The proposed bill establishes the "Spectrum Alert" system aimed at enhancing the safety of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who are reported missing. It mandates the Department of Law Enforcement, in collaboration with various state and local agencies, to create and implement this alert system. The bill outlines the need for a specialized training program for law enforcement officers to effectively respond to emergencies involving missing children with ASD, emphasizing crisis intervention and understanding the unique behaviors associated with the disorder.
Additionally, the bill specifies that the Department of Law Enforcement must develop policies and procedures for responding to such emergencies, which include immediate dissemination of information, enhancing the competence of emergency response teams, and increasing public awareness about the risks of elopement associated with ASD. The bill also allows the Department to adopt rules for the implementation of these measures. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.