Massachusetts H1577 proposes civil asset forfeiture improvements, including mandatory stays on proceedings, higher burden of proof, and fund.

Massachusetts H1577 amends civil asset forfeiture laws under the controlled substances act. It mandates a stay on civil forfeiture proceedings until the related criminal case is fully adjudicated, including appeals. The bill raises the burden of proof for the commonwealth from probable cause to beyond a reasonable doubt. It also establishes a Special Public Attorney and Drug Rehabilitation Trust Fund within the Office of the State Treasurer, to be used for public attorneys' fees and drug rehabilitation programs.

Massachusetts H1577 proposes civil asset forfeiture improvements, including mandatory stays on proceedings, higher burden of proof, and fund.

Massachusetts H1577 amends civil asset forfeiture laws under the controlled substances act. It mandates a stay on civil forfeiture proceedings until the related criminal case is fully adjudicated, including appeals. The bill raises the burden of proof for the commonwealth from probable cause to beyond a reasonable doubt. It also establishes a Special Public Attorney and Drug Rehabilitation Trust Fund within the Office of the State Treasurer, to be used for public attorneys' fees and drug rehabilitation programs.