The bill establishes a Purple Alert System in New Jersey aimed at rapidly disseminating information about missing persons. This system will be a voluntary collaboration between state and local law enforcement agencies and various media outlets, including print, radio, and television. The Attorney General is tasked with notifying the media about the Purple Alert System and inviting their participation. Additionally, the Missing Persons Investigative Best Practices Protocol will be revised to include procedures for issuing alerts while ensuring that sensitive health information about the missing person remains confidential.

The criteria for activating a Purple Alert include the submission of a missing persons report, the belief that the individual may be in danger, and the availability of sufficient information to assist in locating the person. The Missing Persons Unit will work with the Department of Transportation to utilize overhead message signs to inform motorists about missing persons when applicable. The bill also mandates a public education campaign to raise awareness about the Purple Alert System, which is modeled after existing Silver and Amber Alert systems. The legislation aims to enhance public involvement in locating missing persons and ultimately reduce the number of unresolved cases in the state.