Legislation to block New York State cultural institutions from selling off artwork and artifacts from their collections in order to cover operating costs may be halted. Opposition from major organizations like the Metropolitan Museum of Art prompted the withdrawal of support from the bill’s Senate sponsor, writes The New York Times.

The bill would have strictly limited controversial “deaccessioning” by museums.

Several high profile institutions have sought new revenue sources during the economic downturn, including the National Academy Museum which sold two Hudson River School paintings to cover operating costs in 2008. Brandeis University's decision to sell works from the renowned collection of its Rose Art Museum also created a public outcry last year. The university now says its artwork will be offered through leases with Sotheby's.