About this bill
Justice Committee backs new rules for civil forfeiture of criminal proceeds
The Standing Committee on Justice is reviewing a government proposal to introduce civil forfeiture—a new mechanism allowing the state to seize assets likely derived from crime without requiring a criminal conviction. The Justice and Public Safety Ministry argues the measure will improve recovery of criminal proceeds and deter offenders from profiting. The committee recommends passage. MPs from the Progress Party, Conservative Party, Centre Party, and Christian Democratic Party have tabled amendments calling for evaluation and further study of reversed burden of proof; Conservative and Christian Democratic MPs propose establishing forfeiture teams in all police districts; and Progress Party MPs propose a distribution formula for seized criminal assets.