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House Bill 1440 moves forward with technical fixes to civil asset forfeiture reporting and proceeds

2333131 · February 18, 2025

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Summary

House Bill 1440, which standardizes civil asset forfeiture provisions across specified criminal statutes and adds transparency measures, was reported out of committee 8-5 after a technical amendment correcting where forfeiture reports and proceeds are handled.

The Civil Rights & Judiciary Committee on Feb. 18 voted 8-5 to report out a substitute for House Bill 1440, a measure that establishes a new chapter governing civil asset forfeiture under specified criminal statutes and seeks to standardize burden of proof, improve transparency and allow prevailing property owners to recover attorney fees.

The committee adopted a technical amendment, Adam 158, to correct two cross-references in the bill: forfeiture reports will be posted on the Washington State Patrol’s website rather than the state treasurer’s, and forfeiture proceeds will be transmitted to the state treasurer rather than the Washington State Patrol. Representative Goodman described the amendment as technical and urged adoption.

Why it matters: Proponents said the bill harmonizes standards across statutes, increases transparency about forfeiture proceeds and provides consistent procedures for property owners seeking relief. Representative Goodman urged passage to protect property rights and create public transparency about seizure and disposition of property.

Opposition and concerns: Representative Grama expressed concern about insufficient safeguards and possible overbroad seizure, urging more “side guards” on what can be taken and recommending a no vote on policy grounds.

Vote and next steps: Vice Chair Farber moved the substitute be reported out with a due-pass recommendation. The roll call was Taylor (aye); Farber (aye); Walsh (nay); Abel (nay); Burnett (nay); Entenmann (aye); Goodman (aye); Graham (nay); Jacobson (nay); Peterson (aye); Salahuddin (aye); Tai (aye); Wallen (aye). Staff announced the tally as 8 ayes and 5 nays. The substitute advances for further legislative consideration.