Bill > HB316

This bill amends the New Mexico Forfeiture Act to make several changes to the laws governing property seizures by law enforcement. Key provisions include: 1) Clarifying that the Forfeiture Act does not apply to certain types of property like contraband or property subject to destruction for public health and safety; 2) Specifying that law enforcement agencies must obtain a criminal conviction before receiving proceeds from the federal equitable sharing program, and requiring those funds to be used for drug prevention and awareness programs; and 3) Limiting the circumstances under which law enforcement can transfer seized property to federal authorities, requiring a minimum value threshold and federal criminal charges against the owner.

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https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=316&year=23