The bill amends existing Washington state law regarding missing persons alert systems, specifically RCW 13.60.010 and RCW 13.60.050. It establishes a mandatory cooperation framework for local, state, tribal, and other law enforcement agencies, as well as state government agencies, to enhance the effectiveness of alert systems for missing children and endangered persons. The bill introduces new alert designations, including "endangered person alert," "silver alert," and "missing indigenous person alert," and mandates the Washington State Patrol to maintain a toll-free hotline and a computerized link with national missing person systems. The definitions of various alerts and the criteria for their activation are also clarified, ensuring a more structured approach to responding to missing persons cases.

Additionally, the bill requires the Washington State Patrol to submit an annual report to the governor and legislative committees starting March 31, 2027, which will include data on alert activations, outcomes, and recommendations for improvements. This report aims to provide transparency and accountability regarding the effectiveness of the missing persons alert systems. The section detailing the reporting requirement is set to expire on March 31, 2030.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 13.60.010, 13.60.050