Senate Passes Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act, Clearing Path for Nazi-Looted Property Claims
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Became Public Law No: 119-82.
The President signed it. This is now the law of the land.
Signed by President.
The President signed it. This is now the law of the land.
Presented to President.
Both chambers passed identical text. The President has 10 days to sign it into law or veto it.
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2497)
The House fast-tracked this bill — limited debate, no amendments allowed, but needs two-thirds support to pass.
The Senate's approval of the HEAR Act of 2025 targets time-barred defenses that institutions have used to dismiss claims. The legislation clarifies that claims for Nazi-looted property can proceed regardless of elapsed time, potentially leading to a new wave of litigation for U.S. museums.
The HEAR Act of 2025 aims to 'course-correct' following a 2021 Supreme Court decision that limited claims against foreign states. By denying defenses like 'acquisitive prescription' and 'act of state,' the bill seeks to provide a clearer path to restitution for families of Holocaust victims.
In a rare show of bipartisanship, the Senate passed the HEAR Act of 2025 to ensure that the passage of time does not bar Holocaust survivors from reclaiming stolen art. Supporters noted the bill closes loopholes that previously allowed museums to avoid facing the factual merits of ownership claims.
No votes recorded for this bill yet.
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act of 2025
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