The bill amends the definition of "silver alert" within the Missing Persons Information and Reporting Act to broaden the criteria for issuing such alerts. Previously, a silver alert was specifically for individuals who were fifty years or older and had a clear indication of suffering from Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. The new language replaces this requirement, allowing for a silver alert to be issued for any missing person, regardless of age, if the reporter believes that the individual displays signs or symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, dementia, cognitive decline, or impairment.

This change aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that more individuals who may be at risk due to cognitive issues can be quickly identified and located. The inclusion of cognitive decline or impairment as a criterion for silver alerts reflects a growing recognition of the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly those who may not fit the previous age-specific criteria but still require urgent assistance.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 29-15-2