The bill amends Section 41-9-655.03 of the Code of Alabama 1975, enhancing the requirements for the Alabama Justice Information Commission regarding the publication of data on civil asset seizures and forfeitures. Key changes include the stipulation that the commission must submit an annual report by February 1 to the Speaker of the House, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and the Governor. This report will summarize seizure and forfeiture activities, detailing the type, approximate value, and disposition of seized property, as well as the proceeds received. The report must now also include all civil case numbers assigned in state court, and the commission is permitted to disaggregate the data for clarity.

Additionally, the commission is empowered to include recommendations in the report aimed at improving laws, rules, and policies related to seizures and forfeitures, ensuring fairness for crime victims, innocent property owners, secured interest holders, citizens, law enforcement, and taxpayers. The bill removes previous language regarding the format of reports on the commission's website, replacing it with a requirement for the aggregate report to be made available online. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Engrossed: 41-9-655
Enrolled: 41-9-655