October 23, 2015

Michigan Governor Signs Civil Forfeiture Reforms

A view of the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing. Designed by Elijah E. Myers and completed in 1878, the Classical Revival building is a National Historic Landmark.
A view of the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing. Designed by Elijah E. Myers and completed in 1878, the Classical Revival building is a National Historic Landmark.

On Tuesday, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed a seven-bill package to reform the state’s civil forfeiture laws. The reforms strengthen reporting requirements and raise the standard of proof in forfeiture cases from “preponderance of the evidence” to “clear and convincing evidence.”

“Michigan still has work to do, but these bills are a solid first step to overhaul its abysmal civil forfeiture laws and restore constitutional liberties for its citizens,” said Lee McGrath, IJ’s Legislative Counsel. “With greater transparency, state legislators in Lansing will be well-positioned to take the next steps to better protect the due process and property rights of all Michiganders. Michigan proudly joins a growing, nationwide movement to reform civil forfeiture.”

Read more about Michigan’s civil forfeiture reforms at Forbes.com.

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