Illinois State Museum to be repaired and reopen, charge admission

Local Lawmakers have approved a measure that would reopen the Illinois State Museum and use donations to pay for repairs, the associated press has reported. The plan would allow for the museum to charge admission fees.

Gov. Bruce Rauner closed the museum last October due to ongoing state budget issues.

Democrat Senator Andy Manar said Monday there are concerns the institution could lose its accreditation if it doesn't reopen.

The Senate approved the bill 38-18 and will next go to the House.

Illinois Republicans agree the museum is in need of repairs, but they said they opposed the bill because it requires private donations to be subject to state purchasing rules.