The bill amends the Wyoming Controlled Substances Act to establish new procedures and requirements for the forfeiture and seizure of property related to controlled substances. It introduces a new section, W.S. 35-7-1049.1, which outlines the types of property subject to forfeiture, including controlled substances, equipment used in their manufacture, and conveyances used for transportation. The bill specifies that property may be seized by law enforcement with or without a warrant under certain conditions, and it details the process for forfeiture, including the need for a preliminary order and the rights of third parties with interests in the property. Additionally, it mandates reporting requirements for law enforcement agencies regarding the receipt and disposition of forfeited property.

The bill also includes amendments to existing statutes, specifically changing references from W.S. 35-7-1049 to the new W.S. 35-7-1049.1, and repeals the previous section. It clarifies that governmental entities and their employees are immune from civil actions related to the improper seizure of property under the new provisions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, and will apply to all seizures of property under the Wyoming Controlled Substances Act occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 1-39-120, 7-2-105, 35-7-1049