A proposed bill would would put drug asset forfeiture funds that currently goes to law enforcement into the state general fund.  That could impact local law enforcement agencies that use those funds for equipment purchases.

The negative impact on the Junction City Police Department and Geary County Sheriff’s Department was outlined Monday to the area legislative delegation during a meeting that included law enforcement officials and the Geary County Commission.

State Senator Tom Hawk of Manhattan feels it’s time for the delegation to monitor this matter. “That they’re able to take those assets when they get some of those particular cases and use that for body cameras and equipment so it’s not a burden on the taxpayers.”

It was the first time the delegation had about this proposal.

Hawk stated, “I did not realize that one of our representatives had a bill that might change that. That would have quite a devastating effect. So I think our delegation needs to be pretty heads up about that, and play defense, and make sure we protect our local unit of government, and county here.”

The Geary County Sheriff’s and Junction City Police Departments have used the drug asset forfeiture funds for purchases ranging from vehicles, rifles, and shotguns to body cameras and radios.