BILL NUMBER: S5699
SPONSOR: SKOUFIS
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to providing for a formal
process for a parent or legal guardian to request the issuance of an
AMBER alert
 
PURPOSE:
To provide a formal process for a parent or legal guardian to request
the issuance of an AMBER alert.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Subparagraph vii is added to the executive law, which
requires that a formal process be established for a parent or legal
guardian to request that a missing child alert be issued. The request
shall be made to the division of the state police for review.
Subparagraph viii is amended to reflect the new formal process estab-
lished in subparagraph vii.
Section 2: Sets Effective Date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
This proposed legislation will empower parents to formally request a
missing child alert, including AMBER alerts, in cases of suspected Child
abductions. Recognizing the urgency, this bill considers special circum-
stances, such as children with disabilities and other situations, where
an early alert activation may be necessary. Time is a critical factor in
potential child abductions, and each passing hour diminishes the chances
of finding the child. This bill aims to establish a clear and structured
process that enables parents to seek a missing child alert from the
State Police, ensuring their active involvement in the decision-making
alongside law enforcement.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
Senate
2023: N/A
2024: S8165, Referred to Children and Families
Assembly
2023: A8208A, Amend and Recommit to Children and Families
2024: A8208A, Referred to Children and Families
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.