This bill proposes updates to section 41-1728.01 of the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning public safety. It introduces new language that clarifies the definition of a runaway by stating that a person is considered a runaway if they are a child who has been kidnapped or has gone missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances. Additionally, the bill mandates that the department shall issue a TURQUOISE alert for missing children regardless of whether it has been determined if the child has been kidnapped or is a runaway.
Furthermore, the bill modifies the definition of "law enforcement agency" by removing the specific mention of the Arizona department of public safety and adding that it includes a federal law enforcement agency operating within the state. This change broadens the scope of agencies recognized under the statute while streamlining the language. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the response to missing children cases by ensuring alerts are issued promptly and clarifying definitions related to such situations.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 41-1728.01