The bill amends section 5502.522 of the Revised Code to enhance the statewide emergency alert system specifically for cases involving missing autistic or developmentally disabled children. It establishes the alert as the "Joshua Alert" and clarifies the criteria for activation. The bill introduces new language that specifies 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. Additionally, it mandates that if the missing individual is under eighteen years of age and has a developmental disability, the local law enforcement agency must notify the statewide emergency alert program as soon as the information is verified.

Furthermore, the bill removes the previous requirement that local law enforcement agencies must notify the statewide emergency alert program within the first twenty-four hours of receiving information that meets the activation criteria. It also clarifies that the activation of local or regional emergency alert programs may have different criteria. The bill aims to improve the response to missing persons cases involving vulnerable individuals, ensuring timely alerts to aid in their recovery.

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