This bill amends the existing Silver Alert System in New Jersey to enhance the dissemination of information regarding missing persons, particularly those suffering from dementia or other cognitive impairments. It mandates that media outlets participating in the Silver Alert System must issue broadcast alerts similar to those used in Amber Alerts, which are typically activated in cases of child abduction. The bill specifies that upon the issuance of a Silver Alert, participating media must broadcast a distinctive sound tone followed by the statement: "This is a Missing Person Silver Alert." The alerts will include a description of the missing person and any other pertinent information deemed appropriate by the lead law enforcement agency.

Additionally, the bill outlines that these alerts should be broadcast as frequently as possible for the first three hours after activation, with subsequent rebroadcasts occurring at intervals determined by the lead law enforcement agency and the media. The legislation also emphasizes the importance of timely updates from law enforcement to the media regarding the missing person. Overall, this bill aims to improve the effectiveness of the Silver Alert System by ensuring that alerts are communicated more clearly and frequently to the public.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:17B-194.6