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SB 1171

AN ACT ELIMINATING CIVIL ASSET FORFEITURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Sampson

Connecticut bill eliminates civil asset forfeiture, ending law enforcement's ability to seize property in criminal cases without conviction.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Judiciary
#civilactions #forfeitures
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Bill Summary · SB 1171

Legislative bill overview

SB 1171 would eliminate civil asset forfeiture in Connecticut, the legal practice allowing law enforcement to seize property suspected of involvement in criminal activity without necessarily convicting the owner of a crime. The bill removes the state's authority to pursue civil forfeiture cases and would likely require return of previously forfeited assets or establish a claims process for their recovery.

Why is this important

Civil asset forfeiture has generated significant revenue for law enforcement agencies—Connecticut collected millions annually through the practice—but has been criticized for enabling seizures from individuals never charged with crimes. Eliminating it would fundamentally shift how the state finances police operations and addresses concerns about due process rights and economic impacts on vulnerable communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement funding: Agencies depend on forfeiture proceeds for equipment, training, and operations; elimination requires alternative budget allocations or service reductions
  • Drug trafficking deterrence: Proponents argue asset seizure is essential for disrupting criminal enterprises; opponents counter it's ineffective and harmful to innocent people
  • Retroactive application: Whether previously forfeited assets must be returned creates significant fiscal and administrative questions, and potential legal liability for the state

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

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