Bill aims to stop Barnes art move

Rep. Jim Gerlach (R-Pa.), who narrowly won re-election last week, on Wednesday followed through on a pledge to introduce legislation that would prevent the Barnes Foundation from being relocated to Philadelphia from suburban Merion, Pa. The bill would penalize any charitable institution that solicits donations contrary to the original benefactor’s wishes.

The late Albert C. Barnes had instructed that his large collection of Modern, African and other art remain in the building expressly constructed for it. Philadelphia area charities have raised $150 million in pledges to relocate the Barnes to a redevelopment site downtown.

Gerlach’s bill would impose a penalty equal to the value of any donation given to move the foundation. In a statement, the lawmaker said the move would destroy “Pennsylvania’s reputation as a place where estate and property rights are vigorously defended.”