HI HB748

Prohibits civil asset forfeiture unless the covered offense is chargeable as a felony under state law and the property owner has been convicted by verdict, plea, or deferred acceptance of guilty plea.

Maintains existing protections preventing forfeiture of property when the owner had no knowledge of or did not consent to the illegal act or omission.

Excludes animal forfeiture proceedings from the forfeiture statute, allowing them to proceed separately under animal welfare laws pending criminal charges.

Redirects all forfeited property proceeds (after administrative and sale expenses, up to $3 million annually) to the state general fund instead of distributing to law enforcement agencies and prosecutors.

Takes effect on July 1, 2019, and does not affect rights, penalties, or proceedings that began before the effective date.