New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S05885

Introduced
3/3/25  
Refer
3/3/25  

Caption

Provides for the seizure and forfeiture of vehicles, vessels and aircraft used in counterfeit goods; establishes this shall not apply to vehicles, vessels, or aircrafts that are used by any person as a common carrier in the transaction of business as such common carrier.

Summary

Bill S05885 amends the penal law to establish provisions for the seizure and forfeiture of vehicles, vessels, and aircraft used in the trafficking of counterfeit goods. Under this bill, law enforcement officers are empowered to seize such property if it is used in violation of specific sections of the penal law related to counterfeit goods. The bill outlines the process for seizure, the responsibilities of district attorneys regarding forfeiture proceedings, and the rights of property owners to contest the forfeiture.

Impact

The bill introduces new legal mechanisms for the enforcement against counterfeit goods in New York, specifically targeting the vehicles, vessels, and aircraft used in these illegal activities. It establishes a clear process for the seizure and potential forfeiture of such property, while also providing protections for innocent owners. This could lead to increased enforcement actions against counterfeit operations and may deter the use of such vehicles in illegal activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill S05885 appears to be generally supportive, as it aims to strengthen the state's ability to combat counterfeit goods. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications for property rights and the potential for wrongful seizures, which could lead to discussions about the balance between enforcement and individual rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the definition of 'common carrier' and the protections afforded to innocent owners of seized property. Some stakeholders may argue that the bill could lead to overreach in law enforcement and unintended consequences for legitimate businesses that may inadvertently be caught up in forfeiture actions. There may also be concerns about the adequacy of the safeguards for property owners against wrongful seizure.

Companion Bills

NY A01730

Same As Provides for the seizure and forfeiture of vehicles, vessels and aircraft used in counterfeit goods; establishes this shall not apply to vehicles, vessels, or aircrafts that are used by any person as a common carrier in the transaction of business as such common carrier.

Previously Filed As

NY A01579

Provides for the seizure and forfeiture of vehicles, vessels and aircraft used in counterfeit goods; establishes this shall not apply to vehicles, vessels, or aircrafts that are used by any person as a common carrier in the transaction of business as such common carrier.

NY A01730

Provides for the seizure and forfeiture of vehicles, vessels and aircraft used in counterfeit goods; establishes this shall not apply to vehicles, vessels, or aircrafts that are used by any person as a common carrier in the transaction of business as such common carrier.

NY H0575

Amends existing law to provide that the State Controller shall publish a list of asset forfeitures and to provide that law enforcement shall report asset forfeiture information to the State Controller.

NY H0575a

STATE CONTROLLER – Amends existing law to provide that the State Controller shall publish a list of asset forfeitures and to provide that law enforcement shall report asset forfeiture information to the State Controller.

NY H0241

Operating Vehicles and Vessels

NY SB1056

Modifies provisions relating to the sale of motor vehicles and vessels

NY HB241

Operating Vehicles and Vessels:

NY S0080

Safe Storage of Firearms and Ammunition in Motor Vehicles and Vessels

NY S0684

Electronic Signatures Associated with Total Loss Vehicles and Vessels

NY HB1390

Motor vehicles; declare vehicles used in the commission of reckless stunt driving offenses contraband and authorize forfeiture

Similar Bills

HI SB722

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI HB126

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

WV HB2772

Relating generally to forfeiture of contraband

WV HB5261

Relating generally to forfeiture of contraband

CO HB1250

Procedures Related to Civil Asset Forfeiture

CO HB261250

Concerning procedures relating to state action resulting in the relinquishment of private property, and, in connection therewith, making an appropriation.

AZ HB2324

Forfeiture; digital assets; reserve fund

HI SB320

Relating To Property Forfeiture.