MA H1953

Establishes a $250 minimum threshold for civil asset forfeiture in drug-related cases, prohibiting forfeiture of money, securities, or other valuables below that amount

Raises the burden of proof for the Commonwealth to "clear and convincing evidence" when seeking forfeiture of property claimed by someone other than the state

Requires forfeiture hearings to be continued until after any related criminal trial concludes, and guarantees continued public counsel representation for defendants at forfeiture hearings

Redirects forfeiture proceeds: 50% to the Commonwealth Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Fund, and 50% to a fund assisting communities adversely affected by the opioid epidemic and criminal justice policies

Mandates annual public reporting by the attorney general, district attorneys, and police departments on all seized assets and expenditures from the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Fund, due by January 31 each year