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State lawmakers today gave tentative approval to legislation reigning in law enforcement when it comes to seizing property. each year, tens of millions of dollars in cash, cars, and other property are seized in what police describe as “suspicious” circumstances. The legislation would require police arrest you before they can take your property. Sponsor Jeff Brandes of St. Petersburg says his bill also requires a conviction before police can keep what they seized.

“As I talk to people around the state, they are shocked to learn currently you don’t have too be arrested to have your property seized from you. they are amazed we have gone this long in Florida’s history with that on the books. This fixes that provision, This highlights that property rights exist, and that the legislature is willing to step up and protect them.”

In the case of a car, the legislation also requires police to keep the item in good condition or be responsible for damages if it is returned to you.