The bill seeks to strengthen the legal framework for the use of surveillance devices, such as pen registers, trap and trace devices, and cell site simulators, particularly in criminal investigations and cases involving missing endangered persons. Key amendments include the introduction of definitions for "missing endangered person" and provisions allowing law enforcement to use these devices without a prior court order in emergency situations, provided they obtain a court order within 48 hours. The bill emphasizes the importance of limiting data collection to specific targets and mandates the deletion of any extraneous data collected. Additionally, it outlines the requirements for law enforcement to demonstrate probable cause when applying for court orders and establishes strict guidelines for data retention and deletion.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws regarding search warrants and the handling of missing endangered persons, expanding the criteria for magistrates to issue search warrants to include evidence that may assist in locating such individuals. It introduces new alert designations, such as "ebony alert" and "missing indigenous person alert," and refines the definition of a missing endangered person. The legislation also addresses the confidentiality and retention of records related to law enforcement and survivor communications, mandating a minimum retention period for body-worn camera recordings and protecting certain records from disclosure. A new exemption for nondisclosure of information obtained during missing endangered person investigations is also included, aimed at safeguarding sensitive information while maintaining transparency in law enforcement practices.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 9.73.260, 7.115.010, 13.60.010