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 involved in a violation of controlled substance laws that includes the presence of 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.

In addition to the new stipulation regarding fentanyl, the bill maintains existing provisions related to the forfeiture of various controlled substances and associated property. It outlines the processes for seizure, reporting requirements for law enforcement agencies, and the handling of seized property. The bill is currently residing in 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