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Protecting Citizens' Property: New Rules for Government Asset Seizure

This act introduces significant changes to how the government can seize citizens' property in criminal and civil cases. It aims to enhance property owners' rights, making it harder for authorities to confiscate assets without a court order and requiring stronger evidence. This provides citizens with greater assurance that their property is safer from unjustified seizure.
Key points
No More Non-Judicial Forfeitures: Federal agencies will no longer be able to seize property without a court order.
Higher Burden of Proof: The government must now provide "clear and convincing evidence," not just a "preponderance of the evidence," to prove property is linked to a crime.
Faster Notice and Hearings: Citizens whose property is seized will receive quicker notice of their rights and are entitled to a faster court hearing.
Legal Aid for the Needy: Individuals unable to afford legal representation may receive appointed counsel in forfeiture cases.
Forfeited Funds to Treasury: Money from seized property will now go to the General Fund of the Treasury, rather than directly to seizing agencies, aiming to reduce incentives for unjustified seizures.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_263
Sponsor: Sen. Paul, Rand [R-KY]
Process start date: 2025-01-27
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

FAIR Act of 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_S_263.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-01-27.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • No More Non-Judicial Forfeitures: Federal agencies will no longer be able to seize property without a court order.
  • Higher Burden of Proof: The government must now provide "clear and convincing evidence," not just a "preponderance of the evidence," to prove property is linked to a crime.
  • Faster Notice and Hearings: Citizens whose property is seized will receive quicker notice of their rights and are entitled to a faster court hearing.
  • Legal Aid for the Needy: Individuals unable to afford legal representation may receive appointed counsel in forfeiture cases.
  • Forfeited Funds to Treasury: Money from seized property will now go to the General Fund of the Treasury, rather than directly to seizing agencies, aiming to reduce incentives for unjustified seizures.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Paul, Rand [R-KY].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

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