The bill amends section 5502.522 of the Revised Code to enhance the statewide emergency alert system specifically for cases involving missing individuals with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disabilities. The alert will be named the "Joshua Alert." Key changes include the addition of criteria for activation, which now explicitly states that a credible threat of immediate danger includes situations where the missing individual is nonverbal, has limited communication abilities, or lacks the capacity to seek help. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that local law enforcement agencies must notify the statewide emergency alert program immediately if the missing individual is under eighteen and has a developmental disability, rather than waiting the standard twenty-four hours.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the statewide emergency alert program is a collaborative effort involving various state agencies and media outlets, and it protects participating broadcasters from liability related to the alert broadcasts. The existing section 5502.522 is repealed, and the new provisions are established to ensure a more effective response to cases of missing individuals with specific vulnerabilities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5502.522
As Reported By House Committee: 5502.522
As Passed By House: 5502.522
As Reported By Senate Committee: 5502.522
As Passed By Senate: 5502.522
As Enrolled: 5502.522