrongs and ensure that stolen cultural heritage is returned to rightful owners or their families. **Current Status** The bill has passed the Senate and is now awaiting consideration in the House of Representatives. This represents bipartisan support for Holocaust reparations and the return of cultural property taken during the war.

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Latest Action

December 11, 2025

Held at the desk.

Subjects

Art, artists, authorshipCivil actions and liabilityConflicts and warsCrime victimsHistorical and cultural resourcesMuseums, exhibitions, cultural centersWar crimes, genocide, crimes against humanityWorld history

Sponsor

R
Cornyn, John [R-TX]
R-TX · Senate
21 cosponsors

Key Dates

Introduced
May 22, 2025
Last Updated
December 11, 2025
Read Full Text on Congress.gov →
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