MS SB2476

Increases the property value threshold for administrative forfeiture procedures from an unspecified amount to $20,000 for seized property under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.

Requires notice of intent to forfeit property be provided by certified mail, personal delivery, or newspaper publication (once weekly for three consecutive weeks if initial notice cannot be delivered).

Mandates notice include property description, approximate value, seizure date and location, connection to drug law violation, judicial review instructions, and statement that property will be forfeited if petition is not timely filed.

Allows persons claiming interest in forfeited property to file a petition in county or circuit court within 30 days of notice to contest forfeiture; failure to file results in forfeiture to seizing law enforcement agency.

Specifies proceeds from liquidated forfeited property be divided with 20% to state General Fund and 80% to participating law enforcement agency when only one agency is involved; adjusts distribution when multiple agencies participate or Bureau of Narcotics initiates the case.

Effective July 1, 2011.