This bill amends the existing Silver Alert System in New Jersey to enhance its effectiveness by requiring media outlets to issue broadcast alerts similar to those used in Amber Alerts. The Silver Alert System is designed to disseminate information about missing persons who may be suffering from dementia or other cognitive impairments. The bill mandates that participating media outlets broadcast a distinctive sound tone followed by the statement: "This is a Missing Person Silver Alert," along with a description of the missing person and any other pertinent information as determined by the lead law enforcement agency.

Additionally, the bill specifies that these alerts must be broadcast as frequently as possible during the first three hours of the alert being issued, with subsequent rebroadcasts occurring at intervals deemed appropriate by the lead law enforcement agency and the media. The amendments also include changes to the procedures for activating highway signs and the involvement of the Intelligence Watch and Warning Unit in the alert process. Overall, the bill aims to improve public awareness and response in cases of missing persons under the Silver Alert System.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:17B-194.6