Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2389

Introduced
2/15/22  

Caption

Uniform Controlled Substances Act

Impact

The repeal of the specified sections in S2389 will have significant implications for law enforcement and the judicial process in Rhode Island. With the removal of these sections, property seized during drug-related arrests will no longer be subjected to automatic forfeiture under the previous statutes. This shift aims to foster a more judicious use of forfeiture laws, potentially reducing the instances where property is seized without just cause. Moreover, it calls for a reevaluation of how seized assets are treated within the legal framework, focusing on ensuring that individuals maintain their rights against wrongful seizure.

Summary

Bill S2389 seeks to amend the Uniform Controlled Substances Act by repealing sections concerning the forfeiture of property and money associated with violations of drug-related laws. Specifically, it targets ยงยง 21-28-5.04, 21-28-5.04.1, and 21-28-5.04.2, which outline protocols for criminal and civil forfeiture proceedings. The objective of this legislation is to streamline forfeiture processes and align existing laws with current law enforcement practices and societal needs regarding drug offenses.

Contention

The bill has generated discussions regarding its potential implications on law enforcement capabilities. Proponents argue that the repeal will prevent overreach in forfeiture cases and will better protect property rights, especially for individuals not directly involved in drug offenses. Conversely, opponents express concern that revising forfeiture laws could hinder law enforcement's ability to effectively combat drug trafficking and related crimes. The balance between civil liberties and effective policing strategies underpins much of the debate surrounding the bill, illustrating a tension between public safety and individual rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

HI SB149

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI HB1965

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

LA SB359

Provides for civil forfeiture reform. (8/1/22)

KS HB2606

Specifying that certain drug offenses do not give rise to forfeiture under the Kansas standard asset seizure and forfeiture act, requiring courts to make a finding that forfeiture is not excessive, restricting actions prior to commencement of forfeiture proceedings, requiring probable cause affidavit filing and review to commence proceedings, increasing the burden of proof required to forfeit property to clear and convincing evidence and authorizing courts to order payment of attorney fees and costs for certain claimants.

KS SB458

Specifying that certain drug offenses do not give rise to forfeiture under the Kansas standard asset seizure and forfeiture act, providing limitations on state and local law enforcement agency requests for federal adoption of a seizure under the act, requiring probable cause affidavit filing and review to commence forfeiture proceedings, increasing the burden of proof required to forfeit property to clear and convincing evidence, authorizing courts to order payment of attorney fees and costs for certain claimants and requiring the Kansas bureau of investigation to submit forfeiture fund financial reports to the legislature.

KS HB2380

Requiring a criminal conviction for civil asset forfeiture, remitting proceeds from civil asset forfeiture to the state general fund, increasing the burden of proof required to forfeit property, making certain property ineligible for forfeiture, providing persons involved in forfeiture proceedings representation by counsel and the ability to demand a jury trial and allowing a person to request a hearing on whether forfeiture is excessive.

HI HB126

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI SB320

Relating To Property Forfeiture.