The resolution recognizes the alarming issue of family abductions in the United States, where approximately 260,000 children are abducted annually, with a significant majority of these cases involving a family member, typically a parent. These abductions often arise during contentious divorce or custody disputes and can go unreported due to the familial relationship of the abductor. In 2022, family abductions represented 58% of all AMBER Alerts issued, highlighting the prevalence of this issue. While family abductions may not always pose an immediate physical threat to the child, they are serious criminal offenses that can have lasting negative effects on both the children and their families.
In response to this critical issue, the resolution designates May 23 as Family Abduction Awareness Day in Texas. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the seriousness of family abductions and the violation of custodial rights, ultimately seeking to protect vulnerable children from harm. The designation will remain in effect until the 10th anniversary of the resolution's passage, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to addressing and preventing family abductions in the state.