HB 2530 - DIGEST

     Finds the current practice of asset forfeiture to be unjust and, therefore, finds it necessary to reform existing property forfeiture laws.  Justice requires that the most important duty of government is the preservation of all of the rights of all of its citizens.

     Finds that Washingtonians have had their property taken from them in civil forfeiture actions without the benefit of fair procedures designed to protect their rights.

     Declares that no person should have property civilly forfeited unless that person has been found guilty of a crime related to the property, and then only if the value of the property taken is substantially proportionate to the seriousness of the offense.