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MA S1049
Bill
Status
Introduced
2/27/2025
Primary Sponsor
Cynthia Creem
Click for details
AI Summary
- Forfeiture proceedings may only be initiated for conveyances, real property, moneys, or other items exceeding $250 in value
- Commonwealth bears the burden of proving property is forfeitable by preponderance of the evidence; property owners bear burden of proof for exceptions
- Criminal defendants with public counsel in related trials are entitled to continued public representation at forfeiture hearings; non-defendant property owners may receive public counsel if they meet indigency requirements
- All forfeiture proceeds and forfeited property (including from federal equitable sharing) must be deposited into the state general fund rather than law enforcement trust funds
- Attorney general, district attorneys, and police departments must file public annual reports by January 31 detailing all seized assets, monies, and proceeds categorized by cash, personal property, conveyances, and real property
Legislative Description
Relative to forfeiture reform
Last Action
Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S2886
12/18/2025
Committee Referrals
Judiciary2/27/2025
Full Bill Text
No bill text available