SEIZURE OF PROPERTY BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

SB 157 modifies New Mexico's Forfeiture Act to govern property seizures by law enforcement agencies participating in federal equitable sharing programs. It requires that forfeiture proceeds from such seizures be directed to drug treatment rehabilitation programs (not general funds), and sets new conditions for transferring property to federal authorities (e.g., property value over $50,000 or federal criminal charges). The bill also prohibits law enforcement from accepting federal equitable sharing funds unless the property owner is convicted in federal court. This directly affects law enforcement agencies, drug treatment programs, and individuals whose property is seized under these provisions.