Hawaii HB492 amends civil asset forfeiture laws to prevent property seizure without conviction and ensure fair administration of justice.

Hawaii HB492 modifies civil asset forfeiture laws to ensure property cannot be permanently seized without conviction or compensation. It mandates that proceeds from forfeited property be distributed to the seizing agency, the prosecuting attorney, and the criminal forfeiture fund. The bill also restricts property forfeiture to cases involving felony offenses and requires owner conviction for real property forfeiture. It excludes animals from forfeiture until criminal charges are resolved. The changes do not affect ongoing rights, penalties, or proceedings.

Hawaii HB492 amends civil asset forfeiture laws to prevent property seizure without conviction and ensure fair administration of justice.

Hawaii HB492 modifies civil asset forfeiture laws to ensure property cannot be permanently seized without conviction or compensation. It mandates that proceeds from forfeited property be distributed to the seizing agency, the prosecuting attorney, and the criminal forfeiture fund. The bill also restricts property forfeiture to cases involving felony offenses and requires owner conviction for real property forfeiture. It excludes animals from forfeiture until criminal charges are resolved. The changes do not affect ongoing rights, penalties, or proceedings.