LANSING, Mich. — Michigan lawmakers may be close to giving final passage to legislation that would restrict the government's ability to take ownership of property seized in drug cases unless there is a conviction.
The House approved the bills on 107-3 votes Thursday. Similar legislation previously passed the Senate, though lawmakers must iron out which ones go to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Law enforcement could still take ownership of seized property in drug cases if the cash and other assets are worth more than $50,000, excluding the value of contraband.
Supporters of the bills say they are needed to prevent "policing for profit" and ensure property is returned if charges are not brought or there is no conviction.
