June 4, 1992

COMPTROLLER'S MEMORANDUM NO. 21 (1991-92)

SUBJECT: FLORIDA CONTRABAND FORFEITURE ACT SETTLEMENT DISBURSEMENTS

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Section 932.704 (7), Florida Statutes, as amended by Chapter 92-54, Laws of Florida, effective July 1, 1992, authorizes seizing law enforcement agencies to settle Florida Contraband Forfeiture actions prior to the conclusion of forfeiture proceedings, subject to the settlement agreement being reviewed by the court, a mediator, or arbitrator, unless such review is waived by the claimant in writing.

The following documentation must be attached to the voucher submitted to this office for the disbursement of funds from the State Treasury pursuant to an agreement entered into by a law enforcement agency under authority of Section 932.704 (7), Florida Statutes:

1. A copy of the fully executed settlement agreement; and

2. Copies of the following items, as appropriate:
   1. The claimant's written waiver of settlement agreement review;
   2. Documentation evidencing the court, mediator, or arbitrator's review of the settlement agreement; and
   3. Documentation evidencing the agreement of the claimant and seizing law enforcement agency for appointment of the mediator or arbitrator.

Effective July 1, 1992, vouchers requesting disbursements pursuant to a settlement agreement entered into pursuant to Section 932.704 (7), Florida Statutes, will only be approved for payment by this office if they contain the herein described documentation. The disbursement should be assigned object code 8600, Refunds.

Please contact the Bureau of State Payrolls at 410-9416, Suncom 210-9416 if you have questions concerning this memorandum.