(1) As used in this section, ‘museum’ means a public institution or private nonprofit Oregon corporation primarily devoted to the acquisition and public exhibition of specimens, artifacts, articles, documents and other items that relate to history, anthropology, archaeology, science or art and that have historical significance.

(2) The purpose of this section is to direct the Oregon Heritage Commission to assist in projects for the collection and management of heritage collections and for heritage-related tourism and to assist in projects related to the heritage aspects of education and interpretation.

(3) In addition to the other duties of the commission, the commission shall:

(a) Make biennial competitive grants to museums for projects related to Oregon’s heritage, including but not limited to projects involving the collection and management of heritage collections, the promotion of heritage-related tourism and the provision of education and other interpretations related to heritage;

(b) With the assistance of the Oregon Historical Society and the Oregon Museums Association, determine the eligibility of a museum for a competitive grant;

(c) Advise, upon request, museum governing bodies, county governing bodies, city governing bodies and interested citizens of the availability of competitive grants; and

(d) Request, with the advice of the Oregon Historical Society and the Oregon Museums Association, rules for the State Parks and Recreation Commission to adopt under ORS § 358.585 for the purpose of carrying out the grant program. [Formerly 358.730]

358.583 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS Chapter 358 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.