An Act relative to forfeiture reform

HD 1588 amends Massachusetts forfeiture laws to clarify and limit when property can be seized after a criminal conviction. It exempts homesteads, vehicles under $10,000, and U.S. currency totaling $200 or less from forfeiture. The bill defines key terms like "contraband" (excluding legally grown marijuana) and requires the state to prove forfeiture with "clear and convincing evidence," not just a criminal conviction. It also specifies that property used in crimes (like a car or tools) may be forfeited only if directly linked to the offense.