2013 Senate Bill 401

Insulate DIA art collection from federal bankruptcy liquidation

Introduced in the Senate

May 29, 2013

Introduced by Sen. Randy Richardville (R-17)

To require “art institutes” in the state to adopt a code of ethics for museums published by the American Alliance of Museums. Reportedly this is a means of insulating the Detroit Institute of Art’s collection from being sold off should the city file for bankruptcy in federal court.

Referred to the Committee on Government Operations

June 5, 2013

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

June 11, 2013

Substitute offered

The substitute passed by voice vote

Passed in the Senate 24 to 13 (details)

To require “art institutes” in the state to adopt a code of ethics for museums published by the American Alliance of Museums. Reportedly this is a means of insulating the Detroit Institute of Art’s collection from being sold off should the city file for bankruptcy in federal court. Toward that same end, the bill would prohibit a municipal art museum from being sold, leased, pledged, mortgaged, or otherwise encumbered.