Bill > H1577

This bill aims to improve civil asset forfeiture laws in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. The Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt, rather than just probable cause, that seized property is subject to forfeiture. 2. A Special Public Attorney and Drug Rehabilitation Trust Fund is established to support public attorneys defending individuals in civil asset forfeiture proceedings and to fund drug treatment, mental health, rehabilitation, prevention, and education programs. 3. Detailed annual reporting requirements are introduced for the Attorney General, district attorneys, and police departments on the Trust Fund's finances and outcomes. 4. A mandatory stay is imposed on civil forfeiture proceedings until the related criminal case has been fully adjudicated, and any bond posted is payable to the claimants if they prevail. 5. References to the "special law enforcement trust fund" are replaced with "special public attorney and drug rehabilitation trust fund" throughout the law.