The bill S. 726 proposes an amendment to Section 44-53-520 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically addressing the conditions under which a motor vehicle may be subject to civil asset forfeiture. The amendment stipulates that a motor vehicle can only be forfeited if it is used in connection with a violation involving more than two grains of fentanyl or a fentanyl-related substance. This change aims to clarify and potentially limit the circumstances under which vehicles can be seized in relation to drug offenses, particularly those involving fentanyl.

In addition to the new stipulation regarding fentanyl, the bill retains existing provisions related to the forfeiture of various controlled substances and associated property. The current law outlines a range of items that are subject to forfeiture, including controlled substances, equipment used in drug manufacturing, and property used to facilitate drug trafficking. The bill is currently under consideration by the Senate Committee on Judiciary and will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 44-53-520
Latest Version: 44-53-520