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HD 4590

A communication from the Office of the Worcester County District Attorney (see Section 24W(e) of Chapter 90 of the General Laws) submitting a report on motor vehicle forfeiture fund statistics for fiscal year 2024

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Worcester County District Attorney reports FY 2024 motor vehicle forfeiture statistics as required by state law, documenting seizures and fund distributions.

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Bill Summary · HD 4590

Legislative bill overview

HD 4590 is a communication from the Worcester County District Attorney's office submitting statutory reporting data on motor vehicle forfeitures processed during fiscal year 2024. This report fulfills a mandatory reporting requirement under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 90, Section 24W(e), which requires district attorneys to document forfeitures and fund disbursements annually.

Why is this important

Vehicle forfeiture funds represent significant revenue streams for law enforcement agencies and court systems. The reporting requirement provides transparency into how many vehicles are seized, the circumstances of forfeiture, and how proceeds are allocated—information relevant to understanding law enforcement practices, civil liberties, and public budgeting across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Civil asset forfeiture concerns: Vehicle forfeitures raise ongoing civil liberties debates about whether property seizure without criminal conviction adequately protects innocent owners' due process rights
  • Transparency and accountability: Aggregated statewide data could reveal disparities in forfeiture rates across counties or communities, prompting questions about equitable enforcement
  • Fund allocation debates: How forfeiture proceeds are distributed between law enforcement, courts, and public safety initiatives may attract scrutiny regarding incentive structures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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