Sec. 154.403. SEIZURE

(a) The comptroller with or without process may seize:

(1) cigarettes taxed under this chapter that are possessed or controlled by a person for the purpose of selling or removing the cigarettes in violation of this chapter;

(2) cigarettes that are removed, deposited, or concealed by a person intending to avoid payment of taxes imposed by this chapter;

(3) an automobile, boat, conveyance, or other type of vehicle used to remove or transport cigarettes by a person intending to avoid payment of taxes imposed by this chapter; and

(4) equipment, paraphernalia, or other tangible personal property used by a person intending to avoid payment of taxes imposed by this chapter found in the place where the cigarettes are found.

(b) An item seized under this section is forfeited to the state and remains in the custody of the comptroller for disposition as provided by this chapter. The seized item is not subject to replevin.

Acts 1981, 67th Leg., p. 1656, ch. 389, Sec. 1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 240, Sec. 39, eff. Oct. 1, 1989; Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 409, Sec. 33, eff. June 7, 1991; Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1423, Sec. 19.60, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.