The bill enhances the legal framework for the use of surveillance devices, such as pen registers and cell site simulators, in cases involving missing persons and ongoing criminal investigations. It introduces the term "missing endangered person" and allows law enforcement to apply for court orders to use these devices when there is probable cause for their necessity. In emergency situations, law enforcement can install these devices without prior court approval but must seek a court order within 48 hours. The bill also mandates that law enforcement agencies limit data collection to specified targets and delete any extraneous data, while requiring monthly reporting to the courts on the use of these devices.

Additionally, the bill establishes a missing children and endangered person clearinghouse within the Washington State Patrol, which will maintain a toll-free hotline and distribute information about missing individuals. It introduces new alert designations, such as "ebony alert" and "silver alert," to improve public awareness. The definitions of "missing endangered person" are expanded to include missing black individuals and those with developmental disabilities or dementia. The bill also outlines provisions for the retention of body-worn camera recordings, the establishment of a statewide missing persons website, and the prompt filing of missing persons reports by local law enforcement agencies, while emphasizing the protection of privacy for individuals involved in these investigations.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 9.73.260, 7.115.010, 13.60.010
Substitute bill: 9.73.260, 7.115.010, 13.60.010, 36.28A.110, 36.28A.112, 36.28A.120, 74.04.062
Second substitute: 9.73.260, 7.115.010, 13.60.010, 36.28A.110, 36.28A.112, 36.28A.120, 74.04.062
Engrossed second substitute: 9.73.260, 7.115.010, 13.60.010, 36.28A.110, 36.28A.112, 36.28A.120, 74.04.062