Bill > A07815

This bill establishes the "New York municipal asset forfeiture accountability act," which changes how funds from seized assets are allocated. Under the new law, any funds resulting from assets legally seized by county sheriffs or municipal police agencies that are forfeited from their original owners must be deposited directly into the municipality's general fund. Asset forfeiture is a legal process where law enforcement can seize property believed to be connected to criminal activity, and this bill ensures that any proceeds from such seizures go to the local government's general fund, rather than potentially being used by law enforcement agencies for other purposes. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage, and it overrides any existing laws that might previously have governed the disposition of forfeited assets. By redirecting these funds to the general fund, the bill aims to increase transparency and accountability in how seized asset revenues are used by local municipalities.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7815