As the leading civil rights organization in our state, the ACLU of North Dakota believes in keeping the public informed about the state of their civil liberties. The work we do at the legislature, in the courts, and in our communities is important, but there is no better defender of civil rights than a public that is informed and engaged.
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North Dakotans must continue to act and defend the rights and well-being of everyone in the state. Whether writing a letter, making a phone call, or setting up a meeting, every voice can make the difference.
For people whose property has been seized through civil asset forfeiture, legally regaining such property is notoriously difficult and expensive, with costs sometimes exceeding the value of the property.
At best, Senate Bill 2044 is entirely unnecessary. At worst, it is meant to chill speech.
Civil forfeiture allows police to seize — and then keep or sell — any property they allege is involved in a crime. House Bill 1286 would protect innocent property owners from being unjustly deprived of their property.
As North Dakota lawmakers consider House Bill 1521 and Senate Bill 2148, the ACLU of North Dakota has serious concerns about the implementation of Amendment XIV and its constitutionality under the U.S. Constitution.