SCS HCS HB 185 -- AMBER ALERT

This bill creates the Amber Alert System to aid in the
identification and location of abducted persons.  An abducted
person is one whose whereabouts are unknown and who is reasonably
believed to be a victim of kidnaping.  The Department of Public
Safety will develop regions within the state and coordinate the
program with local law enforcement agencies and broadcasters in
each region.  Participation in the system is optional for local
law enforcement agencies and federally licensed radio and
television broadcasters.  If a local law enforcement agency
decides not to participate and an abduction occurs in the
jurisdiction, the local agency will notify the department, which
will notify local media in the region.

The bill requires the system to include all state agencies
capable of providing information to the public, as well as
broadcasters and other entities who volunteer to disseminate
urgent public information.  The department has the authority to
notify other regions upon verification that the criteria
established by the Amber Alert System Oversight Committee have
been met.

The Amber Alert System Oversight Committee is established within
the department to develop criteria and procedures for the system.
The bill specifies the members of the oversight committee.

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated July 25, 2003 at 10:11 am