Summary of HR 595: Amendment to the Convention on Cultural Property Implementation Act

Bill Number: HR 595

Title: To amend the Convention on Cultural Property Implementation Act to make certain technical corrections to facilitate the lawful trade and collecting of numismatic materials.

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced Date: January 21, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 595 is to amend the Convention on Cultural Property Implementation Act (CPIA) to clarify and facilitate the lawful trade and collection of numismatic materials, which include coins, tokens, paper money, medals, and related objects. The bill aims to ensure that collectors and traders can engage in lawful transactions while maintaining protections against the illicit trade of cultural property.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several amendments to the CPIA, specifically in Sections 302 and 307:

1. Definition of Numismatic Material:

   • The bill introduces a formal definition of "numismatic material" to include coins, tokens, paper money, medals, and related objects.

2. Amendments to Evidence Requirements:

   • Section 307(b):
     • Adds a requirement for importers of numismatic materials to provide satisfactory evidence that the items were acquired lawfully and are not products of illicit excavations.
   • Section 307(c):
     • Specifies that importers must provide declarations under oath regarding the lawful acquisition and exportation of numismatic materials, including:
     • Confirmation that the items were acquired lawfully in a State Party.
     • Assurance that the items are of a known type and have been published in numismatic references.
     • A statement that the items are not known to be the product of illicit excavations after import restrictions were established.

3. Customs Review Process:

   • The bill stipulates that customs officers reviewing the evidence for numismatic materials cannot require additional documentation unless there is probable cause to suspect that the provided evidence is false or fraudulent.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected

• Collectors and Dealers: The bill is designed to benefit numismatic collectors and dealers by clarifying the legal framework for the trade of numismatic materials, making it easier for them to comply with regulations.
• Customs Officers: The amendments will guide customs officers in their review processes, potentially reducing the burden of documentation required for lawful imports of numismatic materials.

Procedural Aspects

• Legislative Actions:

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means on January 21, 2025.

• Sponsorship:

  • The bill is sponsored by Representative Beth Van Duyne, with multiple cosponsors, including Lloyd Smucker, Dusty Johnson, and others, indicating bipartisan support for the legislation.

Conclusion

HR 595 aims to streamline the legal framework surrounding the trade of numismatic materials, ensuring that collectors and dealers can operate within a clear and fair regulatory environment while safeguarding against the illicit trade of cultural property. The proposed amendments are intended to clarify existing laws and reduce unnecessary burdens on lawful trade.